Planning in North Tyneside

Supporting Neighbourhood Planning

Where appropriate, the Council will support the production of neighbourhood plans that are in general conformity of the NPPF and the strategic policies of the Local Plan.

Spatial Strategy for Health and Well-being

The wellbeing and health of communities will be maintained and improved by: a. Working in partnership with the health authorities to improve the health and well-being of North Tyneside's residents. b. Requiring development to contribute to creating an age friendly, healthy and equitable living environment through: i. Creating an inclusive built and natural environment. ii. Promoting and facilitating active and healthy lifestyles, in particular walking and cycling. iii. Preventing negative impacts on residential amenity and wider public safety from noise, ground instability, ground and water contamination, vibration and air quality. iv. Providing good access for all to health and social care facilities. v. Promoting access for all to green spaces, sports facilities, play and recreation opportunities. c. Promoting allotments and gardens for exercise, recreation and for healthy locally produced food. d. Controlling the location of, and access to, unhealthy eating outlets.

Community Infrastructure

The Council and its partners will ensure that local provision and resources for cultural and community activities are accessible to the neighbourhoods that they serve. In order to achieve this: a. Priority will be given to the provision of facilities that contribute towards sustainable communities, in particular, catering for the needs of the growing population around key housing sites; b. Access to education and healthcare provision will be maintained and, where necessary, improved throughout the Borough; c. Existing provision will be enhanced, and multi-purpose use encouraged, providing a range of services and resources for the community, at one accessible location; d. Opportunities to widen the cultural, sport and recreation offer will be supported; and, e. The quantity and quality of open space, sport and recreation provision throughout the Borough will be maintained and enhanced. Planning permission for the re-use or redevelopment of any land or buildings used for community infrastructure will be permitted where the community's ability to meet its day-to-day needs for services are not reduced. Where proposals for planning permission affect a designated Asset of Community Value, the applicant must additionally demonstrate that the land or buildings could not viably remain in continued or similar use, having been marketed for a six week period and, if a community group has expressed an interest in being treated as a potential bidder for the site, a six month period has passed.

North Shields Town Centre Public Realm

The Council will support positive measures to tackle heritage and townscape issues in a holistic way in North Shields town centre, including through the following improvements to deliver a high quality public realm: a. Good quality, natural ground surfaces that encourage pedestrian movement; b. A coordinated approach to the installation of street furniture of high quality; c. Restoration of historic layouts and features; d. Ensuring all aspects of the public realm are maintained and repaired to a high standard; e. Preparation of a shop front design guide to assist in steering appropriate visual enhancements to shop fronts; and f. Reducing the dominance of the bus stops at the southern end of Bedford Street.

Whitley Bay Town Centre Public Realm

The Council will support positive measures to tackle heritage and townscape issues in a holistic way in Whitley Bay town centre, including through the following improvements to deliver a high quality public realm: a. Good quality, natural ground surfaces that encourage pedestrian movement; b. A coordinated approach to the installation of street furniture of high quality; c. A programme of measures to improve parking and accessibility; d. Restoration of historic layouts and features; and e. Ensuring all aspects of the public realm are maintained and repaired to a high standard. To support public realm improvements the Council will prepare a shop front design guide to assist in steering appropriate visual management of the shop fronts along Park View.

North West Villages Public Realm

The Council will support positive measures in the North West of the Borough that can enhance the unique identity of the area through the following improvements to deliver a high quality public realm: a. Legible and attractive signage that welcomes visitors at entrances to the Borough and settlements to define boundaries and strengthen the identities of each Village area; b. Ensuring key attractions and facilities are well signposted, for example, John Willie Sams Centre, Seaton Burn Recreation Ground, Little Waters and Weetslade Colliery Park; c. Promoting the special ecological and heritage value of the North West via sensitively placed interpretation boards. All signage and interpretation boards should be designed and installed as to protect, and possibly enhance the character of the area; d. A coordinated approach to the installation of street furniture of high quality; e. Good quality, natural ground surfaces that encourage pedestrian movement; and f. Ensuring all aspects of the public realm are maintained and repaired to a high standard.

Wallsend High Street Improvements

The Council will seek investment in improving High Street East and High Street West for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users. Working jointly with Nexus, the bus operators and taxi companies to explore measures that: a. Through reducing the speed and level of traffic, deliver overall improvements to the experience of shopping, visiting and exploring Wallsend; b. Bring an increase in people walking and cycling into and through the town centre; c. Create a more active and vibrant street scene where people choose to spend time, whilst maintaining a functional and successful shopping street that is accessible to everybody. To deliver this, measures to be considered could include: d. Formal amendments to vehicle access, encouraging private through traffic in particular to take appropriate alternative routes such as Hadrian Road, whilst understanding and managing against any potential impacts on The Green conservation area. e. Introducing a better balance between those on foot and motorised vehicles, with use of innovative road materials and removal of excessive street furniture and safety barriers.

Design of Development

Applications will only be permitted where they demonstrate high and consistent design standards. Designs should be specific to the place, based on a clear analysis the characteristics of the site, its wider context and the surrounding area. Proposals are expected to demonstrate: a. A design responsive to landscape features, topography, wildlife habitats, site orientation and existing buildings, incorporating where appropriate the provision of public art; b. A positive relationship to neighbouring buildings and spaces; c. A safe environment that reduces opportunities for crime and antisocial behaviour; d. A coherent, legible and appropriately managed public realm that encourages accessibility by walking, cycling and public transport; e. Sufficient car parking that is well integrated into the layout; and, f. A good standard of amenity for existing and future residents and users of buildings and spaces.

Extending Existing Buildings

Extensions should complement the form and character of the original building. This should be achieved either by continuation of the established design form, or through appropriate contrasting, high quality design. The scale, height and mass of an extension and its position should emphasise a subservience to the main building. This will involve a lower roof and eaves height, significantly smaller footprint, span and length of elevations. When assessing applications for extending buildings the Council will consider: a. Whether or not the property is affected by any designations or considered to be a heritage asset or within the setting of a heritage asset; b. The location of the extension in relation to the street scene; c. Implications for amenity on adjacent properties and land such as outlook, loss of light or privacy; d. The cumulative impact if the building has been previously extended; e. The effect that the extension will have on the existing property and whether it enhances the overall design; and f. The form, scale and layout of existing built structures near the site.

Advertisements and Signage

Advertisements and signage must be appropriate to their local settings in terms of location, scale, design, colour, materials and illumination. Proposals will be permitted where they do not have a detrimental impact, either individually or cumulatively, on visual amenity, character, public safety or the natural environment. Careful consideration will be given to advertisements and signage affecting heritage assets or their settings, especially if illuminated, so they do not have an adverse impact.

Improving Image

To support the Council's objectives for enhancing North Tyneside's image and attractiveness, exemplar design solutions and architectural excellence will be actively supported and encouraged at the following key areas and sites of major change: a. Key gateways into the Borough such as the Coast Road, A19 junctions and the River Tyne b. Town centres. c. Strategic development allocations identified in the Local Plan. d. Key visitor attractions. e. The Coast, North Bank and other regeneration areas. Any subsequent development proposal will be required to accord with any development briefs which are produced for these sites.

River Tyne North Bank

Across the River Tyne North Bank area, as identified on the Policies Map, and specific locations identified below, proposals for all forms of employment development will be supported to enable economic growth, investment and regeneration of the area where they do not restrict riverside access that could compromise the capacity of the River Tyne North Bank to support marine and off-shore related industry. The Council will support and encourage further development and investment in the advanced engineering, manufacturing and renewables sector providing a range of office and manufacturing space, with access to multi-purpose hard standing and deep-water berths, and additionally to the provision of accommodation for training and education in related sectors, across the River Tyne North Bank area with particular focus upon the following locations highlighted on the Policies Map: a. Former Swan Hunter shipyard, part of the North East Low Carbon Enterprise Zone. b. Land at Port of Tyne, part of the North East Low Carbon Enterprise Zone. c. Existing and available employment land adjacent to a. and b. above within the River Tyne North Bank area.

A19(T) Economic Corridor

The Council will promote and support further development and investment in a range of B1, B2 and B8 employment activities across the A19(T) Economic Corridor, as identified on the Policies Map, and the continued diversification of North Tyneside's economy through delivery of small, medium and large scale office developments. Support for the area will in particular consider and ensure: a. Continued enhancement of the road and public transport infrastructure serving the A19 corridor. b. Priority for office (B1a, b) uses at the north of the A19(T) Economic Corridor and within 500m of Metro stations. c. Priority for a mix of manufacturing, trade and office development to the south of the A19(T) Economic Corridor.

Development Affecting Employment Land and Buildings

The Council will support proposals on employment land, as shown on the Policies Map, for new or additional development for uses within use classes B1, B2 or B8 or that which is deemed ancillary. Proposals on identified employment land or other buildings in use-class B1, B2 or B8, for uses that could conflict with the development and regeneration of sites for economic development, will be permitted where these proposals would not: a. Result in the unacceptable loss of operating businesses and jobs; and, b. Result in an excessive reduction in the supply of land for development for employment uses, taking into account the overall amount, range, and choice available for the remainder of the plan period; and, c. Have an adverse impact upon the amenity and operation of neighbouring properties and businesses.

Employment Land Development Outside Available or Existing Employment Land

Proposals for new employment uses outside the 150ha of available land or existing areas of employment land will be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the proposal: a. Cannot be accommodated within the existing portfolio of available employment land; and, b. Would make a contribution to job creation and diversification of the economy in North Tyneside; and, c. Can be provided with appropriate vehicular access, and supports access to sustainable transport connections; and, d. Would not be detrimental to local amenity.

Employment and Skills

The Council will seek applicants of major development proposals to contribute towards the creation of local employment opportunities and support growth in skills through an increase in the overall proportion of local residents in education or training. Applicants are encouraged to agree measures with the Council to achieve this, which could include: a. The development or expansion of education facilities to meet any identified shortfall in capacity arising as a result of the development; and/or, b. Provision of specific training and/or apprenticeships that: i. Are related to the proposed development; or, ii. Support priorities for improving skills in the advanced engineering, manufacturing and the off-shore, marine and renewables sector where relevant to the development.

Economic Growth Strategy

Proposals that make an overall contribution towards sustainable economic growth, prosperity and employment in North Tyneside will be encouraged. This includes supporting economic growth as follows: a. Town Centres and Tourism i. Attract a range of innovative and creative businesses to retail, leisure and office development within the Borough's town centres; ii. The creation, enhancement and expansion of tourist attractions, visitor accommodation and infrastructure, capitalising on the Borough's exceptional North Sea coast, River Tyne and International Ferry Terminal. iii. Capitalise on the historic environment including at Segedunum Fort and Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site (WHS) in Wallsend and the Fish Quay in North Shields, while conserving and enhancing its significance. b. Advanced Engineering, low carbon, renewable, marine and off-shore technology, Port related activity and manufacturing iv. Develop marine and renewable sectors of manufacturing in the River Tyne North Bank area, as shown on the Policies Map,including on the former Swan Hunter shipyard and land owned by the Port of Tyne contributing to a low carbon economy, and building upon the existing high skills base and maximising the benefits of the Enterprise Zone, and accompanying Local Development Order. c. Office and business investment v. Support investment opportunities for regional and national scale office, research and development and manufacturing in the A19 Economic Corridor, as shown on the Policies Map, which includes the former Enterprise Zone area. vi. Strengthen the Borough's important contribution to the economy of the Tyne and Wear conurbation with multi-national firms choosing quality business park accommodation in Cobalt, Quorum, Balliol and Gosforth Business Parks for national headquarters and major customer service centres. d. Distribution - major logistics vii. Recognise potential for major distribution and logistics facilities for goods and materials that can take advantage of the Borough's excellent national and international transport connections by road, rail, air and port connections.

Provision of Land for Employment Development

To ensure an attractive and flexible supply of employment land is available to deliver the Council's strategy for economic prosperity and job growth and investment a total of 822ha of currently occupied or available employment land is recognised of particular value to the economy and the following land will be available for development to 2032: a. 150ha of general employment land available for development during the plan period, an annual average of 8ha per year 2014 to 2032. Indicative mapping identifying potential access arrangements and possible areas of open space have been prepared for sites "E003 Weetslade", "E008 Gosforth Business Park", "E010 Balliol East Business Park", "E029 Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate" and "E050 Esso" where additional guidance could benefit future delivery. Planning applications related to those sites should have regard to these indicative plans. b. A further 30ha identified as reserved land, is within the curtilage of existing businesses and is therefore to be treated as potential expansion for businesses. Unless specified elsewhere in the Local Plan, the employment sites identified on the Policies Map and listed below will ensure a sufficient supply, range and choice of land for development in class B1, B2 and B8 uses.

Renewable Energy and Low-Carbon Technologies

The Council will encourage the local production of energy from renewable and low carbon sources to help to reduce carbon emissions. The Council will also encourage and support community energy schemes that reduce, manage and generate energy to bring benefits to the local community. Where planning permission is required, proposals for development involving the provision of renewable and/or low carbon technologies, including micro-generation technologies, will be supported and encouraged except where the proposal would have unacceptable adverse effects that are not outweighed by the local and wider environmental, economic, social and other considerations of the development. Commercial scale renewable energy generation projects will be supported in locations where other policies of the Plan can be satisfied. Developments of this type should be supported by a comprehensive assessment of their impact. When considering applications, regard will be given to the wider benefits of providing the energy from renewable sources as well as the potential effects at the local scale.

Local Green Space at Killingworth Open Break

Development within the open land that forms a break between Killingworth Village and the built up areas to the south, as defined on the Policies Map, will only be permitted in very special circumstances where it would not adversely affect the open character of the area and the setting of the Killingworth Village conservation area.

The Coastal Sub Area

Within the Coastal Priority Investment and Regeneration Area, as shown on the Policies Map: a. Create a vibrant Whitley Bay town centre - with an appropriate mix of shopping and other town centre uses to support local businesses b. Proposals which extend the range and provision of tourist and visitor attractions and accommodation, including leisure, entertainment and cultural facilities and activities including water based recreation will be promoted. c. Integrate growth and development at the Coast with the protection and enhancement of the built and natural environment, in particular the area's heritage assets at Tynemouth, Cullercoats, Whitley Bay and St. Mary's Island and the protected nature conservation sites of the Northumbria Coast SPA/Ramsar site, Northumberland Shore SSSI and Tynemouth to Seaton Sluice SSSI. d. Proposals will promote the revitalisation of the adjoining Spanish City and seafront area, providing a high quality public realm. e. The further development of Tynemouth as a centre for tourism and the regeneration of Tynemouth station will be promoted in the context of the heritage importance of the village f. The improvement and development of sustainable transport links encouraging public transport, cycling and walking in the Coastal area and at key green links will be sought.

Key Green Spaces in Wallsend and Willington Quay

Works to and management of Wallsend Parks should continue to support the objectives of the Parks for People scheme, ensuring it remains a prime location for recreation. Wallsend Dene will be enhanced with improvements to the area for wildlife and recreation, with particular projects explored including: a. Improving the Wallsend Dene watercourse by de-culverting and creation of bankside aquatic habitat for wildlife. b. Identifying opportunities for the creation of new wetland habitat and managing existing wetland habitats to improve biodiversity.

Positive uses within the Green Belt

Proposals that are not inappropriate to the Green Belt, particularly those offering increased or enhanced access to the open countryside and that provide opportunities for beneficial use as a biodiversity resource, will be supported where they preserve the openness of the Green Belt and will not harm the objectives of the designation. The Council will not permit additional development where it considers that the cumulative impact of these would be detrimental to the objectives of the Green Belt.

Development within the Safeguarded Land

Proposals for development within the area defined as safeguarded land will only be permitted where it: a. Preserves the open nature of the area especially where this forms important open breaks between or within built up area; and, b. Does not cause significant visual intrusion; and, c. Does not adversely affect access for recreation; and, d. Will not adversely affect important landscape features; and, e. Will not cause significant harm to agricultural or forestry operations; and, f. No alternative site is reasonably available.

Development and Flood Risk

All major developments will be required to demonstrate that flood risk does not increase as a result of the development proposed, and that options have been taken to reduce overall flood risk from all sources, taking into account the impact of climate change over its lifetime. All new development should contribute positively to actively reducing flood risk in line with national policy, through avoidance, reduction, management and mitigation. In addition to the requirements of national policy, development will avoid and manage flood risk by: a. Helping to achieve the flood management goals of the North Tyneside Surface Water Management Plan and Northumbria Catchment Flood Management Plans; and b. According with the Council's Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, including meeting the requirement for a Flood Risk Assessment for sites over 0.5ha in identified Critical Drainage Areas.

Flood Reduction Works

The Council will work with Northumbrian Water Ltd, the Environment Agency and landowners to ensure the risk of flooding in North Tyneside, to existing property and infrastructure, is reduced through a planned programme of work on the existing and future components of the drainage system. Where development is proposed, and where it is deemed to potentially impact on drainage capacity (either individually or cumulatively), applicants will be expected to contribute to off-setting these impacts and work with the Council and its drainage partners to ensure any works are complementary to wider plans and fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the proposed development.

Surface Water Run off

Applicants will be required to show, with evidence, they comply with the Defra technical standards for sustainable drainage systems (unless otherwise updated and/or superseded). A reduction in surface water run off rates will be sought for all new development. On brownfield sites, surface water run off rates post development should be limited to a maximum of 50% of the flows discharged immediately prior to development where appropriate and achievable. For greenfield sites, surface water run off post development must meet or exceed the infiltration capacity of the greenfield prior to development incorporating an allowance for climate change.

Sustainable Drainage

Applicants will be required to show, with evidence, they comply with the Defra technical standards for sustainable drainage systems (unless otherwise updated and/or superseded). The following destinations must be considered for surface water management in order of preference: a. Discharge into the ground*; b. Discharge to a surface water body; c. Discharge to a surface water sewer; or, d. Discharge to a combined sewer. Only in exceptional circumstances, where a Flood Risk Assessment, local site conditions, and/or engineering report show that sustainable drainage systems will not be feasible will the discharge of rainwater direct to a watercourse, surface water drain or to a combined sewer be considered. Where SuDS are provided, arrangements must be put in place for their whole lifetime management and maintenance. Where appropriate, SuDS should be designed and located to improve biodiversity, the landscape, water quality and local amenity. * Deep drainage structures are not suitable in the Borough due to actively managed mine water levels and raising groundwater levels.

Minerals

Mineral resources and related infrastructure will be managed and safeguarded to meet current and future needs. A contribution to the region's supply needs will be made to ensure an adequate and steady supply of minerals in a way that supports the Borough's social, environmental and economic objectives. This will be achieved by: a. Proposals for mineral extraction being assessed individually and cumulatively, and permitted where no unacceptable adverse social, environmental and economic impacts would arise. Planning and environmental criteria to be taken into account when considering planning applications for minerals development are as follows: i. Amenity (e.g. dust, noise and vibration); i. Air quality; ii. Lighting; iii. Visual impact; iv. Landscape character; v. Traffic, including air and rail, and access; vi. Risk of contamination to land; vii. Soil resources and the impact on best and most versatile agricultural land; viii. Flood risk; ix. Ground and surface water impacts; x. Land stability; xi. Ecology, including habitats, species and designated sites; and, xii. Heritage assets and their setting. b. If possible, an appropriate contribution will be made towards the Tyne and Wear sub regional aggregates apportionment of 5.7 million tonnes of sand and gravel to 2032. This will require provision throughout the plan period of a minimum sub regional sand and gravel landbank equivalent to seven years' production at a rate of 0.334 million tonnes per annum. c. Worked land being subject to high standards of restoration and aftercare to ensure the most appropriate and beneficial use, within an agreed timescale; this could include the delivery of net-gains for biodiversity, improvements for agriculture and enhanced access for recreation. d. Encouraging temporary material-recycling facilities on the sites of major demolition or construction projects and provision of permanent recycling plants for construction and demolition waste in appropriate locations, as defined in Policy S7.7. e. Safeguarding the existing transport and processing infrastructure at Howdon Wharf, as shown on the Policies Map, to allow for the continued transfer and movement of marine aggregates and safeguarding existing, planned and potential sites for concrete batching, the manufacture of coated materials, and other concrete products. Proposals for non-mineral development that may threaten, lead to the loss of, or damage to, the functioning of safeguarded mineral infrastructure or locations will not be permitted unless it can be demonstrated that: i. An alternative site within an acceptable distance can be provided, which is at least as appropriate for the use as the safeguarded site; and, ii. It can be demonstrated that the infrastructure no longer meets the current or anticipated future needs of the minerals, building and construction industry or the waste management industry. f. Mineral resources will be safeguarded from other forms of development that would prejudice future mineral extraction. Mineral Safeguarding Areas have been defined for shallow coal, marine and estuarine sand and gravel, basal sand, lower magnesian limestone, and glacial sand and gravel resources in the plan area and their extent is shown on the Policies Map. These resources will be safeguarded from non-mineral development that would needlessly sterilise the resource and prejudice future mineral extraction. Planning permission will not be granted for any form of development within a Mineral Safeguarding Area that is incompatible with safeguarding the mineral unless an assessment is submitted in which the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority: i. that the mineral concerned is no longer of any value or potential value; or ii. the mineral can be extracted satisfactorily prior to the incompatible development taking place; or iii. the incompatible development is of a temporary nature and can be completed and the site restored to a condition that does not inhibit extraction within the timescale that the mineral is likely to be needed; or iv. there is an overriding need for the incompatible development; or v. it constitutes exempt development, namely householder applications; changes of use; infilling in existing built up areas.

Contaminated and Unstable Land

Where the future users or occupiers of a development would be affected by contamination or stability issues, or where contamination may present a risk to the water environment, proposals must be accompanied by a report which: a. Shows that investigations have been carried out to assess the nature and extent of contamination or stability issues and the possible effect it may have on the development and its future users, biodiversity, the natural and built environment; and b. Sets out detailed measures to allow the development to go ahead safely and without adverse affect, including, as appropriate: i. Removing the contamination; ii. Treating the contamination; iii. Protecting and/or separating the development from the effects of the contamination; iv. Validation of mitigation measures; and v. Addressing land stability issues. Where measures are needed to allow the development to go ahead safely and without adverse affect, these will be required as a condition of any planning permission.

Pollution

Development proposals that may cause pollution either individually or cumulatively of water, air or soil through noise, smell, smoke, fumes, gases, steam, dust, vibration, light, and other pollutants will be required to incorporate measures to prevent or reduce their pollution so as not to cause nuisance or unacceptable impacts on the environment, to people and to biodiversity. Development proposed where pollution levels are unacceptable will not be permitted unless it is possible for mitigation measures to be introduced to secure a satisfactory living or working environment. Development that may be sensitive (such as housing, schools and hospitals) to existing or potentially polluting sources will not be sited in proximity to such sources. Potentially polluting development will not be sited near to sensitive areas unless satisfactory mitigation measures can be demonstrated. Proposals for development should have regard to the noise impacts arising from the Newcastle International Airport flight path as shown on the Policies Map.

Protection of Green Infrastructure

The loss of any part of the green infrastructure network will only be considered in the following exceptional circumstances: a. Where it has been demonstrated that the site no longer has any value to the community in terms of access and function; or, b. If it is not a designated wildlife site or providing important biodiversity value; or, c. If it is not required to meet a shortfall in the provision of that green space type or another green space type; or, d. The proposed development would be ancillary to use of the green infrastructure and the benefits to green infrastructure would outweigh any loss of open space. Where development proposals are considered to meet the exceptional circumstances above, permission will only be granted where alternative provision, equivalent to or better than in terms of its quantity and quality, can be provided in equally accessible locations that maintain or create new green infrastructure connections. Proposals for new green infrastructure, or improvements to existing, should seek net gains for biodiversity, improve accessibility and multi-functionality of the green infrastructure network and not cause adverse impacts to biodiversity.

Green Space Provision and Standards

Within North Tyneside, accessible green space will be protected and enhanced to be of the highest quality and value. New development should sustain the current standards of provision, quality and value as recorded in the most up-to-date Green Space Strategy. Opportunities should be sought to improve provision for new and existing residents.

Managing effects on Biodiversity and Geodiversity

All development proposals should: a. Protect the biodiversity and geodiversity value of land, protected and priority species and buildings and minimise fragmentation of habitats and wildlife links; and, b. Maximise opportunities for creation, restoration, enhancement, management and connection of natural habitats; and, c. Incorporate beneficial biodiversity and geodiversity conservation features providing net gains to biodiversity, unless otherwise shown to be inappropriate. Proposals which are likely to significantly affect nationally or locally designated sites, protected species, or priority species and habitats (as identified in the BAP), identified within the most up to date Green Infrastructure Strategy, would only be permitted where: d. The benefits of the development in that location clearly demonstrably outweigh any direct or indirect adverse impacts on the features of the site and the wider wildlife links; and, e. Applications are accompanied by the appropriate ecological surveys that are carried out to industry guidelines, where there is evidence to support the presence of protected and priority species or habitats planning to assess their presence and, if present, the proposal must be sensitive to, and make provision for, their needs, in accordance with the relevant protecting legislation; and, f. For all adverse impacts of the development appropriate on site mitigation measures, reinstatement of features, or, as a last resort, off site compensation to enhance or create habitats must form part of the proposals. This must be accompanied by a management plan and monitoring schedule, as agre

Management of International Sites

In accordance with European Legislation, proposals that are likely to have significant effects on features of internationally designated sites, either alone or in-combination with other plans or projects, will require an appropriate assessment. Proposals that adversely affect a site's integrity can only proceed where there are no alternatives, imperative reasons of overriding interest are proven and the effects are compensated. Expert advice will be sought on such proposals and, if necessary, developer contributions or conditions secured to implement measures to ensure avoidance or mitigation of, or compensation for, adverse effects. Such measures would involve working in partnership with the Council (and potentially other bodies) and could include a combination of two or more of the following mitigation measures: a. Appropriate signage to encourage responsible behaviour; b. Distribution of information to raise public awareness; c. Working with local schools, forums and groups to increase public understanding and ownership; d. Use of on-site wardens to inform the public of site sensitivities; e. Adoption of a code-of conduct; f. Zoning and/or seasonal restrictions to minimise disturbance in particular sensitive areas at particularly sensitive times; g. Specially considered design and use of access points and routes; h. Undertaking monitoring of the site's condition and species count; i. Provision of a Suitable Accessible Natural Green Space (SANGS).

Wildlife Corridors

Development proposals within a wildlife corridor, as shown on the Policies Map, must protect and enhance the quality and connectivity of the wildlife corridor. All new developments are required to take account of and incorporate existing wildlife links into their plans at the design stage. Developments should seek to create new links and habitats to reconnect isolated sites and facilitate species movement.

Soil and Agricultural Land Quality

Development of "best and most versatile" agricultural land will normally only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that: a. The need for the development clearly outweighs the need to protect such land in the long term; or, b. In the case of temporary/potentially reversible development (for example, minerals), that the land would be reinstated to its pre-working quality; and, c. There are no suitable alternative sites on previously developed or lower quality land. The Council will require all applications for development to include realistic proposals to demonstrate that soil resources were protected and used sustainably, in line with accepted best practice.

Trees, Woodland and Hedgerows

Where it would not degrade other important habitats the Council will support strategies and proposals that protect and enhance the overall condition and extent of trees, woodland and hedgerows in the Borough, and: a. Protect and manage existing woodland, trees, hedgerows and landscape features. b. Secure the implementation of new tree planting and landscaping schemes as a condition of planning permission for new development. c. Promote and encourage new woodland, tree and hedgerow planting schemes. d. In all cases preference should be towards native species of local provenance. Planting schemes included with new development must be accompanied by an appropriate Management Plan agreed with the local planning authority.

Protection of Waste Facilities

Existing waste management facilities and land surrounding these facilities, as identified on the Policies Map, will be protected unless it can be demonstrated that there is no longer a need for the facility or where capacity can be met elsewhere in North Tyneside. Where an existing facility has had an adverse effect on its neighbourhood by virtue of visual impact or other nuisance, extension or intensification of that use will only be permitted where proposals can be shown to result in a significant reduction in that nuisance. Development proposals in the vicinity of a waste management site will be permitted where they would not harm the potential operation of that waste management site.

The Green Belt

The Green Belt in North Tyneside as defined on the Policies Map: a. Checks the unrestricted spread of the built-up area of North Tyneside. b. Prevents the merging of the following settlements: Killingworth with Wideopen Dudley/Annitsford and Seghill; Seaton Burn and Dudley with Cramlington; Shiremoor/Backworth with Seghill and Seaton Delaval/Holywell; Shiremoor with Wellfield/Earsdon; and, Whitley Bay with Seaton Delaval/Holywell and Seaton Sluice. c. Maintains the separate character of: Seaton Burn; Wideopen/ Brunswick Green; Dudley/Annitsford; and, Earsdon. c. Assists in the regeneration of the older parts of the urban area. d. Safeguards the Borough's countryside from further encroachment and maintains openness.

Safeguarded Land

An area of safeguarded land between the Green Belt and the main urban area that is not required for development within this Local Plan period is identified on the Policies Map. These strategic areas of land will be maintained in an open state for at least the plan period.

Strategic Green Infrastructure

The Council will seek the protection, enhancement, extension and creation of green infrastructure in appropriate locations within, and adjoining the Borough which supports the delivery of North Tyneside's Green Infrastructure Strategy. Where deficiencies in the quality of green infrastructure and in particular types of green infrastructure are identified in relevant up-to-date evidence, improvements will be targeted to those areas accordingly.

Water Quality

The Council will seek to improve the water quality in line with the requirements of the European Water Framework Directive and its associated legislation, and the Northumbria River Basin Management Plan.

Water Management

The Council will work with developers, residents and Northumbrian Water Ltd to ensure that North Tyneside's future water resource needs, wastewater treatment and drainage infrastructure are managed effectively in a coordinated manner to ensure that water supply, sewerage and drainage infrastructure is in place in tandem with development, to accommodate the levels of growth anticipated within the Borough. Applicants will be required to identify the impact that new development may have on existing water infrastructure. Improvements will need to be identified and implemented alongside growth and prior to the occupation of new development to ensure water infrastructure is sustainable. The priority is to avoid, minimise and control surface water entering the sewerage system to reduce the risk of sewer flooding and to avoid the need for unnecessary sewerage treatment.

Coastal Erosion

In the Coastal Change Management Area (CCMA), as shown on the Policies Map, development will only be permitted, where it can be demonstrated that: a. There would be no adverse impact to biodiversity arising from the proposal; and, b. It is coastal specific, benefiting the tourism and leisure offer at the coast; and; c. It is a temporary structure within 30m of a CCMA and not considered to be at future risk of coastal erosion; and; d. It will not increase coastal erosion as a result of changes in surface water run-off. Proposals for significant development within 30m of a CCMA will also be required to conduct an erosion vulnerability assessment. A long term aspiration for Tynemouth Longsands beach is to maintain the beach and dunes; developments on the beach or surrounding the dunes will be acceptable if they do not hinder this aspiration, meet the above criteria and accord with all other policies in this Local Plan.

Biodiversity and Geodiversity

The Borough's biodiversity and geodiversity resources will be protected, created, enhanced and managed having regard to their relative significance. Priority will be given to: a. The protection of both statutory and non-statutory designated sites within the Borough, as shown on the Policies Map; b. Achieving the objectives and targets set out in the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework and Local Biodiversity Action Plan; c. Conserving, enhancing and managing a Borough-wide network of local sites and wildlife corridors, as shown on the Policies Map; and d. Protecting, enhancing and creating new wildlife links.

Waste Management

The Local Planning Authority will encourage and support the minimisation of waste production, and the re-use and recovery of waste materials including, for example, re-cycling, composting and Energy from Waste recovery. Proposals for waste management facilities to deal with waste arisings within the Borough will be encouraged based upon the following principles: a. Seeking to move the management of all waste streams up the waste hierarchy of prevention, re-use, recycling, recovery, disposal; b. Promoting the opportunities for on-site management of waste where it arises; c. Promoting the use of rubbish as a resource, particularly encouraging co-location of developments that can use each others waste materials; d. Achieving the objectives and targets for recycling/recovery for waste set out in the Council's Waste Strategy; e. Utilising appropriate capacity available elsewhere within the North East region; f. Supporting opportunities to locate complementary facilities, such as waste disposal points and treatment facilities, in close proximity to each other. Proposals for waste management facilities will be located in sustainable locations, appropriate to the proposed waste management use and its operational characteristics, where potentially adverse impacts on people, biodiversity and the environment can be avoided or adequately mitigated. Such proposals should have regard to the following sequential priorities: g. Employment sites where co-location with existing waste management processes is possible without detriment to residential amenity; h. Employment sites suitable for Use Classes B2 and B8; i. Sustainable locations within vacant previously developed land. Sites for disposal of waste will only be permitted where it meets a need which cannot be met by treatment higher in the waste hierarchy.

Town Hall, Police Court, Fire Station and Public Baths

Several buildings within the complex, as shown on the Policies Map and in Map 26a, are underused or vacant, some of which are in a poor state of repair. Where buildings within this complex are vacant or become vacant, the following uses will be supported where there would be no unjustified adverse effect upon their heritage significance: a. Managed workspace; b. Residential; c. Non-residential institutions, for example, gallery, museum, place of worship, assembly hall, nursery, surgery; d. Assembly and leisure uses, for example, private hire for weddings and conferences, gym, restaurant, café; e. Educational uses.

Former Engineering Research Centre

The Council will seek and support proposals for the use of the buildings and site, as shown on the Policies Map, where there would be no unjustified adverse effect upon their heritage significance. Proposed uses should take advantage of the facilities and accommodation that Block A and Block B can provide, including the potential for office, light manufacturing and retailing, with regard given to the potential for additional residential development at this location. Proposals should also: a. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the building and the impact of the works; b. Propose a compatible use with the buildings and the surroundings; and c. Not unacceptably fragment or asset strip the building.

Wallsend Town Centre Public Realm and Conservation Area

The Council will support positive measures to tackle heritage and townscape issues in a holistic way in Wallsend town centre, including through the following improvements: a. Good quality, natural ground surfaces that encourage pedestrian movement; b. A coordinated approach to the installation of street furniture of high quality; c. Restoration of historic layouts and features; d. Ensuring all aspects of the public realm are maintained and repaired to a high standard; e. Preparation of a shop front design guide to assist in steering appropriate visual enhancements to shop fronts; and f. Pursuing a conservation area in Wallsend town centre.

Segedunum Roman Fort and Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site

The Council will ensure that regeneration and development of the town centre and riverside protects and enhances the unique heritage and setting of the World Heritage Site (WHS), and will: a. Ensure the safeguarding of the Outstanding Universal Value of the WHS and those attributes which define it, both within and outside its Buffer Zone, as shown on the Policies Map. Formal environmental impact assessment (EIA) will be required for developments likely to have a significant effect on Hadrian's Wall WHS and its Buffer Zone. b. Ensure proposals for development respect the status of the WHS and ensure its preservation. c. Establish the presence of a key part of a transnational WHS in the centre of Wallsend at the heart of strategies for Wallsend town centre encouraging greater awareness of Wallsend as a place to visit and enjoy. d. Work with partners to continue to promote, interpret, use and conserve the WHS and its Buffer Zone.

Protection, Preservation and Enhancement of Heritage Assets

Proposals that affect heritage assets or their settings, will be permitted where they sustain, conserve and, where appropriate, enhance the significance, appearance, character and setting of heritage assets in an appropriate manner. As appropriate, development will: a. Conserve built fabric and architectural detailing that contributes to the heritage asset's significance and character; b. Repair damaged features or reinstate missing features and architectural detailing that contribute to the heritage asset's significance; c. Conserve and enhance the spaces between and around buildings including gardens, boundaries, driveways and footpaths; d. Remove additions or modifications that are considered harmful to the significance of the heritage asset; e. Ensure that additions to heritage assets and within its setting do not harm the significance of the heritage asset; f. Demonstrate how heritage assets at risk (national or local) will be brought into repair and, where vacant, re-use, and include phasing information to ensure that works are commenced in a timely manner to ensure there is a halt to the decline; g. Be prepared in line with the information set out in the relevant piece(s) of evidence and guidance prepared by North Tyneside Council; h. Be accompanied by a heritage statement that informs proposals through understanding the asset, fully assessing the proposed affects of the development and influencing proposals accordingly. Any development proposal that would detrimentally impact upon a heritage asset will be refused permission, unless it is necessary for it to achieve wider public benefits that outweigh the harm or loss to the historic environment, and cannot be met in any other way. Heritage assets that are to be affected by development will require recording (including archaeological recording where relevant) before development commences. Any heritage reports prepared as part of a development scheme will be submitted for inclusion on the Tyne and Wear Historic Environment Record (HER) and published where considered appropriate.

Archaeological Heritage

The Council will seek to protect, enhance and promote the Borough's archaeological heritage and where appropriate, encourage its interpretation and presentation to the public. Developments that may harm archaeological features will require an archaeological desk based assessment and evaluation report with their planning application. Where archaeological remains survive, whether designated or not, there will be a presumption in favour of their preservation in-situ. The more significant the remains, the greater the presumption will be in favour of this. The results of the preliminary evaluation will determine whether the remains warrant preservation in-situ, protection and enhancement or whether they require full archaeological excavation in advance of development. Should the loss of significance of the archaeological remains be outweighed by substantial public benefits so that preservation in-situ would not be justified, preservation by record will be required to be submitted to and agreed with the Local Planning Authority, and completed and the findings published within an agreed timescale.

Heritage Assets

North Tyneside Council aims to pro-actively preserve, promote and enhance its heritage assets, and will do so by: a. Respecting the significance of assets. b. Maximising opportunities to sustain and enhance the significance of heritage assets and their settings. c. Targeting for improvements those heritage assets identified as at risk or vulnerable to risk. d. Seeking and encouraging opportunities for heritage-led regeneration, including public realm schemes. e. Supporting appropriate interpretation and promotion of the heritage assets. f. Adding to and keeping up-to-date the Borough's heritage asset evidence base and guidance. Examples include conservation area character appraisals, conservation area boundary reviews, conservation area management strategies, conservation statements/plans, registers of listed and locally registered buildings, the historic environment record and buildings at risk registers. g. Using the evidence it has gathered, implement the available tools to conserve heritage assets, such as Article 4 Directions and Building Preservation Notices.

Residential Institutions in Whitley Bay

Development of residential institutions will be acceptable within Whitley Bay provided they meet the following criteria: a. There should be no detrimental impact to the character and amenity of the surrounding residential area and neighbouring properties; and b. That the proposal does not add to an existing 'cluster' or concentration of residential institutions that would result in adverse impact to the character and amenity of the surrounding residential area and neighbouring properties c. Adequate provision for parking, servicing, refuse and recycling and the management and maintenance of the property can be demonstrated through the submission of a management plan; d. The proposals are in accordance with Policy AS8.16.

Opportunity Sites in the North West Villages

North Tyneside Council will work positively with owners of vacant sites in the North West area to bring them back into suitable, beneficial use. Vacant, underused sites where development or investment could contribute to improvement in the environment and image of communities in the North West are outlined on Map 33 and below: a. Land at rear of the Drift Inn, Front Street, Seaton Burn. b. Land At Western Terrace, Dudley. c. Land adjacent to no.1 Coronation Street, Annitsford. d. Garage site, Annitsford Drive, Annitsford. e. Former Dudley People's Centre, Weetslade Road, Dudley. f. Former Dudley Miners Welfare Centre, East View Terrace, Dudley. g. Former 89 Station Road, Camperdown. The Council would support a range of uses at these sites that accord with other policies in the Plan.

Houses in Multiple Occupation

The Council will make full use of its powers, including removal of permitted development rights through Article 4 Directions where appropriate, to ensure that particular concentrations of small scale houses in multiple occupation, between three and six household units, do not harm the character and amenity of neighbourhoods and communities in North Tyneside. The conversion of change of use of a property to a small or large Housing in Multiple Occupation, where planning permission is required for such development, will be permitted where: a. They would provide good quality accommodation that would support the creation of a diverse mixed community; b. They would maintain the amenity of adjacent and nearby dwellings; c. The cumulative impact of the proposal, taking into account other such houses in the street or immediate locality, would not lead to Houses in Multiple Occupation becoming the dominant dwelling type; and, d. Adequate provision for parking, servicing, refuse and recycling and the management and maintenance of the property can be demonstrated through the submission of a management plan.

Provision for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

Proposals for additional sites for the travelling community, or for the expansion of existing sites, will be permitted where all of the following criteria can be met: a. The necessary infrastructure services could be made available; b. The proposed site is accessible to education, health and other community facilities; c. The proposal is adequately justified through robust evidence of need for additional Gypsy and Traveller pitches; and, d. The proposal has demonstrated that it accords with all other relevant the policies within this Local Plan.

Criteria for New Housing Development

Proposals for residential development on sites not identified on the Policies Map will be considered positively where they can: a. Make a positive contribution to the identified housing needs of the Borough; and, b. Create a, or contribute to an existing, sustainable residential community; and, c. Be accessible to a range of sustainable transport modes; and, d. Make the best and most efficient use of available land, whilst incorporating appropriate green infrastructure provision within development; and, e. Be accommodated by, and make best use of, existing infrastructure, and where further infrastructure requirements arise, make appropriate contribution to its provision; and, f. Make a positive contribution towards creating healthy, safe, attractive and diverse communities; and, g. Demonstrate that they accord with the policies within this Local Plan.

Range of Housing Types and Sizes

To ensure that new residential development provides a mix of homes, to meet current and future demand, and to create sustainable communities, applications for new housing development will be considered with regard to the Council's most up-to-date evidence, including housing need and local housing market conditions. To widen the overall housing offer in North Tyneside and meet identified demand, the provision of executive housing will be encouraged in suitable locations, as long as this does not compromise the Council's overriding objective to secure the delivery of affordable housing. For the purpose of this Policy, executive housing is defined as: a. Detached properties; b. At densities of up to 22 dwellings per hectare of net development area; and, c. Of four or more bedrooms. These homes will be either: d. Valued at council tax Band G and above; or, e. Valued, at first sale, in the upper 10% of current house prices within Tyne and Wear. To widen the overall housing offer in North Tyneside and meet identified demand for self-build development (including community self-build), applications for self-build housing will be supported in appropriate locations. Such schemes should: f. Demonstrate high quality design, employing innovative approaches throughout; g. Provide for suitable linkages to infrastructure and facilities; h. Include a design framework to inform the detailed design of the individual units, where more than one self-build unit is proposed in a single site location. For housing developments over 200 homes, the Council will encourage applicants to consider (where economically viable) opportunities to set aside a proportion of the net developable area of the site for custom and self-build housing.

Affordable Housing

To meet the Borough-wide target the Council will seek 25% of new homes to be affordable, on new housing developments of 11 or more dwellings and gross internal area of more than 1000m², taking into consideration specific site circumstances and economic viability. Developments will be required to provide a mix of affordable housing for rent and intermediate housing, based on the most up-to-date evidence of local need. Where necessary, to assist the viability of proposals, a flexible approach to the tenure mix of affordable housing provision will be considered by the Council. In all but the most exceptional cases the Council will require affordable housing provision to be made on-site. Where alternative off-site affordable housing provision or a commuted sum is proposed it must be demonstrated that: a. All options for securing on-site provision of affordable housing have been explored and exhausted; and, b. Where off-site affordable housing is to be provided the amount of affordable housing would be broadly equivalent in value to the amount that would be viable if the provision was made on-site; or, c. Where a Commuted Sum is to be provided it will be broadly equivalent to the amount that would be viable if the provision was made on-site. Proposals for the delivery of affordable housing schemes (such as those submitted by the Council and Registered Providers) that make a contribution towards North Tyneside's overall assessed needs for affordable housing will be supported.

Specialist Housing

The Council will support proposals for specialist housing, including extra care and supported housing, where the development: a. Is integrated into the local residential community; b. Is located where local traffic and connectivity are not detrimental to the local community; and, c. Is considered acceptable against other policies in this Local Plan. Accommodation should seek to deliver and promote independent living and will include extensions and adaptations to existing homes as well as new build properties

Housing Standards

To ensure that new homes provide quality living environments for residents both now and in the future and to help deliver sustainable communities, from the 1 October 2018 the following standards will apply, subject to site viability: Accessibility of homes Market Housing a. For new housing developments, excluding low-rise non-lift serviced flats, 50% of homes are to meet building regulation M4(2) – 'Category 2 -accessible and adaptable dwellings'. Affordable Housing b. For all new housing developments, excluding low-rise non-lift serviced flats, 90% of homes should meet building regulation M4(2) – 'accessible and adaptable dwellings'. c. 10% of new homes where the local authority is responsible for allocating or nominating a person to live in that dwelling should meet building regulation M4 (3) (2) (b). When providing for wheelchair user housing, early discussion with the Council is required to obtain the most up-to-date information on specific need in the local area. Where there is no specific need identified, then M4 (3) (2) (a) will apply, to allow simple adaptation of the dwelling to meet the future needs of wheelchair users. Internal Space in a Home d. All new homes, both market and affordable, will meet the Government's Nationally Described Space Standard (NDSS).

Ensuring a Sufficient Supply of Housing Land

To meet the Borough's objectively assessed need for new homes, provision is made for the development of at least 16,593 homes from 2011/12 to 2031/32. This overall requirement will be provided through a phased approach, to deliver an average of 790 new homes per annum over the plan period.

Ensuring a Sufficient Supply of Housing Land

A sufficient supply of housing land will be maintained over the plan period in order to ensure the delivery of the overall housing requirement as outlined in Policy S4.2(a). The rate of housing delivery and supply will be assessed through the monitoring process on an annual basis, with performance being measured against the stepped housing trajectory. If monitoring demonstrates that the number of completed dwellings falls below the cumulative target over the appropriate 12-month monitoring period (1 April to 31 March), the Council will prioritise the delivery of housing in the subsequent monitoring periods. This will be ensured through appropriate mechanisms which, depending on the scale and nature of potential under-delivery, will include: a. Preparation of an interim position statement and drawing on evidence from the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment to identify additional housing land; b. Preparation of new development plan documents, development briefs and use of the Council's powers to support delivery, such as Compulsory Purchase Orders; and/or c. A partial review of the Local Plan, including options for safeguarded land and, if exceptional circumstances prevail, consideration of a review of the Green Belt. The Plan contains a range of proposals relating to housing, including the two strategic sites that are crucial to the delivery of the overall spatial strategy. The Council will work with developers and other stakeholders to ensure the timely development of these strategic proposals, including the associated key infrastructure requirements. Any material delay in the implementation of infrastructure necessary to sustain housing delivery, which would lead to under-delivery of supply, will inform whether the range of measures set out above are triggered. This process will ensure that plan-led corrective measures are put in place at the appropriate time.

Strategic Housing

The full objectively assessed housing needs of North Tyneside will be met through the provision of sufficient specific deliverable housing sites, including the positive identification of brownfield land and sustainable greenfield sites that do not fall within the Borough's Green Belt, whilst also making best use of the existing housing stock. In doing so, this will reflect the following key priorities of: a. Providing enough new homes to meet current and future need and ensuring the Borough maintains a rolling five year supply of deliverable housing land; b. Delivering a distribution of new housing that is sustainable, taking account of the economic, social and environmental impacts of development and infrastructure requirements; c. The delivery of brownfield land, whilst taking into consideration the viability of land for development; d. Providing accommodation that is affordable for all sectors of the local community; e. Improving existing residential areas and bringing empty homes back into residential use; f. Delivering a range and type of housing that is currently under-provided for in the Borough, in order to meet identified shortfalls in need; g. Ensuring the delivery of specialist stock to meet specific needs such as larger housing, and extra care facilities; h. Promoting good management of Houses in Multiple Occupation including encouraging landlords to work with the Council through specific improvement schemes and initiatives; i. Offering opportunities for self-build schemes, including the identification of parcels of land on larger housing sites; and, j. Ensuring that there remains a choice and variety of viable housing sites, capable of meeting a range of housing needs.

Improving the Quality of Existing Housing Stock

The Council will work to ensure the Borough's existing houses and residential areas remain healthy, safe, attractive and sustainable places in which to live and will support and deliver schemes that: a. Improve the condition of existing homes, in particular enhancing energy efficiency; b. Address issues of poor management and under-investment that may arise in the private sector, including the use of selective demolition where appropriate; c. Bring long term empty homes back in to use; and d. Through wider regeneration schemes and improvements: i. bring public realm improvements that enhance the attractiveness of existing residential areas; ii. enhance the provision and responsiveness of service providers to the needs of the local area; and, iii. address issues of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Housing Figures

To provide for the growth and development needed in North Tyneside to meet the Borough's objectively assessed need for new homes, provision is made for the development of at least 16,593 homes from 2011/12 to 2031/32. This overall requirement will be provided through a phased approach, to deliver an average of 790 new homes per annum over the plan period.

Ensuring a Sufficient Supply of Housing Land

A sufficient supply of housing land will be maintained over the plan period in order to ensure the delivery of the overall housing requirement as outlined in Policy S4.2(a). The rate of housing delivery and supply will be assessed through the monitoring process on an annual basis, with performance being measured against the stepped housing trajectory. If monitoring demonstrates that the number of completed dwellings falls below the cumulative target over the appropriate 12-month monitoring period (1 April to 31 March), the Council will prioritise the delivery of housing in the subsequent monitoring periods. This will be ensured through appropriate mechanisms which, depending on the scale and nature of potential under-delivery, will include: a. Preparation of an interim position statement and drawing on evidence from the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment to identify additional housing land; b. Preparation of new development plan documents, development briefs and use of the Council's powers to support delivery, such as Compulsory Purchase Orders; and/or c. A partial review of the Local Plan, including options for safeguard

Distribution of Housing Development Sites

The sites allocated for housing development are identified on the Policies Map, including those identified for both housing and mixed-use schemes. The Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment 2016 outlines that these sites have an overall capacity of approximately 8,838 homes, assessed as being deliverable and developable over the plan period to 2032. Indicative mapping identifying potential access arrangements and possible areas of open space have been prepared for a selected range of sites where additional guidance could benefit future delivery. Planning applications related to those sites should have regard to these indicative plans. Additional policy for the strategic allocations at Murton and Killingworth Moor should be considered to inform the preparation of detailed site wide masterplans and applications for development.

Murton Strategic Allocation Concept Plan

A strategic allocation is identified at Murton (Sites 35 to 41) to secure the delivery of approximately 3,000 homes during the plan period in a mix of housing tenures, types and sizes informed by available evidence of the housing needs of the Borough, and convenience retail provision of approximately 1,000m² net. The key principles for development of the Murton strategic allocation are illustrated on the Policies Map through an indicative Concept Plan, to be delivered where necessary in accordance with the requirements of the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, include provision of: a. New housing, retail and community facilities in the general development locations identified; and, b. Primary and secondary access points suitable to accommodate evidence based traffic flows to, from and through the sites as appropriate; and, c. Strategic transport route connecting Earsdon by-pass with New York Road and Norham Road; and d. Education provision delivered in agreement with the Local Education Authority, at locations indicatively identified on the Policies Map, providing a primary school located broadly to the south west of the site; and e. A network of green and blue infrastructure that: i. Enables provision of strategic open space breaks to avoid the joining together of Shiremoor with Monkseaton, whilst integrating with existing communities; and, ii. Provides safe and secure cycle and pedestrian links through the site that ensure appropriate connectivity with the existing network; and, iii. Retains, connects and enhances local, national and international biodiversity; and, iv. Retains and enhances any important hedgerows or trees; and, v. Provides well-integrated and strategic green spaces for recreation, which includes 'Suitable Accessible Natural Green Space' (SANGS); and, vi. Incorporates sustainable drainage systems.

Killingworth Moor Strategic Allocation Concept Plan

A strategic allocation is identified at Killingworth Moor (Sites 22 to 26) to secure the delivery of approximately 2,000 homes during the plan period in a mix of housing tenures, types and sizes, informed by available evidence of the housing needs of the Borough, convenience retail provision of approximately 500m² net and 17ha of employment land. The key principles for development of the Killingworth Moor strategic allocation are illustrated on the Policies Map through an indicative Concept Plan, to be delivered where necessary in accordance with the requirements of the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, include provision of: a. New housing, employment, retail and community facilities in the general development locations identified; and, b. Primary and secondary access points suitable to accommodate evidence based traffic flows to, from and through the sites as appropriate; and, c. Strategic transport route connecting Killingworth Way with Great Lime Road; and, d. Education provision delivered in agreement with the Local Education Authority, at locations indicatively identified on the Policies Map providing a primary and secondary school located broadly to the south east of the site; and e. A network of green and blue infrastructure that: i. Enables provision of strategic open space breaks to avoid the joining together of Killingworth with Forest Hall and Palmersville, whist integrating with existing communities; and, ii. Provides safe and secure cycle and pedestrian links through the site that ensure appropriate connectivity with the existing network; and, iii. Retains, connects and enhances the biodiversity of each site; and, iv. Retains and enhances any important hedgerows or trees; and, v. Provides well-integrated and strategic green spaces for recreation; and, vi. Incorporates sustainable drainage systems.

Applications for Delivery of the Strategic Allocations

At the identified strategic allocations of Killingworth Moor (Sites 22 to 26) and Murton (Sites 35 to 41) a comprehensive masterplan for each allocation must be prepared collaboratively, and agreed, by the relevant development consortia and North Tyneside Council. Applications for planning permission will be granted where: a. They are consistent with the comprehensive masterplan, which itself must demonstrate its general conformity with the key principles of the Concept Plans for Killingworth Moor and for Murton; b. The application relates to the whole allocated site or if less does not in any way prejudice the implementation of the whole allocation; c. Provision of any development that would exceed the approximate capacity for housing, retail and employment indicated by this Local Plan, within and beyond the plan period, must demonstrate its continued conformity with the principles of the Concept Plan and the infrastructure capacity of the site and Borough; d. The application is in accordance with a phasing and delivery strategy, prepared as part of the detailed masterplan, that identifies the timing, funding and provision of green, social and physical infrastructure; e. An access and transport strategy is developed that maximises the potential for walking, cycling and use of public transport (including the potential provision, subject to overall feasibility and economic viability, of new Metro stations), as demonstrated through the detailed masterplans, and the application provides a connected, legible network of streets with the proposed primary routes and public transport corridors; f. A heritage management strategy is provided that is informed by the mitigation measures proposed in the Local Plan Heritage Assessment and Sustainability Appraisal; g. A landscape and visual amenity impact assessment is provided identifying key features of note on each site, demonstrating an appropriate design response (e.g. the location, orientation, density of development and landscape/planting treatment).

Telecommunications – Broadband, mobile phone masts and equipment

The Council supports the development and extension of telecommunications services. Proposals for new homes or employment development will be encouraged to consider and make provision for high-speed broadband connectivity. Specific proposals for telecommunications development (including radio masts), equipment and installations will be permitted if: a. When proposing a new mast, evidence should demonstrate that no reasonable possibilities exist of erecting apparatus on existing buildings, masts or other structures. b. The siting and appearance of the proposed apparatus and associated structures should seek to minimise impact on the visual amenity and respect the character or appearance of the surrounding area. c. When sited on a building, the apparatus and associated structures are sited and designed in order to seek to minimise impact to the external appearance of the host building. d. The development would not have an unacceptable adverse impact on areas of ecological interest, areas of landscape importance, archaeological sites, conservation areas or buildings of architectural or historic interest. When considering applications for telecommunications development, the Council will have regard to the operational requirements of telecommunications networks. e. There are no more satisfactory alternative sites for telecommunications available. f. There is a justifiable need for a new site. g. Proposals subject to government guidelines on non-ionising radiation protection are accompanied by an International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection certificate.

Development Viability

The Council is committed to enabling viable and deliverable sustainable development. If the economic viability of a new development is such that it is not reasonably possible to make payments to fund all or part of the infrastructure required to support it, applicants will need to provide robust evidence of the viability of the proposal to demonstrate this. In these circumstances the Council may: a. Enter negotiations with the applicant over a suitable contribution towards the infrastructure costs of the proposed development, whilst continuing to enable viable and sustainable development; b. Consider alternative phasing, through the development period, of any contributions where to do so would sufficiently improve the economic viability of the scheme to enable payment. When determining the contributions required, consideration will be given to the application's overall conformity with the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

New Development and Waste

All developments are expected to: a. Provide sustainable waste management during construction and use. b. Ensure a suitable location for the storage and collection of waste. c. Consider the use of innovative communal waste facilities where practicable.

General Infrastructure and Funding

The Council will ensure appropriate infrastructure is delivered so it can support new development and continue to meet existing needs. Where appropriate and through a range of means, the Council will seek to improve any deficiencies in the current level of provision. The Council will also work together with other public sector organisations, within and beyond the Borough, to achieve funding for other necessary items of infrastructure. This will include the use of combined and innovative funding schemes to maximise the amount and impact of funding. New development may be required to contribute to infrastructure provision to meet the impact of that growth, through the use of planning obligations and other means including the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). Planning obligations will be sought where: a. It is not possible to address unacceptable impacts through the use of a condition; and, b. The contributions are fair, reasonable, directly related to the development and necessary to make the application acceptable. In determining the level of contributions required from a development, regard will be given to the impact on the economic viability of the scheme.

The Wallsend and Willington Quay Sub Area

Within the Wallsend and Willington Quay sub-area, as shown on the Policies Map: a. The north bank of the River Tyne will provide a location for a range of opportunities for investment and economic development and support growth in advanced engineering, research and development particularly in renewable and marine off-shore manufacturing and sub-sea technologies. b. New educational facilities focused on the needs of riverside businesses will be a priority, building on local expertise in the off-shore oil and gas and shipbuilding industries. c. Improve the town's shopping and pedestrian environment and encourage a better mix of leisure activities and support plans for refurbishment and extension of The Forum Shopping Centre. d. Increase the overall quality and supply of housing. e. Improve the public realm and management of specific housing areas. f. Promote and make better use of the area's heritage assets and leisure opportunities including national and international designations such as Segedunum Roman Fort - part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cross country Hadrian's Cycleway, shipbuilding heritage and Wallsend Parks and Wallsend Dene. g. Improve provision of new community facilities and services, including health services. h. Reduce the impact of intrusive employment uses upon residential amenity in the area.

The North Shields Sub Area

Within the North Shields Priority Investment and Regeneration Area, as shown on the Policies Map: a. The area's historic environment and biodiversity and geodiversity assets will be preserved and enhanced, whilst capitalising on the area's culture and heritage, particularly around Northumberland Square and the riverside; b. New investment will be attracted by enhancing the town centre's image as an inviting place to live, work, shop and enjoy; c. Opportunities should be taken to improve pedestrian and vehicular links from North Shields town centre to the riverside and in particular with the Fish Quay; d. Support will be given to supporting and increasing economic activity, including energy related development at the Port of Tyne. With more cruise liners sailing from North Shields the opportunity should be taken to introduce additional facilities for these short term visitors; e. The permitted Smith's Dock major brownfield development site will be recognised as key to driving future regeneration and investment at the New Quay, Fish Quay and North Shields town centre.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

The Council will work pro-actively with applicants to jointly find solutions that mean proposals can be approved wherever possible that improve the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area through the development management process and application of the policies of the Local Plan. 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: a. 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 b. Specific policies in the NPPF indicate that development should be restricted.

Spatial Strategy for Sustainable Development

To ensure North Tyneside's requirements for homes and jobs can be met with adequate provision of infrastructure, and in a manner that enables improvements to quality of life, reduces the need to travel and responds to the challenges of climate change, the Spatial Strategy for the location and scale of development is that: a. Employment development will be located: i. within the main urban area; and, ii. at areas easily accessible to residents by a range of sustainable means of transport; and, iii. where businesses may benefit from the Borough's excellent national and international transport connections - including the strategic road network and opportunities provided by the River Tyne. b. Most housing development will be located: i. in a dispersed pattern in the main urban area; and, ii. at the strategic allocations of Murton and Killingworth Moor; and, iii. within the areas of North Shields, Wallsend, the Coast and the North West where development could bring particular benefits to the regeneration of the area. c. Most retail, and leisure activities will be focused: i. within the main town centres of Wallsend, North Shields and Whitley Bay, as well as Killingworth town centre, taking advantage of the excellent accessibility, services and infrastructure invested in those locations. d. Most tourist and cultural facilities and accommodation will be focused: i. within the main urban area; and, ii. at areas such as the Coast, riverside and main town centres of Whitley Bay, North Shields and Wallsend, including the World Heritage Site at Segedunum Roman Fort.

General Development Principles

Proposals for development will be considered favourably where it can be demonstrated that they would accord with the strategic, development management or area specific policies of this Plan. Should the overall evidence based needs for development already be met, additional proposals will be considered positively in accordance with the principles for sustainable development. In accordance with the nature of development those proposals should: a. Contribute to the mitigation of the likely effects of climate change, taking full account of flood risk, water supply and demand and where appropriate coastal change; b. Be acceptable in terms of their impact upon local amenity for new or existing residents and businesses, adjoining premises and land uses; c. Make the most effective and efficient use of available land; d. Have regard to and address any identified impacts of a proposal upon the Borough's heritage assets, built and natural environment; and, e. Be accommodated by, and make best use of, existing facilities and infrastructure, particularly in encouraging accessibility and walking, cycling and public transport, whilst making appropriate provision for new or additional infrastructure requirements.

Local Plan Implementation and Monitoring

The policies and proposals in this Local Plan will be implemented in accordance with the Local Plan Implementation and Monitoring Framework and monitored through the North Tyneside Authority Monitoring Report (AMR). If the AMR indicates that the aims and objectives of Local Plan policies are not being implemented, or that the overall level of growth and/or the delivery of specific development allocations are not being achieved, the Council will: a. Undertake a review of the relevant policy and implementation procedure to establish the issues affecting delivery; and/or, b. Review the delivery of site-specific allocations; and/or c. Review the mechanisms for financial contributions to development, which may be impacting on development viability and ultimately be affecting the delivery of policies; and/or d. Develop further working relationships with various partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors in order to look at ways to facilitate implementation; and/or, e. Continue to work with adjoining local authorities and agencies to address cross-boundary development needs; and/or, f. Consider the preparation of Supplementary Planning Documents to provide clearer guidance as to how policies should be implemented. If the measures outlined in the criteria above prove to be insufficient, or are otherwise unable to overcome the barriers to delivery of the overall objectives and strategy, then the Council will consider the need for a partial or full review of the Local Plan.

Fish Quay and New Quay

The Council will support the continuation and further development of the Fish Quay and New Quay as a characterful, vibrant mixed use area by: a. Supporting suitable residential developments in those areas shown on the Policies Map; b. Giving priority to fishing industry related employment uses in those areas shown on the Policies Map, unless alternative proposals can demonstrate that they would not: i. Result in the unacceptable loss of operating fishing industry related businesses and jobs ii. Result in an excessive reduction in the supply of land for development of fishing industry related employment uses; and, iii. Have an adverse impact upon the amenity and operation of neighbouring properties and businesses; c. Protecting those areas of green space within the area, as shown on the Policies Map; d. Encouraging suitable recreation and tourism uses, especially around the Clifford's Fort area; e. Supporting a mix of other uses, such as appropriate small retail premises and small to medium sized businesses; f. Seeking improvements to access and linkages to the area, especially from North Shields town centre; and g. Ensuring all new development is built to the highest quality design that respects the area's special character.

The Beacon Centre and Wider Regeneration of North Shields Town Centre

The Council will support refurbishment of the Beacon Centre and wider regeneration of North Shields town centre, as shown on the Policies Map, that seeks to address each of the following: a. Enhancing the pedestrian and cycle routes through the centre; b. Broadening the range, size and quality of retail units; c. Enhancing the building's appearance with increased town centre frontage on Saville Street and Bedford Street; d. Enhancing entrances into the Centre, including car and cycle parking; and e. Promote the vitality and viability of the centre, including proposals for residential development and conversion or use of upper floors.

Tourism and Visitor Accommodation at the Coast

North Tyneside's coastal area provides popular tourist attractions, facilities and accommodation that are of importance to the tourism industry for the region. Proposals for new or the extension of existing attractions, facilities and accommodation will be actively supported to maintain and enhance an attractive, vibrant and viable seafront offer where they are: a. Able to maintain the overall openness of the coastal area through their location and the incorporation of high quality design and materials in keeping with the character of the area; and b. Of an appropriate scale in-keeping with surrounding buildings; and c. Located where the impact from increased visitors can be accommodated: i. By existing infrastructure capacity making best use of public transport provision and avoiding increased road congestion; and ii. Without significant adverse harm upon the designated coastal environment sites and wider biodiversity. The change of use of existing visitor accommodation (C1 hotel/guest house) will be permitted where: d. There is no proven demand and it can no longer make a positive contribution to the tourist economy, following an active and exhaustive marketing process of: i. a minimum of nine months, for accommodation of thirty individual rooms or less; ii. a minimum of eighteen months for accommodation of more than thirty individual rooms; or e. An appropriate alternative is to be provided, which is at least equivalent to that lost in terms of quantity, quality and location.

Visitor Attractions and Activities at the Coast

The following proposals and activities have been noted as particular opportunities at the coast that could enhance its role for tourism over the life of the plan: a. Restoration and re-use of The Spanish City dome and surrounding development site, including provision of improved parking, shops, a hotel and housing. b. St. Mary's Headland - new visitor facilities. c. St. Mary's Lighthouse and visitor centre refurbishment. d. Northern Promenade - overnight stay beach huts and public realm improvements e. Demolition and proposed redevelopment of High Point Hotel, The Avenue, Whiskey Bends f. Coastline Land Train - to support linkage between attractions along the coast whilst encouraging trips away from the private car. g. Longsands Temporary Events Area - the site known as Beaconsfield (identified on the Policies Map and Map 30) to be safeguarded for open space but would be considered acceptable for temporary tourism and recreational related activities and appropriate works to support such activities. All activities will be restricted between October and March to avoid impacts on nationally and internationally protected nature conservation interests. Permanent loss of any part of the site would not be permitted.

The Spanish City

As shown on the Policies Map, the Council will support, through the retention and improvement of the grade II listed Spanish City site, the development of a mix of uses that make a positive contribution to the tourism offer for the coast and support Whitley Bay as a fun and family friendly destination.

The Forum Shopping Centre, Wallsend

To improve the overall quality of retail provision in Wallsend and contribute to identified requirements for the provision of comparison retail floorspace, the Council will continue to provide support for main town centre uses at The Forum Shopping Centre, as shown on the Policies Map, including the extension to the west, that: a. Enhance the role of The Forum Shopping Centre at the heart of the primary shopping area in Wallsend; b. Provide a new retail floorspace to serve the town and wider community; c. Enhance the internal and external appearance of the shopping centre making the area attractive to shoppers and visitors; d. Would deliver enhanced community facilities and services for the whole of Wallsend, alongside the existing improved library services; e. Provide improved and accessible parking provision that is available for use by shoppers at the supermarket, The Forum and the town centre as a whole.

Coastal Evening Economy: Whitley Bay and Tynemouth

The Council will support development proposals for town centre uses at South Parade in Whitley Bay and the identified Primary Shopping Area (PSA) in Tynemouth (see Map 31) that: a. Support a sustainable evening economy without undermining the ability of the Cumulative Impact Policy to prevent crime and disorder and public nuisance; b. Would add vitality and viability to identified areas, without either singularly or cumulatively undermining the overall attraction of the centre; and c. Would not adversely impact on the existing character, function and vitality of the street or surrounding environment.

Portugal Place and High Street West, Wallsend

The Council would support the development of a master plan for the sensitive redevelopment of this area at Portugal Place and High Street West, as defined on Map 25, with the specific objectives of: a. Expanding the Portugal Place Health Centre; b. Relocating intrusive business uses that conflict with the role of a town centre and residential environment; c. Deliver new residential accommodation of high quality within the town centre meeting the specific needs of residents of Wallsend; d. Include continued provision of leisure and retail activities, including the public house on this site; and e. Deliver overall significant improvements to the visual appearance of the site, helping to enhance the image of Wallsend.

Assessment of Town Centre Uses

Proposals for main town centre uses on sites not within the town centres will be permitted where they meet the following criteria: a. In order of priority, there are no sequentially preferable sites in-centre, then edge of centre, and then existing out-of-centre development sites previously occupied by appropriate main town centre uses that are readily accessible to Metro stations or other transport connections to the town centres and then finally existing out-of-centre locations; b. The suitability, availability and viability of sites should be considered in the sequential assessment, with particular regard to the nature of the need that is to be addressed, edge-of-centre sites should be of a scale that is appropriate to the existing centre; c. There is flexibility in the business model and operational requirements in terms of format; and d. The potential sites are easily accessible and well connected to town centres. Proposals for retail development outside a town centre will require an impact assessment where they would provide either: e. 500m² gross of comparison retail floorspace, or more; or f. 1,000m² gross of retail floorspace for supermarkets/superstores, or more. The proposal would be supported when the necessary Impact Assessment has shown that: g. The proposal would have no significant adverse impacts, either individually or cumulatively, on existing, committed and planned public and private investment in a centre or centres in the catchment area of the proposal;

Primary Shopping Area

Primary Shopping Areas, as shown on the Policies Map, are defined for: 1. North Shields; 2. Wallsend; 3. Whitley Bay; and, 4. Killingworth. Within these Primary Shopping Areas, proposals for development will be permitted in the Primary Shopping Frontages, as shown on the Policies Map, where they would: a. Enhance or complement the principal role of the location as an area of retail activity. b. Promote the vitality and viability of the centre, including proposals for residential development and conversion of upper floors. c. Avoid a cumulation of uses that can undermine the centre's overall retail function and character. d. Deliver high quality active ground floor frontages. e. Not result in more than three adjacent units being in the same non A1, A2 and A3 use. f. In the Primary Shopping Frontage not result in less than 80% of frontages being in A1, A2 and A3 use and the following factors will be taken into account in assessing the impact of a proposal: i. the nature of the use proposed, in particular the extent to which it would be attractive to shoppers and contribute genuinely to diversity; ii. the size (frontage width) and prominence of the property; iii. if vacant, the prospects of the property finding another A1, A2 and A3 use in the foreseeable future; iv. recent trends in the balance of shop and non-shop uses in the frontage, whether stable or changing, and at what pace; v. which would result in an A1, A2 and A3 frontage of between 75% and 80% will normally be more acceptable than those which result in a level below 75%. Proposals for development will be permitted in the Secondary Shopping Frontages, as shown on the Policies Map, where they would: g. Enhance or complement the principal role of the location for town centre activity. h. Promote the vitality and viability of the centre, including proposals for residential development and conversion of upper floors. i. Avoid a cumulation of uses that can undermine the centre's overall function and character. j. Deliver high quality active ground floor frontages.

Local Facilities

Small-scale out of centre facilities serving local retail and leisure needs of less than 500m2 gross floorspace, or extensions to existing facilities, will be permitted if it can be shown that all of the following requirements are met: a. The proposal is of an appropriate size and function to meet specific day-to-day needs of a neighbourhood population within convenient, safe walking distance (300m); b. It will not have an adverse effect on the amenity of neighbouring uses; c. Contribute to social inclusion and sustainable development; d. Safeguard the retail character and function of existing centres and not detract from their vitality and viability. Proposals to meet the day to day needs of employees on employment sites would be subject to this policy.

Hot Food Take-aways

Proposals for A5 hot food take-aways will be permitted unless: a. It would result in a clustering of A5 uses to the detriment of the character, function, vitality and viability of the defined centres or it would have an adverse impact on the standard of amenity for existing and future occupants of adjacent land and buildings. b. There are two or more consecutive A5 uses in any one length of frontage. Where A5 uses already exist in any length of frontage, a gap of at least two non A5 use shall be required before a further A5 use will be permitted in the same length of frontage. To promote healthier communities, the Council will: c. Prevent the development of A5 use within a 400m radius of entry points to all middle and secondary schools, as shown on the Policies Map. d. Prevent the development of A5 use in wards where there is more than 15% of the year 6 pupils or 10% of reception pupils classified as very overweight*. e. Assess on an individual basis, the impact hot food take-aways have on the well-being of residents.

Competitive Centres

Within the Borough's defined centres the Council will seek ways to support their growth and regeneration, and support proposals for main town centre development, appropriate residential and mixed-use schemes that would: a. Contribute to the protection and enhancement of the vitality and viability of the centre. b. Capitalise upon the character and distinctiveness of the centre, while sustaining and enhancing its heritage assets. c. Support the improvement in the range and quality of shops, services and facilities. d. Boost the growth of small and medium sized businesses that can provide unique and niche services. e. Encourage the growth of the evening economy with leisure, culture and arts activities. f. Enhance accessibility by all modes including public transport, walking, cycling and by car. g. Introduce measures that reduce crime and the fear of crime and any other disorder issues.

Hierarchy of Centres

Reflecting the sustainable development strategy of this Local Plan the following centres, as defined on the Policies Map, provide the key locations that can be resilient to future economic changes and which should be considered as part of a sequential test for proposed main town centre uses. a) Town Centre i. North Shields ii. Wallsend iii. Whitley Bay iv. Killingworth b) District Centre v. Forest Hall vi. Monkseaton vii. Tynemouth viii. Northumberland Park c) Local Centre ix. Battle Hill x. Howdon xi. Longbenton xii. Preston Grange xiii. Whitley Lodge

Future Retail Demand

Provision should be made for at least 6,378m² convenience (net) and 15,249m² comparison (net) additional retail floorspace. Future provision should be in accordance with the latest available evidence and in accordance with other policies in the Local Plan. Key sites identified for retail development over the plan period are: Total Floorspace (m² Net) | Designated Centre | Site Name 10,160 | Northumberland Park | Northumberland Park 1,200 | Wallsend | Land West of The Forum Shopping Centre 1,140 | Longbenton District Centre | Land West of Boulevard Shopping Centre 1,011 | Tynemouth | Tynemouth Station 1,000 | Neighbourhood Parade | Murton Strategic Development Site 500 | Neighbourhood Parade | Killingworth Moor Strategic Development Site Proposals for new development(s) within the boundary of the Northumberland Park District Centre will be permitted provided that they meet all of the following criteria: a. Predominantly meet the comparison retail needs of the Borough based on net floorspace of the overall uses proposed in the extension; b. The development of the extension of the District Centre is fully integrated with the existing centre, surrounding neighbourhoods and Northumberland Park Metro Station with particular attention paid to addressing pedestrian and cycle links; and c. The scale of any new floorspace reflects its position as a District Centre.

Coastal Green Links

The Council will support improvements to the cycle network along the coast linking to other cycle routes in the Borough and will support specific improvements to the network around Cullercoats to improve safety and convenience for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Coastal Transport

Through working in partnership with applicants for development, the community, public transport providers and Nexus, the Council will seek to improve the accessibility of the coastal area by: a. Balancing competing needs on the road network, to maintain traffic circulation and minimise congestion with opportunities to give greater priority to pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users and people with reduced mobility; b. Improving the street network connecting Whitley Bay town centre and Tynemouth district centre with the seafront and establishing attractive points of arrival including improvements to cycling and walking infrastructure; c. Ensuring that servicing and delivery arrangements meet the reasonable needs of business through improved off street servicing and loading facilities; d. Increasing public car parking opportunities as part of Whitley Bay town centre developments that also enhance the quality of the environment; and e. Maintaining adequate car parking provision that serves the coast with improved access for sustainable transport that would cause no adverse impacts on people, biodiversity and the environment.

The North West Villages Sub Area

Within the North West Villages Sub Area, as shown on the Policies Map: a. The availability of good public transport and active travel options are encouraged and supported. To ensure the community can reach the excellent services and facilities within the area, good access throughout the North West is as important as access beyond. b. Image and identity will be improved through good signage and interpretation, and high quality, well-maintained public realm. c. North Tyneside Council will work positively with owners of vacant sites to bring them back into suitable, beneficial use.

Sustainable Transport and Traffic Management for the North West Villages

To improve linkages between Villages in the North West and beyond, the Council supports: a. Safeguarding and improving the area's bus service provision. b. Protecting and enhancing the waggonways, and other traffic-free travel routes. c. Suitable road crossing measures, where required, to allow better active travel movement. d. Appropriate traffic calming measures in the North West Villages, with the aim of discouraging "rat runs" to avoid main routes.

Transport and Accessibility in Wallsend and Willington Quay

In seeking to enhance accessibility and encourage walking, cycling and public transport as sustainable ways of getting about in Wallsend and Willington Quay, the Council will support: a. Ensuring Wallsend town centre is safe and attractive with facilities that encourage visitors to walk or cycle to the town; b. Safeguarding bus services to the heart of Wallsend town centre, with frequent bus services calling at The Forum Shopping Centre; c. Improving the surroundings, environment and safety of the Metro stations in the area at Wallsend, Hadrian Road and Howdon; and, d. Encouraging walking and cycling between the town centre and riverside, particularly Willington Gut and Segedunum Roman Fort through improvements that deliver safer and more attractive streets.

Improving Movement in Wallsend and Willington Quay

The Council will encourage movement by foot and on cycle around Wallsend and Willington Quay as an important means of bringing the various elements of the area together to help deliver on the area's wider regeneration. In particular, proposals should focus on improving and enhancing streets where possible with: a. The introduction of native species of trees or other appropriate planting, b. Identifying where shared surfaces could be introduced to calm traffic, c. Tackling conflict between pedestrians, cyclists and public transport at key points such as busy junctions, and d. Improving green links along waggonway corridors. A range of key streets and locations may benefit from such improvements, including: i. High Street East and West - detailed further under "Wallsend High Street Improvements". ii. Park Road - already an Advisory Route for cyclists, to create a safe and attractive link between Hadrian's Cycleway, High Street and Richardson Dees Park. iii. Church Bank, to calm speeding traffic and encourage walking along the most open approach to Wallsend Dene. iv. National Cycle Network Route 72, Hadrian's Cycleway - to ensure opportunities to encourage short diversions from the main route to Segedunum Fort and the town centre are accessible and attractive. v. Station Road junctions with High Street and North Road - to improve accessibility for pedestrians across this important north-south link road. vi. Bewicke Road, Willington Quay - to soften and improve the appearance of an important road taking buses through the centre of the village.

New Development and Transport

The Council and its partners will ensure that the transport requirements of new development, commensurate to the scale and type of development, are taken into account and seek to promote sustainable travel to minimise environmental impacts and support residents health and well-being: a. Accessibility will be improved and transport choice widened, by ensuring that all new development is well serviced by an attractive choice of transport modes, including public transport, footways and cycle routes. Connections will be integrated into existing networks with opportunities to improve connectivity identified. b. All major development proposals likely to generate significant additional journeys will be required to be accompanied by a Transport Assessment and a Travel Plan in accordance with standards set out in the Transport and Highways SPD (LDD12). c. The number of cycle and car parking spaces provided in new developments will be in accordance with standards set out in the Transport and Highways SPD (LDD12). d. New developments will need to demonstrate that existing or proposed public transport services can accommodate development proposals, or where necessary, identify opportunities for public transport improvements including sustainable access to public transport hubs. e. New developments in close proximity to public transport hubs, whenever feasible, should provide a higher density of development to reflect increased opportunities for sustainable travel. f. On developments considered appropriate, the Council will require charging points to be provided for electric vehicles in accordance with standards set out in the Transport and Highways SPD (LDD12).

Transport

1) Public Transport The Council, will support its partners, who seek to provide a comprehensive, integrated, safe, accessible and efficient public transport network, capable of supporting development proposals and future levels of growth. These measures will provide attractive travel options for all groups within society and will be delivered by: a. Supporting proposals for improvements to the Metro system, including through investment in new rolling stock and by upgrading of existing stations and infrastructure. b. Improving access to, and safety of, Metro stations to make them more attractive and welcoming. c. Improving public transport interchanges to facilitate better integration between differing modes, principally bus and Metro but also including provision for taxis, cycle parking and storage facilities and car parking. d. Working with Nexus, service operators and major employers to maintain and enhance bus provision wherever possible. This will include improvement to services, information and ticketing and supporting proposals to address issues of accessibility and safety. e. Working with partners such as Nexus, transport operators and the voluntary sector where appropriate to promote the provision of flexible accessible transport options for persons with reduced mobility or other factors that limit travel options. f. Ensuring the retention and protection of essential infrastructure that will facilitate sustainable passenger and freight movements, including safeguarding of strategic transport routes for the future. In particular, development which would obstruct or constrain the use of existing or former railway lines for a variety of transport uses will not be permitted - this includes routes currently used for heavy rail, light rail, and/or cycleways. Specific examples with potential for future investment are marked on the Policies Map and include: i. Ashington, Blyth and Tyne Railway (Seghill - Northumberland Park - Benton); and, ii. Northumberland Park - to Percy Main/Howdon (Cobalt Corridor Link) including protection of key site at Earsdon Road, Shiremoor, land in the Percy Main area and sites for potential stations and access points along the route; and, iii. Benton Curve (South-West) – to allow access from the East Coast Main Line towards Benton, South Gosforth and Newcastle International Airport; and, iv. Additionally, potential sites for new stations, whether on the existing rail network, on routes re-opened for passenger traffic and/or extensions to the network, will also be supported where appropriate. This includes proposals relating to both the Metro and heavy rail and will be linked to new development wherever possible. Specifically this includes potential sites for new Metro stations at Killingworth Moor and Murton Gap, linked to the strategic allocations. 2) The Road Network The Council, working with partners, will seek to deliver targeted improvements to the road network to contribute to the economic development and regeneration of North Tyneside in order to support businesses, improve pedestrian and other road users' safety, contribute positively to environmental quality and ensure progress with regard to both the timing and reliability of journeys. In conjunction with Highways England, the priorities for improvement to the national strategic road network will be focused on the A19(T) including at the following key locations, as shown on the Policies Map: a. A19(T)/A193 Howdon Interchange; b. A19(T)/A1058 Silverlink Interchange; c. A19(T)/A1056 Killingworth Interchange; and, d. A19(T)/A1 Seaton Burn Interchange. In addition, at the following locations, which are outside the Borough but have significant links to the North Tyneside highway network: e. A19(T)/A189 Moor Farm Interchange; f. A1(T)/A1056 North Brunton Interchange; and, g. A19(T)/A184 Testos Roundabout. The Council will also prioritise targeted improvements at other key points on the network including along the A188, A189 and A191 corridors, A1058 Coast Road, A1056 Sandy Lane, and on the A193 Wallsend Road/Tynemouth Road-A187 Hadrian Road corridor. Other priorities for improvements to the local road network will be examined as and when required with further detail on the above schemes, and others, available in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP). 3) Pedestrians, Cyclists and Horse-Riders The Council, working with partners, will seek to protect and enhance its existing network of routes and provide a network of safe, convenient, direct and accessible routes for pedestrians, cyclists, horse-riders and other non-motorised modes of transport. The commitment to deliver a functioning network will be achieved through a variety of measures including, where appropriated, by: a. Developing and implementing improvements to strategic and local routes in the Borough for the benefit of all users. b. Specifically with regard to cycling, supporting proposals for new and improved infrastructure and associated facilities that would increase the opportunities for, and attractiveness of, cycling as a sustainable mode of travel. This includes established cycling routes which run on, and alongside, roads as well as the network of off-road routes, local waggonways and other green infrastructure connections – this incorporates the strategic routes that form part of the National Cycle Network. Proposals will be supported unless there would be significant adverse impacts on other recreational activities. c. Improving the quality and safety of the public realm, implementing streetscape improvements, giving greater priority to pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders and fostering road safety. d. Wherever possible, incorporating improvements for non-motorised modes of transport as part of other transport schemes.