Planning in Rossendale

Open Space Requirements in New Housing Developments

Where there is an identified local deficiency in quantity of open space, on-site provision will be required. Where there is no identified local deficiency in quantity or it is demonstrated to be inappropriate due to site specific circumstances payment of a financial contribution towards off-site provision or improvements to existing open spaces will be required. The Council is committed to producing an update to the 2008 Open Space and Play Equipment Contributions Supplementary Planning Document that will utilise the recommendations of the 2021 Open Space Report and establish an updated mechanism for calculating site specific open space requirements (on and off-site including maintenance) and open space design principles. This new SPD will be in place as soon as possible and will form the basis for calculating site specific open space requirements thereafter. Housing developments of 10 or more new dwellings (0.50 hectares or part thereof) will be required to make provision for open space, and should have regard to the most up to date evidence on the quantity, accessibility and quality of open space in the Borough, as identified in the 2021 Rossendale Open Space Report or its successors or more up to date robust evidence. The size of development should not be artificially reduced to decrease or eliminate the open space requirement, for example, by sub-dividing sites or reducing the density of all or part of a site. The Council will consider the site as a whole for the purposes of calculating the appropriate level of open space provision. Until such time as the document is replaced Site specific open space requirements will be calculated using the 2008 Open Space and Play Equipment Contributions SPD, index linked and secured through planning obligations.

Playing Pitch Requirements in New Housing Developments

Housing developments of 10 or more new dwellings (0.50 hectares or part thereof) will be required to pay a financial contribution towards improvements to existing playing pitches and provision of an all-weather pitch (identified in the 2016 Play Pitch Strategy or its successor) in the Borough where there is an identified local need or Borough wide importance. The size of development should not be artificially reduced to minimise or eliminate the contribution to the playing pitch requirement, for example, by sub-dividing sites or reducing the density of all or part of a site. The Council will consider the site as a whole for the purposes of calculating the appropriate level of playing pitch/open space provision. An accompanying Supplementary Planning Document will establish that, where there is a local need for playing pitches based on the Playing Pitch Strategy, appropriate financial contributions will be sought from new residential developments.

Playing Pitches, Sports Facilities and Recreational Open Space

Playing pitches, sports facilities and recreational open space which are currently used as such, or which would prejudice the use of these areas for sport and recreation, will be resisted and only be permitted where: A replacement of the same type, of an equal or greater quantity and quality is provided in an appropriate location; or It is demonstrated to the Council's satisfaction that there is a surplus of recreational land, buildings or facilities of the same type relative to the current and likely future needs of the local community. All development affecting playing pitches and associated facilities will be considered against the most up to date version of the Playing Pitch Strategy; or The development involves the loss of a small part of a larger site in recreational use and would result in the enhancement of recreational facilities on the remainder of the site, or on a nearby site serving the same community and a net gain in sports provision can be demonstrated; or In the case of school playing fields or sports facilities, the development is for education purposes or the Department for Education is satisfied that the land is no longer required for school use, and its loss would not result in a shortfall in recreational open space/playing pitches/sports facilities for the local community now or in the future.

Community Facilities

Development proposing the change of use or loss of any premises, or land currently or last used as a community facility (including public houses, post offices, community centres, village and church halls, places of worship, children's centres, libraries, cultural facilities, theatres, parks and open spaces and health facilities) will be permitted where it can be demonstrated that: a) The facility no longer serves the local needs of the community in which it is located; or b) Adequate alternative provision has been made, or is already available, in the settlement or local area; or c) The use is no longer financially viable and a marketing exercise has taken place to demonstrate this. The creation of new community facilities as part of proposed new developments will be encouraged. Such proposals should, where appropriate, give an indication of how ongoing maintenance will be addressed.

Protection of Playing Pitches, Existing Open Space, Sport and Recreation Facilities

Playing Pitches, Existing Open Space, Sport and Recreational Facilities are shown on the Policies Map. Development proposals which would result in the loss of playing pitches and associated facilities, and land or buildings in recreational or sporting use or last used as such, or which would prejudice the use of these areas for sport and recreation, will be resisted and only be permitted where: • A replacement of the same type, of an equal or greater quantity and quality is provided in an appropriate location; or • It is demonstrated to the Council's satisfaction that there is a surplus of recreational land, buildings or facilities of the same type relative to the current and likely future needs of the local community. All development affecting playing pitches and associated facilities will be considered against the most up to date version of the Playing Pitch Strategy; or • The development involves the loss of a small part of a larger site in recreational use and would result in the enhancement of recreational facilities on the remainder of the site, or on a nearby site serving the same community and a net gain in sports provision can be demonstrated; or • In the case of school playing fields or sports facilities, the development is for education purposes or the Department for Education is satisfied that the land is no longer required for school use, and its loss would not result in a shortfall in recreational open space/playing pitches/sports facilities for the local community now or in the future. Given the important role indoor sports facilities play in promoting the physical and mental well-being of the community, the Council will work closely with Sport England and other partners to ensure that any future decision on th

High Quality Development in the Borough

All proposals for new development in the Borough will be expected to take account of the character and appearance of the local area, including, as appropriate, each of the following criteria: a) Siting, layout, massing, scale, design, materials, lighting, building to plot ratio and landscaping; b) Safeguarding and enhancing the built and historic environment; c) Being sympathetic to surrounding land uses and occupiers, and avoiding demonstrable harm to the amenities of the local area; d) The scheme will not have an unacceptable adverse impact on neighbouring development by virtue of it being over-bearing or oppressive, overlooking, or resulting in an unacceptable loss of light; nor should it be adversely affected by neighbouring uses and vice versa; e) Link in with surrounding movement patterns, encourage permeability and reflect the principles of "Manual for Streets"; f) Not prejudice the development of neighbouring land, including the creation of landlocked sites; g) Demonstration of how the new development will connect to the wider area via public transport, walking and cycling; h) Minimising opportunity for crime and malicious threats, and maximising natural surveillance and personal and public safety; i) Providing landscaping as an integral part of the development, protecting existing landscape features and natural assets, habitat creation, providing open space, appropriate boundary treatments and enhancing the public realm; j) Including public art in appropriate circumstances; k) There is no adverse impact to the natural environment, biodiversity and green infrastructure unless suitable mitigation measures are proposed and the Council will seek biodiversity net gain consistent with the current national policy; l) That proposals do not increase the risk of flooding on the site or elsewhere, where possible reducing the risk of flooding overall, having regard to the surface water drainage hierarchy; m) A Development Brief or Design Code (as appropriate) will be required to support major new development and smaller proposals as appropriate (this document will be proportionate to the size of the scheme). Such documents should set out the design principles, the appropriateness of the development in the context of the area and consideration of innovative design; n) Where appropriate applications shall be accompanied by an independent Design Stage Review; o) Making provision for the needs of special groups in the community such as the elderly and those with disabilities; p) Consideration of Health impacts, including through a Health Impact Assessment for major developments, looking particularly at effects on vulnerable groups, and identification of how these may be mitigated; q) Designs that will be adaptable to climate change, incorporate energy efficiency principles and adopting principles of sustainable construction including Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS); and r) Ensuring that contaminated land, land stability and other risks associated with coal mining are considered and, where necessary, addressed through appropriate investigation, remediation and mitigation measures.

Employment/mixed-use allocations and existing employment sites

The following sites shown on the Policies Map are allocated and protected for business, general industrial or storage and distribution (Use Classes E(g), B2 or B8 respectively) in the period 2019-2036. Additional uses will be permitted on mixed-use site allocations.

Employment Site and Premises

All existing employment premises and sites last used for B2 (General Industrial) or B8 (Storage and Distribution) and not allocated for other purposes will be protected for employment use unless a clearly justified case can be made for a change of use. Proposals on all B2 or B8 employment sites/premises for re-use or redevelopment other than B use class employment uses will be assessed under the following criteria: a) whether there would be an unacceptable reduction on the quantity of employment land supply; b) the extent of any job losses; c) the relative quality and suitability of the site for employment and d) an assessment of the existing provision for the proposed use and whether there is a clearly identified need; e) the location of the site and its relationship to other uses; f) whether the ability to accommodate smaller scale employment requirements would be compromised; g) there would be a net improvement in amenity; h) the site and/or buildings are listed or locally listed heritage assets and their re-use or development is the most appropriate means to secure and maintain an acceptable and viable use that is consistent with their conservation in line with other relevant policies in this Plan; and i) the site has an adequate access and its redevelopment would not create a traffic hazard. Any proposals for housing use on all B2 or B8 employment sites/premises will need to address criteria a to i above and also be subject to: j) convincing evidence of lack of demand for employment re-use and employment redevelopment demonstrated through a rigorous and active marketing strategy to be agreed with the Council and normally of 12 month duration; k) an assessment of the viability of employment development including employment re-use and employment redevelopment; and l) where the existing buildings make a positive contribution to the local area a structural survey and assessment of the building to demonstrate the feasibility of retaining and converting the building as part of the residential development. Where an existing building will be lost as part of the development, there will the requirement to consider the re-use of the existing materials within the new development.

Development Criteria for Employment Generating Development

Proposals for new employment generating development from Class E (Commercial, Businesses and Services), Class B2 (General Industrial) or Class B8 (Storage and Distribution), including extensions to existing premises, which provides for or assists with the creation of new employment opportunities, inward investment and/or secures the retention of existing employment within the Borough will be supported provided that: The scale, bulk and appearance of the development is compatible with the character of its surroundings; There is no significant detrimental impact on the amenity of neighbouring land uses and the character of the area by virtue of increased levels of noise, odour, emissions, or dust and light impacts, surface water, drainage or sewerage related pollution problems; The site has an adequate access that would not create a traffic hazard or have an undue environmental impact; The traffic generated does not have a severe adverse impact on local amenity, highway safety or the operation of the highways network; and Appropriate provision is made for on-site servicing and space for waiting goods vehicles; Adequate screening is provided where necessary to any unsightly feature of the development and security fencing is located to the internal edge of any perimeter landscaping; On the edges of industrial areas, where sites adjoin residential areas or open countryside, developers will be required to provide substantial peripheral landscaping; Development will only exceptionally be supported outside the Urban Boundary, subject to other policies in the Plan, and where it can be shown there are no other appropriate sites. Any development in the Green Belt will need to re-use existing buildings or constitute limited infill on previously developed sites and demonstrate very special circumstances Masterplanning or, for smaller sites, the development of a design framework, will be expected; Open storage areas should be designed to minimise visual intrusion; and The proposal will be served by public transport and provide pedestrian and cycle links to adjacent areas. Proposals for land uses that are regarded as main town centre uses, as defined in the NPPF, will need to accord with Policies R1 to R5 and ensure there are no adverse impacts on the Borough's centres and parades as defined in R1

Employment Development in non-allocated employment areas

New small scale employment development (Use Classes E(g), B2, B8, and E(c) (E(c) limited to under 100m2 of new floorspace)), will be permitted in areas where employment is not the principal land use provided there would be no detriment to the amenity of the area in terms of scale, character, noise, nuisance, disturbance, environment and car parking. Very special circumstances will need to be demonstrated for land that is within the Green Belt. Where this can be demonstrated then contributions towards Green Belt compensatory measures as out in Policy SD4 will be required.

Farm Diversification

Proposals for farm diversification which require planning permission will be permitted on existing farm holdings provided that: • They would make a positive contribution to the continued viability of the farm holding; • They would retain or enhance the character of traditional farm buildings; • Where possible, the proposal re-uses existing buildings of substantial and permanent construction which are structurally sound and capable of conversion without major alterations, or the development is well-related to existing buildings if no suitable buildings are available for re-use; • The agricultural diversification is subservient to the main agricultural use of the farm; • Wherever possible, they add value to produce of the farm or produced locally, or contribute to the tourism economy; • The scale and nature of the diversification proposals are appropriate for the location and would not have an unacceptable impact on residential amenity, landscape character, the enjoyment of the countryside or the purposes of the Green Belt; • They do not require new dwellings within the rural area to support the enterprise; • They do not create extensive areas of hardstanding; and • The volume and type of traffic that would be generated is appropriate to the accessibility of the site and the standard of the local highway network.

Waterside Mill, Bacup

New high quality development comprising E(g) (Offices, Research & Development or Light Industrial), B2 (General Industrial), B8 (Storage or Distribution) and C3 (Residential) will be permitted subject to the following: (a) the net developable area will comprise no more than 0.09 ha with conversion for up to 39 apartments. (b) the significance of the heritage asset, its setting and the character and appearance of the Bacup Town Centre Conservation Area will be sustained and enhanced by the development; (c) subject to the findings of the Heritage Impact Assessment, the building and structures on the site will be retained and converted (d) a full structural survey is conducted to inform the retention of the heritage asset and its reuse; (e) the recording of the building prior to the carrying out of any approved intervention as part of the planning application for the site; (f) a high quality design that responds to the site's industrial heritage including the need for any new buildings to respond positively to local character and distinctiveness in terms of layout, design and materials; (g) any additional or replacement buildings should be of high quality design, and in keeping with the former mill building in terms of materials and design, and enhance the Conservation Area (h) adequate parking provision is to be provided.

Futures Park

New high quality development will be permitted subject to the following: a) Comprehensive development of the site is demonstrated through a masterplan; b) Environmental constraints are reflected in the design; c) A phasing and infrastructure delivery schedule for the area including access improvements for vehicular traffic as well as pedestrians and cyclists; and d) An agreed programme of implementation in accordance with the masterplan. The following uses are considered to be acceptable: i. Employment uses comprising E(g) (Business), B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution); ii. Hotel (Use Class C1), Restaurants and cafes (Use Class E(b)) and drinking establishments (Use Class Sui Generis); iii. Leisure uses and (including Use Class F2); iv. Display/retail of goods (Use Class E(a)); v. Pedestrian and cycle route – "Valley of Stone" Greenway and link to Lee Quarry;

Extension to Mayfield Chicks, Ewood Bridge

Within the area designated on the Policies Map at the extension to Mayfield Chicks, Ewood Bridge (NE1) new high quality development comprising E(g) Business, B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution) will be permitted subject to the following: (a) the net developable area will comprise no more than 1.57 ha and development must exclude the land on the northern boundary which is identified as grassland stepping stone habitat on the Lancashire Grassland Ecological Network Map. (b) an ecological assessment of the entire allocation will be required and all adverse impacts on the grassland habitat will need to be fully mitigated against. Any measures to address the loss of biodiversity that cannot be incorporated within the area of development (i.e. the developable area) will need to be addressed by improvements to the grassland stepping stone habitat; c) vehicular access will be through the existing industrial site and improvements to the junction and widening of the access road will be required; d) a site specific-flood risk assessment is undertaken; e) details relating to layout, massing and landscaping, will be required to show how the proposed development will respect views from the Irwell Sculpture Trail and the East Lancashire Railway line. This should include native-species tree and hedgerow planting to delineate the new Green Belt boundary. f) Measures will be required to compensate for the loss of the Green Belt with proportionate contributions being made to all or some of the following identified projects: Rossendale Forest; The New Hall Hey Gateway; Improvement works to footpaths in the vicinity – namely FP 14-4-FP309 and 14-4-RB303 to ensure the site links with other parts of the Borough; Improved biodiversity measures on the grassland stepping stone habitat.

Land north of Hud Hey, Acre

Within the area designated on the Policies Map at the Land north of Hud Hey, Acre, (NE2) new high quality development comprising E(g) (Business Uses) B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution) will be permitted subject to the following: a) the net developable area will comprise no more than 2.03 ha b) development should avoid the northern and eastern boundaries of the allocation and these areas should be planted with native-species trees in order to create a buffer and provide a new Green Belt boundary. c) any existing woodland within the site, particularly along the A56, A680 and between the new development and existing housing should be retained, maintained and enhanced. Opportunities for additional tree planting and habitat creation should also be explored, whilst not completely blocking views through the site; d) a new priority junction and access from Hud Hey Rd is to be provided. This will need to be based on the findings of a detailed geotechnical feasibility study of land stability and a full ground investigation survey, and be subject to a Transport Assessment, including Road Safety Audit, e) a drainage study and drainage mitigation to ensure no drainage runoff onto the A56. A sustainable drainage system shall be used as part of the green infrastructure through the site, subject to land stability; f) measures will be required to compensate for the loss of the Green Belt with proportionate contributions being made to all or some of the following identified projects: Creation of footpath links to adjacent Worsley Park and Improvement work to footpaths in the vicinity which improve access to or are within the Green Belt; Improvements to National Cycle Route 6 to enhance the link between Haslingden and Rising Bridge; Improved biodiversity measures at Worsley Park, woodland to the north and east of the park and to the south of Clough End Road, and any other appropriate areas in the surrounding Green Belt. Rossendale Forest New Hall Hey Gateway

Carrs Industrial Estate North Extension, Haslingden

Within the area designated on the Policies Map as the northern extension to Carrs Industrial Estate, Haslingden (NE3) new high quality development comprising E(g) (Business), B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution) will be permitted subject to the following: a) the net developable area will comprise no more than 4.26 ha b) access is to be delivered via Commerce Street with a site-specific ground investigation required to address potential geotechnical and geo-environmental risks; c) a drainage study and drainage mitigation to ensure no drainage runoff onto the A56. A sustainable drainage system shall be used as part of the green infrastructure through the site, subject to land stability d) buildings should subservient to Britannia Mill and units should be designed so as to be sympathetic to the local area and the setting of nearby Listed Buildings and other heritage assets; e) key views will need to be retained to Britannia Mill and the Church of St James; f) native species tree planting is to be provided along the A56 and further landscape treatment is expected adjacent to the Public Right of Way along the western boundary.

New Hall Hey

New high quality development will be permitted for employment uses comprising E(g) (Business), B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution) subject to the following: (a) a net developable area comprising of no more than 3ha (b) The implementation of development to be in accordance with an agreed design code, prepared in consultation with key stakeholders including statutory undertakers. The Design Code shall include the design principles for the whole of the site and will incorporate, amongst other elements: a. A greenspace and landscape strategy reflecting both its status as a "gateway" to the Borough as part of the New Hall Hey Gateway and ecological value; b. A movement framework supported by a detailed Travel Plan and Transport Assessment, which also identifies the access point(s); c. Existing overhead and underground infrastructure; d. Layout considerations to accommodate long views east-west across the site; e. Parking and garaging; f. Appropriate building and hard surfacing materials; g. Measures to mitigate and enhance the impact on the setting of the listed Hardman's Mill; h. Maximising energy efficiency in design; i. Details of appropriate boundary treatments; j. Lighting; k. Details of the laying of services, drainage and cables; l. Bin storage and rubbish collection; m. Ecology and nature conservation; n. The relationship with the adjacent Irwell Sculpture Trail; o. The relationship with the River Irwell. (c) A phasing and infrastructure delivery schedule for the area. The schedule shall include, amongst other elements: a. Highway hierarchy; b. Bridge over the River Irwell; c. Foul and surface water drainage including flood risk mitigation; d. Surface water drainage strategy including details of Sustainable Drainage; e. Nature conservation and enhancement works; f. Provision of footpath and cycle links g. Tree works and tree protection measures. (d) An agreed programme of implementation in accordance with the masterplan. (e) Suitable Green Belt compensation measures will be required in accordance with Policy SD4. In particular these will contribute towards the New Hall Hey Gateway which seeks to enhance pedestrian and cycle links, as well as improvements to the blue and green infrastructure within the vicinity, and to other projects set out in Policy SD4.

Extension to Baxenden Chemicals site, Rising Bridge

New high quality development comprising E (g) Business B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage or Distribution) will be permitted subject to the following: a) the net developable area will comprise no more than 4.40ha; b) ecological surveys for the ponds and Woodnook Water are undertaken to ensure water quality and biodiversity are retained; c) subject to the findings of the ecological assessment and Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan, which will be agreed prior to development taking place on site, any existing trees within the site will be retained where possible and opportunities identified for additional planting of native species trees to link with the adjoining woodland; d) access to the site is to be provided via the existing private road from Rising Bridge Road. Any increase in traffic generation would need to consider the possibility of a localised widening scheme along Rising Bridge Road, as well as some form of junction control required to deal with increased traffic generation near the local primary school; e) a site specific Flood Risk Assessment is undertaken, ensuring any adverse impacts are mitigated and a drainage study with drainage mitigation to ensure no drainage runoff. A sustainable drainage system shall be used as part of the green infrastructure through the site; f) any existing woodland within the site should be retained, maintained and enhanced. Opportunities for additional tree planting and habitat creation should also be explored, whilst not completely blocking views through the site.

Provision for Employment

The Council, together with developers and other partners, will seek to provide sufficient employment land to meet the Borough's gross requirement of 27 hectares for business, general industrial or storage and distribution (Use Classes E(g), B2 and B8) for the Plan period of 2019 - 2036.

Wind Turbines

Community led proposals for wind turbines in all parts of the Borough will be supported provided they meet the technical requirements set out below. Areas suitable for commercial Wind Turbines have been identified on the Policies Map. Single, and exceptionally, small groups of Turbines of up to 59m may be suitable in the "Enclosed Uplands Areas Suitable for Wind Turbines" shown on the Policies Map. New larger turbines or re-powering of existing ones may be considered on the "High Moorland Plateau Areas Suitable for Wind Turbines" shown on the Policies Map, provided areas of deep peat (over 40cm depth) and blanket bog are avoided. Development of new wind turbines over 25 metres in height or re-powering of existing machines outside these areas would be resisted. All areas of the Borough are considered to be potentially suitable for single turbines of up to 25m in height. Commercial proposals for new wind turbines or re-powering of existing schemes outside Suitable Areas defined on the Policies Map should demonstrate that the criteria used for designating these areas have been fully addressed in their proposals, as well as covering the criteria set out below. Proposals for commercial wind farms and individual turbines (including repowering of existing schemes) within Areas of Search shown on the Policies Map will only be supported if the following criteria are addressed to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority: The impacts identified by the local community have been taken into account and fully addressed;

Other forms of Energy generation

The Council will take a positive approach to renewable energy proposals in the Borough, such as solar and hydro-electric schemes, including community led initiatives, subject to the Authority being satisfied that any negative impacts, including of any supporting infrastructure, can be minimised. Proposals for decentralised energy generation and distribution will be given positive consideration subject to their wider environmental impacts.

Landscape Character and Quality

The distinctive landscape character of Rossendale, including large scale sweeping moorlands, pastures enclosed by dry stone walls, and stonebuilt settlements contained in narrow valleys, will be protected and enhanced. The Council will expect development proposals to conserve and, where possible, enhance the natural and built environment, its immediate and wider environment, and take opportunities for improving the distinctive qualities of the area and the way it functions. Development proposals which are in scale and keeping with the landscape character, and which are appropriate to its surroundings in terms of siting, design, density, materials, and external appearance and landscaping will be supported. In order to protect and enhance the character and quality of the landscape, development proposals should, where appropriate: • Respond positively to the visual inter-relationship between the settlements and the surrounding hillsides and follow the contours of the site; • Not have an unacceptable impact on skylines and roofscapes; • Be built to a density which respects the character of the surrounding area with only low density development likely to be acceptable in areas abutting the Enclosed Upland or Moorland Fringe Landscape Character Areas; • Retain existing watercourses, trees and green infrastructure features that make a positive contribution to the character of the area; • Incorporate native screen planting as a buffer to soften the edge of the building line in valley side locations; • Take into account views into and from the site and surrounding area, retaining and, where possible, enhancing key views; and • Retain and restore dry stone walls, vaccary stone flag walls and other boundary treatments which are particularly characteristic of Rossendale. Development proposals should incorporate a high quality of landscape design, implementation and management as an integral part of the new development. Landscaping schemes should provide an appropriate landscape setting for the development and respect the character and distinctiveness of the local landscape.

Biodiversity, Geodiversity and Ecological Networks

Development proposals that have potential to affect a national or locally-designated site, as shown on the Policies Map and its immediate environs, or on protected habitats or species, will be expected to be accompanied by relevant surveys and assessments detailing likely impacts. A sequential approach should be followed to avoid harm and where possible enhance biodiversity, and where not possible, provide appropriate mitigation and, as a last resort, on and off-site compensatory measures to offset the impact of development. Any development that adversely affects or damages a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) will not normally be granted permission. Development proposals should protect areas of biodiversity and protected species; areas of geodiversity and ecological networks, and where possible enhance sites and linkages. Any adverse effects should be first of all avoided; if this is not possible, minimised and mitigated against, and where this cannot be achieved, compensated for. All development proposals should seek to protect and enhance biodiversity, and will be requested to quantify any net gains. Key components of Ecological Networks have been identified on the Policies Map. As well as designated ecological areas these include "Greenlands" which are areas of open space including parks, cemeteries and open land, many of which were previously included in the Core Strategy. Opportunities to enhance components of the Ecological Network, particularly the defined "core areas" and "Stepping Stones" and the linkages between them, will be supported, with development proposals affecting them expected to identify how this is being addressed. An SPD will be produced setting out more fully the elements within and the role of Ecological Networks. The design and layout of new development should retain and enhance existing features of biodiversity or geodiversity value within and immediately adjacent to the site. Ecological networks should be conserved, enhanced and expanded. Development proposals will be expected to demonstrate how ecological networks are incorporated within the scheme. Where appropriate, development should incorporate habitat features of value to wildlife, especially priority species, within the development (including within building design). Development proposals should demonstrate they will not adversely affect the integrity of any European site of nature conservation. The Appropriate Assessment should identify measures necessary to avoid, minimise or mitigate against harm. The Council will work with other authorities and partner organisations in the South Pennines to develop a Visitor Management Plan for the South Pennine Moors Phase 2 Special Protection Area (SPA).

Trees and Hedgerows

Development proposals must seek to avoid the loss of, and minimise the risk of harm to, existing trees, woodland, and/or hedgerows of visual or nature conservation value. Any harm to ancient and veteran trees should be avoided unless wholly exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated. Where trees and/or woodlands are to be lost as a part of development this loss must be justified as a part of an Arboricultural Implications Assessment (AIA) submitted with the application. The Council will expect developers to plan for retention by using an AIA to inform site layout, in advance of the submission of any application. Where trees, woodland and/or hedgerows lie within a development site, they should wherever possible be incorporated effectively within the landscape elements of the scheme. Development proposals should, where appropriate: • not result in the loss of trees or woodland which are subject to a Tree Preservation Order or which are considered worthy of protection; • not give rise to a threat to the continued well-being of retained trees, woodlands or hedgerows; • not involve building within the canopy or root spread of trees, woodlands, or hedgerows which are to be retained, except where it can be proven that the construction can be carried out in accordance with the most up-to-date British Standard and an appropriate method statement is fully adhered to; • make a positive contribution to Green Infrastructure where it is within or adjacent to identified Green Infrastructure networks; • make a positive contribution to biodiversity; and • ensure trees are incorporated into the design of new streets and elsewhere to support the Rossendale Forest and community orchards. To ensure that the benefits of the proposed development outweigh the harm resulting from the loss of trees, woodlands or hedgerows, compensatory planting using native species must take place at a ratio of at least 2:1. Where this ratio cannot be achieved this must be fully justified with the compensatory measures proposed clearly justified. Trees within a Conservation Area that are 75mm diameter or above at 1.5m above ground level, and trees protected by tree preservation orders, will be given detailed consideration when considering planning consent. Any planning proposal must seek to retain these trees unless there are sound arboricultural reasons (as justified within the AIA) for their removal.

Green Infrastructure networks

Development proposals will be expected to support the protection, management, enhancement and connection of the green infrastructure network, as identified on the Policies Map. Proposals which enhance the integrity and connectivity of the green infrastructure network will be supported. Development proposals should seek first to avoid or, if not feasible, mitigate biodiversity impacts on-site. Schemes which would result in a net loss of green infrastructure on-site will only be permitted if: The function and connectivity of green infrastructure networks are retained or replaced; or The development scheme integrates new or enhanced green infrastructure where appropriate, such as natural greenspace and trees; and in all cases The proposal would not have an unacceptable impact on amenity, surface water or nature conservation. Where practicable and appropriate, new green infrastructure assets incorporated into development proposals should be designed and located to integrate into the existing green Infrastructure network and should maximise the range of green infrastructure functions and benefits achieved.

Environmental Protection

Development which has the potential, either individually or cumulatively, to result in pollution that has an unacceptable impact on health, amenity, biodiversity (including designated sites), air or water quality, will only be permitted if the risk of pollution is effectively prevented or reduced and mitigated to an acceptable level by: Undertaking assessments and/or detailed site investigations of land which is or may be affected by contamination and implementing appropriate remediation measures to ensure the site is suitable for the proposed use, and that there is no unacceptable risk of pollution within the site or in the surrounding area; Ensuring developments are sensitively designed, managed and operated to reduce exposure of sensitive uses and wildlife to noise and noise generation having regard to the location of the proposed development, existing levels of background noise and the hours of operation; Assessing the impacts of new development on surface water and groundwater quality and implementing suitable measures to control the risk of these being adversely affected; Incorporating appropriate measures to prevent light pollution through the design and siting of the development and by controlling the level of illumination, glare, and spillage of light, including through the use of developing technologies such as LED; and Undertaking Air Quality Assessments to the satisfaction of the Council for proposals which have the potential to have a significant adverse impact on air quality, particularly within or adjacent to an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) shown on the Policies Map, and implementing measures such as Travel Plans, dust suppression techniques and the incorporation of electric car charging points to both mitigate the effects of the development on air quality and to ensure that the users of the development are not significantly adversely affected by the air quality within that AQMA. Development will not be permitted if the risk of pollution cannot be prevented or if mitigation cannot be provided to an appropriate standard with an acceptable design. New development proposals for sensitive uses, such as housing or schools, located near to existing noise, odour or light generating uses, will be expected to demonstrate that the proposal is compatible with the surrounding uses and that an acceptable standard of amenity would be provided for the occupiers of the development, for example through the use of mitigation measures to reduce the exposure of the occupants to pollution, the design of the building and its orientation and layout.

Surface Water Run-Off, Flood Risk, Sustainable Drainage and Water Quality

All development proposals will be required to consider and address flood risk from all sources. A sequential approach will be taken and planning permission will only be granted for proposals which would not be subject to unacceptable flood risk, or materially increase the risks elsewhere, and where it is a type of development that is acceptable in a Flood Risk location. Assessment should be informed by consideration of the most up to date information on Flood Risk available from the Environment Agency, the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA), the Lead Local Flood Risk Authority and the sewage undertaker. Developers will be expected to provide appropriate supporting information to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority, such as Flood Risk Assessments for all developments in Flood Zones 2 and 3 and as required by national policy and any local validation requirements. Site specific mitigation measures should be clearly identified. All development proposals will be required to manage surface water as part of the development in the following order of priority: • An adequate soakaway or some other form of infiltration system. • An attenuated discharge to surface water body. • An attenuated discharge to public surface water sewer, highway drain or another drainage system. • An attenuated discharge to public combined sewer. Applicants wishing to discharge surface water to a public sewer will need to submit clear evidence demonstrating why alternative options are not available. The expectation will be for only foul flows to communicate with the public sewer. On greenfield sites, applicants will be expected to demonstrate that the current natural discharge solution from a site is at least mimicked. On previously developed land, applicants will also be expected to follow the surface water hierarchy and any proposal based on a proposed reduction in surface water discharge from a previously developed site will be expected to target a reduction to a greenfield rate of run-off. Development proposals will be required to incorporate sustainable drainage systems and consider surface water management early in the design process. Applicants will need to consider what contribution landscaping proposals (hard and soft) can make to reducing surface water discharge. Development proposals will be expected to maximise the use of permeable surfaces / areas of soft landscaping, and the use of Green Infrastructure as potential sources of storage for surface water run-off. The proposed drainage measures should fully integrate with the design of the development and priority should be given to multi-functional sustainable drainage systems SuDS (as opposed to underground tanked storage systems), which contribute to amenity, biodiversity and water quality, as well as overall climate change mitigation. Alternatives to multi-functional level SuDS will only be permitted where it is demonstrated that they are impractical or there are other exceptional circumstances. Applicants will need to submit clear evidence when multi-functional sustainable drainage features are not proposed. All drainage proposals should incorporate clear implementation, management and maintenance arrangements. Proposals for minor development in areas at risk of flooding should also incorporate SuDS into the design of the scheme unless there is clear evidence that it would be inappropriate. Drainage proposals for minor schemes should follow the surface water hierarchy and at least demonstrate that SuDS solutions (including multi-functional SuDS) have been considered. Any development proposal which is part of a wider development / allocation will be required to demonstrate how the site delivers foul and surface water drainage as part of a wider, holistic strategy which co-ordinates development and infrastructure between phases, whilst having regard to interconnecting phases. Infrastructure should be sized to accommodate flows from interconnecting phases and drainage strategies should ensure a proliferation of pumping stations is avoided on a phased development. Applicants will be expected to liaise with utility providers. It may be necessary to co-ordinate the delivery of development with the delivery of infrastructure improvements. Use of septic tanks will only be permitted where connection to the foul sewer network is not feasible.

Green Belt Compensatory Measures

Where land is to be released for development, compensatory improvements to the environmental quality and accessibility of the remaining Green Belt land will be required. Types of improvements that would be considered acceptable include the creation or enhancement of green or blue infrastructure; biodiversity gains (additional to those required under Policy ENV1), such as tree planting, habitat connectivity and natural capital; landscape and visual enhancements (beyond those needed to mitigate the immediate impacts of the proposal); new or enhanced walking or cycling routes; as well as improved access to new, enhanced or existing recreational and playing field provision. This policy applies to developments on land that is located within the Green Belt or on allocated housing and employment sites that were previously in the Green Belt as listed in Policy SD2 The Council has identified a number of projects where Green Belt compensatory measures can be delivered, or proportionate contributions made towards these schemes, listed below. Further details are contained in the Green Belt Compensatory Document or its successor: • Rossendale Forest • Rossendale Incredible Edible • New Hall Hey Gateway • Edenfield Cricket Club • Edenfield CE / Stubbins Primary School Extension • Public Rights of Way / Cycleway Upgrades and Improvements to the Network

Urban Boundary and Green Belt

All new development in the Borough will take place within the Urban Boundaries, defined on the Policies Map, except where development specifically needs to be located within a countryside location and the development enhances the rural character of the area. Land has been removed from Green Belt in the following locations on the basis that exceptional circumstances exist: • H63 Cowm Water Treatment Works, Whitworth • H64 Irwell Vale Mill • H65 Land East of Market Street • H66 Land West of Market Street, Edenfield • H67 Edenwood Mill, Edenfield • NE1 Extension to Mayfield Chicks, Ewood Bridge • NE2 Land north of Hud Hey, Haslingden • NE4 Extension of New Hall Hey, Rawtenstall The Council will expect that the design of development on the above sites minimises the impact on the character of the area and addresses relevant criteria in policy ENV3. Development will also be expected to contribute to compensatory improvements to land elsewhere in the Green Belt, enhancing both its quality and public access.

Urban Boundary and Green Belt

To direct majority of growth to land within the urban boundary; to ensure countryside development is only allowed where a countryside location is essential

Historic Environment

The Council will support proposals which conserve or, where appropriate, enhance the historic environment of Rossendale. Particular consideration will be given to ensure that the significance of those elements of the historic environment which contribute most to the Borough's distinctive identity and sense of place are not harmed. These include: The historic town centres of Bacup, Haslingden and Rawtenstall; Pre-industrial farmhouses and weavers cottages; The legacy of mill buildings and their associated infrastructure including engine houses, chimneys and mill lodges, and the relationship to nearby terraced workers' housing; The fine examples of Victorian Mill Owners' Mansions; The infrastructure associated with the Borough's mining and quarrying heritage; The Nineteenth century institutional buildings including its libraries, institutes, schools and former public baths; The range, wealth and quality of its places of worship; and The network of historic open spaces, parks, gardens, and cemeteries; Historic landscape. Proposals affecting a designated heritage asset (or an archaeological site of national importance) should conserve those elements which contribute to its significance. Less than substantial harm to such elements will be permitted only where this is clearly justified and outweighed by the public benefits of the proposal. Substantial harm or total loss to the significance of a designated heritage asset (or an archaeological site of national importance) will be permitted only in exceptional circumstances. Where permission is granted for a development which would result in the partial or total loss of a designated heritage asset, approval will be conditional upon the asset being fully recorded and the information deposited with the Historic Environment Record (HER). Proposals which would remove, harm or undermine the significance of a non-designated heritage asset will only be permitted where the benefits are considered sufficient to outweigh the harm. The historic landscape of the Borough should be protected and any proposals which would impact on its qualities or functions will be assessed according to policy ENV3. Where the proposal affects (non-designated) archaeological sites of less than national importance it should conserve those elements which contribute to their significance in line with the importance of the remains. In those cases where development affecting such sites is acceptable in principle, mitigation of damage will be ensured through the preservation of the remains in situ as a preferred solution. When in situ preservation is not justified, the developer will be required to make adequate provision for excavation and recording before or during development, the findings of which should be deposited with the Historic Environment Record. Proposals within or affecting the setting of a conservation area will only be permitted where it preserves or enhances the character and appearance of the area.

Loveclough Working Mens Club and land at rear and extension

Development of up to 94 dwellings will be supported that: 1. Comprehensive development of the entire site is demonstrated through a masterplan with an agreed programme of implementation; 2. The development is implemented in accordance with an agreed design code; 3. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site; 4. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to ensure the development does not have a detrimental impact on the Loveclough Fold Conservation Area; 5. Measures to deal with minerals identified at the site are submitted and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 6. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Grassland Ecological Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site; 7. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping, showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 8. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 9. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area; 10. A Health Impact Assessment is submitted with its recommendations secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 11. A contribution to the creation of car parking provision within the centre of Crawshawbooth.

Carr Barn and Carr Farm

Development of up to 25 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Transport Assessment is submitted taking into consideration the impact of the development on the capacity of the Rawtenstall Gyratory, with the mitigation measures identified in the Assessment delivered as part of the development; 2. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby Grade II listed buildings: Carr Farm, Lomas Lane, and Gravestone in the Grounds of Carr House; 3. A landscape buffer zone using native planting is created along the eastern and southern boundaries of the development, and landscaping of an appropriate density and height is also implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development.

Old Market Hall, Bacup

Development of up to 16 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the Grade II listed Old Market Hall and its wider setting; and to also ensure the development makes a positive contribution to the Bacup Conservation Area.

Land at Blackwood Road, Stacksteads

Development of up to 41 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve the setting of the nearby Grade II listed buildings: 22, 24 and 26, Rake Head Lane, and Waterbarn Baptist Chapel; 2. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site.

Sheephouse Reservoir, Britannia

Development of up to 63 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 2. Development avoids land identified as a stepping stone habitat for the Wetland and Health Ecological Network; 3. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Wetland and Heath Ecological Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site; 4. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping, showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 5. A landscape view is created around the stepping stone habitat and a landscape buffer zone is created using native planting along the northern boundary of the site; 6. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site.

Land off Pennine Road, Bacup

Development of up to 71 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. New on-site open space is provided and an off-site contribution is made towards enhancing existing sites of open space which lead to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area; 2. No development takes place that would adversely affect the mature belt of trees along the eastern boundary of the site and those to the north; 3. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 4. Vehicular access is taken from Fieldfare Way; 5. An Ecological Assessment is submitted which identifies the ecological value of the site and addresses any potential harm with suitable biodiversity enhancement measures to be delivered on site.

Lower Stack Farm

Development of up to 10 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve the setting of the nearby Grade II listed building Britannia Mill, New Line Bacup.

Land off Rockcliffe Road and Moorlands Terrace, Bacup

Development of up to 37 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve the setting of the nearby Grade II listed buildings: Lane Ends Farmhouse, and Church of St Saviour.

Land at Higher Cross Row, Bacup

Development of up to 10 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to ensure the development does not have a detrimental impact on the Bacup Conservation Area; 2. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area.

Land off Gladstone Street, Bacup

Development of up to 63 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to ensure the development does not have a detrimental impact on the Bacup Conservation Area; 2. A landscape buffer zone using native tree planting is created to the rear of properties on Pennine Road and Gladstone Street, and landscaping of an appropriate density and height is also implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development; 3. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 4. Access is taken from a single access point from between nos. 37 and 39 Gladstone Street; 5. New on-site open space is provided and an off-site contribution is made towards enhancing existing sites of open space which lead to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area.

Land off Cowtoot Lane, Bacup

Development of up to 94 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site; 2. Access to the site is taken from both Cowtoot Lane and Gordon Street with an internal estate road providing links between the two; 3. A coal mining risk assessment is submitted alongside intrusive site investigations which inform the potential remedial works and/or mitigation measures necessary and guide the layout of the development; 4. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 5. A landscape buffer zone using native species is created along the boundary of the Moorland Fringe landscape type identified within the site, and landscaping of an appropriate density and height is also implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development; 6. Existing boundaries of the site are retained and repaired where appropriate using dry stone walls; 7. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site; 8. Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 9. An Ecological Assessment is submitted which identifies the ecological value of the site and addresses any potential harm with suitable biodiversity enhancement measures to be delivered on site.

Land off Todmorden Road, Bacup

Development of up to 53 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 2. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 3. Existing boundaries of the site are retained and repaired where appropriate using dry stone walls; 4. Access is taken from a single access point from Todmorden Road (subject to site being delivered under one comprehensive scheme); 5. A coal mining risk assessment is submitted alongside intrusive site investigations which inform the potential remedial works and/or mitigation measures necessary and guide the layout of the development; 6. Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 7. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Grasslands Networks habitat.

Swinshaw Hall, Loveclough

Development of up to 47 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. Comprehensive development of the entire site is demonstrated through a masterplan with an agreed programme of implementation; 2. The development is implemented in accordance with an agreed design code; 3. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site. This should provide details of a suitable vehicular access from Burnley Road, including access by pedestrians and cyclists and all required mitigation measures, such as relocation of the bus stop; 4. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby non-designated heritage asset known as Swinshaw Hall; and to also ensure the development makes a positive contribution to the Loveclough Fold Conservation Area; 5. Archaeological investigation of the area south of Swinshaw Hall for a potential historic burial ground; 6. Measures to deal with minerals identified at the site are submitted and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 7. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Grassland Ecological Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site; 8. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping, showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 9. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 10. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 11. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area. The on-site open space should provide a functional parkland setting for Swinshaw Hall with details of an on-site play area in accordance with the parameters plan below; 12. Details are submitted which clarify the relationship between the development and the adjacent retained Loveclough Park; 13. A Health Impact Assessment is submitted with its recommendations secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 14. A contribution to the creation of car parking provision within the centre of Crawshawbooth; 15. A contribution towards increased school provision within the area (if identified as necessary).

Land at Kirkhill Avenue, Haslingden

Development of up to 22 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area; 2. Vehicular access is taken solely from Kirkhill Avenue with cycle and pedestrian links to Kirkhill Road; 3. An Ecological Assessment is submitted which identifies the ecological value of the site and addresses any potential harm with suitable biodiversity enhancement measures to be delivered on site; 4. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 5. A Landscape Assessment is submitted with details relating to layout, design and landscaping showing how the development would respect the landscape character of the site and the views into and from the site; 6. Landscaping of an appropriate density and height is implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development.

Land adjacent 53 Grane Road, Haslingden

Development of up to 5 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. An off-site contribution is made towards existing open space which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space overall; 2. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site.

Land Adjacent Park Avenue/Cricceth Close, Haslingden

Development of up to 30 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. New on-site open space is provided and an off-site contribution is made towards enhancing existing sites of open space which lead to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area; 2. Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 3. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site.

Land to side and rear of Petrol Station, Manchester Road

Development of up to 6 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby Grade II listed building Church of St Peter, and the Grade II* listed building Grane Mill, Haslingden, including boundary walls and north yard; 2. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site.

Land to the rear of Haslingden Cricket Club Haslingden Cricket Club, land off Private Lane

Development of approximately 30 dwellings and enhanced cricket facilities will be supported provided that: 1. The redevelopment of the entire site will be in general accordance with the parameters plan shown belo:w, which indicates the area for housing shaded orange (reference to Policy HS2) and the area for the retention and improvement of the existing sports and recreation facilities shaded green and reference to Policy LT1 and subject to the criteria listed below; 2. A masterplan for the whole site with an agreed programme of implementation to be submitted as part of a planning application in general accordance with the parameters plan; 3. Retain at least an equivalent quantity of land and ancillary facilities to accord with Policy LT1 for the continued operation of Haslingden Cricket Club including the provision of a pitch, practice net area, and an element of car parking to serve the cricket club; 4. Include for the provision of a new, relocated pavilion to serve the cricket club and other local community functions, of an equivalent or greater size to the existing facilities, together with improved changing facilities All relocated and improved facilities should meet the England and Wales Cricket Board design requirements; 5. Provide for the relocation of the training wicket off-site to land at Haslingden High School, prior to any development taking place; 6. Provide satisfactory measures to protect both the proposed dwellings and surrounding existing dwellings from the risk of ball strike from the adjacent cricket pitch, where adequate safety margins are not in place. The measures should be informed by a Ball Strike Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategy and approved as part of any subsequent planning application for the housing development; 7. Provide satisfactory measures to protect both the proposed dwellings and surrounding existing dwellings from noise from the adjacent cricket ground. The measures should be informed by a Noise Assessment and Mitigation Strategy; 8. Deliver approximately 30 houses in the western part of the site to the rear of the existing properties on Grasmere Road; 9. Provide satisfactory vehicular access to the new residential properties off Private Lane; 10. Provide a satisfactory new vehicular access from Clod Lane to serve the cricket ground; 11. Provide a safe and convenient pedestrian and cyclist access to the site, linking it to the footpath and cycleway network; 12. A phasing and infrastructure delivery schedule for the entire allocation; 13. The protection of the existing Sport and Recreational Facilities within the site allocation boundaries in perpetuity subject to the criteria set out in Strategic Policy LT1.

Foxhill Drive, Whitewell Bottom

Development of up to 7 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area.

Land off Lea Bank, Cloughfold

Development of up to 9 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. An off-site contribution is made towards existing open space which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space overall;

Johnny Barn Farm and land to the east, Cloughfold

Development of up to 50 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 2. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve the setting of the nearby Grade II listed building Heightside.

Hareholme, Staghills

Development of up to 9 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. An off-site contribution is made towards existing open space which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space overall; 2. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Woodland Ecological Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site.

Land off Peel Street, Cloughfold

Development of up to 8 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to ensure the development does not have a detrimental impact on the Cloughfold Conservation Area; 2. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 3. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site. 4. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Woodland Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site.

Hargreaves Fold Lane, Chapel Bridge, Lumb

Development of up to 23 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve the setting of the nearby Grade II listed buildings Hargreaves Fold Cottages and Hargreaves Fold Farmhouse South, and the non-designated heritage asset known as Lumb Baptist Chapel; 2. A suitable access to the site is achieved from the section of land located adjacent to Burnley Road East with cycle and pedestrian links from Hargreaves Fold Lane.

Land adjacent Laburnum Cottages, Goodshaw

Development of up to 10 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. An off-site contribution is made towards existing open space which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space overall; 2. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby Grade II listed building Church of St Mary and All Saints.

Irwell Vale Mill

Development of up to 30 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 2. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby Grade II listed buildings 1-5 Aitken Street, 1-21 Bowker Street, and 2-24 Bowker Street; 3. The development makes a positive contribution to the Irwell Vale Conservation Area; 4. Compensatory improvements must be provided to the Green Belt land in proximity of the site; 5. A contaminated land survey and appropriate remediation strategy is submitted and secured prior to development taking place on site; 6. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the nearby designated areas for Grassland Network and Woodland Network, and the adjoining watercourse.

Land East of Market Street, Edenfield

Development of up to 9 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. Landscaping of an appropriate density and height is implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development and provide a buffer to the new Green Belt boundary; 2. Materials and boundary treatments should reflect the local context; 3. Compensatory improvements must be provided to the Green Belt land in proximity of the site.

Land West of Market Street, Edenfield

Development for approximately 400 houses would be supported provided that: 1. The comprehensive development of the entire site is demonstrated through a masterplan with an agreed programme of implementation and phasing; 2. The development is implemented in accordance with an agreed design code; 3. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site. In particular: i. safe vehicular access points to the site are achieved from the field adjacent to no. 5 Blackburn Road and from the field opposite nos. 88 – 116 Market Street. Full details of access, including the number of access points, will be determined through the Transport Assessment work and agreed with the Local Highway Authority; ii. agree suitable mitigation measures in respect of the capacity of Market Street to accommodate additional traffic. Improvements will be needed to the Market Street corridor from Blackburn Road to the mini-roundabout near the Rawstron Arms. Measures to assist pedestrian and vulnerable road users will be required; 4. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the Church, the non-designated heritage assets which include Chatterton Hey (Heaton House), Mushroom House, and the former Vicarage, and the other designated and non-designated heritage assets in the area; 5. Specific criteria for the design and layout needs to take account of: i. Retention and strengthening of the woodland enclosures to the north and south of the Church ii. The layout of the housing parcels should be designed to allow views to the Church to continue iii. The relationship of the new dwellings to the Recreation Ground to ensure safe non-vehicular access is provided iv. Public open space to be provided along the woodland area south of the brook/Church enclosure v. Landscaping of an appropriate density and height is implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development and provide a buffer to the new Green Belt boundary vi. Materials and boundary treatments should reflect the local context 6. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts particularly on the Woodland Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site. 7. Compensatory improvements must be provided to the Green Belt land in proximity of the site in accordance with Policy SD4 8. Geotechnical investigations will be required to confirm land stability and protection of the A56, and consideration paid to the suitability or not of sustainable drainage systems on the boundary adjoining the A56 9. Provision will be required to expand either Edenfield CE Primary School or Stubbins Primary School from a 1 form entry to a 1.5 form entry primary school, and for a secondary school contribution subject to the Education Authority. Land to the rear of Edenfield CE Primary School which may be suitable is shown on the Policies Map as 'Potential School and Playing Field Extension'. Any proposals to extend the schools into the Green Belt would need to be justified under very special circumstances and the provisions of paragraph 144 of the NPPF; 10. Noise and air quality impacts will need to be investigated and necessary mitigation measures secured; 11. Consideration should be given to any potential future road widening on the amenity of any dwellings facing the A56.

Edenwood Mill, Edenfield

Development of up to 47 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the non-designated heritage asset Edenwood Mill and its wider setting; 2. Views should be protected across the valley by sympathetic massing, height and layout of the dwellings; 3. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 4. A Transport Assessment is provided demonstrating that the site can be safely and suitably accessed by all users, including disabled people, prior to development taking place on site; 5. Compensatory improvements must be provided to the Green Belt land in proximity of the site including improvements to the woodland on-site and access to this and to the footpaths in the vicinity of the site. Other relevant schemes include Edenfield Cricket Club; 6. The site has recorded areas of contaminated land connected to historic land uses and therefore investigations and relevant remediation measures will be required; 7. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the Woodland Ecological Network and stepping stone habitat located within the site, as well as the adjoining watercourse. Measures should include retaining as many of the mature trees within the site as reasonably possible; 8. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site.

Grane Village, Helmshore

Development of up to 139 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. Vehicular access should be created with a junction on Holcombe Road; 2. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary; 3. An Ecological Assessment is undertaken which identifies suitable mitigation measures for any adverse impacts on the adjacent Grassland, and Woodland stepping stone habitats; 4. Landscaping of an appropriate density and height is implemented throughout the site to 'soften' the overall impact of the development; 5. New on-site open space is provided which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space in the area; 6. The site has recorded areas of contaminated land connected to historic land uses and therefore investigations and relevant remediation measures will be required.

Oak Mount Garden, Rawtenstall

Development of up to 9 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to conserve, and where possible, enhance the setting of the nearby non-designated heritage asset known as Oak Mount.

Land at Bury Road, Rawtenstall

Development of up to 7 dwellings will be supported provided that: 1. An off-site contribution is made towards existing open space which leads to equivalent or better provision of open space overall; 2. A Heritage Statement and Impact Assessment is provided and suitable mitigation measures are identified and secured to ensure the development does not have a detrimental impact on the Rawtenstall Conservation Area; 3. No development takes place that would adversely affect the mature woodland to the west of the site running alongside the River Irwell; 4. A Tree Impact Plan and Tree Constraints Plan are submitted with their findings secured and agreed prior to development taking place on site; 5. A Flood Risk Assessment and drainage management strategy is submitted which guides the layout of the development and secures the appropriate mitigation measures necessary.

Net Housing Requirement

The net housing requirement for the period 2019 - 2036 will be achieved through: a) Providing at least 3,191 additional dwellings over the plan period equating to 208 dwellings a year between 2019/20 and 2020/21 and 185 dwellings a year from 2021/22 to 2035/36 b) Delivering an overall amount of 30% of all new dwellings on previously developed land (PDL) across the Borough c) Keeping under review housing delivery performance on a yearly basis The housing requirement figure for Edenfield Community Neighbourhood Area from 2019 - 2036 is 456 dwellings.

Housing Site Allocations

The following sites, shown on the adopted Policies Map, have been allocated for housing development. Applicants will be expected to prepare Masterplans for sites of 50 dwellings or over in order to provide a comprehensive approach to development of the site.

Affordable Housing

New housing developments of 10 or more dwellings (0.50 hectares or part thereof) will be required to provide: a) a requirement of 30% on-site affordable housing from market housing schemes subject to site and development considerations (such as financial viability). Of the total number of homes to be provided, at least 10% should be available for affordable home ownership as part of the overall affordable housing contribution, unless the proposal provides solely for Build for Rent, provides specialist accommodation to meet specific needs (e.g. purpose built accommodation for the elderly), is a self-build proposal, or is exclusively for affordable housing, entry level exception sites or rural exception sites. b) The affordable housing shall be provided in line with identified needs of tenure, size and type as set out in the latest available information on housing needs. In particular the SHMA indicates there is a requirement for: • Older peoples housing, especially extra care and residential care, of around 1700 units by 2034 • Housing suitable for Disabled people • Social rented housing in rural communities The Council will expect, where appropriate, a proportion of the affordable housing provided to meet these needs. This is to be considered in conjunction with policy HS8. Within larger housing developments, the affordable housing will be evenly distributed throughout the development. Where a site has been divided and brought forward in phases, the Council will consider the site as a whole for the purposes of calculating the appropriate level of affordable housing provision. Rural Exception Sites On any rural exception sites there will be a requirement of 100% on-site affordable housing unless it can be demonstrated that a small element of market housing is required to make the scheme viable. Any such proposal will also need to address the criteria of policy HS15. In exceptional circumstances, off-site provision or financial contributions of a broadly equivalent value instead of on-site provision, will be acceptable where the site or location is unsustainable for affordable housing. The size of the development should not be artificially reduced to decrease or eliminate the affordable housing requirement, for example, by sub-dividing sites or reducing the density of all or part of a site. The Council will consider the site as a whole for the purposes of calculating the appropriate level of affordable housing provision.

Housing Density

Densities of at least 40 dwellings per hectare should be provided within town and district centres. The density of the development should be in keeping with local areas and have no detrimental impact on the amenity, character, appearance, distinctiveness and environmental quality of an area.

Housing Standards

In accordance with the national regime of optional technical standards for housing, the Council will adopt the following local standards for new housing developments of five dwellings or more, in line with the National Planning Practice Guidance: at least 20% of any new housing provided on a site should be specifically tailored to meet the needs of elderly or disabled residents, or be easily adaptable in line with the Optional Standards M4(2) of the Building Regulations. The Council will expect submitted information to demonstrate how this has been achieved.

Replacement Dwellings

Permission will be granted for the replacement of dwellings provided that the following criteria are satisfied: a) The proposed replacement dwelling respects the surrounding buildings in terms of scale, size, design and facing materials, without innovative and original design features being stifled; b) There is no unacceptable adverse effect on the amenity of neighbouring properties through overlooking, loss of privacy or reduction of daylight; and c) Safe and suitable access to the site can be achieved. And in the case of the Green Belt or countryside: d) The proposed replacement dwelling would not detract from the openness to a greater extent than the original dwelling; and e) The proposed replacement dwelling would not be materially larger than the dwelling it replaces nor involves enlarging the residential curtilage.

Rural Affordable Housing – Rural Exception Sites

A limited number of dwellings exclusively to meet a local need for affordable housing may be allowed adjoining the built form of existing settlements providing all of the following criteria are met: a) There is no suitable site available within the urban boundary; b) The scale and nature of the development would be in character with the settlement;

Conversion and Re-Use of Rural Buildings in the Countryside

Proposals for the conversion of an existing building in the countryside will be permitted where: The proposal does not have a materially greater impact on the openness of the area and the proposal will not harm the character of the countryside; The building is of a permanent and substantial construction, structurally sound and capable of conversion without the need for more than 30% reconstruction; The conversion works and facing materials to be introduced would be in keeping with the original building, and important architectural and historical features would be retained. Particular attention will be given to curtilage formation, including appropriate boundary treatments and landscaping, which should be drawn tightly around the building footprint and the requirement for outbuildings, which should be minimal; The building and site has a satisfactory access to the highway network and the proposal would not have a severe impact on the local highway network; Satisfactory off-street parking, bin storage and bin collection points can be provided without adversely impacting on rural character and mains services are available for connection into the scheme; The development does not require the removal of, or damage to, significant or prominent trees, hedges, watercourses, ponds or any other natural landscape features; The development would not have an unacceptable impact on nature conservation interests or any protected species present; Drainage and sewerage requirements are met to the satisfaction of the relevant agencies; If an agricultural building, it is not one substantially completed within ten years of the date of the application; The proposal would not harm the agricultural or other enterprise occupying the land or buildings in the vicinity; and The re-use of the building must not be likely to result in additional farm buildings which would have a harmful effect on the openness of the area.

Rural Workers Dwellings

Proposals for permanent residential accommodation, outside of the urban boundary in well-established agricultural enterprises, where it is required to enable agriculture, horticulture, forestry (or other rural based enterprise) for workers to live at, or in the immediate vicinity of, their place of work will be supported where it can be demonstrated that (a): i. There is a clearly established functional need; ii. The functional need relates to a full time worker or one primarily employed in agriculture, forestry or rural based enterprise activities; iii. The unit and the agricultural or forestry activity concerned have been established for at least three years, have been profitable for at least one of them, are currently financially sound, and have a clear prospect of remaining so; iv. The functional need could not be fulfilled by another dwelling on the unit or any other existing accommodation in the area which is suitable and available; v. The dwelling achieves a high standard of design and its siting is well related to the existing farm buildings or its impact on the landscape could be minimised; and vi. The dwelling is of a size and scale commensurate with the established functional requirement of the rural enterprise. Dwellings that are unduly large in relation to the needs of the rural enterprise will not be permitted. If a new dwelling is essential to support a new farming or forestry activity on an established unit or on a new agricultural unit, an application should be made for temporary accommodation. The application should satisfy all the following criteria (b): i. There is clear evidence of a firm intention and ability to develop the new enterprise concerned; ii. a functional need relating to the enterprise; iii. There is clear evidence that the new activity has been planned on a sound financial basis; iv. the functional need could not be fulfilled by another existing dwelling on the unit or any other: v. existing accommodation in the area which is suitable for and available for occupation by the workers concerned; vi. the proposal would not give rise to significant environmental damage, particularly in relation to its impact on the landscape; vii. satisfactory vehicular access and parking can be achieved within the site; and satisfactory infrastructure including drainage facilities are available. Where existing dwellings are subject to conditions restricting occupancy, applications to remove such conditions will not be permitted unless the applicant can demonstrate that there is no longer any realistic agricultural or forestry need both from the enterprise and the locality for the restriction to be maintained by meeting all the following criteria (c): i. the essential need which originally required the dwelling to be permitted no longer applies in relation to the farm unit and that the dwelling will not be required similarly in the longer term; ii. the property has been actively marketed in specialist and local press and estate agents at least once a month for a minimum of 12 months; iii. the advertised selling price is realistic given the age, size, condition and location of the property; and iv. following marketing that meets criteria c) ii) and iii) above, no realistic offers have been made to the vendors from people eligible to occupy the dwelling meeting the terms of the planning condition concerned.

Specialist Housing

Development proposals for specialist forms of housing, including retirement accommodation, extra care accommodation and supported accommodation services, will be supported provided that: The development is well located so that shops, public transport, community facilities and other infrastructure and services are accessible for those without a car, as appropriate to the needs and level of mobility of potential residents, as well as visitors and staff; The development contains appropriate external amenity space of an acceptable quantity and quality; Adequate provision is made for refuse storage and disposal facilities; It would not have an unacceptable impact on the character of the area or the amenity of the occupiers of neighbouring properties; and The design and layout of the accommodation and its relation to its broader context fully meets the requirements of the residents of the specific type of accommodation proposed. The following site is allocated on the Policies Map specifically for specialist accommodation: H19 - Former Bacup Health Centre H48 – Waterfoot Primary School H61 – Land behind Buxton Street, Whitworth

Self Build and Custom Built Houses

The Council will support individuals who wish to commission or build their own dwelling by identifying suitable serviced plots of land. To ensure a variety of housing provision developers of schemes comprising of 50 dwellings or over will be encouraged, where possible, to make at least 10% of plots available for sale to small builders or individuals or groups who wish to custom build their own homes. This will be subject to the Council's self-build register and site viability.

Housing Standards

In accordance with the national regime of optional technical standards for housing, the Council will adopt the following local standards for new housing developments of five dwellings or more, in line with the National Planning Practice Guidance: at least 20% of any new housing provided on a site should be specifically tailored to meet the needs of elderly or disabled residents, or be easily adaptable in line with the Optional Standards M4(2) of the Building Regulations. The Council will expect submitted information to demonstrate how this has been achieved.

Private Outdoor amenity space

All new residential development should provide adequate private outdoor amenity space. This should be in the form of gardens unless the applicant can demonstrate why this is not achievable and proposes a suitable alternative. In determining the appropriate size for outdoor amenity space for individual dwellings regard will be had to: The size and type of dwelling(s) proposed; and The character of the development and the garden sizes in the immediate neighbourhood. Amenity space for individual dwellings should be useable and have an adequate level of privacy. All boundary treatments should be appropriate to the character of the area.

House Extensions

Permission will be granted for the extension of dwellings provided that the following criteria are satisfied: a) The extension respects the existing house and the surrounding buildings in terms of scale, size, design, fenestration (including dormer windows) and materials, without innovative and original design features being stifled; b) There is no unacceptable adverse effect on the amenity of neighbouring properties through overlooking, loss of privacy or reduction of daylight; c) The proposal does not have an unacceptable adverse impact on highway safety; and d) In the case of the Green Belt or the Countryside, the proposed extension should not result in a disproportionate increase in the volume of the original dwelling.

Meeting Rossendale's Housing Requirement

The net housing requirement for the period 2019 - 2036 will be achieved through: a) Providing at least 3,191 additional dwellings over the plan period equating to 208 dwellings a year between 2019/20 and 2020/21 and 185 dwellings a year from 2021/22 to 2035/36 b) Delivering an overall amount of 30% of all new dwellings on previously developed land (PDL) across the Borough c) Keeping under review housing delivery performance on a yearly basis The housing requirement figure for Edenfield Community Neighbourhood Area from 2019 - 2036 is 456 dwellings.

Meeting Rossendale's Housing Requirement

To address housing need and meet delivery targets. To provide an appropriate range of sizes and types of dwellings across the Borough

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

The accommodation need for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople over the Plan period is of up to four permanent pitches. Two of the pitches will be provided via intensification on existing sites (at Tong Lane, Bacup and/ or Cobland View, Stacksteads) and any potential need for other pitches will be dealt with as windfall development against the following criteria: Access to the road network; Access to schools and services; Availability of water and infrastructure services; Proximity to existing development and the settled community, particularly with respect to noise and light; and Adequacy of landscaping and boundary treatments. The Council's Gypsy and Traveller Area Assessment (2016) identifies that there is a need for four transit pitches in the borough. In order to make provision for these needs the Council will seek to implement a Negotiated Stopping policy, as part of which the Council will need to identify suitable stopping sites. Such sites should be: on readily available land; close to existing infrastructure and services; able to provide appropriate living conditions for occupants in terms of noise, light and privacy. To manage the sites the following must be agreed upon before occupation of any suitable stopping site: The length of use of the site (no more than 28 days); Any necessary refuse and sanitary facilities to be provided; Site hygiene requirements.

Planning Obligations

Where developments will create demands for additional services, facilities and infrastructure or exacerbate an existing deficiency, the Council may seek a contribution or legal agreement to address this issue where it cannot be suitably addressed through the use of planning conditions or other mechanisms. Where sought, such contributions will reflect the most up to date national guidance and may include, but not exclusively, the following issues: - Affordable Housing - Public Open Space - Green infrastructure - Sustainable transport - Schools and Educational facilities - Health infrastructure - Sports and recreation facilities

Planning Obligations

To ensure new development contributes to infrastructure provision, where the development increases need

Equestrian Development

Proposals for new, or extensions or alterations to existing, private or commercial equestrian facilities will be supported subject to the following criteria: • In the case of indoor facilities or commercial stables, priority is given to the re-use and conversion of existing buildings or the proposal forms part of a farm diversification scheme; • The siting, design and materials would not have an unacceptable impact on visual amenity or the character of the area. They should be well related to existing trees, hedges or landscape features, avoiding prominent positions, and generally at least 30 metres away from neighbouring residential properties; • A small private development will involve no more than three horses. For development proposals involving more than three horses, the applicant should submit a statement with the planning application detailing why accommodation of the size proposed is required; • Traditional designs will generally be the most appropriate, clad externally in timber and with an internal timber frame, with a maximum ridge height of 3.5 metres for stables. Tack rooms and hay stores should be part of the same building, and each should be of a similar size to an individual stable; • Any new or extended stables and associated infrastructure (including ménages, hard-standing, fencing and riding-arena) is of a scale that is proportionate to the activity proposed; • Hard-standing areas, access tracks and sand paddocks should be of the minimum size necessary and should not encroach on the open countryside; • The design of storage or parking of horse boxes on site, and fencing, is appropriate to the local vernacular and not suburban in appearance; • Sand paddocks/ménages will utilise existing ground levels unless absolutely necessary and should not appear built out of the ground and thus alien to the natural contours of the land; • Floodlighting will be resisted particularly in the open countryside or close to residential properties. Where floodlighting is proposed, it should be designed to minimise light spillage from the lit area and ensure that protected species will not be adversely affected; • The site has adequate vehicle access and the proposal would not have an unacceptable impact on the local highway network and highway safety. The movement of horses or vehicles resulting from the siting of stables should not create danger to horses and riders, or to other road users. Stables are best sited to have safe and convenient access to the bridleway network or minor roads, although existing bridleways should not become over-intensively used as a result of the development; • The proposal meets appropriate national standards for horse welfare and management, such as those established by the British Horse Society, and should include details of effective land management to avoid over-grazing and run-off; • There should be proper screening for car and horse-box parking and appropriate arrangements for the storage and disposal of manure which would not have an unacceptable impact on surface or ground-water or residential amenity; and • Provision is made for removing any equipment and re-instating the land once its use for horses is no longer required or where the stables and associated development have been unused for a period of at least six months within 10 years of their completion.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The Council will always work proactively with applicants to jointly find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in this Local Plan will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no relevant policies or the policies which are most important for determining the application are out of date at the time of making the decision the Council will grant permission unless: a) the application of policies in

Spatial Strategy

The Council will focus growth and investment in and around the Key Service Centres, with development supported in other areas taking account of the suitability of the site, its sustainability and the needs of the local area, whilst protecting the landscape and existing built form and the character of rural areas. Greenfield development will be required within and on the fringes of the urban boundary to meet housing and employment needs. The Council will require that the design of such development relates well in design and layout to existing buildings, green infrastructure and services. To promote vibrant local communities and support services, an appropriate scale of growth and investment will be encouraged in identified Local Service Centres, providing it is in keeping with their local character and setting. The Council will work with partners and developers to protect and enhance the Ecological Corridor Network and the Borough's built heritage. A level of growth and investment appropriate to the settlement size will be encouraged at the Urban Local Service Centres listed in Table 1 above to help meet housing, employment and service needs. Limited growth and investment will be encouraged at the Rural Local Service Centres listed in Table 1 above to help meet local housing and employment needs and to support the provision of services to the wider area. In other places – such as smaller villages and substantially built up frontages – development will typically be small scale and limited to appropriate infilling, conversion of buildings and proposals to meet local need, unless there are exceptional reasons for larger scale redevelopment schemes.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The Council will always work proactively with applicants to jointly find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in this Local Plan will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no relevant policies or the policies which are most important for determining the application are out of date at the time of making the decision the Council will grant permission unless: a) the application of policies in the NPPF that protect areas or assets of particular importance provides a clear reason for refusing the development proposed; or b) any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the NPPF taken as a whole.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

To reflect national policy set out in NPPF

Spatial Strategy

To focus growth and investment in Key Service Centres, on major sites and on well located brownfield sites, whilst protecting landscape, character and rural areas; Encourage appropriate scale of growth and investment in Local Service Centres

Tourism

Tourism throughout the Borough will be promoted in the following ways: Supporting the "Outdoor Rossendale"; The development, extension and upgrading of footpaths, cycleways and bridleways (specifically the Rossendale Way, Irwell Sculpture Trail and Mary Towneley Loop, and more generally the Public Rights of Way network), supported by appropriate signage, interpretation and public art; Support for the clustering of tourism related activities; Events promotion; and Taking a positive approach to development of complementary accommodation and hospitality facilities. Proposals for the enhancement of existing facilities and activities, as well as the development of new facilities and activities will be considered favourably. This will also include supporting infrastructure, such as enhanced access through car parking, bike racks, public realm and public transport improvements. The use of existing buildings will be encouraged. New development outside the urban boundary will be considered acceptable where it is essential for the proposed facility, and no sites within the urban boundary are suitable, and there are no unacceptable impacts affecting: Landscape character Visual quality (including light pollution) Neighbour amenity Highways Nature conservation assets

Overnight Visitor Accommodation

The Council will take a positive approach to new high quality visitor accommodation. This includes hotels, bed and breakfast establishments, self-catering facilities, bed and tack, camping barns, and sites used for camping, caravanning and camper vans. Proposals will be supported particularly where use is made of existing buildings. Proposals will be supported at locations both within and outside the urban boundary where: They are appropriate to the locality; They are complementary to existing tourism facilities; There is suitable access by a variety of modes; The capacity of the existing infrastructure is adequate; There are no adverse impacts on visual amenity, landscape or nature conservation; and The development will not reduce the amount of land for the purposes of open space and recreation. All ancillary facilities should be designed (in terms of style and materials) to take into account their functions and blend into their settings, with appropriate landscaping and boundary treatments. Ancillary facilities such as cycle storage or horse paddocks will be encouraged in locations such as along bridleways or the cycle network. Any large scale hotel proposals (40 bedrooms or over) should be located in or adjacent the centres of Rawtenstall, Haslingden or Bacup. Outside these centres, large scale hotel proposals will only be supported where they form part of a wider regeneration scheme, can demonstrate a wider community benefit and access to the site can be provided by a variety of modes.

Rawtenstall Town Centre Extension

Within the area defined on the Policies Map within Rawtenstall Town Centre, shown as an extension to the Primary Shopping Area, redevelopment will be permitted subject to the following: a) Comprehensive development of the site is demonstrated through a masterplan; b) The implementation of development in accordance with an agreed design code; and c) An agreed programme of implementation in accordance with the masterplan. The following mixes of uses are considered to be appropriate: i. Commerce, Business and Service (Use Class E); ii. Hotel (Use Class C1); iii. Drinking establishments (Use Class Sui Generis); iv. Leisure uses (Use Class Sui Generis and F2); v. Residential units above ground floor level.

Development and Change of Use in Town, District and Local Centres and Neighbourhood Parades

The boundaries of these centres are defined on the Policies Map. The following criteria apply for change of use and development in these centres: a) Planning permission will be granted for E(a), E(b) and E(c) uses, and pub and drinking establishments (Sui Generis) which support the role and function of these centres. b) Hot food takeaways (Sui Generis) will be permitted where the proposal would not adversely impact, either individually or cumulatively, on the function, vitality and viability of the centre, subject to the provisions of other policies in this Plan. c) Planning permission will be not be granted for non-retail uses (including the loss of E(a) use) unless it can be shown that there is no demand for retail or commercial use or the property was last occupied by a non-retail/non-commercial use. This will need to be demonstrated through an active 12 month marketing process showing that the property has been offered for sale or rent on the open market at a realistic price and that no reasonable offers have been refused. The provision of flats on the upper floors of the building will be encouraged but this will not apply where the applicant can demonstrate that the whole building will be fully utilised for retail/commercial purposes.

Existing Local shops

Development proposing the change of use or loss of any premises or land currently or last used as a local shop (Use Class E(a) or F2(a) for shops mostly selling essential goods, including food, with a premises of no more than 280 sqm and located more than 1km away from similar facilities) outside of the defined town, district and local centres or neighbourhood parade boundaries will be permitted where it can be demonstrated that: a) The use is not financially viable; and b) There is sufficient provision in the local area.

Hot Food Takeaways

The development of hot food takeaways will be supported provided the following criteria are met and subject to other policies of this plan: a) the development is located within a town or district centre and it would not adversely impact the vitality and viability of the area; b) where the proposed development would be located outside of the primary shopping area of the town or district centre, it is of no more than 100 square metres (gross) floorspace and it would not give rise to an over-concentration of hot food takeaways that adversely impacts the vitality and viability of the area; c) where the proposed development is located within 400m of a secondary school that lies outside of designated town and district shopping centres, takeaway opening hours are restricted at lunchtimes and school closing times; d) applications for new hot food takeaways are not in wards where more than 15% of Year 6 pupils or 10% of Reception class age pupils are classified by Public Health England as obese; e) [not provided in passage] f) where a new shopfront is proposed it is of a high quality design that is in scale and keeping with the area; g) provision is made for the control and management of litter both on site and on the public highway; h) provision is made for the treatment and management of cooking odours and any external flue/means of extraction would not cause harm to visual or residential amenity; i) The development would not give rise to unacceptable adverse impacts on local amenity, privacy or highway safety.

Shopfronts

The Council will seek the retention of shopfronts and commercial frontages with features of architectural or historic interest (particularly those in Conservation Areas), unless the replacement or significant alteration of these shopfronts would better preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the building and the wider area. Proposals for new shopfronts and commercial frontages and the improvement of existing frontages should reflect the character of the area.

Retail and Other Town Centre Uses

Retail development, together with other main town centre uses, including offices, leisure, arts, culture and tourist facilities, will be focused within the defined centres, in accordance with the Retail hierarchy set out below (the boundaries of which are identified on the Policies Map): Town Centre: Rawtenstall District Centres: Bacup, Haslingden Local Centres: Crawshawbooth, Waterfoot, Whitworth Neighbourhood Parade: Stacksteads, Helmshore, Edenfield and Facit Development proposals will be expected to maintain or strengthen the retail offer and vitality and viability of town, district, local and neighbourhood parades, in line with Policy R3. Major proposals will be directed to Rawtenstall with other large schemes encouraged to locate in the district centres of Bacup and Haslingden, with ancillary local retail in the other centres. Retail proposals will be directed to the Primary Shopping Areas (PSA). Proposals for non-retail uses appropriate to town centres will be considered favourably within the town centre boundary, which encompasses but extends beyond the PSA. The existing markets at Bacup, Haslingden and Rawtenstall will be retained. Consideration will only be given to relocation where: this forms part of a wider regeneration initiative; and it positively reinforces the role of the market. Where retail, leisure and office development is proposed outside of the defined centre boundaries, an impact assessment will be required where the floorspace exceeds: Rawtenstall Town Centre : 400 sq.m Bacup and Haslingden District Centres : 300 sq.m Crawshawbooth, Waterfoot, Whitworth Local Centres : 200 sq.m Proposals that require planning permission which would result in the loss of E(a) uses in the PSA of the town, district and local centres will only be supported where: It would make a positive contribution to the vitality and viability of the relevant centre; It would not result in a significant break in retail frontage or lead to the loss of retail floorspace at a scale that would be harmful to the shopping function of the centre or which would reduce the ability of local communities to meet their day-to-day needs within the centre; It is compatible with a retail area and would maintain an active frontage and be immediately accessible to the public from the street; and There would be no significant adverse impacts on the character of the area, the amenity of local residents, road safety, car parking or traffic flows.

Footpaths, Cycleways and Bridleways

The Council will support the development and enhancement of a strategic Public Rights of Way network including enhancements to surfacing, signage, supporting facilities, and feeder routes. Key routes are shown on the Policies Map and include: • The "Valley of Stone Greenway" (Rawtenstall to Rochdale); • National Cycle Route 6 (Bury-Accrington); • Rawtenstall to Clowbridge Reservoir; • Pennine Bridleway (Mary Townley Loop); and • Irwell Sculpture Trail/ Rossendale Way. Proposals to improve, extend or add to the existing footpath, cycleway and bridleway network in the Borough and in new development will be supported providing they: a) Are integrated with existing routes to facilitate access on foot, by bicycle and by horse; b) Where appropriate, identify gaps in the existing network and map potential new link routes, particularly in areas where there is a high level of demand; c) Facilitate access to the network of footpaths, bridleways and cycleways by requiring new development adjacent to existing pedestrian, bridleway or cycle routes to provide direct, safe and secure links to these routes where possible. d) Do not harm residential amenities; e) Do not harm nature conservation interests; f) Take into account the needs of agriculture; g) Are located and designed to minimise the risk of crime; h) Have regard to the needs of people with impaired mobility; i) Have regard to other users of the route and vehicular traffic; and j) The development would not reduce, sever or adversely affect the use, amenity or safety of a Public Right of Way (PROW), or prejudice the planned development of the network, if acceptable provision is made to mitigate those effects, or divert or replace the right of way before the development commences. Any replacement or diverted PROW must be no less convenient or safe, and of no lower quality than the facility being replaced. Where developments are directly related to the PROW network contributions may be sought for their enhancement.

Road Schemes and Development Access

Permission will not be granted for any development on land which: 1) Is required to allow road access to a site allocated on the Policies Map for development; or 2) Will prejudice the construction of identified road schemes.

Parking

All proposals for new development will be required to meet the parking standards set out within Appendix 1. These standards are not maximum standards and should be implemented unless the applicant can provide an evidence based approach as to why a different level of provision would be appropriate, to the satisfaction of the Local Highway Authority. Where parking is being provided to serve new development or to address specific local parking problems in existing residential and business areas, including in Crawshawbooth, the Council will expect the parking provision to: • Be conveniently located in relation to the development it serves; • Be safe, secure and benefit from natural surveillance; • Be designed to ensure that the use of the parking provision would not prejudice the safe and effective operation of the highway network; • Not dominate the street scene or detract from the character of the area; • Incorporate secure, covered cycle parking in line with the Parking Standards set out in the Local Plan unless otherwise agreed; • Where appropriate, incorporate adequate soft landscaping and permeable surfaces to avoid the over-dominance of parking and to limit surface water run-off; and • Incorporate electric vehicle charging points, in the following scenarios as minimum: o One charger per every five apartment dwellings; o One charger per every individual new house on all residential developments; o One charger per every ten parking spaces in non-residential car parks. Exceptions to the minimum provision of electric charging points will only be considered if it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that this is not technically feasible or prohibitively expensive. Proposals to redevelop existing garage colonies will only be supported where: • It has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that the garage colony is vacant or underused and there is unlikely to be any future demand for the facility; and • The redevelopment of the site would not result in a significant increase in on-street parking which would have an adverse impact on the street scene or on highway safety.

Strategic Transport

Opportunities to enhance the Borough's external and internal connectivity will be actively supported. Proposals which reduce the need to travel will also be encouraged. Working closely with partners inside and outside the Borough, focus will be on the following: • Improving links to Greater Manchester and the M60/M62, and enhancements to the A56; • Developing the potential of the East Lancashire Railway for both transport and tourism purposes; • Developing the strategic cycle network (Valley of Stone Greenway/National Cycle Route 6) including links between the different routes and to neighbouring authorities; • Addressing congestion hotspots identified in the Highway Capacity Study, especially the gyratory in Rawtenstall; • Promoting sustainable transport solutions to address congestion and air pollution; • Addressing known road safety issues; • Integrating transport more effectively into proposals to improve the public realm where there are opportunities to do so, for example, the area outside Bacup Library and pedestrian links between Rawtenstall Railway Station and town centre; and • Ensuring development that generates significant movement is located where the need to travel will be minimised and the use of sustainable transport modes can be maximised. A site for "Park and Ride" facilities will be protected at Ewood Bridge and is shown on the Policies map.