Planning in Telford and Wrekin

Gypsies and Travellers

The most recent Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment will be used to identify pitch and plot requirements and where a need is found, the Council will take steps to deliver the necessary sites in a timely manner in order to support the Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling Showpeople community. The GTAA will also be used as a basis for determining planning applications, together with the criteria within the most up to date national Planning Policy for Traveller Sites. We will support sites for Gypsies and Travellers that: 1. facilitate the traditional and nomadic life of travellers while respecting the interests of the settled community; and 2. are appropriate in scale, well designed, and provide suitable landscaping and boundary treatments; and 3. provide an acceptable living environment for occupiers and are free from flooding, pollution, hazards or other adverse impacts on standards of living; and 4. are well-related to local infrastructure and services of a nearby town or village, including safe and convenient access to the road network; and 5. promote peaceful and integrated co-existence between the site and the local community.

Rural Services

Support will be given to proposals and activities that protect, retain or enhance existing community services and facilities* or that lead to the provision of additional assets that improve community cohesion and well-being to encourage sustainable development. Proposals for the change of use of community facilities*, which would result in the loss of the community use, will only be permitted where it is clearly demonstrated that either: 1. there are alternative facilities available and active in the same village which would fulfill the role of the existing use/building, or 2. 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: a) 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 b) the potential impact closure may have on the village and its community, with regard to public use and support for both the existing and proposed use.

Healthy Communities

All development proposals should make a positive contribution to the following promoters of health and well-being: a. Good quality, accessible green spaces, public realm, sports and recreational facilities close to where people live and work, to encourage greater participation in play, sport, walking and cycling and to maximise opportunities for social interaction; b. Safe, convenient and attractive network of streets, paths and cycleways integrated with public transport which connect homes, workplaces, shops, schools, healthcare, leisure and other services and facilities to encourage active travel and prevents social isolation; c. High quality local food growing spaces, including green roofs, edible landscaping, garden plots, community gardens, allotments and local markets, in order to provide access to fresh, healthy and affordable food; d. 'Healthy Homes' that are affordable, easy to warm, have good natural light, decent space (internal and external), exploit views, safe from flooding and overheating, and are adaptable to people's changing circumstances that can occur over a lifetime; e. High quality residential amenity; f. A range of employment opportunities in accessible locations; g. The avoidance of over concentration or clustering of any use type that could detract from people's ability to adopt healthy lifestyles (including hot food takeaways, payday lenders and betting shops); h. Good local air quality, with new development in an air quality management area to be consistent with the aims and objectives of the Air Quality Action Plan, providing an air quality assessment where appropriate. Contributions will be sought from developers towards the provision of health facilities where their development would impact on the capacity of existing healthcare provision. Proposals for new health care facilities should relate well to public transport services, walking and cycling routes and be accessible to all sectors of the community. Opportunities for the multi-use and co-location of health facilities with other services and facilities should be considered to provide co-ordinated care and a community focus. Health impacts of major development proposals should be considered early in the planning process through the submission of a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) with a planning application, where the Local Planning Authority requests it.

Raising the Standard of Design

All new developments should be of high quality design. All development proposals will be assessed against all the following criteria: a) Siting and layout must be sympathetic to the character of the area; b) New development should meet basic urban design principles outlined in this plan; c) Buildings and development should be designed to reflect the wider context of the local area and respect the local vernacular without stifling innovative design; d) Amenity of neighbours and neighbouring properties should not be compromised; e) Appropriate provision should be made for the sustainable management of waste, including collection and storage facilities for recyclable and other waste; f) Sustainable means of communication and transportation should be used where appropriate; g) Development should be designed to reduce crime and the perception of crime. h) Existing trees and hedges should be utilised, together with new landscaping, to negate the effects of development; i) Proposals include appropriate, safe connection to the existing highway network; j) Performs well against Building for Life 12 or any subsequent guidance and seeks to develop the principles of 'Active Design' for housing developments; k) Makes adequate provision for car parking; and l) Development should be managed so as to control disruption caused by construction for reasons of safeguarding and improving health well-being for all.

Employment Growth in Melton Mowbray

The Council will seek to meet the employment needs of its residents and the wider economy, by providing sufficient new employment land for the period up to 2036 in the following locations: 1. 10 hectares of employment land on brownfield land available at Asfordby Business Park for class B employment uses (as shown on the Policies Map); 2. 20 hectares of employment land, located off Leicester Road, as part of the South Melton Mowbray Sustainable Neighbourhood; and 3. 1 hectare of employment land for B1(a) office space within or adjacent to Melton Mowbray town centre and/or including PERA Business Park. Proposals for employment development on allocated and non-allocated sites in Melton Mowbray will be allowed where: 4. The site is located in an area that can be easily accessed by public transport, walking and cycling, and can be satisfactorily accessed by service and other employment related vehicles; 5. It provides a mix of B-class employment uses that seek to meet local business and employment needs; 6. The sequential approach to town centre uses is applied where offices (use class B1(a)) are proposed.

Employment Growth in the Rural Area (Outside Melton Mowbray)

In order to support the rural economy, the Council will allow for: A) new employment land to be provided in rural settlements; and/or; B) rural employment proposals which create or safeguard jobs. The following types of rural employment development are acceptable: 1. The re-use of existing farm buildings and well-designed new buildings for employment; 2. Schemes for farm diversification involving small-scale business and commercial development that helps to support the viability and retention of the farm holding; 3. Small-scale tourism proposals, including visitor accommodation, such as glamping, camping and bed & breakfast; 4. The expansion of existing rural businesses, dependent upon the nature of the activities involved, the character of the site and its accessibility; 5. Small scale employment development to meet local needs; and 6. The use of land for agriculture, forestry and equestrian activity, and subject to the proposal: 7. Being of an appropriate scale for its location; 8. Having sufficient accessible off road car parking provided on site or in the nearby vicinity to cater for the use proposed.

Existing Employment Sites

The following employment sites and industrial estates across the Borough will be retained for employment uses (within Classes B1, B2 and B8 of the Use Classes Order). Employment facilities listed for retention: EC3(i) Masterfoods HQ, Waltham. EC 3(ii) Asfordby Business Park, Asfordby Hill. EC3(iii) Holwell Works (Melton Mowbray Business Park), Asfordby Hill. EC3(iv) Stanton Plc (St Gobain), Asfordby Hill. EC3(v) Saxby Road Area (Incorporating Hudson Road Estate), Melton Mowbray. EC3(vi) Crown Business Park, Old Dalby. EC3(vii) Six Hill Business Area, Six Hills. EC3(viii) Old Dalby Trading Estate, Old Dalby. EC3(ix) Melton And Kettleby Foods, Melton Mowbray. EC3(x) Leicester Road Estate, Melton Mowbray. EC3(xi) Normanton Lane, Bottesford. EC3(xii) Orston Lane, Bottesford. EC3(xiii) Hickling Lane Employments Sites, Long Clawson. EC3(xiv) Snow Hill Industrial Estate, Melton Mowbray. EC3(xv) Burrough Court, Burrough on the Hill. Proposals to change the use of all of part of an existing employment site or allocation to non-employment uses will be permitted where: a) it can be demonstrated, through an acceptable viability study, that the site is no longer economically viable for employment purposes in the long term nor can be made so, and either: b) its release for other purposes would offer significant benefits to the local area, in particular where proposals have demonstrable community support, for example through an allocation in a made Neighbourhood Plan or: c) the site is no longer needed to provide the employment land and facilities to meet employment needs with the local area. Proposals for non B-class employment uses on employment sites will be allowed where they would support the effective operation of that site and would not be more appropriately located in town centres or are required to make the site viable and are not in conflict with policies contained within this Local Plan.

Other Employment and Mixed-use Proposals

Proposals for employment and mixed-use developments (incorporating employment uses) outside of existing or allocated employment sites will be encouraged where: a) the employment component of the scheme can be satisfactorily accessed by service and other employment related vehicles; b) the proposed uses are not more appropriately located in town centres; c) the site is located in an area that can or has the scope to be easily accessed by public transport, walking and cycling; d) the mix of uses does not result in an unacceptable impact on residents by reason of noise, disturbance, air quality or other emissions caused by the use of the building or the vehicle movements associated with it; e) the proposal does not adversely affect land which is of particular significance to the form and character of the settlement; and f) the proposal is of an appropriate scale in the context of the existing settlement.

Energy Generation from Renewable and Low Carbon Sources

Renewable and low carbon energy proposals appropriate for Melton, including biomass power generation, combined heat and power (CHP), hydro, wind, solar and micro generation systems, will be supported and considered in the context of sustainable development and climate change. Proposals for renewable and low carbon energy technology, associated infrastructure and integration of renewable and low carbon technology on existing or proposed structures will be assessed both individually and cumulatively on their merits taking account of the following factors; 1. Siting, so as to gain maximum effect from wind/solar/water sources; 2. The surrounding landscape, townscape and heritage assets; 3. Residential and visual amenity; 4. Noise impacts; 5. Odour impacts; 6. Designated nature conservation, geo-diversity or biodiversity considerations, including potential impact on ancient woodland and veteran trees; 7. Ecology; 8. Aircraft movements and associated activities, including effects on radar, communications and navigational systems; 9. Electromagnetic transmissions; 10. High quality agricultural land; 11. Access for construction, maintenance and de-commissioning; 12. Not creating demand for bio-energy fuels known to result in net carbon emissions through production methods, transport requirements and/or loss of carbon sinks; 13. General safety in terms of highways, power lines, icing, visual distraction; and 14. Transport movements for importation of biomass fuel. In the case of proposals for wind energy development involving one or more wind turbines, planning permission will only be granted if: 15. A bond is in place to cover de-commissioning; and 16. The development site is in an area identified as being suitable for wind turbine development in a Neighbourhood Plan; or 17. The development site is in an area identified as being of low or low-moderate sensitivity to wind turbine development in the Melton and Rushcliffe Landscape Sensitivity Study 2014. These areas and acceptable turbine requirements are set out in the table below. The landscape character units are indicated on the Policies Map; and 18. Following consultation, it can be demonstrated that the planning impacts identified by affected local communities have been fully addressed and therefore the proposal has their backing. In developing proposals for new thermal generating stations, developers should consider the opportunities for CHP and district heating from the very earliest point and it should be adopted as a criterion when considering locations for a project. Renewable and low carbon energy proposals which will directly benefit a local community in the medium and long term and/or are targeted at residents experiencing fuel poverty will be particularly supported.

Energy Generation from Renewable and Low Carbon Sources

Renewable and low carbon energy proposals appropriate for Melton, including biomass power generation, combined heat and power (CHP), hydro, wind, solar and micro generation systems, will be supported and considered in the context of sustainable development and climate change. Proposals for renewable and low carbon energy technology, associated infrastructure and integration of renewable and low carbon technology on existing or proposed structures will be assessed both individually and cumulatively on their merits taking account of the following factors; 1. Siting, so as to gain maximum effect from wind/solar/water sources; 2. The surrounding landscape, townscape and heritage assets; 3. Residential and visual amenity; 4. Noise impacts; 5. Odour impacts; 6. Designated nature conservation, geo-diversity or biodiversity considerations

Climate Change

All new development proposals will be required to demonstrate how the need to mitigate and adapt to climate change has been considered, subject to considerations of viability, in terms of: Sustainable design and construction in accordance with Policy EN9 – ensuring energy efficient and low carbon development. Provision of green infrastructure in accordance with Policy EN3 – the Melton Green Infrastructure Network. Provision of renewable and/or low carbon energy production, including decentralised energy and/or heat networks in accordance with Policy EN10 – energy generation from renewable sources. Flood risk in accordance with Policy EN11 – minimizing the risk of flooding and policy EN12 – sustainable urban drainage systems. Providing opportunities for sustainable modes of transport in accordance with Policy IN1 – delivering infrastructure to support new development.

Ensuring Energy Efficient and Low Carbon Development

Major development proposals will be required to demonstrate how the need to reduce carbon emissions has influenced the design, layout and energy source used, subject to viability. A design and access statement will need to consider the following: Development proposals, including refurbishment, will be supported where they demonstrate the following, subject to viability: 1. How effective use has been made of materials that have been reused, recycled, are renewable, locally sourced, have been transported in the most sustainable manner, and have low embodied energy; 2. How the design optimises natural sunlight and solar gain, and prevents overheating including providing non-mechanical means of ventilation and opportunities for cooling from tree planting and landscaping; 3. How heat loss from all elements of the building envelope will be prevented; 4. Water efficient measures to reduce demand on water resources, including through the use of efficient appliances, rainwater recycling, water butts and underground storage tanks, where technically feasible; 5. How developments (dwellings and non-dwellings) have considered on-site renewable, low carbon or de-centralised energy provision, including connection to existing networks, where feasible, in accordance with Policy EN10; 6. Space for a home office in new homes; 7. Space for cycle storage in new homes and employment sites and, where appropriate showers and changing facilities; and 8. Charging points for electric cars. A site waste management plan which emphasizes waste minimization, re-use and recycling during demolition and construction will be required for major development proposals. Development should be phased to ensure sufficient waste water treatment capacity is available before development is complete; The retrofitting of existing buildings so as to maximise opportunities to prevent heat loss from all elements of the building envelope will be supported where it: • does not harm heritage assets or their significance; and • protects the character of conservation areas.

Landscape

The character of Melton Borough's landscape and countryside will be conserved and, where possible, enhanced by: I. Ensuring new development is sensitive to its landscape setting and that it seeks, where possible, to enhance the distinctive qualities of the landscape character areas (as defined in the Landscape Character Assessment); and II. Requiring new developments to respect existing landscape character and features. Proposals will be supported where they do not have an unacceptable adverse effect upon important landscape features including: 1. Distinctive topography; 2. Important trees, hedges and other vegetation features; 3. Important ponds, watercourses & other water areas; 4. Important views, approaches and settings. In addition, new developments will be supported where they: 5. Do not have an unacceptable adverse effect upon an area's sense of place and local distinctiveness; and 6. Do not have an unacceptable adverse effect upon areas of tranquility, including those benefiting from dark skies, unless proposals can demonstrate how it is intended to contribute towards minimizing light pollution. In order to mitigate potential harm to the built form at the settlement fringe and its relationship to the landscape, proposals should have due regard to design guidance in the individual assessments of settlement fringe sensitivity in the 'Areas of Separation, Settlement Fringe Sensitivity and Local Green Space Study' or any subsequent evidence document. Neighbourhood Plans will be encouraged to use evidence provided in the 'Areas of Separation, Settlement Fringe Sensitivity and Local Green Space Study' to inform site allocations and design guidance, to ensure that the Borough's landscape will be conserved and where possible, enhanced.

Minimizing the Risk of Flooding

Melton Borough Council will ensure that development proposals do not increase flood risk and will seek to reduce flood risk to others. The Council will do this by working in partnership with the appropriate agencies (the Environment Agency, Leicestershire County Council as Lead Local Flood Authority, Internal Drainage Boards, Severn Trent & Anglian Water and the Canal and River Trust), developers and landowners. The Borough Council will follow a sequential approach to flood risk management with the aim of locating development on land with the lowest risk of flooding (Zone 1 and outside of surface water flood risk). For development in Flood Zones 2, 3a & 3b, the exception test will be applied in accordance with Table 3 of National Planning Practice Guidance. In addition: The development of sites in Zone 2 will be permitted where development: a) is resilient to flooding through design and layout which follows a sequential approach and includes hazard free access to sites for pedestrians and vehicles in the event of flooding; b) has floor levels which are above the 1 in 100-year flood level plus an allowance for climate change (in line with the latest climate change guidance), with appropriate freeboard; and c) incorporates appropriate mitigation measures, such as on-site flood defence works and/or a contribution towards or a commitment to undertake such off-site measures as may be necessary. Development in defended Zone 3a will only be considered where it can be demonstrated that it meets requirements A), B), & C) above, and: d) it is safe from residual risk of flood defences failing, e.g. overtopping breach and pump failure, and e) it does not impede flow rates or reduce flood plain storage unless compensatory storage is provided on a level-for-level and volume-for-volume basis. Development on undefended Zone 3a will only be considered where it can be demonstrated that it meets requirements of A), B), C), E) above and: f) is appropriate in accordance with Table 3 of the National Planning Practice Guidance, or g) cannot be located on land at lower risk due to lack of suitable land, where there are exceptional reasons for the development to take place in that location.

Sustainable Drainage Systems

For major developments, proposals should demonstrate through a surface water drainage strategy that properties will not be at risk from surface water flooding allowing for climate change effects. Surface water management should be undertaken, wherever practicable through the utilisation of appropriate SuDS techniques which mimic natural drainage patterns, and where appropriate achieve net gains for nature through the creation of ponds and wetlands near watercourses and the introduction of blue green corridors. For SuDS techniques which are designed to encourage infiltration, a site-specific infiltration test will be required to ensure that the water table is low enough. For sites which lie within or close to groundwater protection zones or aquifers, guidance should be sought from the Lead Local Flood Authority. Where SuDS are not technically feasible, the applicant is required to provide evidence that a connection to a public surface water sewer is necessary. All developments will be expected to be designed to achieve, where appropriate, a net decrease in surface water run-off rates, including through green infrastructure provision such as the planting of native trees and bushes and the consideration of using 'green roofs'. All developments on greenfield sites will be expected to achieve greenfield run-off rates. All developments will be required to manage surface water through keeping to a minimum the creation of non-permeable areas. For allocated sites, any surface water management strategy should demonstrate how site-specific guidance in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has been implemented.

Equestrian Development

Extensions to existing equestrian operations or development of new equestrian facilities in open countryside locations will be granted, where it can be demonstrated that: a) The development will not have an adverse effect on the landscape or the character of the area; b) The development, or effects resulting from the development, will not have an unacceptable impact on residential amenity; c) The development is grouped where possible with new/existing structures; d) The development would not result in the loss of best quality agricultural land; and e) Size, scale, design and construction materials are appropriate to its setting and function. f) Where possible, it should link with the existing Bridleway network. g) The development will not have an overly adverse impact on the highway network. In assessing the proposals, the Council will consider the justification given, the sustainability credentials of the development and the cumulative impact when formulating its decision. Where possible, proposals should make use of existing buildings and/or where possible use sites within or adjoining settlements.

Biodiversity and Geodiversity

The Borough Council will seek to achieve net gains for nature and proactively seek habitat creation as part of new development proposals. It will protect and enhance biodiversity, ecological networks and geological conservation interests throughout the Borough and beyond its boundaries, by supporting proposals which: A) protect, extend or strengthen the Borough's most ecologically sensitive areas, including the River Wreake Valley; B) contribute to the provision of coherent wildlife networks; C) create new habitat; D) re-naturalise rivers and streams wherever possible through the removal of hard engineered structures such as reinforced banks, weirs and culverts; E) promote the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats as listed in the UK Priority Habitat Species List and Leicestershire Local Biodiversity Action Plan; and F) promote the use of fencing which incorporates holes for wildlife; provided they do not harm: G) existing, potential or proposed internationally important sites, such as Rutland Water Special Protection Area/Ramsar either individually or cumulatively in association with other plans or projects; H) nationally important sites; I) Local Wildlife Sites (including candidate and potential), Local Geological Sites, including ancient woodlands, ancient and veteran trees, hedgerows and existing corridors such as disused railways, that allow movement of wildlife between sites; J) river corridors; K) biodiversity and geo-diversity designations identified in a Neighbourhood Plan; and L) priority habitats & species identified in the UK Priority Habitat Species List and Local Biodiversity Action Plans and the Melton Biodiversity and Geodiversity Study, unless it can be demonstrated that there is no alternative site available and there are clear and convincing benefits of the development that clearly outweigh the nature conservation or scientific interest of the site. In this case, adequate mitigation measures or, exceptionally, compensatory measures will be required at a level equivalent to the biodiversity value of the habitat lost. Such proposals must be accompanied by ecological surveys and an assessment of the impacts on biodiversity and geodiversity. Proposals for allocated sites should be informed by the site survey results and the recommendations for mitigation and enhancement in the Biodiversity and Geo-diversity Study. The Borough Council will support the need for the appropriate management and maintenance of existing and created habitats through the use of planning conditions, planning obligations and management agreement.

The Melton Green Infrastructure Network

A strategic approach to the delivery, protection and enhancement of green infrastructure will be taken by the Borough Council working with partners, in order to deliver new assets where deficits have been identified in the green infrastructure strategy and to enhance the following primary green infrastructure areas: 1. Melton North and Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhoods in accordance with Policy C1; 2. Areas of Separation in accordance with Policy EN4; 3. River Wreake and River Eye strategic corridor; 4. Jubilee Way; 5. Leicestershire Round Footpath; 6 Melton Country Park; 7 Grantham Canal; 8. The Wolds Escarpment; 9 Burrough on the Hill Country Park; and 10. Newark to Market Harborough disused railway line. New development proposals will be supported where they retain and enhance important green infrastructure elements such as: 11. Watercourses (including ditches) and their riparian zones with buffers (free from development or formal landscaping) extending to a minimum of 8 metres from the top of the bank (on both banks) of any given watercourse; 12. Woodland, orchard, mature trees, hedgerows; 13. Local BAP Habitats and those supporting local BAP priority species and species in the UK Priority Habitat Species List; 14. Access routes (public rights of way and permitted routes); 15. Existing public green space including sports pitches in accordance with the Playing Pitch Strategy, allotments and designated Local Green Space; 16. Areas of geological and archaeological interest; 17. Green infrastructure identified in the Areas of Separation, Settlement Fringe Sensitivity and Local Green Space Study; and 18. Historic Parkland. The Council will particularly support proposals which contribute towards: 19. The 6Cs Green Infrastructure and Strategic Networks; and 20. The Woodland Trust's Access to Woodland Standards. New or enhanced green infrastructure corridors and assets should be as inclusive as possible and look to make provision for more than one of the following: A) access to employment and leisure facilities and to the countryside; B) physical activity and well-being opportunities for local residents such as formal sports in accordance with the Playing Pitch Strategy, parks and allotment provision; C) provide high quality bridleways, walking and cycling links between the corridor and towns and villages; D) educational resources for local residents; E) biodiversity opportunities including the provision of tree planting, shrubs and other natural features on all new development sites; F) mitigating and adapting to climate change, including through tree planting; G) enhancement of landscape character in accordance with Policy EN1; H) protection or enhancement of heritage assets and their setting in accordance with Policy EN13; and I) opportunities for sustainable leisure and tourism. Where new development has an adverse impact on green infrastructure corridors or assets, alternative sites and scheme designs that have no or little impact should be considered before mitigation is provided (either on site or off site as appropriate). The need for and benefit of the development will be weighed against the harm caused.

Areas of Separation

New development proposals will be required to: A. Avoid the coalescence of settlements by maintaining the principle of separation between them; B. Retain highly tranquil parts of the landscape between settlements; and C. Safeguard the individual character of settlements. New development proposals will be supported where they respect the following areas of separation as identified in the 'Areas of Separation, Settlement Fringe Sensitivity and Local Green Space Study' as shown on the Policies Map: • Melton Mowbray and Burton Lazars • Melton Mowbray and Thorpe Arnold • Melton Mowbray and Asfordby Hill • Melton Mowbray and Eye Kettleby • Asfordby and Asfordby Valley • Asfordby Hill/Valley and Kirby Bellars • Bottesford and Easthorpe • Bottesford and Normanton • Old Dalby and Old Dalby Trading Estate In addition, new development proposals will be supported where they respect any Areas of Separation identified in a Neighbourhood Plan.

Local Green Space

Development proposals will be required to protect designated Local Green Spaces in the Borough. Proposals should not harm the key features, value and functionality of a Local Green Space such that its character is protected. Neighbourhood Plans are encouraged to designate additional Local Green Space as evidenced by the Areas of Separation, Settlement Fringe Sensitivity and Local Green Space Study or other up to date evidence document.

Settlement Character

Development proposals will be supported where they do not harm open areas which: 1. contribute positively to the individual character of a settlement; 2. contribute to the setting of historic built form and features; 3. contribute to the key characteristics and features of conservation areas; and 4. form a key entrance and/or gateway to a settlement. Development proposals will also be supported where they do not harm individual features of a settlement which contribute towards settlement character as identified in a Neighbourhood Plan, including non-designated heritage assets.

Open Space, Sport and Recreation

Where there are identified local deficiencies in the quantity, accessibility and/or quality of open space, sports and recreational facilities, new residential development of 10 dwellings or more will be required to contribute towards their provision and/or enhancement, in accordance with the table below, subject to viability considerations. Quantity standards and playing pitch requirements Open space typology Standard (ha/1000 population) Parks and gardens 1.92 Natural and semi-natural greenspace 1.38 Amenity greenspace 0.77 Provision for children and young people 0.13 Allotments 0.38 Playing pitches Requirement (ha/1000 population) Football pitches 0.41 New development proposals will be supported where they protect sports facilities and strategically important sites and key centres as identified in the Playing Pitch Strategy. The strategic open space, sport and recreation needs of the Borough up to 2036 will be met by working in partnership with Parish Councils through the development of Neighbourhood Plans, and with other partners, to deliver: A. New allotment space as part of new development in Melton Mowbray, Bottesford and Waltham on the Wolds. B. Enhancement of the following natural greenspaces: Stathern Road Local Nature Reserve; Wymondham Rough SSSI; Cribbs Meadow SSSI and National Nature Reserve; and River Meadow (Lake Terrace) and Dieppe Way/Nottingham Road. C. 7.5ha of amenity greenspace in central Melton and 0.25ha of space in west Melton. D. 2.59ha of parks/gardens in central Melton. E. 0.44ha of facilities for children and young people in central Melton, 0.1ha of provision in north Melton and 0.38ha of provision in west Melton. F. New teenage facilities to a minimum of 0.04ha in Buckminster and 0.04ha in Burton & Dalby. G. Redevelopment of King Edward VII community sports centre to the Melton Sports and Leisure Village, a multi-sports hub, in accordance with the Melton Indoor Sports Facilities Strategy 2016-2021.

Heritage Assets

The Borough of Melton contains heritage assets that are at risk through neglect, decay or other threats. These will be conserved, protected and where possible enhanced. The Council will take a positive approach to the conservation of heritage assets and the wider historic environment through: A) seeking to ensure the protection and enhancement of Heritage Assets including non-designated heritage assets when considering proposals for development affecting their significance and setting. Proposed development should avoid harm to the significance of historic sites, buildings or areas, including their setting. B) seeking new developments to make a positive contribution to the character and distinctiveness of the local area. C) ensuring that new developments in conservation areas are consistent with the identified special character of those areas, and seeking to identify new conservation areas, where appropriate; D) seeking to secure the viable and sustainable future of heritage assets through uses that are consistent with the heritage asset and its conservation; E) allowing sustainable tourism opportunities in Heritage Assets in the Borough where the uses are appropriate and would not undermine the integrity or significance of the heritage asset: and F) the use of Article 4 directions where appropriate. G) taking account of any local heritage assets listed in Neighbourhood Plans.

Self Build and Custom Build Housing

To support prospective self-builders and custom builders on sites of 100 dwellings or more, developers will supply at least 5% of serviced dwelling plots, for sale, at an appropriate price, to self-builders or custom builders, which will be controlled by the following means: A) the Council may seek developments of 5 self-build or custom build dwellings in a single site location to be developed in accordance with an agreed design code; B) where plots have been made available and marketed appropriately for at least 12 months and have not sold, the plot(s) may either remain on the open market or be built out by the developer. C) marketed plots should be of a size at least equal to that of those for detached dwellings of 2-3 bedrooms on the main development site. In locations within or adjacent to the built form of settlements and those in keeping with the surrounding area, self-build proposals for community schemes will be particularly supported.

Housing proposals

Housing proposals will be supported where they provide: 1. A mix of dwellings in accordance with Policy C2; 2. Affordable housing in accordance with Policy C4; 3. The necessary infrastructure required to support development in accordance with Policy IN1; and 4. High quality design in accordance with Policy D1. 5. The requirements as set out in Appendix 1 or relevant Neighbourhood Plan. The development of sites allocated in Neighbourhood Plans that have reached post examination status prior to the adoption of this local plan and which are not identified in Policy C1(A) or C1(B) may also be permitted, subject to the conditions and criteria above.

Reserve Sites

Proposals for new housing development on the reserve sites listed in this policy and identified on the Policies Map will be permitted where: a) It helps to meet the identified housing requirement and development needs of the settlement; and b) It will secure the sustainability of the settlement; and c) It is demonstrated that a) and b) above cannot be achieved through allocation under Policy C1(A) and other permissions granted. Where proposals on reserve sites are submitted, assessment will be carried out taking into account the following: i. the degree to which the allocated requirement is unmet within a settlement; ii. the likelihood that the allocated sites and outstanding permissions in the relevant settlement category (Melton Mowbray or Service Centre) will be delivered; and iii. evidence of the extent of community support through allocation of reserve sites in Neighbourhood Plans and/or bespoke approaches to measuring support.

Housing Allocations

New housing will be delivered within the Local Plan on the following sites: Melton Mowbray Site Reference Address Capacity MNSN Melton North Sustainable Neighbourhood 1500 SMSN South Melton Sustainable Neighbourhood 1700 MEL1 Land at Nottingham Road 85 MEL2 Site of King Edward VII school, Burton Road 120 MEL3 Hilltop Farm, Nottingham Road 75 MEL4 Top End, Cattle Market 26 MEL5 Silverdale, Scalford Road 16 MEL6 Land fronting Dieppe Way, Scalford Road 37 MEL7 Land at Thorpe Road 16 MEL8 Beeby's Yard, Burton Street 11 MEL9 Wycliffe House, Snow Hill 20 MEL10 Land adjacent to St Bartholomew's Way and Horseguards Way 70 MELTON MOWBRAY TOTAL 3676 Service Centres Site Reference Address Capacity ASF1 Land east of Station Lane & south of Klondyke Way 100 ASF2 Fields south of Bypass and north of Regency Road 55 ASF3 Land off Hoby Road, Asfordby 70 Asfordby Total 225 BOT1 Land rear of Daybell's Farm & 18 Grantham Road 41 BOT2 Land off Grantham Road 65 BOT3 Rectory Farm 163 BOT4 Land at bottom of Beacon Hill, Normanton Lane 88 Bottesford Total 357 CROX1 Land west of Saltby Road east of Highfields Farm 39 CROX2 Land east of Saltby Road & south of A607 10 CROX3 Land south of Main Street (A607) and west of the Nook 10 Croxton Kerrial Total 59 HAR1 Allotment Gardens, Boyers Orchard 15 HAR2 Former Cheese Producing Dairy, Langar Lane 10 HAR3 Former Millway Foods, Colston Lane 53 HAR4 Land at Colston Lane 50 Harby Total 128 HOS1 Land off Canal Lane 41 HOS2 Land west of Harby Lane 35 Hose Total 76 LONG1 Land at Melton Road 10 LONG2 Corner of Broughton Lane & Hickling Lane 35 LONG3 Birleys Garage, Waltham Lane 45 Long Clawson Total 90 OLD1 North Lodge Farm, Longcliffe Hill 28 Old Dalby Total 28 SCAL1 Land south of Melton Road 23 Scalford Total 23 SOM1 Football field at Somerby 27 SOM2 Land off High Street 42 Somerby Total 69 STAT1 Point Farm, Main Street 65 STAT2 Land adjacent Lavesley House 14 City Road Stathern 10 Stathern Total 75 WAL1 Land rear of 48 High Street 26 WAL2 Land east of Melton Road 105 Waltham on the Wolds Total 131 WYM1 Glebe Road 12 WYM2 Land off Butt Lane 21 WYM3 Land known as Brickyard Lane 22 Wymondham Total 55 SERVICE CENTRES TOTAL 1316 Rural Hubs Site Reference Address Capacity ABK1 Land off A606 10 Ab Kettleby Total 10 ASFH1 Land off Houghton Close & Glebe Road 40 ASFH2 Land of Stanton Road 47 Asfordby Hill Total 87 EAST1 Land east of Green Lane 9 EAST2 Land west of Green Lane 12 Easthorpe Total 21 FRIS1 Land off Great Lane 48 FRIS2 Water Lane 22 FRIS3 Land south of village 48 Frisby on the Wreake Total 137 GADD1 Holme Farm 14 GADD2 Land off Pasture Lane 11 GADD3 Land north of Pasture Lane 11 Gaddesby Total 36 GREA1 Land off Burdett Close 37 Great Dalby Total 37 THOR1 Land to the South East of Thorpe Road, (A607) 13 THOR2 Land to the west of Thorpe Road 11 Thorpe Arnold Total 24 RURAL HUBS TOTAL 333 Housing proposals will be supported where they provide: 1. A mix of dwellings in accordance with Policy C

Housing Mix

We will seek to manage the delivery of a mix of house types, tenures and sizes to balance the current housing offer, having regard to market conditions, housing needs and economic viability, taking account of site specific circumstances and the housing mix information set out in Table 8 or in any future update of the housing mix evidence. Residential proposals for developments for 10 or more dwellings should seek to provide an appropriate mix and size of dwellings to meet the needs of current and future households in the Borough including extra care and accessible housing, having regard to the latest evidence of housing need. Residential developments which include bungalows will be particularly supported. Proposals for retirement homes, sheltered homes and care homes will be supported and encouraged to meet the technical standard for access of Building Regulations 2015 Part M4(2) or any subsequent revisions. Proposals for wheelchair accessible dwellings, where the Council is responsible for allocating or nominating residents, will be encouraged to meet the technical standard for access of Building Regulations 2015 Part M4(3), or any subsequent revisions.

National Space Standard and Smaller Dwellings

Residential developments for open market housing will be particularly supported where the national space standard is applied to dwellings with up to and including 3 bedrooms. For affordable housing, schemes using the Housing Quality Indicators standards will be supported.

Affordable Housing Provision

Melton Borough Council will seek to manage the delivery of around 1300 new affordable homes between 2011 and 2036 in order to balance the housing stock and meet the community's housing needs. It will do this by applying a target for affordable homes within housing developments on all sites of 11 or more units and/or where the floor space exceeds 1000 m2, having regard to market conditions, housing needs, housing mix (in regard to tenure, type and size), economic viability and other infrastructure requirements based on the following percentages for different value areas: Location Minimum percentage of affordable housing Value Area 1 40% Value Area 2 32% Value Area 3 25% Value Area 4 15% Melton North Sustainable Neighbourhood 15% Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhood 15% Melton Mowbray 5% -10% The Council will also manage the delivery of schemes through private registered providers and our own delivery programme of affordable housing over the whole plan period.

Affordable Housing through Rural Exception Sites

To enable the provision of affordable housing in the rural areas, the Council will consider proposals for 100% affordable housing on sites which would not normally be acceptable for general market housing, where there is a demonstrable need from people with a local connection. This 'Rural Exceptions' housing shall remain 'affordable' in perpetuity to continue to meet local need. Starter Homes will not be provided on rural exception sites as they cannot be held in perpetuity in the same way as affordable housing. Rural Exceptions schemes will be considered in settlements with a population of fewer than 3,000 where a demonstrable need exists. Provision may also be made where groups of villages can demonstrate a combined local need. In some circumstances (most likely due to viability), it will be acceptable to provide an element of market housing on rural exception sites, to cross subsidise the affordable housing.

Agricultural Workers' Dwellings

Proposals for the development/creation of agricultural/forestry and other rural workers dwellings will be granted so long as it is demonstrated that: a) the proposal can be proven to be economically viable; b) the need for the labour is essential, permanent and full time; c) the necessity for workers to live on or in close proximity to the premises can be adequately demonstrated; d) It can be shown that there are no existing dwellings that could meet the requirements of the enterprise near to the premises which would be available and suitable; e) the proposal is close to the agricultural/forestry operation, and in circumstances where this cannot be achieved, the development must be in a logical location which will not have a detrimental impact on the landscape and amenity; f) the development of a new dwelling would not provide an obvious opportunity for infill development; g) the design of the dwelling, including scale, materials and curtilage would be in keeping with design Policy D1; h) satisfactory access and services can be provided; i) public sector expenditure on the provision of infrastructure will not be required; j) Applications for agricultural / rural workers' dwellings should be of an appropriate size and scale. Applications for dwellings with extensive facilities which are deemed to be excessive and beyond the remit of the operation will be refused.

Development Strategy

Provision will be made for the development of at least 6,125 homes and some 51 hectares of employment land between 2011 and 2036 in Melton Borough. Housing delivery is planned to increase within the plan period as follows: Period Average annual housing requirement 2011-2021 a minimum of 170 dpa 2021-2026 a minimum of 245 dpa 2026-2036 a minimum of 320 dpa The 5-year housing land supply will be calculated on the basis of the relevant requirement for the period in accordance with the above. Subject to any review of the Plan, any shortfall in delivery from the start of the Plan period will be addressed by applying the Liverpool Approach, with the shortfall being delivered over the remaining years of the Plan period. This is necessary to ensure that the Plan's policies for a significant uplift in the supply of housing in the 5-year period following adoption, as part of the Plan's sustainable, long term growth strategy, are not undermined by the setting of unrealistic housing targets in the short term. Development will be distributed across the Borough in accordance with the spatial strategy set out below: Melton Mowbray Main Urban Area is the priority location for growth and will accommodate approximately 65% of the Borough's housing need. The role and sustainability of Melton Mowbray will be significantly enhanced through the delivery of at least 3,980 homes and up to 31 hectares of additional employment land by 2036 on allocated and other sustainable sites in accordance with Policy SS1 above. Development will be expected to contribute positively to the provision of key infrastructure, including traffic relief within the town, to support its growing population and economy. Service Centres and Rural Hubs will accommodate approximately 35% of the Borough's housing residual requirement (1822) on a proportionate basis. This will be delivered by planning positively for the development of sites allocated within and adjoining the Service Centres and Rural Hubs by 2036, and by encouraging small scale residential windfall development, where it would represent sustainable development under Policy SS1 above or would enhance the sustainability of the community in accordance with Policy SS3 - Sustainable Communities. Alongside Service Centres and Rural Hubs, Rural Settlements will accommodate a proportion of the Borough's housing need, to support their role in the Borough through planning positively for new homes as 'windfall' sites within and adjoining settlements by 2036. This development will be delivered through small unallocated sites which meet the needs and enhance the sustainability of the settlement in accordance with Policy SS3. Open Countryside: Outside the settlements identified as Service Centres, and those villages identified as Rural Hubs and Rural Settlements, new development will be restricted to that which is necessary and appropriate in the open countryside. Neighbourhood Plans: The Council will support the preparation of Neighbourhood Plans and development proposals promoted through Neighbourhood Plans, provided that they are consistent with the strategic policies and proposals included within this Local Plan.

Sustainable Communities (unallocated sites)

In rural settlements outside the main urban area, the Council will seek to protect and enhance existing services and facilities and will support sustainable development proposals in accordance with Policy SS2 above which contribute towards meeting local development needs, contributing towards the vision and strategic priorities of the plan, and improving the sustainability of our rural areas. In addition to those sites allocated through the local plan, planning permission will be granted for new residential development in the rural area within or on the edge of existing settlements, provided it is in keeping with the scale and character of the host settlement and where: 1. The development provides housing which meets a proven local need as identified by substantive evidence, for example within in a Neighbourhood Plan or appropriate community-led strategy, or a housing assessment or other evidence provided by the applicant; and 2. The development respects the Borough's landscape and settlement character such that it conforms with policies EN1, EN4 and EN6; and that (where relevant), the design conforms with Policy D1 and applicable environmental policies in any relevant Neighbourhood Plan; and 3. The development will be served by sustainable infrastructure and or provide new infrastructure or services to the wider benefit of the settlement; and 4. The development respects ecological, heritage and biodiversity features and where appropriate provides mitigation to prevent any potential harm; and 5. Where possible the development does not result in the loss of best and most versatile agricultural land; and 6. The development can be adequately drained and would not increase the risk of flooding, in accordance with Policy EN11.

Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhood (Strategic Development Location)

Melton Borough Council will work in partnership with developers and delivery partners to deliver the Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhood (MSSN) identified as a strategic development location on the Policies Map. The Sustainable Neighbourhood will provide: Housing h1: 2,000 homes (of which 1,700 will be delivered before 2036), 15% of which should be affordable; subject to viability h2: Homes of a range of tenures, types and sizes in accordance with Policy C2; Extra care housing to meets the needs of our ageing population in accordance with Policies C2, C3 and C8. Employment em1: 20 hectares of employment land for B1 (business) B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) uses to expand and enhance the existing Leicester Road Business Park. Community facilities c1: A new primary school (2.5 hectares) as part of a local centre and financial contributions towards secondary education, to meet the identified need for school places; and c2: An accessible local centre to serve the needs of the residents of the development including: A A parade of shops providing up to 400 sq.m (net) of A1 (retail) B Up to 400 sq.m (net) of other 'A2 – A5 class' uses; C Small-scale employment opportunities (including B1 (a) office uses); and D: A range of appropriate non-retail and community facilities and services (including community hall and medical services). Transport t1: A comprehensive package of transport improvements informed by an appropriate transport assessment including: A: A strategic road link connecting the A606 to the A607 forming part of the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road as part of a wider agreed scheme; and B: Measures to mitigate the short and medium term impacts of development on the existing transport network where adverse impacts are identified; C: New and enhanced bus services connecting the development with the Town Centre and local employment opportunities. t2: Measures that seek to achieve a modal shift away from private car use including: A: frequent bus service from the site into Melton Mowbray Town Centre and local employment opportunities with accessible bus stops which are less than 400 metres walk from all new residents; B: well-connected street patterns and walkable neighbourhoods providing high quality, safe and direct walking, cycling and public transport routes including links using the green infrastructure network; C: the retention of existing and provision of new walking, cycling and road connections within Melton Mowbray, to town centre facilities, and to existing and new employment and education services; and D: provision of a Travel Plan for new residents which includes measures to encourage the use of public transport, as part of a wider travel plan. Environment en1: Protection of the separate identities of Burton Lazars and Eye Kettleby in accordance with Policy EN4 and respond to settlement fringe sensitivity in accordance with Policy EN1 to create a locally distinctive development and an improved town edge, with particular regard to the ridgeline to the south of Melton Mowbray that separates the visual connection between Melton Mowbray and Burton Lazars; en2: Protection and enhancement of important areas of bio-diversity (habitats and species), in accordance with Policy EN2, including: A: Protection and enhancement to the existing wildlife corridors and, where appropriate, provide new corridors to create a coherent network of biodiversity and green infrastructure, specifically the River Wreake tributaries and the Edendale Brook; and B: Establish a protection zone between the River Eye SSSI and any future development; and en3: Protection and enhancement of historic and archaeological features in accordance with Policy EN13; high quality, sensitive design, development extent and road alignment to mitigate the setting impact of the development including the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road on the significance of St Mary and St Lazarus Hospital Scheduled Ancient Monument, avoiding or minimising conflict between the developement and the conservation of the Scheduled Monument's significance in its setting, in addition to connecting green links within the development to the wider landscape setting of the monument, and contributions towards improvements in the public understanding of its value. en4: Provide a network of new high quality multi-functional green spaces in accordance with the Council's open space standards set out in Policy EN7; en5: Provision of, or contributions towards, sports pitches and indoor leisure facilities in the town, in accordance with the Playing Pitch Strategy and Indoor Facilities Assessment (see Policy EN7); en6: Encourage developers to provide a development that compiles with building regulations for energy efficiency and carbon emissions, and to seek 10% of houses that obtain energy from renewable sources; en7: Buildings and spaces which are adaptable to future climatic conditions including extremes of temperature, drought and flooding; en8: Development that provides appropriate SuDS and flood alleviation measures in accordance with the Melton South assessment in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment. Areas of the MSSN that are at higher risk of flooding shall not be used for built development; and en9: Protection and enhancement of water quality. Master planning and delivery A master plan, including a phasing and delivery plan, should be prepared and agreed in advance of, or as part of, submission of a planning application for the Melton South Sustainable Neighbourhood (MSSN). In order to achieve a comprehensive approach, the master plan should be prepared for the whole SSN including the adjacent employment site. It will set out in detail the structure and development concepts of the SSN to include, amongst other things: m1: The amount, distribution and location of proposed land uses alongside a timetable for their delivery; m2: Important environmental features, including high grade agricultural land and biodiversity sites, and heritage assets that are to be protected; m3: Areas of green infrastructure and green space (including important strategic green gaps to be protected); and m4: Areas of new landscaping; m5: Design which performs well against Building for Life 12 and seeks to develop the principles of 'Active Design', in accordance with Policy D1. The MSSN master plan will be prepared in consultation with key stakeholders. Planning permission will not normally be granted for the SSN until a comprehensive master plan has been completed to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority. The Local Planning Authority will monitor compliance of the delivery of the SSN in accordance with the agreed master plan and delivery timetable. Where slippage against the agreed delivery timetable in excess of 1 year is identified, the Local Planning Authority will review the master plan and delivery timetable with partners to ensure sustainable development is delivered in accordance with the Policy. Subsequent development shall be in accordance with the master plan and agreed design codes.

Melton North Sustainable Neighbourhood

Melton Borough Council will work in partnership with developers and delivery partners to deliver the Melton North Sustainable Neighbourhood (MNSN) identified as a strategic development location on the Policies Map. The Sustainable Neighbourhood will provide: Housing h1: 1,700 houses (of which 1500 will be delivered before 2036), 15% of which should be affordable, subject to viability h2: Homes of a range of tenures, types and sizes in accordance with Policy C2; Extra care housing to meets the needs of our ageing population in accordance with Policies C2, C3 and C8; and Employment em1: Small scale employment uses as part of a new local centre. Employment uses will mainly be for B1(a) offices. Other employment uses will be acceptable where they could be satisfactorily accessed and activities undertaken without adversely affecting the amenities of the residents of nearby houses. Community facilities c1: A new primary school (2.5 hectares) as part of a local centre and financial contributions or additional land provision towards secondary education to meet the identified need for school places; c2: An accessible local centre that will incorporate a mix of uses including 'small-scale' retail uses (up to 200 square metres), office based employment uses and a range of community facilities & services, including healthcare facilities as necessary. Transport t1: A comprehensive package of transport improvements informed by an appropriate transport assessment including: A: A strategic road link connecting A606 Nottingham Road to Melton Spinney Road forming part of the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road as part of a wider agreed scheme; B: Securing a route that allows north/south connectivity as part of the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road; C: Measures to mitigate the impact of development on the existing transport network where adverse impacts are identified; D: New and enhanced bus services connecting the development with the town centre and local employment opportunities; and E: Provision of new walking and cycle links as part of the proposed development. F: The Melton Park Greenway – a series of measures that improve accessibility and the attractiveness of walking and cycling connections through the Melton Country Park to the town centre and other town attractors such as employment, education and retail. t2: Measures that seek to achieve a modal shift away from private car use including: A: a frequent bus service from the site into Melton Mowbray Town Centre and local employment opportunities with accessible bus stops which are less than 400 metres walk from all new residents; B: Well-connected street patterns and walkable neighbourhoods providing high quality, safe and direct walking, cycling and public transport routes including links using the green infrastructure network; C: The retention of existing and provision of new walking, cycling and road connections within Melton Mowbray; to town centre facilities; and to existing and new employment and education services; and D: Provision of a Travel Plan for new residents which includes measures to encourage the use of public transport, as part of a wider travel plan. Environment en1: Protection to the separate identities of Scalford and Thorpe Arnold in accordance with Policy EN4 and respond to settlement fringe sensitivity in accordance with Policy EN1 to create a locally distinctive development and an improved town edge; en2: Protection and enhancement of historic assets and their settings; en3: Seek to retain and mitigate any potential harm to notable areas identified in the biodiversity study, in accordance with Policy EN2, including: A: Protection and enhancement to the existing green infrastructure, local wildlife sites, wildlife corridors and, where appropriate, provide new corridors to create a coherent network of biodiversity and green infrastructure providing links from existing green infrastructure to the countryside, specifically Melton Country Park, Scalford Brook and Welby Brook and the disused railway line; B: Establish a protection zone between Melton Country Park and any future development. Development should respond to the local topography and utilise it to define the protection zone. This zone should also include the provision of an undeveloped area of land between part of the existing northern boundary of the park and the proposed distributor road. C: Establish a protection zone between areas of high ecological importance identified around Scalford Brook in the biodiversity study and any future development; en4: Provide a network of new high quality of multi-functional green spaces in accordance with the Council's open space standards set out in Policy EN7; en5: Provision, or facilitation, of sports pitches in the immediate vicinity, and contribute towards indoor built leisure facilities within Melton Mowbray, in accordance with the Playing Pitch Strategy and Indoor Facilities Assessment (see Policy EN7); en6: A development that complies with building regulations for energy efficiency and carbon emissions; en7: Buildings and spaces which are adaptable to future climatic conditions including extremes of temperature, drought and flooding; en8: Development that provides appropriate SuDS and flood alleviation measures in accordance with the Melton North assessment in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment. Areas of the MNSN that are at higher risk of flooding shall not be used for built development; and en9: Protection and enhancement of water quality. Master planning and delivery A master plan, including a phasing and delivery plan, should be prepared and agreed in advance of, or as part of, submission of a planning application for the Melton North Sustainable Neighbourhood (MNSN). In order to achieve a comprehensive approach, the master plan should be prepared for the whole MNSN. It will set out in detail the structure and development concepts of the MNSN to include: m1: The amount, distribution and location of proposed land uses alongside a timetable for their delivery; m2: Proposed key transport links, within and outside of the development, including those between the main housing and local centre, town centre and nearby employment uses, services and facilities; m3: Important environmental features, including high grade agricultural land, biodiversity sites and heritage assets that are to be protected; m4: Areas of green infrastructure and green space (including important strategic green gaps to be protected); m5: Areas of new landscaping: and m6: Design which performs well against BfL12 and seeks to develop the principles of 'Active Design', in accordance with Policy D1. The MNSN master plan will be prepared in consultation with key stakeholders. Planning permission will not normally be granted for the NSN until a comprehensive master plan has been completed to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority. The Local Planning Authority will monitor compliance of the delivery of the SSN in accordance with the agreed master plan and delivery timetable. Where slippage against the agreed delivery timetable in excess of 1 year is identified the Local Planning Authority will review the master plan and delivery timetable with partners to ensure sustainable development is delivered in accordance with the Policy. Subsequent development shall be in accordance with the master plan and agreed design codes.

Alternative Development Strategies and Local Plan Review

Melton Borough Council is committed to meeting its requirements for housing, employment and other development and infrastructure. The Council will regularly monitor delivery of new development in the context of policies and targets within this plan. Where monitoring identifies significant and persistent shortfalls in the delivery of housing and employment, infrastructure or spatial distribution that deviates significantly from the plan strategy, or there are changes within the HMA to the objectively assessed need for development or the spatial distribution of growth across the HMA, the Council will consider a full or partial review of the Local Plan to identify alternative or additional development sites. Any plan review arising from the above should be carried out quickly. The Council will prioritise exploring potential alternative or long term options in terms of their suitability, availability, infrastructure and deliverability. The circumstances in which a review (defined as being publication of an invitation to make representations in accordance with Regulation 18 of The Town and Country Planning (Local Planning)(England) Regulations 2012) will be carried out are specified as follows: • The adoption by the Council of the Strategic Growth Plan and the Memorandum of Understanding, which proposes a quantity or spatial approach that is significantly different to that set out in the Local Plan, unless there is sufficient flexibility already provided for within the Plan; or • 5 years from adoption and every 5 years subsequent to the completion of the Review; or • changes occur within the HMA to the objectively assessed need for development or the spatial distribution of growth across the HMA including Melton; or • Where, when demonstrated by the Monitoring Framework (Appendix 5), that: (i) the Housing Delivery Test indicates that delivery is below 75% of the housing requirement as set out in the housing trajectory, over the previous three years (subject to the transitional provisions in NPPF 2018); or (ii) The circumstances for review specified in Polices SS4 and SS5 above in respect of the masterplanning and delivery of the Melton Mowbray Sustainable Neighbourhoods, become applicable. The review will be commenced within 6 months of occurrence of one of the above circumstances. Where there is a made Neighbourhood Plan, the review will carried out in consultation with the NP 'qualifying bodies' and, where applicable, solutions prepared via the NP revision process. If a NP is in preparation but not made, the Council will inform the qualifying body who may consult with their community to identify alternative proposals for consideration.

Infrastructure Contributions and Community Infrastructure Levy

Development that provides additional dwellings or employment premises will be expected to help to deliver sustainable communities through the payment of Community Infrastructure Levy, where chargeable, and/or by making developer contributions to local infrastructure in proportion to the scale of its impacts, in the following order of priority: I. Essential infrastructure necessary to ensure adequate provision of essential utilities, facilities, water management and safe access, as identified in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan or Neighbourhood Plan. II. Essential infrastructure (including the Melton Mowbray Transport Strategy and its key component, the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road) as identified in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan or any made Neighbourhood Plan including contributions from residential development towards affordable housing to meet the requirement set out in Policy C4. III. Desirable infrastructure as identified in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan or any made Neighbourhood Plan.

Broadband

Information communication networks, such as superfast broadband, will be supported across the whole of Melton Borough to reduce the need to travel and will be a requirement for new developments. Proposals of 30 dwellings or more will be required to provide fixed fibre superfast broadband. Proposals for residential development of less than 30 dwellings and commercial development will be required to provide fixed fibre broadband where this is technically feasible, subject to viability. New developments must be served by either: i) Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) technology; or ii) Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) technology enabling access to broadband speeds of up to 80 megabits per second.

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. It will always work proactively with applicants jointly to 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 (and, where relevant, with polices in Neighbourhood Plans) will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no policies relevant to the application, or the policies which are most important for determining an application are out of date at the time of making the decision, then the Council will grant permission unless: i) the application of policies in this Framework that protect areas or assets of particular importance provides a clear reason for refusing the development proposed; or ii) Any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the national planning policy framework taken as a whole.

Primary Shopping Frontages

The Primary Shopping Frontages of Melton Borough Council, as designated on the Policies Map, are where the majority of A1 retail uses will be focussed over the Local Plan period. Unless permitted development rights (or any successor) indicate otherwise, ground floor A1 units in the Primary Shopping Frontages should be retained predominantly for retail use. Proposals that would involve the loss, by change of use or re-development at ground floor level will be supported provided that: 1. It makes a positive contribution to the vitality and viability of the Primary Shopping Area, as shown on the Policies Map; 2. It would not result in non-A1 retail uses within larger units being grouped together in such a way that it undermines the retail role of the frontage; 3. It would not result in a loss of A1 retail floor space or frontage of a scale harmful to the shopping function of the area; 4. It would positively restore and/or enhance the character and appearance of the unit; and 5. It would allow upper floors to be effectively used, including the possibility of independent use, where appropriate.

Retail Development in the Borough

In other settlements with an existing retail offer that acts as a service centre, town centre developments will be supported where they would be physically integrated, be of an appropriate scale and not have an adverse impact on the character of the village. A retail impact assessment will be required for all retail proposals in these locations. Assessments will be used to ensure that retail proposals do not adversely affect the vitality and viability of Melton Mowbray town centre and other retail facilities within service centres. Small independent village shops, post offices and social enterprises and farm shops up to 200m2 are exempt from this requirement. Outside of Melton Mowbray town centre and service centres, in all cases a retail impact assessment will be required to accompany applications.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism, visitor and cultural development proposals will be supported where they improve the facilities for visitors, including attractions and accommodation subject to the proposal: 1. being of an appropriate scale in the context of the host settlement; and 2. having benefits to local businesses in creating the potential to generate revenues. Attractions and facilities of a significant scale should be located firstly within the town centre, then on the edge of the town centre, and then at other accessible locations. Melton Borough Council will support, where appropriate, the restoration of the Grantham Canal. Moreover the Borough Council will resist planning applications which will have an adverse impact on tourism across the Borough, but with particular protection applied to valued attractions such as the Vale of Belvoir, Belvoir Castle and Burrough on the Hill Iron Age Fort, two of the most valued tourist attractions in the Borough. Larger proposals for tourist attractions/accommodation outside of Melton Mowbray, Service Centres and Rural Hubs may be supported, provided it can be proven to add significantly and demonstrably to the Borough's economic or tourist offer and can be demonstrated that a suitable more sustainable location is not available or practicable.

Melton Mowbray Town Centre

Melton Mowbray Town Centre will be the focus for retail growth in the Borough of Melton. The extent of the town centre and primary retail frontages is defined on the Policies Map. As part of a wider strategy to promote and enhance the town centre, the Council will work proactively with business and property owners within and on the edge of the town centre to identify development, redevelopment and site assembly opportunities to meet the identified needs for 12,670m2 net of additional comparison retail floorspace by 2036. A sequential approach will be applied to the location of proposals for main town centre uses which prioritises sites within centres ahead of edge of centre sites. Out of centre locations will only be considered if sequentially preferable sites are not available within the town centre or on the edge of the centre and if the location is accessible and well connected to the town centre. Retail impact assessments will be required to accompany proposals in Melton Mowbray for main town centre uses in edge of centre or out of centre locations where the gross floorspace proposed is above 200m2. Proposals for new retail, leisure and other 'town-centre' developments will be allowed within the defined town centre where they: 1. Enhance the compact, legible and walkable character of the town centre; 2. Maintain a vibrant and active continuous shop frontage in and around the retail core; 3. Incorporate a high quality of shop front and advertisement design; 4. Are sympathetic to the numerous heritage assets within and adjacent to the town centre; and 5. Make adequate provision for car parking where possible and appropriate. In primary shopping frontages, proposals for new, or change of use to: a. A1 retail uses will be encouraged, subject to the proposal incorporating a high quality design of shop front and advertisements. b. A2 – A5 uses will be allowed where this does not have an adverse impact on the character and/or sustainability of the primary frontage. Outside of primary shopping frontages, but within the defined town centre, proposals for commercial leisure uses, restaurants, bars & pubs

Melton Mowbray Transport Strategy (MMTS)

The Borough Council will work with Leicestershire County Council, landowners, developers and others to deliver a transport strategy for Melton Mowbray. The MMTS will comprise the following key components, to be funded and delivered by private developers and the public sector: (a) A Melton Mowbray Distributor Road (MMDR) from the A606 Nottingham Road to the A607 Leicester Road around the east of the town, in accordance with the broad design standards and requirements outlined in paragraph 8.3.17, for which a 'corridor of investigation' is shown on the Policies Map; and (b) A package of complementary measures, including enhanced pedestrian, cycling and public transport facilities and access to the town centre and the other main local journey attractors from the southern and northern urban extensions. If development is proposed within the corridor shown on the Policies Map, it may be permitted provided that it has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Local Highway Authority that it would not prejudice the ability to deliver the MMDR as

Melton Mowbray Transport Strategy (MMTS)

The Borough Council will work with Leicestershire County Council, landowners, developers and others to deliver a transport strategy for Melton Mowbray. The MMTS will comprise the following key components, to be funded and delivered by private developers and the public sector: (a) A Melton Mowbray Distributor Road (MMDR) from the A606 Nottingham Road to the A607 Leicester Road around the east of the town, in accordance with the broad design standards and requirements outlined in paragraph 8.3.17, for which a 'corridor of investigation' is shown on the Policies Map; and (b) A package of complementary measures, including enhanced pedestrian, cycling and public transport facilities and access to the town centre and the other main local journey attractors from the southern and northern urban extensions. If development is proposed within the corridor shown on the Policies Map, it may be permitted provided that it has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Local Highway Authority that it would not prejudice the ability to deliver the MMDR as a whole. Where necessary, the Council and/or the Local Highway Authority will use its compulsory purchase powers to deliver section(s) of the MMDR. Where a transport assessment indicates that development will add to the cumulative traffic and other transport problems of Melton Mowbray, a financial or in kind contribution will be sought towards delivery of the MMDR and/or complementary measures proposed through the wider MMTS, including appropriate mitigation necessary to reduce local traffic impacts whilst the MMDR is incomplete. The Borough Council will also work with other bodies to explore opportunities to enhance the public realm in and around Melton Mowbray town centre arising from the development of the Strategy.

Transport, Accessibility and Parking

The 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. All new developments should, where possible, have regard to all the following: 1. be located where travel can be minimised and the use of sustainable transport modes maximised; 2. Minimise 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; 3. Seek to generate or support the level of demand required to improve, introduce or maintain public transport services, such as rail and bus services; 4. Do not unacceptably impact on the safety and movement of traffic on the highway network or that any such impacts can be mitigated through appropriate improvements; 5. Support the enhancement of existing or proposed transport interchanges such as the railway stations at Melton Mowbray and Bottesford; 6. Provide appropriate and effective parking provision and servicing arrangements.