Planning in South Kesteven

Community Services and Facilities

Applications for the change of use of all community facilities which would result in the loss of community use will be resisted unless it is clearly demonstrated that: a. there are alternative facilities available and active in the same area which would fulfil the role of the existing use/building; and b. the existing use is no longer viable (supported by documentary evidence), and there is no realistic prospect of the premises being re-used for alternative business or community facility use. The proposal must also demonstrate that consideration has been given to: c. the re-use of the premises for an alternative community business or facility and that effort has been made to try to secure such a re-use; and d. the potential impact closure may have on the area and its community, with regard to public use and support for both the existing and proposed use. Proposals for new community facilities will be supported, and should wherever feasible: e. Prioritise and promote access by walking, cycling and public transport Community facilities may have a local or wider catchment area, and their accessibility should be considered proportionately relative to their purpose, scale and catchment area and; f. Be physically accessible to all members of society; g. Be designed so that they are adaptable and can be easily altered to respond to future demands if necessary; and h. Where applicable be operated without detriment to local residents.

Promoting Good Quality Design

To ensure high quality design is achieved throughout the District, all development proposals will be expected to: a. Make a positive contribution to the local distinctiveness, vernacular and character of the area. Proposals should reinforce local identity and not have an adverse impact on the streetscene, settlement pattern or the landscape / townscape character of the surrounding area. Proposals should be of an appropriate scale, density, massing, height and material, given the context of the area; b. Ensure there is no adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring users in terms of noise, light pollution, loss of privacy and loss of light and have regard to features that minimise crime and the fear of crime; and c. Provide sufficient private amenity space, suitable to the type and amount of development proposed. Development proposals should seek to: d. Retain and incorporate important on site features, such as trees and hedgerows and incorporate, where possible, nature conservation and biodiversity enhancement into the development; e. Provide well designed hard and soft landscaping; and f. Effectively incorporate onsite infrastructure, such as flood mitigation systems or green infrastructure, as appropriate. All major development (as defined in the Glossary) must demonstrate compliance with: g. Neighbourhood Plan policies; h. Manual for Streets guidance and relevant Lincolnshire County Council guidance i. Village design statements, where approved by the Council. j. For new residential proposals, development should perform positively against Building for Life 12; Planning permission for new residential development above a threshold of 10 or more dwellings will be granted subject to a target of at least 10% of new dwellings being developed as 'Accessible and Adaptable' in line with the optional standards set out in Part M4(2) of the Building Regulations. Residential development on sites of 400 or more dwellings must contribute towards innovative design, to encourage sustainable living and working across the District. This should be delivered through exemplary design, construction and community facilities within all strategic developments. Residential development on sites of 400 or more dwellings and other significant Developments (defined by the Council)* will undergo an independent Design Review, at an early stage as part of comprehensive masterplanning or through pre-application advice. The Council and the Applicant will be equally involved in the selection of a review panel. The cost associated with the Design Review will be covered, in full, by the Applicant. *significant developments will be determined on a case by case basis, depending on the context of each individual site. When selecting schemes to undergo Design Review from both allocated sites and subsequent proposals, the following criteria will act as guidance: i. Significant major planning proposals that include large buildings or groups of buildings such as large scale housing schemes, religious buildings, museums or art galleries, hospitals, shopping and leisure complexes, and office or commercial buildings; ii. Strategic or regeneration opportunity sites; iii. Infrastructure projects such as stations, and other transport interchanges; iv. Sites with special significance or local interest or proposals which are out of the ordinary in their context or setting because of their scale; v. Schemes that by their nature, setting or location are likely to be seen as unusual, particularly controversial or setting a precedence. This includes proposals which are likely to establish the planning, form or architectural quality for future large scale development or redevelopment; vi. Schemes with a significant impact upon the public realm, such as major changes in the public realm or proposals to enhance public squares and civic open spaces; and vii. Where a masterplan or concept framework is needed to ensure the satisfactory development of a complex or multi-ownership site.

Grantham Southern Gateway Strategy Employment Opportunity (GR-SE1)

This site is considered to be of strategic employment importance given its relationship to the principal areas of growth and its accessibility via the strategic road network. Proposals will be encouraged that help to create an attractive and vibrant gateway to the sub-regional centre of Grantham and that assist in delivering a step-change in the quality and quantity of employment opportunities provided in the town and District. Proposals will not be supported that cause harm to the strategic employment focus of this site. Appropriate proposals for new B1, B2 and/or B8 uses and/or redevelopment of for B1, B2 and/or B8 uses on this Strategic Employment Site identified on the Policies Map will be supported where proposals: • do not conflict with neighbouring land uses; • scale does not harm the character and/or amenities of the locality; and • do not impact unacceptably on the local and/or strategic highway network. Other employment generating uses outside of the B-use classes may also be appropriate and will be considered where the promoter actively engages with the Council and an end-user for the proposal has been positively identified. To encourage the delivery of these sites, the Council will consider supporting initial infrastructure provision that enables the first buildings to be bought forward. Proposals for development should: a) Create attractive landscaped edges to the western and southern boundaries, and incorporate new green infrastructure within the Strategic Employment Opportunity where possible; b) Bring forward development in a co-ordinated way to make the effective use of development land and highway infrastructure; c) Provide the highway infrastructure to access the site and to ensure that impact on the existing highway network is minimised, including the provision of any appropriate mitigation to the strategic highway network; d) Ensure that there are appropriate measures to enhance access and the provision of public transport to Grantham town centre; e) Provide safe and convenient highway, footway and cycleway connections throughout the Strategic Employment Opportunity, including the provision of footpaths along Gorse Lane; f) Provide appropriate surface water management including the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems wherever practicable; g) Ensure a good quality of design commensurate with the vision of creating a create an attractive and vibrant gateway to the sub-regional centre of Grantham and, regarding land immediately to the south of Gorse Lane and to the west of the A1, have building heights which respect the sensitivities of the surrounding landscape; h) Demonstrate and incorporate suitable measures, where necessary to minimise and mitigate setting impacts upon the significance of the Bowl Barrow Scheduled Monument; i) Provide a Minerals Resource Assessment to take account of the Minerals Safeguarding Area.

Strategic Employment Sites

These sites are considered to be of strategic employment importance given their relationship to principal areas of growth and their accessibility via the strategic road network. Proposals will not be supported that cause harm to the strategic employment focus of these sites. Appropriate proposals for new B1, B2 and/or B8 uses and/or redevelopment of for B1, B2 and/or B8 uses on the Strategic Employment Sites identified on the Policies Map and listed below will be supported where proposals: • do not conflict with neighbouring land uses; • scale does not harm the character and/or amenities of the locality; and • do not impact unacceptably on the local and/or strategic highway network. Other employment generating uses outside of the B-use classes may also be appropriate and will be considered where the promoter actively engages with the Council and an end-user for the proposal has been positively identified. To encourage the delivery of these sites, the Council will consider supporting initial infrastructure provision that enables the first buildings to be bought forward.

Employment Allocations

Appropriate proposals for new B1, B2 and/or B8 uses and/or redevelopment to B1, B2 and/or B8 uses on employment sites identified on the Policies Map and listed below will be supported where proposals: • Do not conflict with neighbouring land uses; • Scale does not harm the character and/or amenities of the area; and • Do no impact unacceptably on the local and/or strategic highway network. Other employment generating uses, outside of the B-use classes may also be appropriate on these sites, and will be considered where the promoter actively engages with the Council and an end-user for the proposal has been positively identified.

Protection of Existing Employment Sites

The following locally important employment sites identified on the Policies Map will be protected to ensure continued provision of locally important employment opportunities. Appropriate proposal for new B1, B2 and/or B8 uses and/or redevelopment of for B1, B2 and/or B8 as well as other employment generating uses outside of the B-use classes will be supported where proposals: • do not conflict with neighbouring land uses; • scale does not harm the character and/or amenities of locality; and • do not impact unacceptably on the local and/or strategic highway network.

Expansion of Existing Businesses

The expansion of existing businesses will be supported, provided that: a) existing buildings are re-used where possible; b) vacant land on existing employment sites is first considered; c) the expansion does not conflict with neighbouring land uses; d) the expansion will not impact unacceptably on the local and/or strategic highway network; e) the proposal will not have an adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area and/or the amenities of neighbouring occupiers.

Loss of Employment Land and Buildings to Non-Employment Uses

The Council will seek to retain and enhance existing areas of employment use, as well as the sites identified in Policies E1 to E4, unless it can be demonstrated that: a) the site is vacant and no longer appropriate or viable as an employment site – this may include the need for an effective, robust and proportionate marketing of the land and buildings to be undertaken; or b) redevelopment would maintain the scale of employment opportunities on the site, or would deliver wider benefits, including regenerating vacant or unutilised land; or c) the alternative use would not be detrimental to the overall supply and quality of employment land within the district; or d) the alternative use would resolve existing conflicts between land uses.

Rural Economy

Proposals for the following types of small business schemes will be supported, provided that it is demonstrated that the business will help to support, or regenerate the rural economy: Farming; Forestry; Equine; Rural enterprise; Sport and Recreation; and Tourism Proposals must demonstrate that they meet all of the following criteria: a) be of a scale appropriate to the rural location; b) be for a use(s) which is(are) appropriate or necessary in a rural location, providing local employment opportunities which make a positive contribution to supporting the rural economy; c) the use / development respects the character and appearance of the local landscape, having particular regard to the Landscape Character Assessment, and will not negatively impact on existing neighbouring uses through noise, traffic, light and pollution impacts; and d) avoid harm to areas, features or species which are important for wildlife, biodiversity, natural, cultural or historic assets, including their wider settings. Schemes will also be required to ensure that the development meets the requirements of national and local planning policies which control the form, scale, design and impact of new development. Any new building or extension to an existing building will only be permitted where it is clearly demonstrated that it is an essential element of the viability of the business proposal. The scale, design and construction of any new building or extension must be appropriate to its rural setting and fully justified by the business proposal. Proposals which generate high levels of visitor traffic or increased public use, such as large scale sport and leisure facilities should only be permitted within or on the edge of the towns and Larger Villages, or where they can be easily accessed by public transport, foot and cycle.

Other Employment Proposals

Other employment proposals in locations not covered by the above policies will be supported, provided there is a clear demonstration that; a. there are no suitable or appropriate sites or buildings within allocated sites or the built up area of existing settlements; b. there is no significant adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area and the amenity of neighbouring uses; c. there is no significant impact on the local highway network; d. there is no significant likely adverse impact on the viability of delivering any allocated employment site; and; e. there is a business case which demonstrates that the business requires a location outside an allocated employment site.

Renewable Energy Generation

Proposals for renewable energy generation will be supported subject to meeting the detailed criteria as set out in the accompanying Renewable Energy Appendix 3 and provided that: a. The proposal does not negatively impact the District's agricultural land asset; b. The proposal can demonstrate the support of affected local communities; c. The proposal includes details for the transmission of power produced; d. The proposal details that all apparatus related to renewable energy production will be removed from the site when power production ceases; and e. That the proposal complies with any other relevant Local Plan policies and national planning policy.

Sustainable Building

All development proposals will be expected to mitigate against and adapt to climate change, to comply with national and contribute to local targets on reducing carbon emissions and energy use unless it can be demonstrated that compliance with the policy is not viable or feasible. 1. Energy consumption New development should demonstrate how carbon dioxide emissions have been minimised in accordance with the following energy hierarchy: a. Using less energy through energy efficient building design and construction, including thermal insulation, passive ventilation and cooling; b. Utilising energy efficient supplies – including connecting to available heat and power networks; and c. Maximising use of renewable and low carbon energy generation system 2. Water Resources New development should seek to achieve a 'water neutral position' and promote enhanced sustainability. To achieve this, the following standards will be expected from new development: d. New housing: is expected to be as water efficient as possible. Proposals which do not meet the Building Regulations optional requirement target of 110 l/h/d must demonstrate how and why this standard cannot be attained as part of the specific development scheme proposed. e. Non-domestic buildings: will be expected to reach 'Good' BREEAM status as a minimum. f. Major development schemes: will be expected to provide a programme of water efficiency promotion and consumer education, as part of the new development with the aim of behavioural change with regards to water use. 3. Contributing to Low-Carbon Travel All new development should demonstrate how they can support low-carbon travel, to achieve this: g. new residential development will be expected to provide electric car charging points h. new commercial developments shall make provision for electric car charging points. The number of charging points required will be determined on a case by case basis.

Landscape Character

South Kesteven's Landscape Character Areas are identified on the map above (Figure 6). Development must be appropriate to the character and significant natural, historic and cultural attributes and features of the landscape within which it is situated, and contribute to its conservation, enhancement or restoration. In assessing the impact of proposed development on the Landscape, relevant Landscape Character Appraisals should be considered, including those produced to inform the Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plans. Consideration should also be given to the Capacity and Limits to Growth Studies produced for Grantham and Stamford and the Points of the Compass Assessments prepared for the Larger Villages.

Protecting Biodiversity and Geodiversity

The Council, working in partnership with all relevant stakeholders, will facilitate the conservation, enhancement and promotion of the District's biodiversity and geological interest of the natural environment. This includes seeking to enhance ecological networks and seeking to deliver a net gain on all proposals, where possible. Proposals that are likely to have a significant impact on sites designated internationally, nationally or locally for their biodiversity and geodiversity importance, species populations and habitats identified in the Lincolnshire Biodiversity Action Plan, Geodiversity Strategy and the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006 will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances: • In the case of internationally designated sites (alone or in combination), where there is no alternative solution and there are overriding reasons of public interest for the development. • In the case of National Sites (alone or in combination) where the benefits of development in that location clearly outweigh both the impact on the site and any broader impacts on the wider network of National Sites. • In the case of Local Sites (e.g. Local Wildlife Sites) or sites which meet the designation criteria for Local Sites, the reasons for development must clearly outweigh the long term need to protect the site. In exceptional circumstances where detrimental impacts of development cannot be avoided (through locating an alternative site) the Council will require appropriate mitigation to be undertaken by the developers or as a final resort compensation. Where none of these can be achieved then planning permission will be refused. Where any mitigation and compensation measures are required, they should be in place before development activities start that may disturb protected or important species. Planning permission will be refused for development resulting in the loss, deterioration or fragmentation of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and aged or veteran trees, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss or harm. Development proposals that are likely to result in a significant adverse effect, either alone or in combination, on any internationally designated site, must satisfy the requirements of the Habitats Regulations. Development requiring Appropriate Assessment will only be allowed where it can be determined, taking into account mitigation, that the proposal would not result in significant adverse effects on the site's integrity.

Green Infrastructure

The Council will maintain and improve the green infrastructure network in the District by enhancing, creating and managing green space within and around settlements that are well connected to each other and the wider countryside. Development proposals should ensure that existing and new green infrastructure is considered and integrated into the scheme design, taking opportunities to enrich biodiversity habitats, enable greater connectivity and provide sustainable access for all. Proposals which may result in recreational and visitor pressure on designated biodiversity sites will be particularly expected to provide such green infrastructure. Proposals that cause loss or harm to this network will not be permitted unless the need for and benefits of the development demonstrably outweigh any adverse impacts. Where adverse impacts on green infrastructure are unavoidable, development will only be permitted if suitable mitigation measures for the network are provided.

Pollution Control

Development should seek to minimise pollution and where possible contribute to the protection and improvement of the quality of air, land and water. In achieving this: Development should be designed from the outset to improve air, land and water quality and promote environmental benefits. Development that, on its own or cumulatively, would result in significant air, light, noise, land, water or other environmental pollution or harm to amenity, health well-being or safety will not be permitted. New development proposals should not have an adverse impact on existing operations. Development will only be permitted if the potential adverse effects can be mitigated to an acceptable level by other environmental controls, or by measures included in the proposals. Development that would lead to deterioration or may compromise the ability of a water body or underlying groundwater to meet good status standards in the Anglian River Basin Management Plan (required by the Water Framework Directive) will not be permitted. Where development is situated on a site with known or high likelihood of contamination, remediation strategies to manage this contamination will be required. Subject to the Policies in this Plan, planning permission will be granted for development on land affected by contamination where it can be established by the proposed developer that the site can be safely and viably developed with no significant impact on either future users or on ground and surface waters.

Water Environment and Flood Risk Management

Development should be located in the lowest areas of flood risk, in accordance with the South Kesteven Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA). Where this is not possible the sequential approach to development will be applied. Where the requirements of the sequential test are met, the exception test will be applied, where necessary. A Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) will be required for all development in Flood Zones 2 and 3 and for sites greater than 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1, and where a development site is located in an area known to have experienced flood problems from any flood source, including critical drainage. All development must avoid increasing flood risk elsewhere. Runoff from the site post development must not exceed pre-development rates for all storm events up to and including the 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) storm event with an allowance for climate change. The appropriate climate change allowances should be defined using relevant Environment Agency guidance. Surface water should be managed effectively on site through the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDs) unless it is demonstrated to be technically unfeasible. All planning applications should be accompanied by a statement of how surface water is to be managed and in particular where it is to be discharged. Surface water connections to the public sewage network should only be made in exceptional circumstances. On-site attenuation and infiltration will be required as part of any new development wherever possible. Opportunities must be sought to achieve multiple benefits, for example through green infrastructure provision and biodiversity enhancements in addition to their drainage function. The long-term maintenance of structures such as swales and balancing ponds must be agreed in principle prior to permission being granted. Development proposals should demonstrate that water is available to serve the development and adequate foul water treatment and disposal already exists or can be provided in time to serve the development. Foul and surface water flows should be separated where possible. Suitable access should be maintained for water resource and drainage infrastructure. Where development takes place in Flood Zones 2 and 3, opportunities should be sought to: a. Reduce flooding by considering the layout and form of the development and the appropriate application of sustainable drainage techniques; b. Relocate existing development to land in zones with a lower probability of flooding; and c. Create space for flooding to occur by restoring functional floodplains and flood flow pathways and by identifying, allocating and safeguarding open space for storage.

Protecting and Enhancing Grantham Canal

The alignment of the Grantham Canal, as shown indicatively on the Policies Map, shall be safeguarded with a view to its long term re-establishment as a navigable waterway, by: a. ensuring that development protects the integrity of the canal alignment and its associated structures; b. ensuring that where the canal is affected by development, the alignment is protected or an alternative alignment is provided; and c. ensuring associated infrastructure of development does not prejudice the delivery of the canal. Proposals will be permitted that are designed to develop the canal's recreational, nature conservation, heritage, and tourism potential. Proposals shall only be permitted if it can be demonstrated that there is no unacceptable risk to ecology, flood risk, water resources and water quality.

Open Space

The standards in the table below will be used to ensure the availability of adequate open space for all areas. They will be used to ensure adequate levels of provision for each type of open space, based on existing and future needs. This will be achieved by both protecting existing open space and by opportunities to deliver additional open space where it is required. Providing New Open Space To ensure that new housing developments provide sufficient new (or improved) open space to meet the needs of the development, the above standards will be applied to all development proposals for new housing that are capable of providing 10 or more dwellings. Development proposals will be assessed against current open space provision. In areas that do not currently meet the standards for open space, the development proposal will be required to make appropriate provision, based upon the standards above. New open space provision should form an integral part of the development layout. It should be easily accessible by means of pedestrian connections through the development and should be designed to ensure that it is clearly visible to the public. All new open space provision should take account of best practice guidance and design principles, and seek net gains to biodiversity and green infrastructure where possible. The longevity of new open space provision shall be safeguarded, through agreed management and maintenance arrangements. Where open space cannot be provided on-site as part of the development an off-site financial contribution for the provision of a new open space, or to improve the quality of existing open space within the locality of the proposal, will be expected. Protecting Existing Open Space All existing open space including allotments, parks, equipped play space, sport pitches and informal natural open space, route ways and corridors will be protected. Development proposals for existing open spaces will only be permitted where it is demonstrated that: a. the proposal will provide increased or improved open space and/or recreational facilities; or b. the site is not required to meet the local standard set out above; or c. equivalent (or better) replacement provision is to be made within the locality; and d. the site does not support important or protected habitats or species.

The Principles of Sustainable Development in South Kesteven

Development proposals in South Kesteven will be expected to minimise the impact on climate change and contribute towards creating a strong, stable and more diverse economy. Development proposals shall consider how they can proactively minimise: a. the effects of climate change and include measures to take account of future changes in the climate; b. the need to travel, and wherever possible be located where services and facilities can be accessed more easily through walking, cycling or public transport; c. the use of resources, and meet high environmental standards in terms of design and construction with particular regard to energy and water efficiency; and d. the production of waste both during construction and occupation Development proposals shall consider how they can proactively avoid: e. developing land at risk of flooding or where development would exacerbate the risk of flooding elsewhere. f. the pollution of air, land, water, noise and light Development proposals shall consider how they can proactively encourage, as appropriate: g. the use of previously developed land, conversions or the redevelopment of vacant or unutilised land or buildings within settlements; and h. the use of sustainable construction materials Development proposals shall consider how they can proactively support: i. strong, vibrant and healthy communities, by providing a supply of housing which meets the needs of present and future generations Development proposals shall consider how they can proactively enhance the District's: j. character; k. natural environment, l. cultural and heritage assets; m. services and infrastructure, as needed to support development and growth proposals.

The Historic Environment

The Council will seek to protect and enhance heritage assets and their settings in keeping with the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework. Development that is likely to cause harm to the significance of a heritage asset or its setting will only be granted permission where the public benefits of the proposal outweigh the potential harm. Proposals which would conserve or enhance the significance of the asset shall be considered favourably. Substantial harm or total loss will be resisted. Proposals will be expected to take Conservation Area Appraisals into account, where these have been adopted by the Council. Where development affecting archaeological sites is acceptable in principle, the Council will seek to ensure mitigation of impact through preservation of the remains in situ as a preferred solution. When in situ preservation is not practical, the developer will be required to make adequate provision for excavation and recording before or during development.

Protecting and Enhancing the Setting of Belton House and Park

Belton House and its Historic Park and Garden are nationally and internationally significant heritage assets located in close proximity to the northern edge of the existing built-up area of Grantham. Protecting and enhancing their setting, using the Belton House and Park Setting study to inform the assessment of the impacts, is important to maintaining their significance as heritage assets. Proposals will need to demonstrate what, if any, impact there will be on the setting of Belton House and Park through the preparation of a Heritage Impact Statement, and how through their location, scale, design, landscaping and materials they have taken account of the setting of Belton, and that any adverse impacts have been removed and/or mitigated.

Bourne Housing Need

1 new housing site is allocated in Bourne (Policy BRN1 – H1). It is intended that any additional sites for housing development in Bourne will be allocated in the Bourne Neighbourhood Plan. This will be subject to separate local consultation, examination and referendum through the neighbourhood planning process. It is expected that the Neighbourhood Plan body will work in partnership with the Council to identify suitable, sustainable locations for a minimum of 100 new additional homes over the Local Plan period.

Manning Road, Bourne

a. a comprehensive masterplan is required for the site. b. Highway, footway, cycleway connections shall be provided throughout the site which connect the site to the wider town. c. Development should integrate the public right of way along the Carr Dyke into pedestrian movement routes through the site. d. Development should ensure the integration of the Carr Dyke as a positive landscape feature into the layout and provision of open space and ensure that the requisite easement to the Carr Dyke is provided to allow maintenance of the water feature. e. Development should minimise conflict with existing industrial development to the east, providing an attractive frontage to the public highway, and provide significant landscaping to the northern boundary to enable a green edge to the development with the adjacent open countryside.

Towngate West (SKLP254)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 73 Approximate Density: 23 Dwellings per hectare – lower density based on heritage/conservation constraints and to ensure a high quality gateway development The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. A comprehensive masterplan is required for the site. b. Highway, footway, cycleway connections shall be provided throughout site which connect the site into the wider town. c. This site represents an important gateway location, with heritage and conservation features, this should be recognised in the design and layout of development proposals and proposals should seek to enhance the Peterborough Road frontage. d. Sensitive landscaping shall be incorporated along the western edge of the site. e. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design, a design code will be prepared for the site. f. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application or allocation for this site a Minerals Assessment will be required.

Linchfield Road (SKLP253)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 680 Approximate Density: 30 Dwellings per hectare The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. A comprehensive masterplan is required for the site. b. Highway, footway, cycleway connections shall be provided throughout the sites which connect the sites into the wider town. The existing footpath running through the sites should be incorporated into the development. c. The development should make contributions towards public transport, education, health and community facilities and open space provision. d. The development shall accommodate specialist housing needs through the provision of retirement housing, extra care or residential care housing. e. Sensitive landscaping shall be incorporated along the eastern edges of the site. f. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design, a design code will be prepared for the site. g. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application or allocation for this site a Minerals Assessment will be required.

Spitalgate Heath - Garden Village (Southern Quadrant)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 3700 (2,150 anticipated to be constructed by 2036) Approximate Density: 30 Dwellings per hectare. The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. To ensure the comprehensive development of the entire allocation, incremental full applications will not be acceptable. An outline or hybrid application will be required for the entire site. This should be accompanied by a detailed masterplan. b. The layout of the development should provide appropriate transport infrastructure measures to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport in order to maximise opportunities for sustainable modes of transport. c. The development should incorporate Sustainable Urban Drainage systems where practical and possible to do so. d. The masterplanning and development of the site should have careful regard for landscape and topography and reflect current garden village principles and national best practice. e. The site shall make provision for safe and convenient highway, footway, and cycleway connections throughout the site connecting it to local schools, community facilities and into the wider town. f. The potential for the development to impact on the townscape and heritage assets including views out of the site should be considered in the masterplanning of this site. g. The development should provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. h. Additional treatment capacity is required at waste water treatment works and new discharge permits are required for water quality targets. This should be incorporated early on in the development of scheme specifics, as part of a scheme wide delivery strategy which demonstrates that capacity is available or could be made available to serve the development subject to phasing. i. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design a design code will be prepared for the site. The overall design of the Garden Village should provide a model for sustainable living with exemplary standards of design, construction and community facilities. j. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application or allocation for this site a Minerals Assessment will be required. k. That development should seek to improve biodiversity and minimise any impact on the Woodnook Valley SSSI.

Rectory Farm (Phase 2 North West Quadrant)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 1150 Approximate Density: 30 Dwellings per hectare Development of the North West Quadrant Phase 2 must be planned for in a comprehensive manner such that each of the three phases (and corresponding landowners/developers/site promoter(s)) work together to provide a single urban extension. The Council will work with the site promoter(s) / landowners / developers to ensure that a planning application / master planning strategy is developed that enables planning applications for the site to be progressed without compromising the delivery of the whole site comprehensively. Applications that fail to demonstrate how they relate and connect to the wider site, including, where relevant, connections to the neighbouring Poplar Farm development will be resisted. The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. Development should provide a strategic access solution which limits the number of new access points onto the A52 Barrowby Road. The strategic access solution should include details on vehicular, pedestrian and cycleway connections to the adjacent Poplar Farm. b. The layout of the development should provide appropriate transport infrastructure measures to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport in order to maximise opportunities for sustainable modes of transport. c. Provide for safe and convenient highway, footway, and cycleway connections throughout the site connecting residents to local schools, including the new Poplar Farm Primary School, community facilities and into the town centre. d. The development will make suitable open space provision including providing an additional playing field or land for such use, adjacent to the boundary of Poplar Farm School. e. Land in the North-West corner of the site, following the public footpath known as Barr 11/4, shall be used for the provision of landscaping and open space only, to protect the sensitive landscape from development. f. The development should incorporate Sustainable Urban Drainage systems where practical and possible to do so. g. The development should provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. h. Development of this site should seek to positively incorporate strategic views towards the Town's heritage assets and their setting (i.e. Belmount Tower, St Wulfram's, and St Sebastian's). The topography of the site shall be carefully considered to ensure that development proposals minimise possible harm to cross town views of these heritage features. i. Additional treatment capacity is required at waste water treatment works and new discharge permits are required for water quality targets. This should be incorporated early on in the development of scheme specifics as part of a scheme wide delivery strategy which demonstrates that capacity is available or could be made available to serve the development subject to phasing. j. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design a design code will be prepared for the whole site. k. Detailed proposals should come forward comprehensively to reflect the Development Brief for this site. l. The development will provide appropriate mitigation measures to the Strategic Road Network if required and demonstrated by relevant transport assessment and agreed with Highways England.

Land adjacent to Rectory Farm (Phase 3 North West Quadrant)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 404 Assumed Density: 30 Dwellings per hectare The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. A comprehensive masterplan will be prepared for this site, which clearly sets out an appropriate relationship with the adjacent Rectory Farm site/s (Phase 2 North West Quadrant). Detailed proposals should come forward comprehensively to reflect the Development Brief for this site. b. In masterplanning the site consideration should be given to providing vehicular, pedestrian and cycleway connections into the site from the adjacent Rectory Farm development (North West Quadrant Phase 2). c. The layout of the development should provide appropriate transport infrastructure measures to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport in order to maximise opportunities for sustainable modes of transport. d. Provide safe and convenient highway, footway, and cycleway connections throughout the site connecting it to local schools, community facilities and into the wider town. e. The development should incorporate Sustainable Urban Drainage systems where practical and possible to do so. f. The development should provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. g. The northern edge of the site shall not extend any further north than as shown on the policies map; this is to prevent possible impact on heritage features, their settings and the landscape. h. Noise mitigation measures shall be proactively incorporated in the development. i. Sensitive landscaping treatments shall be provided along the northern edge of the site. j. Additional treatment capacity is required at waste water treatment works and new discharge permits are required for water quality targets. This should be incorporated early on in the development of scheme specifics as part of a scheme wide delivery strategy which demonstrates that capacity is available or could be made available to serve the development subject to phasing. k. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design a design code will be prepared for the site. l. The development will provide appropriate mitigation measures to the Strategic Road Network if required and demonstrated by relevant transport assessment and agreed with Highways England.

Prince William of Gloucester Barracks

Indicative Unit Numbers of a minimum of 3,500 – 4,000 (approx. 1,775 anticipated to be constructed by 2036) Planning permission will be granted for the creation of a new settlement based on garden village principles, with a minimum of 3,500 to 4,000 dwellings on the site of the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks. Any scope to increase site capacity beyond 4,000 dwellings would need to be subject to more detailed evidence and design work being undertaken. The new community should be developed as a comprehensive mixed-use scheme and should be developed in accordance with a comprehensive masterplan prepared for the whole site, which the Council will be consulted on prior to the submission of a planning application. The proposed development will comprise new homes together with employment generating uses, local services and community uses, extensive open space provision and substantial tree planting. The development must ensure that the following key elements are provided: a. a new employment generating area of about 8 hectares located to optimise access to the A52 in order to support the development of a sustainable new community; b. highway infrastructure to access the site and to ensure impact on the existing highway network is minimised, including the provision of any appropriate mitigation to the strategic highway network, if required and demonstrated by relevant transport assessment, and agreed with Highways England. c. a demonstrable design logic that fosters and supports a sense of community; d. provision of new primary school and additional secondary school places as required; e. an appropriate mix of housing types, affordability and tenures to meet housing needs, subject to market conditions and viability; f. a village hub with local neighbourhood shops to serve the everyday needs of residents and create a community destination to support a sense of community; g. new green infrastructure incorporating networks of multifunctional green spaces; high quality open space; accessible opportunities for recreation through the provision of open space and private gardens; and the feasible retention of as much existing woodland as possible including recently planted areas, as well as the provision of new areas of woodland and green access routes; h. safe and convenient highway, footway, and cycleway connections throughout the site connecting it to local schools, community facilities and linking to Grantham, Spitalgate Heath Garden Village and the wider countryside; i. appropriate surface water management including Sustainable Urban Drainage systems wherever practical; j. the establishment of appropriate liaison and governance solution identifying the ways in which long term stewardship can be secured to support the new community and to ensure the creation of a flourishing and vibrant place where people want to live and work in the future; and k. consideration of the scope to increase site capacity beyond 4,000 dwellings subject to more detailed evidence and design work being undertaken. For the purposes of any forthcoming planning applications, the Masterplan for the development will determine the capacity for the site and should therefore be supported by the following evidence: i. a comprehensive Travel Plan to maximise integrated transport choice and connections to services and facilities in neighbouring settlements. These could include; appropriate access arrangements and a network of dedicated pedestrian and cycle links throughout the new settlement with direct and clearly defined connections to neighbouring settlements and appropriate infrastructure to facilitate the use of electric vehicles; ii. of how development will avoid, minimise and where necessary mitigate or compensate any adverse environmental impact, enhance the landscape and provide green infrastructure to supp

Housing Allocations

The following sites are proposed for residential development over the plan period. Sites are also shown on the Policies Map. Policy Code: GR3-H1, Settlement: Grantham, Location: Spitalgate Heath – Garden Village, Site Area: 215 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 1,650 to be delivered by 2036 (total capacity estimated as 3,700) Policy Code: GR3-H2, Settlement: Grantham, Location: Rectory Farm (Phase 2 North West Quadrant), Site Area: 61.05 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 1,150 Policy Code: GR3-H3, Settlement: Grantham, Location: Rectory Farm (Phase 3 North West Quadrant), Site Area: 22.54 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 404 Policy Code: GR3-H4, Settlement: Grantham, Location: Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Site Area: 184 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 1,775 to be delivered by 2036 (total capacity estimated as 4,000) Policy Code: STM1-H1, Settlement: Stamford, Location: Stamford North, Site Area: 53.03 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 1,300 Policy Code: STM1-H2, Settlement: Stamford, Location: Stamford East, Site Area: 9.13 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 162 Policy Code: DEP1-H1, Settlement: The Deepings, Location: Towngate West, Site Area: 3.12 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 73 Policy Code: DEP1-H2, Settlement: The Deepings, Location: Land off Linchfield Road, Site Area: 32.98 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 680 Policy Code: BRN1-H1, Settlement: Bourne, Location: Manning Road, Site Area: 16.10 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 107 Policy Code: LV-H1, Settlement: Ancaster, Location: Wilsford Lane (North), Site Area: 3.95 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 96 Policy Code: LV-H2, Settlement: Ancaster, Location: Wilsford Lane (South), Site Area: 3.02 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 35 Policy Code: LV-H3, Settlement: Barrowby, Location: Low Road, Site Area: 13.05 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 270 Policy Code: LV-H4, Settlement: Colsterworth, Location: Bourne Road, Site Area: 4.45 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 70 Policy Code: LV-H5, Settlement: Corby Glen, Location: Swinstead Road/Bourne Road, Site Area: 10.56 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 250 Policy Code: LV-H6, Settlement: Great Gonerby, Location: Easthorpe Road, Site Area: 1.82 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 45 Policy Code: LV-H7, Settlement: Long Bennington, Location: Main Road (South), Site Area: 1.87 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 55 Policy Code: LV-H8, Settlement: Long Bennington, Location: Main Road (North), Site Area: 1.27 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 30 Policy Code: LV-H9, Settlement: Morton, Location: Folkingham Road, Site Area: 4.61 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 70 Policy Code: LV-H10, Settlement: South Witham, Location: Thistleton Lane and Mill Lane, Site Area: 1.42 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 34 Policy Code: LV-H11, Settlement: South Witham, Location: Land North of High Street, Site Area: 1.34 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 31 Policy Code: LV-H12, Settlement: Thurlby, Location: Part of Elm Farm Yard, Site Area: 2.53 Hectares, Indicative number of units: 50

Affordable Housing Contributions

All developments comprising 11 or more dwellings (or greater than 1000m2 gross floorspace) should make provision for 30% of the scheme's total capacity as affordable housing, except within the urban area of Grantham as defined on the Policies Map where the affordable housing requirement on such developments will be 20%. This should normally be provided within the development site. Where it is demonstrated that a development proposal cannot accommodate the affordable housing requirement on site the Council may accept provision off site; or as a commuted sum in lieu. In such cases the applicant will be expected to demonstrate why this exemption should be made based on the viability and specifics of an individual site. Proposals which seek to under-develop or split sites in a way that seeks to reduce the Affordable Housing contribution and/or promote off-site provision will not be acceptable. All affordable housing will be expected to: a. include a mix of socially rented/affordable rent/intermediate rent and intermediate market housing appropriate to the current evidence of local need and local incomes as advised by the Council; b. be well integrated with the open market housing through layout, siting, design and style; c. be of an appropriate size and/or property type to meet the need identified by the current evidence of local housing need for affordability the area; The Council will expect this requirement to be met in all cases. The council will consider site specific viability assessments only on brownfield development sites across the district and on sites within the Grantham residential allocations covered under Policy GR3 and the former GR3 site now consented at land north of Longcliffe Road, Grantham. Otherwise, only in circumstances where it is clearly demonstrated with financial evidence, that a site is affected by unforeseen abnormal costs (or exceptionally low completed development values) will a lower provision be considered.

Self and Custom Build Housing

On sites of 400 or more units, at least 2% of the plots will be provided for self and custom build housing. Provision shall consist of serviced plots located in accordance with the site masterplan. Plots should be made available to purchase by individuals on the Self and Custom Build register, held by the District. Where it is demonstrated that a plot has been marketed for at least 12 months but has not sold as a self-build /custom build plot the developer may seek to have that plot returned to normal market use. Evidence that the plot has been marketed at a local market value and that marketing has included, but not been limited to, direct contact with those on the Councils Self build and Custom Build register and the National Custom and Self-build Association (NaCSBA) portal or similar will be required.

Meeting All Housing Needs

All major proposals for residential development should provide appropriate type and sized dwellings to meet the needs of current and future households in the District. New housing proposals shall also: a. Enable older people and the most vulnerable to promote, secure and sustain their independence in a home appropriate to their circumstances, including through the provision of specialist housing (as defined in the Glossary) across all tenures in sustainable locations. New housing proposals shall take account of the desirability of providing retirement accommodation, extra care and residential care housing and other forms of supported housing; b. Enable the provision of high quality family housing that meets changing household needs and responds to market demand; c. Enable the provision of high quality and affordable housing for all and accommodation that considers specialist needs and ensures that people can live close to their families and work opportunities within the district; and d. Increase choice in the housing market, including new build private sector rented accommodation (Build to Rent) across both rural and urban parts of the district.

Gypsies and Travellers

Proposals for residential Gypsy and Traveller pitches will be supported where: a. the proposed site provides an acceptable living environment for its residents; b. the site has good access to the highway network and will not cause traffic congestion or safety problems; c. the site is in reasonable proximity to shops, schools and health facilities; d. the site is not identified as an area at risk of flooding in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA); and e. the scale and layout of the site will respect its relationship with any residential (settled) community and not place undue pressure on the local infrastructure.

Travelling Showpeople

Proposals for residential yards (or plots) for Travelling Showpeople will be supported where: a. the proposed site provides an acceptable living environment for its residents, including sufficient space for storage and maintenance of associated equipment; b. the site has good access to the highway network and will not cause traffic congestion or safety problems; c. the site is in reasonable proximity to shops, schools and health facilities; d. the scale and layout of the site will respect its relationship with the residential (settled) community and not place undue pressure on the local infrastructure; and e. the site is not identified as an area at risk of flooding in the SFRA.

Wilsford Lane (SKLP315)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 96 Approximate Density: 30 Dwellings per hectare – lower density based on gateway location. The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. Landscape screening to Southern edge will be required so as to reduce the impact on views into the site from the open countryside. b. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Areas and a Limestone Mineral Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application for this site, a Minerals Assessment will be required. c. The development will provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. d. Access will be taken from Wilsford Lane.

Wilsford Lane (SKLP211)

Indicative Unit Numbers: 35 Approximate Density: 16 Dwellings per hectare - lower density based on gateway location and heritage features to the south. The following development principles accompany this allocation: a. Landscape screening to Southern edge will be required so as to reduce the impact on views into the site from the open countryside. b. There will be no negative impacts on the Wilsford Lane Verge, Ancaster Local Wildlife Site and the development will provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. c. There is the potential for archaeology remains on this site and the appropriate pre-commencement investigates should be carried out. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Areas and a Limestone Mineral Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application for this site a Minerals Assessment will be required.

Low Road

Land is allocated for up to 270 new dwellings at a maximum density of 35 dwellings per hectare. a. A masterplan is required for the entire site. All parties shall work together to bring forward a comprehensive plan for the site, including the phasing of development. The masterplan is to be agreed by the Council following consultation with the local community. Detailed proposals will only be permitted where these are in accordance with the agreed masterplan. b. Additional treatment capacity is required at waste water treatment works and new discharge permits are required for water quality targets. This should be incorporated early on in the development of scheme specifics as part of a scheme wide delivery strategy which demonstrates that capacity is available or could be made available to serve the development subject to phasing. c. The masterplan and development proposals will incorporate a substantial landscape and boundary treatment for the southern and eastern edges of the site allocation. No development will be permitted beyond the site allocation. d. The phasing of the development shall occur in accordance with the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, with particular relevance to education and capacity at Barrowby Primary school. e. The masterplan and development proposals will provide suitable and appropriate residential amenity buffers to the eastern edge in respect of the electricity pylons and the A1 and to the southern edge in respect of the high pressure gas line. f. Potential landscape impacts should be mitigated through high quality design and landscaping. g. The development should provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contributed to wider ecological networks where possible.

Bourne Road

Indicative Unit Numbers: 70 at Approximate Density: 25 dwellings per hectare to accommodate A1 buffer area. a. Pedestrian links, footways or cycleway connections into the village from the site should be considered in the development proposal. b. Noise from the A1 entrance ramp to be suitably mitigated. c. A 4th arm off the roundabout shall be provided in order to access the site. d. Suitable boundary treatment and noise attenuation shall be provided along the A1 edge of the site. e. The design features should minimise the impact of air pollutants and noise. f. The development shall aim to incorporate links between the new housing and the rest of settlement, by providing more direct access to local facilities such as the Colster Way recreation ground, the school, and the medical practice. g. Any necessary upgrades or improvements to the local highway network required by this development shall be provided for.

Swinstead Road / Bourne Road

a. A comprehensive masterplan is required for the entire site. b. An East-West connection (transport and pedestrian) should be provided by the development. c. Pedestrian links, footways or cycleway connections into village, and adjacent playing fields from the site should be incorporated in the development proposal. d. The development shall accommodate specialist housing needs through the provision of good quality family housing that is both well designed and integrated into the development proposal. e. Landscape screening shall be provided along the northern and eastern edges of the site. f. Additional open space and community recreation facilities as necessary. g. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Area and Limestone Minerals Safeguarding Area. Before considering a planning application for this site, a Minerals Assessment will be required.

Easthorpe Road

a. A public footpath runs through the site – this shall be retained and incorporated into the development where possible. b. Suitable and appropriate screening shall be provided along the eastern and southern edges of the site. c. The south-west corner of the site shall not be developed but utilised for open space provision, landscaping and sustainable urban drainage (SUDS), as necessary. This is to ensure the protection of important views towards heritage assets and their setting.

Main Road (South)

a. Noise impact from the A1 shall be considered and suitable mitigation provided. b. Screening along the western and southern edges will be required.

Main Road (North)

a. Noise impact from the A1 shall be considered and suitable mitigation provided. b. Screening along the western edge will be required. c. The development shall accommodate specialist housing needs through the provision of retirement housing, extra care or residential care housing.

Folkingham Road

a. Possible impact on the Conservation Area and adjacent listed buildings shall be considered and to mitigate possible harm a low-density residential scheme should be proposed. b. On the northern edge of the site a suitable and sensitive boundary treatment will be provided to screen views of the development from the adjacent open countryside. c. Should access to the site come via the A15 any development should be set back from the road aspect and suitable landscape screening provided. d. Pedestrian and/or cycle connections from the centre of the site onto High Street shall be provided. e. Development of this site will need to be phased in accordance with the Infrastructure Delivery Plan so that necessary infrastructure requirements can be accommodated.

Spatial Strategy

The Local Plan will deliver sustainable growth across the District and throughout the Plan Period (2011 – 2036). To achieve new growth the Local Plan includes allocations for both housing and employment land. All allocations proposed in the plan are the most suitable and sustainable development options and provide for a variety of site types and sizes to ensure choice is offered to the market and delivery is achievable. The Objectively Assessed Need for South Kesteven is 16,125 new dwellings. To ensure the Objectively Assessed Need is met in full, the minimum Local Plan requirement for South Kesteven is 16,125 dwellings across the period 2011 to 2036, this applies an uplift from 625 to 650 dwellings per annum from 2016 to take into account market signals. The overall strategy of the Plan is to deliver sustainable growth, including new housing and job creation, in order to facilitate growth in the local economy and support local residents. The focus for the majority of growth is in and around the four market towns, with Grantham being a particular focal point. Larger Villages will provide a supporting role in meeting the development needs of the District. Development should create strong, sustainable, cohesive and inclusive communities, making the most effective use of appropriate previously developed land (where possible) and enabling a larger number of people to access jobs, services and facilities locally. Development should provide the scale and mix of housing types that will meet the identified need for South Kesteven (as informed by the Peterborough Sub Regional Housing Market Assessments) and a range of new job opportunities in order to secure balanced communities (as informed by the Employment Land Study). Decisions on investment in services and facilities, and on the location and scale of new development, will be taken on the basis of the Settlement Hierarchy as set out in Policy SP2. Proposals should protect the best and most versatile agricultural land so as to protect opportunities for food production and the continuance of the agricultural economy. Development affecting the best and most versatile agricultural land will only be permitted if: • There is insufficient lower grade land available at that settlement (unless development of such lower grade land would be inconsistent with other sustainability considerations); and • Where feasible, once any development which is permitted has ceased its useful life the land will be restored to its former use, and will be of at least equal quality to that which existed prior to the development taken place (this requirement will be secured by planning condition where appropriate).

Settlement Hierarchy

In order to address the District's growth needs the Local Plan proposes that: • The majority of development will be focused in Grantham in order to support and strengthen its role as a Sub-Regional Centre. New development proposals will be supported on appropriate and deliverable brownfield sites and on sustainable greenfield sites (including urban extensions), where development will not compromise the town's nature and character. • Development which maintains and supports the role of the three market towns of Stamford, Bourne and the Deepings, will be allowed, provided that it does not compromise their nature and character. Priority will be given to the delivery of sustainable sites within the built up part of the town and appropriate edge of settlement extensions. • In the Larger Villages as defined below, in addition to allocations, development proposals which promote the role and function of the Larger Villages, and will not compromise the settlement's nature and character, will be supported. • In Smaller Villages as defined below, development will be supported in accordance with Policy SP3, SP4 and all other relevant policies, where development will not compromise the village's nature and character.

Infill Development

In all settlements defined in Policy SP2, infill development, which is in accordance with all other relevant Local Plan policies, will be supported provided that: a. it is within a substantially built up frontage or re-development opportunity (previously development land); b. it is within the main built up part of the settlement; c. it does not cause harm or unacceptable impact upon the occupiers amenity of adjacent properties; d. it does not extend the pattern of development beyond the existing built form; and it is in keeping with the character of the area and is sensitive to the setting of adjacent properties.

Development on the Edge of Settlements

Proposals for development on the edge of a settlement, as defined in Policy SP2, which are in accordance all other relevant Local Plan policies, will be supported provided that the essential criteria a – f below are met. The proposal must: a. demonstrate clear evidence of substantial support from the local community* through an appropriate, thorough and proportionate pre-application community consultation exercise. Where this cannot be determined, support (or otherwise) should be sought from the Town or Parish Council or Neighbourhood Plan Group or Forum, based upon material planning considerations; b. be well designed and appropriate in size / scale, layout and character to the setting and area; c. be adjacent to the existing pattern of development for the area, or adjacent to developed site allocations as identified in the development plan; d. not extend obtrusively into the open countryside and be appropriate to the landscape, environmental and heritage characteristics of the area; e. in the case of housing development, meet a proven local need for housing and seeks to address a specific targeted need for local market housing; and f. enable the delivery of essential infrastructure to support growth proposals. As an exception to criterion a) above, a housing scheme which meets a demonstrable local need for affordable housing will be considered acceptable as a Rural Exception scheme (regardless of whether criterion a) above has been satisfied), provided that it is supported by clear up-to-date evidence that the proposal: g. is justified by evidence of local need and affordability, from an appropriate local housing needs survey; and h. meets the affordable housing needs of households who are currently resident, or have a local connection to the parish as defined in the Council's published housing allocations policy; and i. the occupation of the dwellings will be secured in perpetuity to meet local need; and j. that no other more suitable site(s) is available within the settlement. On Rural Exception sites the Council may consider market housing provision alongside affordable housing as a means of cross-subsidising the essential affordable housing provision. In such cases the total number of market dwellings must not exceed the number of affordable homes needed and should be supported by the submission of a robust viability assessment which demonstrates that the scheme only promotes the minimum number of market houses required to make the scheme viable (viability assessment will be independently verified and the applicant will be expected to meet the cost of this assessment)

Development in the Open Countryside

Development in the open countryside will be limited to that which has an essential need to be located outside of the existing built form of a settlement. In such instances, the following types of development will be supported: a. agriculture, forestry or equine development; b. rural diversification projects; c. replacement dwellings (on a one for one basis) or; d. conversion of buildings provided that the existing building(s) contributes to the character or appearance of the local area by virtue of their historic, traditional or vernacular form; and e. are in sound structural condition; and f. are suitable for conversion without substantial alteration, extension or rebuilding, and that the works to be undertaken do not detract from the character of the building(s) or their setting.

Stamford North

a. A high level masterplan, supported by a detailed development brief, appropriate full transport assessment and phasing plan, is required for the entire site (to include for the land extending into Quarry Farm, Rutland with an additional capacity of 650 dwellings). b. The layout of the development should provide appropriate transport infrastructure measures to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport in order to maximise opportunities for sustainable modes of transport. c. Safe and convenient highway, footway, cycleway connections shall be provided throughout the site connecting it to local schools, community facilities and into the wider town. d. An East-West road to be provided through from Old Great North Road to Ryhall Road. This should offer mitigation to the town centre from the traffic generated as a result of this development. e. The development shall accommodate specialist housing needs through the provision of retirement housing, extra care or residential care housing. f. The development shall make provision for a new primary school. g. The development shall make provision for contributions towards the expansion or improvement of the adjacent secondary school. h. The development shall make provision for a local centre, to serve the needs of both existing and new residents to the area. The local centre should include the provision of appropriate social and community facilities. i. The development should positively respond to green infrastructure opportunities and provide sensitive landscaping to the northern edge of the site. j. Land to the east of the dismantled railway line should be utilised primarily for the provision of open space and strategic landscaping including surface water drainage features, only in order that the character of this area remains open and verdant. k. The development should provide net gains in biodiversity on site and contribute to wider ecological networks where possible. l. The development will provide appropriate mitigation measures to the Strategic Road Network to be agreed with Highways England.

Stamford East

a. A comprehensive masterplan is required for the entire site. b. The layout of the development should provide appropriate transport infrastructure measures to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport in order to maximise opportunities for sustainable modes of transport. c. This site represents a gateway location and this should be recognised in the design and layout of development proposals. d. Highway, footway, cycleway connections shall be provided throughout the site which connect the site into the wider area. e. To ensure the development achieves good, high quality design, a design code will be prepared for the site. f. Any contaminated land should be remediated to recognised standards. g. This site is situated within a Minerals Safeguarding Area. A Minerals Assessment will be required as part of any planning application.

Infrastructure for Growth

All development proposals will be expected to demonstrate that there is, or will be, sufficient infrastructure capacity (including green infrastructure) to support and meet the essential infrastructure requirements arising from the proposed development. Where implementation of a development proposal will create a need to: a. provide additional or improved infrastructure and amenities; or b. would have an impact on the existing standard of infrastructure provided; or c. would exacerbate an existing deficiency in its provision; The developer will be expected to make up the necessary infrastructure provision for the local communities affected either by direct provision or through a proportionate contribution towards the overall cost of the provision of local and strategic infrastructure required by the development either alone or cumulatively with other developments. Consideration will be given to the likely timing of infrastructure provision. As such, the delivery of development may need to be appropriately phased, either in time or geographically, to ensure the related provision of infrastructure in a timely manner. Planning permission should only be granted if it can be demonstrated that there is or will be sufficient infrastructure capacity provided within an agreed timescale to support and meet all the requirements arising from the proposed development. In determining the nature and scale of any provision, the Council will have regard to viability considerations and site specific circumstances. Where financial evidence is provided which indicates that provision of infrastructure along with affordable housing and other policy requirements affects the delivery of an individual scheme the Council will consider prioritising provision. This must be justified through clear evidence set out in a viability assessment which the Council will have independently assessed. The applicant will be expected to meet the cost of this assessment.

Broadband and Communications Infrastructure

Proposals to enhance information communication networks, such as superfast broadband, will be supported across the district. New developments must be served by either: a. Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) technology; or b. Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) technology enabling access to broadband speeds of up to 80 megabits per second; or c. any other emerging communication technology.

Review of the Local Plan

The Council will commit to undertake an early review of the Local Plan to commence from April 2020, with submission to the Secretary of State for examination by the end of December 2023. The Council will consider options to undertake this review in conjunction with neighbouring authorities. Specific matters to be addressed by the review include, but are not limited to, the following: a. The progress being made towards implementation of the spatial strategy for South Kesteven, in particular the focus on development in Grantham to be achieved by the end of the plan period; b. Taking account of the latest National Planning Policy Framework, particularly in relation to the assessment of housing needs and future requirement for employment land; and c. Further assessment of the needs of the Gypsy and Traveller Community, including Travelling Showpeople, and the need to allocate land to meet identified needs.

Bourne Town Centre Policy

A sequential approach will be applied to the location of proposals for main town centre uses which prioritises sites within the town centre ahead of edge of centre sites. Out of centre locations will only be considered if sequentially preferable sites are not available. Retail impact assessments are required to accompany proposals for main town centre uses in edge of centre or out of centre locations where the gross floorspace proposed is above 1000sqm. The Bourne town centre boundary, Primary and Secondary shopping frontages are defined on the Policies Map. Within the town centre, development or reuse of buildings for a range of uses including retail, leisure, offices, food and drink, cultural and new residential uses will be supported. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for new A1 retail (shops) will be encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. Other A – use classes will be supported provided that they positively contribute to the town centre either through footfall generating uses or providing supplementary uses, i.e. banks, cafes, etc. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for conversion or change of use to A1 retail (shops) will be positively encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. Within the Secondary Shopping frontages proposals for town centre complementary uses will be supported.

Market Deeping Town Centre Policy

A sequential approach will be applied to the location of proposals for main town centre uses which prioritises sites within the town centre ahead of edge of centre sites. Out of centre locations will only be considered if sequentially preferable sites are not available. Retail impact assessments are required to accompany proposals for main town centre uses in edge of centre or out of centre locations where the gross floorspace proposed is above 1000sqm. The Market Deeping town centre boundary, Primary and Secondary shopping frontages are defined on the Policies Map. Within the town centre, development or reuse of buildings for a range of uses including retail, leisure, offices, food and drink, cultural and new residential uses will be supported. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for new A1 retail (shops) will be encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character of the town centre and appeal. Other A – use classes will be supported provided that they positively contribute towards promoting a healthy town centre either through footfall generating uses or providing supplementary uses, i.e. banks, cafes, etc. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for conversion or change of use to A1 retail (shops) will be positively encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. Within the Secondary Shopping frontages proposals for town centre complementary uses will be supported.

Visitor Economy

Proposals for development of the local visitor economy will be supported where these: a) allow provision for visitors which is appropriate in use and character to South Kesteven's settlements and maintains the quality of the countryside and the natural environment; b) enhance existing tourist and visitor facilities; aid the retention and/or enhancement of existing overnight accommodation and the provision of new overnight accommodation; c) allow new tourism provision and initiatives where these would also benefit local communities and support the local economy; or d) allow new tourism development of an appropriate scale and use which utilises existing historic buildings in the countryside whilst respecting their character. In all cases proposals should be of a scale appropriate to the setting of the area and a sequential test should be applied where appropriate. Proposals which generate high levels of visitor traffic or increased public use of tourist facilities should only be permitted within or on the edge of the towns and Larger Villages, or where they can be easily accessed by public transport, foot and cycle. To ensure that tourism-related development does not result in the creation of permanent living accommodation, conditions may be imposed which restrict the use and/or period of occupation.

Grantham Town Centre Policy

Within the town centre, development or reuse of buildings for a range of uses including retail, leisure, offices, food and drink, cultural and residential will be supported. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for new premises, conversions or change of use to A1 retail (shops) will be encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. Other A-uses will be supported provided that they positively contribute to the Town Centre either through generating footfall or providing supplementary uses, i.e. banks, cafes. Within the town centre boundary, proposals for A–uses will be supported, as well as proposals for Offices (B1), Health Care, Day Nurseries, (D1) and leisure and tourism related uses, i.e. cinema, recreation facilities (D2) and appropriate residential development on upper floors, provided that the use does not cause undue harm to the character and appeal of the town centre, nor generate "dead shopping frontages". The preference is for A1 retail uses to be located within the Primary Shopping frontages. Proposals for A1 retail uses in the wider town centre boundary will be supported provided that they positively contribute to the town centre. Proposals supporting the generation of an evening economy within the Town Centre will be encouraged. The re-development of the St Peter's Hill area will be supported provided that proposals encourage footfall into the town centre and support the evening economy. A sequential approach will be applied to the location of proposals for main town centre uses which prioritises sites within the town centre ahead of edge of centre sites. Out of centre locations will only be considered if sequentially preferable sites are not available. Retail impact assessments are required to accompany proposals for main town centre uses in edge of centre or out of centre locations where the gross floorspace proposed is above 1,000sqm.

Stamford Town Centre Policy

A sequential approach will be applied to the location of proposals for main town centre uses which prioritises sites within the town centre ahead of edge of centre sites. Out of centre locations will only be considered if sequentially preferable sites are not available. Retail impact assessments are required to accompany proposals for main town centre uses in edge of centre or out of centre locations where the gross floorspace proposed is above 1000sqm. The Stamford town centre boundary, Primary and Secondary Shopping frontages are defined on the Policies Map (and as illustrated below). a. Within the town centre, development or reuse of buildings for a range of uses including retail, leisure, offices, food and drink, cultural and new residential uses will be supported. b. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for new A1 retail (shops) will be encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. Other A – use classes will be supported provided that they positively contribute to the town centre either through footfall generating uses or providing supplementary uses, i.e. banks, cafes, etc. c. Within the Primary Shopping frontages proposals for conversion or change of use to A1 retail (shops) will be positively encouraged, subject to the proposal contributing positively to the character and appeal of the town centre. d. Within the Secondary Shopping frontages proposals for town centre complementary uses will be supported.

Sustainable Transport in Grantham

All major development proposals within the Grantham Transport Strategy area, and additionally proposals for development on site reference GR.SE1 under Policy E1, site reference GR3-H1 under Policy GR3 and any other land in proximity to the Grantham Southern Relief Road, should make an appropriate contribution to necessary transport improvements and the delivery of the objectives of the Grantham Transport Strategy, either directly where appropriate (such as the provision of infrastructure or through the contribution of land to directly enable a scheme to occur) or indirectly (such as through appropriate developer contributions to an identified scheme).

Transport and Strategic Transport Infrastructure

South Kesteven District Council and its delivery partners will support and promote an efficient and safe transport network which offers a range of transport choices for the movement of people and goods reduces the need to travel by car and encourages use of alternatives, such as walking, cycling, and public transport. New development will be required to contribute to transport improvements in line with appropriate evidence, including the Infrastructure Delivery Schedule, the Local Transport Plan and local transport strategies. All new developments should demonstrate that they have applied the following principles: a. Are located where travel can be minimised and the use of sustainable transport modes maximised; b. Reduce additional travel demand through the use of measures such as travel planning, safe and convenient public transport, dedicated walking and cycling links and cycle storage/parking links and integration with existing infrastructure; c. Seek to generate or support the level of demand required to improve, introduce or maintain public transport services, such as rail and bus services; d. Do not severely impact on the safety and movement of traffic on the highway network or that any such impacts can be mitigated through appropriate improvements, including the provision of new or improved highway infrastructure; and e. Ensure that transport is accessible to all, including appropriate provision for vehicle, powered two wheeler and cycle parking is made for residents, visitors, employees, customers, deliveries and for people with impaired mobility. Compliance with the criteria of this policy should be demonstrated through the provision of a transport Statement/Assessment and/or a travel plan as appropriate.