Planning in North Warwickshire

Land off Maxstoke Lane, south of St Peter and St Paul's Cemetery

Approximately 2.5 hectares of land north of Maxstoke Lane, south of St Peter and St Paul's Cemetery Coleshill will be allocated for cemetery and allotment use for the Parish and Coleshill Community.

Development Considerations

Development should meet the needs of residents and businesses without compromising the ability of future generations to enjoy the same quality of life that the present generation aspires to. Development should: 1. make effective use of brownfield land in appropriate locations reflecting the settlement hierarchy; and, 2. be adaptable for future uses and take into account the needs of all users; and, 3. maintain and improve the provision of accessible local and community services, unless it can be demonstrated that they are no longer needed by the community they serve; not needed for any other community use, or that the facility is being relocated and improved to meet the needs of the new, existing and future community; and services in line with policy LP21 4. promote healthier lifestyles for the community to be active outside their homes and places of work; and, 5. encourage sustainable forms of transport focussing on pedestrian access and provision of bike facilities; and, 6. Provide safe and suitable access to the site for all users; and 7 before proposals are supported expand or enhance the provision of open space, sport and recreation facilities, using, in particular, the Green Space Strategy and Playing Pitch Strategies; and, 8 not lead to the loss unless a site of equivalent quality and accessibility can be provided, or shown that it is surplus to needs; and, 9. avoid and address unacceptable impacts upon neighbouring amenities through overlooking, overshadowing, noise, light, air quality or other pollution; and in this respect identification of contaminated and potentially contaminated land will be necessary prior to determination of proposals depending on the history of the site and sensitivity of the end use and, 10. protect and enhance the historic and natural environment; and, 11. manage the impacts of climate change through the design and location of development, including sustainable building design and materials, sustainable drainage, water efficiency measures, use of trees and natural vegetation and ensuring no net loss of flood storage capacity; and, 12 protect the quality and hydrology of ground or surface water sources so as to reduce the risk of pollution and flooding, on site or elsewhere; and 13 not sterilise viable known mineral reserves; degrade soil quality or pose risk to human health and ecology from contamination or mining legacy and ensure that land is appropriately remediated, and, 14 seek to maximise opportunities to encourage re-use and recycling of waste materials, both in construction and operation, and, 15 Adequate space for bins should be provided within all new developments to enable the storage of waste and for materials to be re-cycled. Guidance is provided in the Document "Design Guide for Bin Storage" 16 provide for information and communication technologies; and, 17 seek to reduce crime and in particular the threat of terrorism.

Built Form

All development in terms of its layout, form and density should respect and reflect the existing pattern, character and appearance of its setting. Local design detail and characteristics should be reflected within the development. All proposals should therefore: a) ensure that all of the elements of the proposal are well related to each other and harmonise with both the immediate setting and wider surroundings; b) make use of and enhance views into and out of the site both in and outside of the site; c) make appropriate use of landmarks and local features; d) reflect the characteristic architectural styles, patterns and features taking into account their scale and proportion; e) reflect the predominant materials, colours, landscape and boundary treatments in the area; f) ensure that the buildings and spaces connect with and maintain access to the surrounding area and with the wider built, water and natural environment; g) are designed to take into account the needs and practicalities of services and the long term management of public and shared private spaces and facilities; h) create a safe, secure, low crime environment through the layout, specification and positioning of buildings, spaces and uses in line with national Secured by Design standards; i) reduce sky glow, glare and light trespass from external illumination; and j) ensure that existing water courses are fully integrated into site layout at an early stage and to ensure that space is made for water through de-culverting, re-naturalisation and potential channel diversion. Where Design Briefs are adopted for allocated sites and Neighbourhood Plans address design matters, then all development proposals will be expected to accord with the principles set out therein. Infill development should reflect the prevailing character and quality of the surrounding street scene. The more unified the character and appearance of the surrounding buildings and built form, the greater the need will be to reproduce the existing pattern. Back-land development should be subservient in height, scale and mass to the surrounding frontage buildings. Access arrangements should not cause adverse impacts to the character and appearance, safety or amenity of the existing frontage development. Extensions, alterations to and replacement of existing buildings will be expected to: a) respect the siting, scale, form, proportions, materials, details and overall design and character of the host building, its curtilage and setting; b) retain and/or reinstate traditional or distinctive architectural features and fabric; c) safeguard the amenity of the host premises and neighbouring occupiers; d) leave sufficient external usable private space for occupiers, and e) satisfy the design criteria set out in the Document "Design Guide for Extensions". Extensions should be physically and visually subservient to the host building including its roof form so as not to dominate it, by virtue of their scale and siting.

Frontages, Signage and External Installations

Development proposals involving change to existing, or the introduction of new service frontages, advertisements, external illumination and external installations will be expected to have regard to the host building and the wider street scene in terms of their scale, proportion and overall design. In particular, the proportions of the changed new elevations should harmonise with the main building; materials should reflect the existing range on the original building; the ground floor should not be treated in isolation from the other levels; it should add interest to the street scene; where sites are located within the Conservation Area or within the setting of a Listed Building they should reflect or respect the appearance and character of the Conservation Area/Listed Building. In addition, in relation to external illumination proposals will be expected to adopt a scale, detail, siting and type of illumination appropriate to the character of the host building, the wider street scene and longer distant views. External installations and security measures should be integrated into the overall design of the host building with the aim of avoiding harm to the appearance of the building and the street scene. The design criteria will be set out in an SPD and its requirements will need to be satisfied.

New Agricultural, Forestry and Equestrian Buildings

New or extensions to existing agricultural, forestry and equestrian buildings or structures will be supported if it can be demonstrated that they are reasonably necessary both in scale, construction and design for the efficient and viable long-term operation of that holding; that there are no other existing buildings (other than where that would be demonstrably impractical, have adverse visual effects compared with an alternative location, or where a new holding and buildings are being established) or structures that can be used, altered or extended, that they are located within or adjacent to a group of existing buildings, the site selected and materials used would not cause visual intrusion and in the case of livestock buildings their location would not cause loss of residential amenity.

Land at Holly Lane, Atherstone

6.8 hectares of employment land at Holly Lane will be safeguarded. In the event that the allocation becomes surplus to the requirements of Aldi, who currently have an interest in it, the site it will continue to be safeguarded as a long term employment site for smaller scale, mixed E(g)(ii) and B2 uses appropriate to the location reflecting the proximity with existing residential development to the north and accessed off Holly Lane and/or Abeles Way. The site is shown on the Policies Map indicating Areas A and B. Area A is the developable area and area B will be a semi natural buffer along Innage Brook. A Level 3 Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken to demonstrate the extent of land available for development outside of flood zones 2 and 3 plus climate change freeboard, on the basis of (high resolution) detailed modelling. The extents of Area A and Area B will be defined as indicative and based upon the EA Flood Zones until such modelling outputs become available.

Land to the west of Birch Coppice, Dordon

Approximately 5.1 hectares are allocated for employment purposes on land to the immediate west of Birch Coppice south of the A5 at Dordon. Landscaping will be required along the A5 and to the residential properties on the A5. The allotments with appropriate services and associated infrastructure, must be replaced and relocated to the alternative location to the north of the A5, identified as site OS1 on the policies map, prior to the start of construction. Identify a Site opportunity for accommodating open space/recreation uses involving re-location from land south of A5 to land north of A5, to facilitate improved recreational provision and facilitating employment and/or mixed development opportunities.

Land including site of playing fields south of A5 Dordon, adjacent to Core 42 and Birch Coppice

Site of playing fields south of the A5 at Dordon (3.45 hectares), adjoining Core 42 and Birch Coppice is allocated as an employment site, for uses, appropriate to the location reflecting the proximity with existing leisure and residential development and accessed off the adjoining employment site. The existing recreation use will be replaced and relocated to an alternative location north of the A5, identified as site OS1 on the policies map. It will be made available for use prior to the start of construction of the employment site.

Land to the south of Horiba MIRA Technology Park & Enterprise Zone

Approximately 42 hectares will be allocated for E(g)(ii) (research & development) and B2 use classes, with B8 (warehousing & distribution) uses permissible only where ancillary or clearly secondary to the primary use to the south of the A5 at Horiba MIRA Technology Park & Enterprise Zone. Small incubator units will be sought as part of the application. B8 (warehousing & distribution) will not be permitted unless it is ancillary to the main use. Development will be carried out in accordance with a Master Plan to be agreed by the Borough Council. The Master Plan will include. A) An Assessment will be required of the significance of heritage assets and non-heritage assets within and close to the site including the contribution of setting to that significance, with particular reference to Caldecote and Watling Street, to inform appropriate design of development on site. Development should, as far as practicable, ensure that those assets are preserved or enhanced in line with policy LP15. B) The Master Plan, to be agreed by the Borough Council, will include: 1. The provision of sustainable transport measures including a cycle and footpath link along the A5 to Atherstone and Mancetter; and 2. access to the cycle/pedestrian route to the south east of the site; 3. a significant landscape buffer to the southern and south eastern boundaries of the site; 4. means to maximise on site solar energy generation; 5. means of controlling lighting and in particular to minimise impact on Caldecote; and, 6. the location and type of any small incubator units.

Economic Regeneration

The delivery of employment generating uses, including the redevelopment of existing employment sites and farm diversification, should reflect the need to broaden the employment base, improve employment choice and opportunities for local people. All employment land will be protected unless it can be demonstrated that there is no realistic prospect of the site being used for employment purposes. Evidence would need to demonstrate that: • The site is no longer commercially viable; and, • It has been marketed for an appropriate period of time, usually no less than 12 months. Support and encouragement will be given to established / lawful rural businesses to expand where this has no significant and demonstrable harm in particular on the character of the area. Proposals for new development and redevelopment of existing employment land outside of development boundaries will be considered against Policy LP1 and LP2 and should seek to retain the rural character, appearance and openness of the countryside (including in respect of policy LP3, Green Belt).

Employment Areas

The following existing industrial estates together with the sites allocated in this Plan support the functioning of the Borough and in particular the Market Towns and Local Service Centres: • Holly Lane, Atherstone • Carlyon Road, Ratcliffe Road and the Netherwood Estate, Atherstone • Manor Road, Mancetter • Coleshill Industrial Estate • Kingsbury Link • Collier's Way, Arley • Kingsbury Road, Curdworth • Hams Hall, Coleshill • Birch Coppice, Dordon including Core 42 Within all of these estates as illustrated on the Policies Map, changes of use between the Class E, B2 general industrial and B8 warehouse and distribution Use Classes will be permitted provided there are no negative effects arising that cannot be suitably mitigated. However at Collier's Way, New Arley and at Manor Road, Mancetter B8 uses will not be permitted. The rail freight terminals at Birch Coppice and Hams Hall are of strategic significance. Development proposals on these two estates will be encouraged to use these terminals. Existing rail sidings on other sites will be safeguarded.

Rural Employment

Farm Diversification Proposals for farm diversification through the introduction of new uses onto established farm holdings will be supported where it can be demonstrated that: a) the development in terms of its scale, nature, location and layout would contribute towards sustaining the long-term operation and viability of the farm holding; b) it would not cause an unacceptable adverse impact to the safe and free movement of pedestrian, vehicular or other traffic on the trunk or rural road network as a result of heavy vehicle usage, c) there would be no adverse impacts arising from increased noise or other form of pollution, d) there are adequate foul drainage facilities, and e) there would be no adverse impact on the character of the surrounding natural or historic environment. Re-Use of Existing Rural Buildings Proposals for the re-use and adaptation of existing rural buildings will be supported provided that the following three pre-conditions are all satisfied: a) The buildings are readily accessible to the Main Towns and Local Service Centres via a range of modes of transport; b) they are of sound and permanent construction, and c) are capable of adaptation or re-use without recourse to major or complete re-building, alteration or extension. If the building is a Listed Building or one that is recognised as a locally important building, then irrespective of the foregoing pre-conditions, the re-use or adaptation of that building will be considered if the proposal is the only reasonable means of securing its retention.

Employment Allocations

The following sites are allocated for employment use: Category 1 – Market Towns Atherstone E1 Land south of Rowlands Way east of Aldi 6.8 ha Polesworth / Dordon E2 Land to the west of Birch Coppice, Dordon 5.1 ha E3 Land including site of playing fields south of A5 Dordon, adjacent to Hall End Farm 3.45 ha Category 2 – Adjacent adjoining settlements E4 Land to the south of Horiba MIRA Technology Park & Enterprise Zone 42 ha TOTAL 57.35 ha

Additional Employment Land

Significant weight will be given in decision taking to supporting economic growth and productivity, particularly where evidence demonstrates an immediate need for employment land, or a certain type of employment land, within Area A on Figure 4.10 of the West Midlands Strategic Employment Sites Study of September 2015 (or successor study) which cannot be met via forecast supply or allocations. The relevant scheme will be required to demonstrate: (i) access to the strategic highway network is achievable and appropriate, (ii) the site is reasonably accessible by a choice of modes of transport, (iii) it is otherwise acceptable, taking account of the living conditions of those nearby.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

Renewable energy projects will be supported where they respect the capacity and sensitivity of the landscape and communities to accommodate them. In particular, they will be assessed on their individual and cumulative impact on landscape quality, sites or features of natural importance, sites or buildings of historic or cultural importance, residential amenity and the local economy. New development will be expected to be energy efficient in terms of its fabric and use including, where viable, the production of 10% of operational energy from on-site renewables, in support of the Government's Clean Growth Strategy.

Landscape

Within landscape character areas as defined in the Landscape Character Assessment (2010), Arden Landscape Guidelines (1993) and the Historic Landscape Characterisation Project (June 2010) (or successor document) development should look to conserve, enhance and where appropriate, restore landscape character as well as promote a resilient, functional landscape able to adapt to climate change. Specific landscape, geo-diversity, wildlife and historic features which contribute to local character will be protected and enhanced as appropriate. A Landscaping Proposals New development should, as far as possible retain existing trees, hedgerows and nature conservation features such as water bodies with appropriate protection from construction where necessary and strengthen visual amenity and bio-diversity through further hard and soft landscaping. The Council will seek replacement or enhancement to such natural features where their loss results from proposed development. Development proposals should be designed so that existing and new conservation features, such as trees and hedgerows and water bodies are allowed to grow to maturity without causing undue problems, or are not unacceptably compromised by development, for example by impairing visibility, shading or damage. Development will not be permitted which would directly or indirectly damage existing mature or ancient woodland, veteran trees or ancient or species–rich hedgerows (other than were appropriate avoidance, mitigation, or compensation has been taken and any minimised harm is justified having considered the policies in this plan as a whole). B New Landscape Features The landscape and hydrological impacts of development proposals which themselves directly alter the landscape, or which involve associated physical change to the landscape such a re-contouring, terracing, new bunds or banks and new water features such as reservoirs, lakes, pools and ponds will be assessed against the descriptions in the Landscape Character Areas. Particular attention will be paid in this assessment as to whether the changes are essential to the development proposed; the scale and nature of the movement of all associated materials and deposits, the cumulative impact of existing and permitted schemes, the impact on the hydrology of the area and its catchment, any consequential ecological impacts and the significance of the outcome in terms of its economic and social benefits. New landscape schemes will look to use native species and incorporate benefits for biodiversity. Species that are invasive or problematic to the natural environment will be avoided.

Natural Environment

The Borough Council recognises the importance of the natural environment to the Borough's local character, identity and distinctiveness. The quality, character, diversity and local distinctiveness of the natural environment will be protected and enhanced as appropriate relative to the nature of development proposed. This policy seeks to minimise impacts on, and provide net gains for biodiversity, where possible, relative to the ecological significance of international, nationally and locally designated sites of importance for biodiversity. All development applications that affect the natural environment will be required to provide sufficient information and an assessment of those proposals on the natural asset(s) including via Appropriate Assessment under Regulation 63 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, or successor legislation, where likely significant effects individually or in combination with other schemes cannot be ruled out. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI's) will be subject to a high degree of protection, in view of their national importance. Development adversely affecting a SSSI will only be permitted where the benefits of the development at these sites clearly outweigh the likely impacts on the site and any broader impacts on the national network of SSSI's. Development that affects Sites of Regional and Local Importance for Nature Conservation will only be permitted where the benefits of the development outweigh the nature conservation value of the site and the contribution it makes to the Borough's ecological network. Development that damages habitats and features of importance for nature conservation will only be permitted where there are no reasonable alternatives to the development taking place in that location. Where appropriate, developments will be required to help enhance these features and/or secure their beneficial management. Planning permission will be refused if development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss. Given the natural heritage of the Borough, the Council expects such circumstances to be wholly exceptional and for there to be a suitable compensation strategy in place where any loss or deterioration would occur. Developments should avoid significant harm to biodiversity by locating to an alternative site with less harmful impacts. If this is not possible adequately mitigate the impacts or, as a last resort compensate the loss. Where development takes place, it should help ensure there is a measurable net gain of biodiversity and geological interest. Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull Biodiversity Impact Assessment calculator will be used to assess the changes to biodiversity resulting from the development and Biodiversity Offsetting will be used where net gain cannot be achieved within the site boundary. Offsets will be sought towards enhancements of the wider ecological network in the Borough or sub-region in line with local, regional and national priorities for nature conservation. A minimum buffer zone of 15m will be required in line with Government Guidance for ancient woodland and individual ancient or veteran trees. The size and type of buffer zone should vary depending on the scale, type and impact of the development and the sensitivity of the natural asset(s) that may be affected based on proportionate evidence. Where possible, a buffer zone should: - contribute to wider ecological networks - be part of the green infrastructure of the area Encouragement will be given to the planting of street trees, wherever possible.

Green Infrastructure

Development proposals must, where appropriate, demonstrate how they contribute to maintaining and enhancing a comprehensive and strategically planned Green Infrastructure network. With reference to the Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull Sub-Regional Green Infrastructure Strategy and Offsetting sub-regional Strategy for Green Infrastructure and the local green infrastructure resource development should: - Identify, maintain and enhance existing Green Infrastructure assets where possible; - In all cases should optimise opportunities to create links between existing Green Infrastructure within the district and to surrounding sub-regional networks; - Help deliver new Green Infrastructure assets where specific need has been identified. Where an existing asset is lost or adversely affected, and where mitigation or compensatory Green Infrastructure cannot be provided on site, contributions will be sought towards wider Green Infrastructure projects and improvements within the district or, where appropriate, in the sub-region.

Tame Valley Wetlands NIA including Kingsbury Water Park

Encouragement will be given to the maintenance and enhancement of the Tame Valley Wetlands NIA to encourage greater connectivity across the landscape – both in terms of (i) bigger, better and more joined up habitats and (ii) responsible and safe access for people – in keeping with the vision for the area and Policy LP17. Encouragement will be given to natural flood management opportunities and the restoration of water courses in line with Policy LP33. Where no local mitigation for habitat loss can be provided, the Tame Valley Wetlands NIA will be identified as a potential recipient site for appropriate and high quality habitat mitigation and offsetting projects. The Tame Valley Wetlands NIA will be supported and used by the Borough Council as a flagship example of an important landscape to protect and enhance as it is where effective partnership working at a landscape-scale is taking place through the Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership. Replacement buildings as a result of the proposed HS2 will be permitted elsewhere within the Kingsbury Water Park, as shown on the Policies Map, to ensure its continued existence.

Local Nature Reserves

The following Local Nature Reserves shown on the Policies Map will be protected and enhanced: • Dafferns Wood, New Arley • Riverside, Atherstone (proposed to be designated) • Kingsbury Meadow, Kingsbury • Abbey Green Park, Polesworth • Cole End Park, Coleshill

Green Spaces

The Green Spaces as shown on the Policies Map will be retained, protected and wherever possible enhanced. The Green Space Strategy will provide information which will be used in determining the amount of land, facilities and/or contributions which will be required as part of development proposals. Neighbourhood Plans may designate additional areas.

Open Spaces and Recreational Provision

Wherever possible, Open spaces and recreational areas will be retained, protected and enhanced (unless their loss is off-set by an equivalent or improved replacement). Development proposals will be expected to provide a range of new on-site and open space recreational provision such as parks and amenity space, sport or recreation facilities and semi-natural areas such as woodland wherever appropriate to the area and to the development. The design and location of these spaces and facilities should be accessible to all users; have regard to the relationship with surrounding uses, enhance the natural environment, protect and improve green infrastructure and link to surrounding areas where appropriate. The Council will require the proper maintenance of these areas and facilities to be agreed. Where on-site provision is not feasible, off-site contributions may be required where the developments use leads to a need for new or enhanced provision.

Green Belt

Inappropriate development is, by definition, harmful to the Green Belt and should not be approved except in very special circumstances. Other than in instances where allocations are proposed, Green Belt within the Borough will be protected accordingly. The following criteria set out how Green Belt applies to land and settlements in North Warwickshire, whether named in LP2 or not, with development management policy/policies for the Green Belt set out subsequently. 1 The outer extent of the Green Belt as well as the detailed development boundaries for the settlements identified in Policy LP2 are shown on the Policies Map 2. Areas within Development Boundaries are excluded from the Green Belt. 3. Limited infilling in settlements washed over by the Green Belt will be allowed within the infill boundaries as defined on the Policies Map. 4. Limited infilling may also be acceptable where a site is clearly part of the built form of a settlement, i.e. where there is substantial built development around three or more sides of a site. 5. Settlements surrounded or washed over by the Green Belt will be able to pursue the Community Right to Build in accordance with the relevant statutory requirements. When considering proposals within the Green Belt in addition to the NPPF, regard should also be had to the following considerations: a) provision of appropriate facilities for outdoor sport, outdoor recreation and for cemeteries, as long as it preserves the openness of the Green Belt and does not conflict with the purposes of including land within it, regard will be had to whether such proposals are of a scale necessary for the efficient function of the parent use concerned and that they are the minimum size necessary b) Extensions will be considered to be disproportionate building based on the merits of each individual case. Both quantitative and qualitative criteria will be used in this assessment. For the purposes of this policy, the original building is defined as that which was present on 1 July 1948 or that which came into being after this date as a result of the original planning permission, i.e., as built and volume is defined as gross external volume including basements and cellars. c) A replacement building will be considered to be materially larger based on the merits of each individual case. Both quantitative and qualitative criteria will be used in this assessment. Replacements should be located on the same footprint as the existing building unless there are material benefits to the openness of the Green Belt or, when environmental and amenity improvements indicate otherwise. For the purposes of this policy, volume is defined as gross external volume including basements and cellars. d) Consideration will be given to the removal of permitted development rights where the new development is considered to be at the maximum scale acceptable to ensure the openness of the Green Belt, or where other issues such as visual impact and impact on neighbouring residential amenity, are material. e) Relevant planning consideration, such as the sustainability of the location; landscape and visual appearance or impact, the loss of employment land and impacts on general amenity will all be considered in the final planning balance in respect of proposals to redevelop previously developed land within the Green Belt.

Water and Flood Risk Management

In line with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive, development proposals must not detrimentally affect the ecological status of a waterbody and where appropriate, incorporate measures to improve its ecological value. Opportunities should be sought to de-culvert rivers, in order to reduce flood risk through stopping flows backing up by undersized culverts. This should only be undertaken when it is demonstrated to not increase flood risk elsewhere. If de-culverting is not proposed evidence will be required to demonstrate why this is not possible. River channel restoration should also be undertaken to return the water course to its natural state and restore floodplain to reduce the impact of flooding downstream. New developments should also seek opportunities to improve natural riverine processes and in-stream and bankside morphology through watercourse re-naturalisation and the removal of man-made structures, both on the development site and in the wider catchment. Water runoff from new development must be no more than natural greenfield runoff rates and developments should hold this water back on the development site through high quality Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDS), reducing pollution and flood risk to nearby watercourses. The culverting of watercourses will only be approved in exceptional circumstances. The multifunctional benefits of natural flood management, the re-naturalisation of watercourses and their floodplains and the safeguarding of land for local flood risk management schemes will be promoted when considering any developments in the Borough. New development proposals in or land raising within Flood Zone 3 (including Climate Change) should provide for the following: i) Floodplain Compensation; provide floodplain compensation on a level-for-level basis; ii) should set back 8m from the top of the banks of Main Rivers and any culverted watercourse, regardless of the flood zone; iii) Finished floor levels (FFL) within Flood Zone 3 (including climate Change) and on land adjacent should be set a minimum of 600mm above Flood Zone 3, (including climate change) flood level; iv) have agreements in place that "less vulnerable" uses are prevented for changing to those that are more vulnerable, and (only applies to ground floor developments in line with SFRA section 12.4), and single storey residential development, basements and buildings on stilts should not be located within Flood Zone 3 (including climate change), and v) include mitigation measures to account for up to the 1 in 100 year (1% AEP) plus climate change fluvial flood event as well as safe access and egress In order to improve and protect water quality, infiltration measures are the preferred means of surface water disposal where ground conditions are appropriate and where practicable, the separation of surface water from sewers should be undertaken. New development proposals should be accompanied by a Water Statement that includes evidence to demonstrate that there is adequate sewerage infrastructure in place or that it will be in place prior to occupation.

Strategic Gap

In order to maintain the separate identity of Tamworth and Polesworth with Dordon, a Strategic Gap is identified on the Policies Map in order to prevent their coalescence. Development proposals will not be permitted where they significantly adversely affect the distinctive, separate characters of Tamworth and Polesworth with Dordon. In assessing whether or not that would occur, consideration will be given to any effects in terms of the physical and visual separation between those settlements.

Historic Environment

The Council recognises the importance of the historic environment to the Borough's local character, identity and distinctiveness, its cultural, social, environmental and economic benefits. The quality, character, diversity and local distinctiveness of the historic environment will be conserved or enhanced. In particular: • Within identified historic landscape character areas development will conserve, or enhance and where appropriate, restore landscape character as well as promote a resilient, functional landscape able to adapt to climate change. Specific historic features which contribute to local character will be protected and enhanced and, development, including site allocations, should consider all relevant heritage assets that may be affected, including those outside the relevant site • The quality of the historic environment, including archaeological features, Listed Buildings, Scheduled Monuments, Registered Parks and Gardens, Conservation Areas and any non-designated assets; buildings, monuments, archaeological sites, places, areas or landscapes positively identified in North Warwickshire's Historic Environment Record as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, will be protected and enhanced, commensurate to the significance of the asset. Wherever possible, a sustainable reuse of redundant historic buildings will be sought, seeking opportunities to address those heritage assets identified as most at risk. All Scheduled Monuments, Registered Parks and Gardens, Conservation Areas are shown on the Policies Map.

Land at Holly Lane Atherstone

32.7 hectares of land off Holly Lane, Atherstone is allocated for around 620 dwellings. • The site should provide for a mix of types and tenures including the opportunity to provide serviced plots for potential self-build dwellings; and • Open space provision either on-site or part via financial contributions towards improvements at Royal Meadow should be provided, including provision of a landscaped walk/cycle link along the Innage Brook, linking with the route and Sustainable Urban Drainage systems on adjoining sites to the south, off Rowland Way; and • The site will require significant landscaping along its north and north western boundaries to address the open aspect and landscape sensitivity identified in the Council's Landscape Character Assessment for this area of land at the edge of Atherstone town. Development of the site should enable and not prevent access opportunities and routes to further potential land to the west, including both vehicular and pedestrian. The site is shown on the Policies Map indicating Areas A and B. Area A is the developable area and area B will be an area for open space/ landscaping. A site specific Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken to demonstrate the extent of land available for development outside of flood zones 2 and 3 plus climate change freeboard, on the basis of (high resolution) detailed modelling. The extents of Area A and Area B are indicative and based upon the EA Flood Zones until such modelling outputs become available

Land south of Ansley Common

Some 17.2 hectares (south) of land at Ansley Common are allocated for housing development. It is expected that at least 450 dwellings will be developed in this Plan period. Development will take place comprehensively including site RH2 and be in accordance with an agreed Concept and Master Plan. Development of the site will include: 1 a through road from Plough Hill Road to Coleshill Road; 2 a range of house types to include both affordable and market housing for the elderly and young people; 3 the provision of cycle and footpath links through the site; 4 the provision of new and / or improvements to existing health and education facilities; 5 improvements to the existing sports ground and allotments; will be retained and enhanced; 6 the setting of Brett's Hall and the estate will be considered and any impacts minimised; 7 a drainage strategy be prepared and implemented; and 8 the provision of a minimum 15m buffer will be retained and maintained to the ancient woodland of Brett's Wood.

Former School redevelopment site (excluding original historic school building), Water Orton

The site of the former Water Orton Primary School (2.8 hectares) at Attleboro and Vicarage Lane, Water Orton is allocated for housing. The development will include; a range of house types to include housing for the elderly and young people; the retention of the original 19th Century School Building; and, the provision of a landscaped buffer to the southern boundary of the site, alongside the area safeguarded for the HS2 Phase 2 route.

Land at Village Farm, Birmingham Road, Ansley

Land at Village Farm, Birmingham Road comprising a 0.6 ha brownfield redevelopment site opportunity is allocated for residential development. Consideration should be made for retaining the original 19th Century farm dwelling as part of any redevelopment proposal to reflect the character of the site and aid in integrating the site with the existing village.

Land off Main Road, Austrey

Land off Main Road, Austrey is allocated for a mixed use proposal for housing, to provide additional Open Space (village green) and an element of parking for the church and village hall.

Site Manor Farm, Newton Regis

1 hectare of land is allocated for housing development at Manor Farm, Newton Regis. Any development will need to consider the significance of the designated and non-designated heritage assets within and close to the site and be taken into account in the design and form of any future development. Development of the site will need to provide for and address in particular the following: retention as far as practicable and achievable of the historic farmsteads, Manor Farm and Bladon Farm; retention of all traditional agricultural buildings associated with the historic farmstead and heritage asset; address the setting of the farmsteads and their spatial relationship with the wider rural landscape, retaining an element of views through the site to reflect the visual and functional relationships between the assets and their rural setting, ensuring that the elements of the setting that make the strongest contribution to significance are conserved and, where appropriate, enhanced. Development should be set back to the rear of the historic buildings and be subservient to the farmhouses; ensure development is appropriate in terms of design, materials and scale/mass that reflect the traditional, vernacular of the designated and non-designated assets within and adjoining the site and wider Conservation Area.

Land south of Shuttington Village Hall

1.5 hectares of land is allocated to provide for approximately 24 units on land south of Shuttington Village Hall. It will provide for a range of housing needs.

Land north of Orton Road, Warton

Land north of Orton Road, east of Warton comprising 4.2 hectares is allocated for residential development. The site will be brought forward in agreed phases. Development will include; those allotments currently in use will be re-provided on site; off-street parking to serve the existing dwellings fronting Orton Road to the west; traffic calming measures along the site frontage onto Orton Road; and the provision of a pedestrian/cycle access route to the west from the site onto Little Warton Road.

Land south of Islington Farm, r/o 115 Tamworth Rd, Wood End

1.3 hectares of land are allocated for housing development. Access to the site can be from Meadow View. It can provide for a range of housing needs.

Land to the north-west of Atherstone, off Whittington Lane

Some 71.2 hectares to the north-west of Atherstone is allocated for development (H2) including at least 1280 dwellings. Development will take place in accordance with a Concept and Master Plan, agreed by the Borough Council, to ensure the comprehensive delivery of the area. These Plans will consider and provide for in particular but not exclusively: The site is shown on the Policies Map indicating Areas A and B. Area A is the developable area and area B will be an area for open space/ landscaping. A Level 3 Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken to demonstrate the extent of land available for development outside of flood zones 2 and 3 plus climate change freeboard, on the basis of (high resolution) detailed modelling. The extents of Area A and Area B will be defined as indicative and based upon the EA Flood Zones until such modelling outputs become available. 1 An appropriate assessment of the significance of the sites designated and non-designated historic assets and the sensitivity to changes in the historic environment will inform the Master Plan and be an important consideration in assessing development proposals. Any development should seek to retain the heritage assets within the site and address the setting of any assets beyond the site that contribute to their historic significance. Although the allocation will result in some contextual change, development should, as far as practicable, ensure that those assets are retained or enhanced in line with policy LP15 that any effects to heritage assets or their settings should be minimised. The Master Plan should address the preservation and enhancement of designated and non-designated heritage assets, through the siting and design of new development including: Merevale Hall (Grade II* Listed) and its historic Park and Garden (Grade II* registered) and wider setting; listed buildings, including the farmstead at Whittington Farmhouse (also known as Whittington Cottage) and attached farm buildings (Grade II Listed) and Whitley Farm (non-designated heritage asset) and the canal locks (Grade II Listed); to retain the canal, its historic function and associated built features, both designated and non-designated, and the relationships between these assets, ensuring a clear division between the canal route and the development via means of landscaping and/ or development siting to help preserve the unity of and legibility of these assets as a historical and functional group; the listed buildings and historic farmsteads; and appropriate landscape design should be used to help minimise the effects of the change of character of the wider setting of the Merevale Estate 2 The farmsteads of Whittington and Whitley Farms to be incorporated into a service centre allowing for their conservation and preservation. The retention of the historic structures relating to the two assets, along with their setting, should be addressed and inform the service centre layout 3 Health services and facilities in terms of land and financial contribution; 4 Education facilities in terms of land and financial contribution; 5 Access to and from the A5 which will be accessible by public transport; 6 Access over the West Coast Mainline; 7 Pedestrian and cycling links and facilities will be required to access the services and facilities in Atherstone, Grendon and Baddesley; and, 8 Green infrastructure links will be provided to access and open routes along the River Anker corridor and the Coventry Canal. Before the development of the site, an agreed, appropriately staged programme of archaeological recording and mitigation, informed by field evaluation will be required

Allotments adjacent to Memorial Park, Coleshill

1.4 hectares of land, currently used as allotments, adjacent to the Memorial Park, Coleshill is allocated for residential development. Replacement allotments will be required. Land has been allocated, Policy C1, to the east of Coleshill to allow for this provision.

Land to the east of Polesworth and Dordon

Land to the east of Polesworth and Dordon between the A5 and B500 will be allocated for development of a minimum of 2000 homes with a minimum of 1675 being provided within the plan period. Before planning permission is granted for development on the site, a Masterplan Framework and Design Guide for the whole site will be prepared by the landowners, in conjunction with and approved by the Borough Council. Development will take place in accordance with the Framework and Design guide to ensure that development for the whole site is delivered in a comprehensive and co-ordinated manner including addressing the setting, significance and enhancement of the designated and non-designated heritage assets within and close to the site, through the siting and design of new development will ensure a high quality of place is created respecting the separate identities of Polesworth and Dordon. Although the allocation will result in some contextual change, development should, as far as practicable, ensure that those assets are preserved or enhanced in line with policy LP15, that any effects to heritage assets or their settings should be minimised. The Masterplan Framework and Design Guide will be a material consideration in the determination of future planning applications on the site and will consider and provide for in particular but not exclusively, and in line with policy LP1. 1. The minimum provision of 2000 homes of mixed styles, types and tenures (market and affordable) with the potential for custom build and provision for the elderly (to include independent living for the over 55's and bungalows). 2. A new two form entry primary school to meet the needs of the development. 3. A financial contribution to existing Secondary School provision, to ensure the satisfactory availability of school places in a locally accessible location. 4. A focal point for retail and health facilities to meet the needs of the new development, in a location that is accessible. Uses that create vibrancy, activity and interest should be considered, including community uses and the provision of a pub and/or restaurant and other small-scale commercial uses within the site should also be explored. 5. A strong and clear network of footpaths and cycle ways that allow for and encourage sustainable movement through the site. This network should connect to the existing settlements of Polesworth and Dordon and to the wider countryside and make use of existing rights of way. 6. A comprehensive transport assessment for the development and setting out the details of: new vehicular access arrangements onto the A5; north/south highway links from the A5 to the B5000, to distributor road standard; a legible road and movement hierarchy for the whole development; and off-site improvements to the local and strategic road network, with particular regard to Long Street/New Street and the canal bridges on the B5000 7. Assessment of the significance of heritage assets both designated and non-designated within the site and the contribution of setting to that significance, with particular reference to; Dordon Hall and the archaeological remains of its gardens, the listed Obelisk, and Hoo Hill and its visibility and legibility within the wider landscape. This should be used to inform master planning and appropriate design of development on site that appropriately addresses/conserves the fabric and setting of the assets and in the case of Dordon Hall and associated assets a full heritage statement should be prepared. Before the development of the site, an agreed, appropriately staged programme of archaeological mitigation, informed by field evaluation will be required. 8. Provision of a site wide, multi-functional Green Infrastructure network that is focussed on and has regard to: the existing Local Wildlife Sites of The Hollies (known locally as the Blue Bell Wood), The Orchard, The Former Colliery and The Pond.

Land west of Robey's Lane, adjacent Tamworth

An area of approximately 66.1 hectares, east of the former Tamworth Golf Course and west of Robey's Lane is allocated primarily for residential development of approximately 1270 dwellings. Prior to development taking place a Master Plan must be agreed by the Borough Council. Development will then take place in accordance with the agreed Master Plan. The Master Plan will include: • impacts on the scheduled monument to be considered and taken into account in the design and form of the future development; • a mixture of house types which will include housing for the elderly and for young people as well as an area for self-build; • health and education facilities in terms of land and financial contributions; • the delivery of accessible public open space within the site linking with adjoining developments, including pedestrian and cycle route access to the Coventry Canal and open space proposed to the north of the Golf Course site; • the provision of a significant landscaped buffer along the site boundary with Robey's Lane with particular attention given to the proximity with, and potential impact on, Alvecote Wood, Alvecote Priory and Alvecote Pools, respectively an ancient woodland, scheduled monument and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Although the allocation will result in some contextual change, development should, as far as practicable, ensure that those assets are preserved or enhanced in line with policy LP15.

Site at Lindridge Road, adjacent Langley SUE, Wishaw

Approximately 6.7 hectares north of Lindridge Road, Wishaw is to be excluded from the Green Belt and allocated for residential development subject to; • Delivery, access and development of the site to be directly linked to the development and delivery of the Langley Sustainable Urban Extension immediately to the south within Birmingham City Council administrative area and allocated in the Birmingham Local Plan. • The location of residential development and open space to take account of the proximity of the Langley Mill Sewage Treatment Works off Lindridge Road to the north-west of the site and M6 (Toll) to the east and north. The site is shown on the Policies Map. A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken to demonstrate the extent of land available for development outside of flood zones 2 and 3 plus climate change freeboard, on the basis of (high resolution) detailed modelling. The extents of the allocation is defined as indicative and based upon the EA Flood Zones until such modelling outputs become available.

Land at Church Farm, Baddesley Ensor

Land at Church Farm New Street, Baddesley Ensor, comprising 2.2 hectares is allocated for a heritage led residential development including conversion and regeneration of Church Farmhouse and ancillary/associated barn and outbuildings. A high level of design and care is required to address the setting of the nearby Church of St Nicolas and Grade 2 listed war memorial, the sensitive landscape edge and setting of the site as highlighted in the Council's Landscape Character Assessment for the settlement. Development of the site will need to provide for in particular: An assessment of the significance of designated and non-designated heritage assets within and adjoining the site and the contribution of setting to that significance will be provided via a heritage assessment, with particular reference to; Church of St Nicholas; the Grade 2 Listed war memorial; Church House, New street; the historic farmstead and farmhouse, Church Farm; The site of Baddesley Old Hall and any remaining associated structures, and the cottages site off Watery Lane. 1 The approach to development should be to maintain and emphasise the outlook and views through the site between these assets, reflecting the relationship and sensitivity with the historic setting of the wider landscape. Any harm, including taking account of any mitigation, should require clear and convincing justification. Views from the existing settlement through the site to the Church and war memorial shall be retained. 2 Development should enable retention and re-use of the former Church Farm dwelling and related historic farm buildings, which is recognised as a fine historic agricultural complex, as part of any development proposal to reflect the historic character of the site and aid in integrating the site with the existing village. If evidence proves the complex cannot be retained in full or in part, new development should seek to reflect the farm complex. The new developments details, scale and massing should reflect the existing buildings and their rural (partial wooded) setting, retaining the outlook and open nature of views between the site, heritage assets listed above. 3 The site design should incorporate high value biodiversity features and aim to protect neighbouring designated sites for nature conservation via the appropriate use of seminatural buffers. A programme of landscaping, tree planting and sensitive boundary treatment and planting will be required to address the sites sensitive setting in landscape and built heritage terms. Given the sensitive nature of the site, proposals will require an agreed, appropriately staged programme of archaeological investigation, evaluation and recording before the development of the site.

Land north of Grendon Community Hall (former Youth Centre) Boot Hill, Baddesley Ensor

Land at Boot Hill adjoining the former Youth Centre, currently Grendon Community Centre, comprising 0.3 hectares, is allocated for residential development. Development of the site should ensure retention of the mature trees to the boundaries of the site to reflect the character of the site and aid in integrating the site into the existing village.

Land between Church Road and Nuneaton Rd, Hartshill

Some 30.4 hectares at land between Church Road and Nuneaton Road, Hartshill is allocated for a minimum of 400 dwellings with associated infrastructure. Any development will need to consider the significance of the heritage assets within and close to the site and be taken into account in the design and form of any future development. Development will be undertaken in accordance with a Concept and Master Plan agreed with the Borough Council. The document will be prepared to assist with the development of the site. Development of the site will include: a through road from Church Road to either Nuneaton Road or Camphill Road capable of buses, emergency vehicles and waste vehicles manoeuvring freely; access and parking issues addressed; including enabling access to the rear of the secondary school to facilitate parking, access to the school and the future provision of drop off and public transport stopping facilities; a range of house types to include housing for the elderly and young people; and a net improvement in educational, sport and recreation facilities within and adjoining the site to include educational infrastructure to assist the adjoining secondary school and nearby primary schools as well as the protection and long-term favourable management of designated Local Wildlife sites; and, the contribution of setting to the significance of the Holy Trinity Church to be assessed and taken into account in the design and form of the future development.

Gypsy & Travellers Sites

New Sites Sites will be allocated and/or permissible inside, adjoining or within a reasonable safe walking distance of a settlement development boundary outside of the Green Belt. Site suitability will be assessed against relevant policies in this Local Plan and other relevant guidance and policy. Sites will also be assessed using the following criteria: • The size of the site and number of pitches is appropriate in scale and size to the nearest settlement in the settlement hierarchy and its range of services and infrastructure; • The site is suitably located within a safe, reasonable walking distance of a settlement boundary or public transport service, and access to a range of services including school and health services; • Avoiding sites vulnerable to flooding or affected by any other environmental hazards that may affect the residents' health and welfare; • The site has access to essential utilities including water supply, sewerage, drainage and waste disposal; • The site can be assimilated into the surroundings and landscape without any significant adverse effect. Safeguarding Established Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Show people Sites Existing Authorised sites listed in Appendix E will be safeguarded for Gypsy and Traveller Use for the number of pitches permitted and any new Gypsy and Traveller sites granted planning permission will also be safeguarded for Gypsy and Traveller use for the number of pitches permitted. Planning permission for changes of use or redevelopment to uses other than for residential use by gypsy and travellers or as a travelling show people yard of the sites listed/identified in Appendix E will be refused unless acceptable replacement accommodation can be provided, or it can be demonstrated that the site is no longer required to meet any identified needs.

Housing Allocations

The following sites are allocated for housing and shown on the Policies Map: Category 1 - Market Towns Atherstone & Mancetter H1 Land at Holly Lane Atherstone 32.7 ha 620 units H2 Land to north-west of Atherstone off Whittington Lane 71.2 ha 1282 units Coleshill H3 Allotments adjacent to Memorial Park, Coleshill 1.4 ha 30 units Polesworth & Dordon H4 Land to east of Polesworth and Dordon 160.8 ha 1675 units Category 2 - Adjacent adjoining settlements H5 Land west of Robey's Lane, adjacent Tamworth 66.1 ha 1270 units H6 Site at Lindridge Road adj. Langley SUE, Wishaw 6.7 ha 141 units Category 3 - Local Service Centres Baddesley Ensor/Grendon H7 Land at Church Farm, Baddesley 2.2 ha 47 units H8 Land north of Grendon Community Hall (former Youth Centre) Boot Hill Grendon 0.3 ha 7 units Hartshill/Ansley Common H9 Land between Church Rd and Nuneaton Rd, Hartshill 30.4 ha 400 units H10 Land south of Coleshill Road, Ansley Common 17.2 ha 450 units Water Orton H11 Former School redevelopment site (excluding original historic school building) 2.8 ha 48 units Category 4 - Other Settlements with a Development Boundary Ansley H12 Land at Village Farm, Birmingham Road 0.6 ha 12 units Newton Regis H14 Manor Farm 1.0 ha 21 units Shuttington H15 Land south of Shuttington Village Hall 1.2 ha 24 units Warton H16 Land north of Orton Rd 4.2 ha 128 units Wood End H17 Land south of Islington Farm, r/o 115 Tamworth Rd 1.3 ha 28 units Total Allocations 6183 units

Reserve Housing Sites

The following sites are allocated as reserve housing sites. They are sites which have been assessed in the same manner as allocations, and where there is a reasonable prospect that they could become available and could be viably developed towards the medium- latter years of the Plan. They will be considered to be inside the development boundary of the respective settlement once the whole development has been completed. The sites will be released when two criteria are met (both apply). The first criteria is, if there is a need to enable supply against the five year housing land supply, i.e., if annual monitoring data indicates that forecast land supply falls lower than 5.5 years relative to the stepped trajectory. Secondly, reserve sites will only be considered at that juncture if access, infrastructure, or flooding issues have been addressed as relevant, and they otherwise represent deliverable sites. It is expected that sites will be developed in accordance with the density requirements of this Plan. RH1 Dairy House Farm Phase 3 and safeguarding route for dualling of A5 49.8 ha 360 units RH2 Land north of Ansley Common 21.6 ha 388 units RH3 Atherstone Football Ground 2.2 ha 46 units RH1 and RH2 will require a Concept Plan and phasing plan to be agreed by the Council prior to development being brought forward. Site RH1 will provide for the dualling of the A5 to join from the current A5 to the west of Grendon and re-join the current A5 to the east of Grendon (A5 'phases 3 and 4' in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan). Prior to development coming forward, a concept Master Plan will be agreed with the Borough Council to include the following: • An agreed alignment of the A5 dualling within the site • Safeguarded land for the dualling of the A5 together with proportionate highway contributions • housing will be located to the south of the new road • a minimum of 15m (or as agreed) buffer zone will be provided around the ancient woodland • a landscaped buffer will be provided along the new A5 • the current Watling Street, A5, will be downgraded and pedestrian crossings will be provided to allow for greater cohesion with the main part of the settlement to the south; and • improved cycling will be provided along the Watling Street • Provide supporting social and community infrastructure Site RH2 (land north of Ansley Common) will likely be deliverable after 2025 particularly in the eventuality that phases 1 to 4 of the A5 improvement works are delayed or not clear at that stage subject to access and highway improvements in the locality being addressed. The site will provide for: • improved walking and cycling through the site to link to the various footpaths • provide an access road through the site which is useable by public transport; and • will assess and then implement a package of measures to protect and enhance the biodiversity assets in the locality including Moorwood Wood • Provide supporting social and community infrastructure Site RH3 as shown on the Policies Map will require a detailed site-specific flood risk assessment to prove with higher accuracy the extents available for safe development outside of the Flood Zone 3 climate change extent defined by new (high resolution) detailed modelling. The extent of the developable area will be defined and based upon the EA Flood Zones until such modelling outputs become available. It may be possible to redistribute ground levels within the site to ensure safe access and egress to all parts of the site, however this will need to be explored in greater detail as part of an FRA to ensure it does not increase the risk of flooding to third parties.

Amount of Development

Between 2011 and 2033 the Council will make provision for a minimum of: • 9598 new dwellings, • 100 hectares of employment land (subject to policy LP6), and • 19 permanent residential gypsy and traveller pitches between 2019 and 2033. The actual amount of development delivered over the Plan period will be governed by the provision of infrastructure to ensure developments are sustainable.

Housing Development

Housing developments will be required to: Housing Mix Provide for a variety of types and tenures that reflect the needs of the Borough and of the settlement. Sites will be expected to provide for a range of needs and opportunities including: - homes for those with mobility issues; - homes for older people; - homes for young people; and - plots for custom / self-builders. Older People Independent living units for the over 55's will be a key way to provide for some of these needs. Self–build and Custom Build Development proposals should make serviced plots available for self-build to address relevant demand identified in the Council's Self and Custom Build register at the time of the planning application, unless that would be unfeasible on account of the nature of the development proposed, its scale, or viability. On larger sites plots should be spread across the development. Plots should be reasonably priced reflecting prevailing market values. Where not taken up by self-builders or custom builders within three years of becoming available can, having provided evidence to the Borough Council, be built out as general housing. Special Needs - Provide for an element of special needs housing. This will be sought in all major developments and relative to evidence of need (including the sites allocations included in this Local Plan) - The amount of special needs housing sought will be expected to amount to 10% of the total housing provision on the site concerned, but the precise quantity will be determined having regard to site size, suitability, the economics of provision and the need to achieve a successful development. All or part of the provision may be absorbed within the affordable housing requirements of this Plan. Density Housing is expected to be built at a net density of no less than 30 dwelling per hectare. In and around town centres, net densities of 50 dwellings per hectare or more may be sought. In all cases making more efficient use of land must not compromise the quality of the environment. Infrastructure Provide for the necessary infrastructure. Development will only occur if the appropriate infrastructure is available or can be made available.

Windfall Allowance

A windfall allowance of 660 dwellings over the Plan period is provided for which is equivalent to 60 dwellings per annum between monitoring years 2022 - 2033.

Affordable Housing Provision

All major developments will provide at least 30% of housing provided on-site will be affordable except in the case of Greenfield (previously agricultural use) sites where 40% on-site provision will be required. Where on-site affordable housing provision is not possible a financial contribution in lieu of providing affordable housing on-site may be considered only if: - There is clear evidence to support it being provided elsewhere; - It is capable of being delivered elsewhere; and, - It is calculated using the methodology outlined in the Affordable Housing Viability report or subsequent updated document and is broadly equivalent to on-site provision. On sites of over 100 dwellings consideration will be given to land being gifted to the Borough Council in lieu of the total affordable housing provision. The amount of land will equate sufficient land to provide for the number of units and any associated works. The Council and other partners will continue to maximise numbers of affordable housing on other sites. Proposals to provide less than the targets set out above should be supported by a viability appraisal to verify that the targets cannot be met and the maximum level that can be provided without threatening the delivery of the scheme. Where it is apparent that the site is a fragmented part of a larger whole, the thresholds and ratios in the foregoing clauses of this policy will be applied as if the proposal is for the larger whole.

Information and Communication Technologies

New development will contribute to and be compatible with local fibre or other high speed broadband infrastructure. This will be demonstrated through a 'Connectivity Statement' submitted with planning applications where appropriate, based on the scale and nature of the proposed development. Such statements should set out the anticipated connectivity requirements of the development, known data networks nearby and their anticipated speed (fixed copper, 3G, 4G, 5G fibre, satellite, microwave, etc.), and a description of how the development will connect with or contribute to any such networks. The Council will expect new development to be connected to high speed broadband infrastructure capable of providing a minimum download speed of 30Mbps. Where no strategic telecommunications infrastructure is available, as a minimum and subject to viability of the scheme, suitable ducting that can accept fibre should be provided either to: • the public highway; or • a community led local access network; or • another location that can be justified through the connectivity statement. Major infrastructure development must provide ducting that is available for strategic fibre deployment or community owned local access networks. Developers are encouraged to have early discussions with strategic providers or local broadband groups.

New School

Land off Plank Lane Water Orton will be removed from the Green Belt and is allocated for a new primary school, including playing fields.

Sustainable Development

Planning applications that accord with the policies in this Plan (and where relevant, with other development plan policies including those in Neighbourhood Plans) will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no relevant development plan policies, or the policies which are most important for determining the application are out-of-date, applications will be determined in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development. Quality of Development / Place All development proposals must; • be supported by the required infrastructure • be consistent with the approach to place making set out through development management policies, including, where relevant • integrate appropriately with the natural and historic environment, protecting and enhancing rights of way network where appropriate • demonstrate a high quality of sustainable design that positively improve the individual settlement's character; appearance and environmental quality of anarea; • deter crime; • sustain, conserve and enhance the historic environment; • provide, conserve and enhance biodiversity; and, • create linkages between green spaces, wildlife sites and corridors. Development should protect the existing rights of way network and where possible contribute to its expansion and management. Implementation and Infrastructure Infrastructure will be sought where it is necessary, directly related to the development and is fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the development. It may be related to social, economic and/or environmental issues. Supplementary Planning Guidance and documents will be used to guide provision, Infrastructure requirements are outlined in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan (For clarity, infrastructure projects drawn from the IDP are itemised and indicated to be either critical to the Plan's strategy as a whole, or necessary in association with particular allocations or projects, along with indicative timings are itemised in NWBC26, Appendix A) and the supporting documents contained in Appendix C of the Local Plan. The list is not exhaustive as each will be taken on a site by site basis and will depend on the viability of the scheme. Other site specific measures will be considered at the time of the planning permission. These will be secured through conditions, S106's or other agreements considered appropriate to ensure its delivery. It will be necessary to ensure the ongoing maintenance, where appropriate, of any infrastructure provision. Where development is proposed in excess of plan requirements and would assist in the provision of or enabling infrastructure, particularly that related to facilitating development in the long term, or of affordable housing relative to needs, that will carry weight in favour of granting permission.

Settlement Hierarchy

Development within the Borough will be proportionately distributed and be of a scale that is in accordance with the Borough's settlement hierarchy. Development will be commensurate with the level, type and quality of day to day service provision currently available and the ability of those services to absorb the level of development in combination with any planned allocations in this Local Plan and committed development in liaison with service providers. In Categories 1 to 4 settlements development within development boundaries will be supported in principle. Development directly adjacent to settlement boundaries may also be acceptable, including that which would enhance or maintain the vitality of rural communities, provided such development is proportionate in scale to the relevant settlement and otherwise complaint with the policies in the plan and national planning policy considered as a whole (including in respect of Green Belt protections) Category 1: Market Towns of Atherstone with Mancetter and Polesworth with Dordon and the Green Belt Market Town of Coleshill Category 2: Settlements adjoining the outer boundary of the Borough Development will be permitted directly adjacent to built up areas of adjoining settlements if: a) the site lies outside of the Green Belt or Strategic Gap b) development would integrate clearly with wider development c) has a clear separation to an existing North Warwickshire settlement to ensure the character of North Warwickshire settlements are preserved; and, d) linkages are made to existing North Warwickshire settlements to ensure connectivity between places especially via walking and cycling Category 3: Local Service Centres – Baddesley with Grendon, Hartshill with Ansley Common, New & Old Arley, Kingsbury, Water Orton Category 4: Other Settlements with a development boundary - Ansley, Austrey, Curdworth, Fillongley, Hurley, Newton Regis, Piccadilly, Ridge Lane, Shuttington, Shustoke, Warton, Whitacre Heath, Wood End Development within development boundaries will be supported in principle. Development directly adjacent to settlement boundaries may also be acceptable. All development will be considered on its merits; having regard to other policies in this plan and will cater for windfall housing developments usually on sites of no more than 10 units at any one time depending on viability, services and infrastructure deliverability Category 5: All other locations All Development In all other locations development will not generally be acceptable, albeit as set out above that there may be some instances where development may be appropriately located and would enhance or maintain the vitality of rural communities under this category. Special circumstances should exist to justify new isolated homes in the countryside such as rural workers' needs, the optimal viable use of a heritage asset, the re-use of redundant buildings enhancing its immediate setting, the subdivision of an existing residential dwelling, or development of exceptional quality or innovative design or for rural exception sites in line with national planning policy. All such development will be considered on its merits and with regard to other policies in this plan.

Services and Facilities

Town centres boundaries and neighbourhood centres are defined on the policies map for the market towns of Atherstone with Mancetter, Coleshill and Polesworth with Dordon. Town centres boundaries and neighbourhood centres are to be treated the same in policy terms as below; those terms refer to the different scales of settlements. In principle commercial, business and service uses will be supported in these locations, and in line with LP2, to support vitality. Neighbourhood Centres are defined on the Policies Map in the following locations: 1. Browns Lane & New Street Shopping parade, Dordon; 2. Jubilee Court, Tamworth Road, Kingsbury; 3. Station Buildings, Birmingham Road, Water Orton; and, 4. 82 to 102 Coleshill Road, Chapel End, Hartshill Within Town Centres and Neighbourhood Centres changes to sui generis uses such as hot food takeaway or betting shops will be restricted unless: - clear evidence is available justifying the loss and change of use, and - there will be no adverse impact on the retail choice and availability in the frontage or centre. Proposals that would have a detrimental impact on the viability and vitality of centres will not be permitted. The loss of Class E (including retail) units within town centre boundaries and defined neighbourhood centres will only be supported if: - it can be shown that there is no reasonable prospect of retention of the use; - occupation is by an alternative retail or mixed community/retail use; and, - there would be no adverse impact on the retail choice and availability. Mixed use proposals, including those with residential uses, will be appropriate in principle. Dual or multiple uses of sites or "hubs" providing services and facilities for individual or groups of settlements will be encouraged. Proposals that would have a detrimental impact on the viability and vitality of centres will not be permitted. Applications should be supported by relevant and proportionate evidence to demonstrate that would not be the case clear evidence is available justifying the loss and change of use, and - there will be no unacceptable adverse impact on the retail choice and availability in the frontage or centre. - there is not a disproportionate over concentration of these uses. The following factors will be taken into account: the existing mix of uses; the impact on customer behaviour; the proximity of education establishments; the deprivation levels in the area and the cumulative highway and environmental impacts. Robust justification using a sequential approach will be required to avoid a disproportionate concentration of uses. Proposals resulting in the loss of an existing service or facility and also including retail uses, which contribute to the functioning of a settlement or the public health and well-being of its community, will only be supported if: a) an equivalent facility or service is wholly or partially provided elsewhere, in a similar or more accessible location within that settlement; b) the land and buildings are shown to be no longer suitable for continued use in terms of their location, design and/or construction, or the proposal would represent a net gain or improvement in provision, c) it can be demonstrated by evidence that there is no realistic prospect of an alternative service or facility using the site, such as through an appropriate marketing campaign or the internal procedures of the parent organisation and, d) its loss will not harm the vitality of the settlement. All major developments must consider the impact on the provision of services and facilities and where there is an impact this must be addressed. All major developments should provide land and / or financial contributions to enable the provision of additional services and facilities. As set out in LP1 and paragraph 16.6 all development will be expected to contribute proportionately and in accordance with national policy, statute and relevant supplementary planning documents and guidance to infrastructure provision.

Transport Assessments

Transport Assessments appropriate to the scale of development proposed, will be required to accompany development proposals (including that that is below the indicative threshold in Appendix G). Assessments will also be required where there is a cumulative effect created by additional floor space or traffic movement on the site or in the vicinity, or where there are demonstrable shortcomings in the adequacy of the local transport network to accommodate development of the scale proposed. These Assessments should address impacts on both the local and strategic highway networks and should be scoped so as to be bespoke to the nature of the development proposals. They should also ensure that proposals provide appropriate infrastructure measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of development traffic and other environmental and safety impacts either individually or cumulatively. Appropriate provision for, or contributions towards the cost of any necessary highway improvements should also be addressed. Widening opportunities to access new developments for all sections of the community will need also to be addressed through the provision and enhancement of public transport services and facilities together with walking and cycling facilities. The Assessments should assess the impact on level crossings in the vicinity of the development. Travel Plans will be required to be submitted alongside these Assessments. Development will be expected to link with existing road, cycle and footpath networks. Developments that are likely to generate significant amounts of traffic and particularly larger developments will be expected to focus on the longer-term management of new trips; encourage the use of public and shared transport as well as appropriate cycle and pedestrian links. Increasing the opportunity to access these developments for all sections of the community should be addressed. This will be secured through a Travel Plan and/or financial contributions which will be

Stations

Existing Stations Further improvements will be encouraged and sought at existing stations. Specifically, land adjoining the existing car park alongside platform 1, shown on the policies map, will be safeguarded for use as a car park extension at Atherstone station and positively pursued with the relevant, responsible parties early in the plan period. Other additional car parking opportunities will be investigated, including at other stations. • Improved services and pedestrian access arrangements between platforms for able bodied and disabled users to meet DDA standards at Atherstone station; • Additional car parking provision at Coleshill Parkway station; • Investigation into improved services, provision of a new footbridge and parking facilities at the existing Polesworth station will be pursued. If this is not feasible a new Parkway station will be pursued. The area of search will be along the WCML southwards from the current station; • The sites shown on the policies map for new stations at Kingsbury and Arley will be safeguarded and pursued in the context of the WMRE Strategy; and, • The continuance of services and facilities at Water Orton Station will be supported. Financial contributions towards the provision of the measures identified in this policy will be sought in accordance with policy LP1 particularly in respect of closely related or enabling development.

Railway Lines

The Borough Council supports, in principle, proposals for the replacement of lawful buildings, structures and uses, including those with permission, if their demolition or removal is required by HS2 Ltd., or their ability to continue to operate as such would be compromised. Particular regard will be had to the aim of relocation as close to an existing lawful building, structure or use, as practicable, and as otherwise compliant with the policies, in this plan to minimise disruption and assist in ensuring the continued vitality of the Borough. High Speed Rail The line of the proposed High Speed 2 railway Phases 1 and 2b through North Warwickshire will be safeguarded and are shown on the Policies Map. Connectivity between the line and the settlements of North Warwickshire will be improved through work with developers, the nominated undertaker, government organisations (including Highways England and the Department of Transport) and funding agencies. The traffic implications and impact of growth in adjoining area and from development related to High Speed rail will need to be addressed and mitigated through encouraging sustainable transport solutions and measures, including traffic calming and access constraints on the rural road network. Safeguarding of Rail Routes The former Baddesley Mineral Railway line between Baddesley Colliery and Birch Coppice (Safeguarded Route RR1) and the route of the former Whitacre Line between Hampton in Arden to Whitacre will be safeguarded (Safeguarded Route RR2) to allow for the potential re-instatement of the route or if this is not possible then as a recreational cycle route. No development will be permitted which would sever or prevent the potential future use of the routes as a railway or other form of transport unless a suitable diversion or alternative is provided.

Strategic Road Improvements

A5 A study has been undertaken in respect of the future of the A5 Trunk Road and the outcome of this will become a material planning consideration in respect of future development proposals that might impact on the A5. The Council will work alongside the appropriate Agencies to develop the A5 Strategy and options and funding opportunities for its dualling. Land to the north of Grendon through Site RH1 will be protected from any development to ensure the dualling of the A5 can take place. If RH1 is brought forward for development no part will prejudice the implementation of the future dualling of this route. When the dualling of the A5 trunk road has been implemented the existing Watling Street will be downgraded, wherever possible, and walking, including the provision of pedestrian crossings, and cycling routes will be actively encouraged and promoted. A446 Improvement of the A446 including the dualling over the River Tame will be sought as well as improved cycling links.

Walking and Cycling

The Borough Council will develop a Walking and Cycling Strategy. All developments should consider what improvements can be made to encourage safe and fully accessible walking and cycling. Encouragement will be given to establishing and promoting responsible access to the natural environment, for example in the Tame Valley Wetlands NIA.

Level Crossings

Contributions will be sought where proposals impact on level crossings to mitigate the impacts of those developments. Wherever possible level crossings will be closed, and either replaced with a footbridge or by a diversionary route.

Parking

Adequate vehicle parking provision commensurate to a proposed development will be expected, as guided by the standards in the Document "Parking Standards". Greater emphasis will be placed on parking provision in areas not served by public transport whilst lower provision within the main towns may be appropriate. Town Centres Within the defined Town Centres new residential development must provide the minimum parking spaces necessary to enable and service the development, with 1 parking space per flat or 2 per house. No reduced level of car parking provision will be acceptable unless the following circumstances are clearly evidenced: - there is spare capacity available in nearby public car parks or adjacent on street car parking (that is available for long stay use); or - where the exercise of flexibility would assist in the conservation of the built heritage, facilitating a better quality of development and the beneficial re-use of an existing historic building. Airport Parking Proposals for remote parking of passengers or visitor vehicles in the Borough will not generally be permissible given existing constraints on parking provision and infrastructure demands. Any such proposals must demonstrate that they would (i) not compromise delivery of the plan strategy as a whole (ii) that there is a clear justification for provision in the location proposed, and (iii) that the benefits of such provision would outweigh any adverse effects, including by consequence of occupying land that could be put to a viable alternative use. Electric Vehicle Charging points Electric charging points will be provided as part of all relevant developments to an agreed specification and location dependent on the scheme proposed and applicable technical guidance. Rapid charging points will be provided on sites when located in the public realm. On housing sites homes with on-site parking will provide an electric charging point in an accessible location close to the parking space(s). On commercial sites there will be employee and visitor rapid charging points. Lorry Parking Proposals which reduce lorry parking (either informal or formal parking areas) should be accompanied by evidence to support its loss and explore opportunities for alternative provision. In recognition of the Borough's strategic location and demand for lorry parking, the Council will give weight to lorry parking provision and facilities, and opportunities for alternative provision and for improved management in decision-taking.