Planning in Test Valley

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

Development to accommodate gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople will be permitted provided that:- a) it is located where services and facilities are accessible; and b) the potential occupants are recognised as gypsies, travellers or travelling showpeople; and c) the proposal helps meet the identified need; and d) evidence is provided to justify the reason for the proposal to be located in the Borough; and e) the site is of sufficient size to provide for accommodation; parking; turning and, where relevant, the servicing and storage of vehicles and equipment. Existing permanent authorised gypsy, traveller and travelling showpeople sites should be retained for the use of these groups unless it has been established that the sites are no longer required.

Community Services and Facilities

Development (including the change of use of existing premises) which involves the loss of local shops or public houses will be permitted if it can be demonstrated that: a) the use is no longer or cannot be made commercially viable; or b) the building can no longer provide suitable accommodation; or c) is no longer needed for the existing use. Development involving the loss of cultural and community facilities and places of worship will be permitted if it can be demonstrated that: d) there is no longer a need for that facility for its existing use or another community use; or e) the building can no longer provide suitable accommodation.

Settlement Hierarchy

Within the boundaries of the settlements identified in the hierarchy (Table 7) and identified on inset maps 1 - 55 the principle of development and redevelopment will be permitted provided that it is appropriate to the other policies of the Revised Local Plan. Development outside the boundaries of settlements in the hierarchy (as identified on map 1 - 55) will only be permitted if: a) it is appropriate in the countryside as set out in Revised Local Plan policy COM8-COM14, LE10, LE16- LE18; or b) it is essential for the proposal to be located in the countryside.

Community Led Development

Community led development will be permitted if: a) the proposal is supported by evidence that there is a need for the development to maintain or enhance the sustainability of the settlement through the delivery of community benefit; and b) it is demonstrated that the community has been involved in the preparation of the proposal; and c) it is demonstrated that the community supports the proposal; and d) the proposal, if for residential development, helps meet the affordable housing need of the parish in accordance with the thresholds contained within policy COM7 and local evidence and restrictions contained within policy COM8.

Community Safety

Development will be permitted provided that it delivers safe, accessible and liveable environments and that the design takes account of the need to reduce the opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour.

Community Led Development

Community led development will be permitted if: a) the proposal is supported by evidence that there is a need for the development to maintain or enhance the sustainability of the settlement through the delivery of community benefit; and b) it is demonstrated that the community has been involved in the preparation of the proposal; and c) it is demonstrated that the community supports the proposal; and d) the proposal, if for residential development, helps meet the affordable housing need of the parish in accordance with the thresholds contained within policy COM7 and local evidence and restrictions contained within policy COM8.

Public Open Space

New housing development where there is a net increase in population will be permitted subject to: a) the provision of open space to a standard of at least 3 hectares per 1,000 population comprising: • outdoor sports facilities 1.0 hectares • parks and public gardens 0.4 hectares • informal recreation areas 0.8 hectares • provision for children and teenagers 0.6 hectares • allotments 0.2 hectares as net areas of usable open space, excluding access, parking, ancillary buildings, landscaping and safety margins; b) the laying out and equipping of the open space to a high standard at an early stage in the development; and c) arrangements for the long term maintenance for the open space, equipment or facility having been made. Development proposals that would result in the loss of existing open spaces or other recreation facilities will only be permitted if: d) the space or facility is not needed to meet the full range of leisure and recreational needs of the local community; e) the proposed development is for an alternative open space, sport or recreation facility for which there is such a need as to outweigh the loss; or f) any space or facility to be lost would be replaced by an equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality and be in a suitable location.

Ganger Farm, Romsey

Approximately 12.6ha of land at Ganger Farm, Romsey is allocated for formal recreation and should include approximately 9.0ha of sports pitches; pavilion and appropriate car parking (see Map K). Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) a landscape belt of approximately 20 metres on the boundary of the site with Jermyns Lane; b) a landscape belt of approximately 10 metres on the boundary of Braishfield Road; c) the provision of new landscape features within the site to complement those existing features to be retained; d) avoid harming biodiversity and the amenity of residents and visitors to the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Arboretum; and e) access to the development to be provided via; i) vehicular access to Jermyns Lane ii) pedestrian and cycle access to Braishfield Road from Ganger Farm Lane.

Existing Dwellings and Ancillary Domestic Buildings in the Countryside

In the countryside proposals for the extension of existing dwellings or the creation and extension of ancillary domestic buildings will be permitted provided that: a) it is not used for any other purpose other than the incidental enjoyment of the existing dwelling or as a residential annexe to the dwelling; b) the size and design of the proposal would not be more visually intrusive in the landscape; and c) the design of the proposal is in keeping with the existing dwelling.

High Quality Development in the Borough

Development will be permitted if it is of a high quality in terms of design and local distinctiveness. To achieve this development: a) should integrate, respect and complement the character of the area in which the development is located in terms of layout, appearance, scale, materials and building styles; b) should not detract from the dominance of, or interrupt important views of, key landmark buildings or features; c) should be laid out to provide connectivity between spaces and a positive relationship between public and private spaces; and d) makes efficient use of the land whilst respecting the character of the surrounding area and neighbouring uses. Development will not be permitted if it is of poor design and fails to improve the character, function and quality of the area.

Residential Areas of Special Character

Development within residential areas of special character in Andover, Chilworth and Romsey identified on maps 1, 2 and 3 will be permitted provided that: a) the resulting sizes of both the proposed and remainder of the original plot, when sub-divided, are not significantly smaller than those in the immediate vicinity; and b) the development's size, scale, layout, type, siting and detailed design are compatible with the character of that Residential Area of Special Character.

Amenity

Development will be permitted provided that: a) it provides for the privacy and amenity of its occupants and those of neighbouring properties; b) in the case of residential developments it provides for private open space in the form of gardens or communal open space which are appropriate for the needs of residents; and c) it does not reduce the levels of daylight and sunlight reaching new and existing properties or private open space to below acceptable levels.

University of Southampton Science Park

Employment development falling within Class B1 and support facilities will be permitted within the University of Southampton Science Park (see map G), provided that: a) the use comprises scientific research and development including associated design and ancillary industrial production or appropriate support facilities; b) it is not visually intrusive in views from the M27 motorway, the A27, Chilworth Old Village, or Chilworth and does not detract from the setting of Chilworth Manor and garden; c) any development does not result in the loss of important trees within or adjoining the Science Park and is landscaped to maintain its attractive 'campus' character; and d) any new building, redeveloped building or extension to an existing building, is designed to a high standard and contributes to the character of the Science Park.

Re-Use of Buildings in the Countryside

The re-use of buildings in the countryside for commercial use (including tourist accommodation) will be permitted provided that: a) the building is structurally sound and suitable for conversion without substantial rebuilding, extension or alteration; and b) the proposal would not result in the requirement for another building to fulfil the function of the building being converted; and c) the proposed use is restricted primarily to the building; and d) development would lead to an enhancement of its immediate setting. The re-use of buildings in the countryside for residential use will be permitted provided, in addition to criteria a) – d) above, that: e) the proposal is for occupational accommodation for rural workers; or f) it is demonstrated that every reasonable attempt has been made to secure commercial use (including tourist accommodation); or g) there is no other means of protecting and retaining the building which is of architectural or historic merit.

South of Benham Campus, University of Southampton Science Park

Approximately 1.5 hectares of land to the south of Benham Campus (see Map G) is proposed for allocation as an extension to the Science Park. Development will be permitted subject to: a) the use comprises scientific research and development including associated design and ancillary industrial production or appropriate support facilities; b) the retention and enhancement of the existing wooded boundary to the south of the site; c) it not being visually intrusive in views from the M27 motorway; d) it being designed to a high standard that contributes to the character of the Science Park.

Land at Whitenap, Romsey

Approximately 6ha of land for employment (Class B1 and B2) is proposed to complement the new neighbourhood at Whitenap, Romsey proposed under Policy COM3 (see Map A). The main location for the employment allocation will be met at the southern end of the site. Any future employment development will be permitted provided that: a) the landscaping complement that proposed as part of the Whitenap proposal (Policy COM3) b) a landscape belt of approximately 10m width between the site and the residential development contained within Policy COM3 is provided; c) the design and layout of the employment site respects the approach to Romsey and proposed new neighbourhood; d) access to the development will be via; i) new vehicular access at the junction of the A27/A3057 ii) pedestrian and cycle routes to the proposed residential development e) off site improvements to the transport network in conjunction with Policy COM3.

Retention of Employment Land and Strategic Employment Sites

On existing employment sites, allocated employment sites, or sites with planning permission for employment use, which have not yet been fully implemented, development for an alternative use will be permitted provided that: a) the land is no longer required to meet economic development needs of the area; or b) the current activity is causing, or could cause significant harm to the character of the area or the amenities of residents; and c) it would not have a significant detrimental impact on the operation of the remaining occupiers of the site. On strategic employment sites identified in Annex E development for an alternative use will be permitted provided that: d) it would not have a significant detrimental impact upon the continued primary use of the site for employment; and e) criteria a), b) and c) have been satisfied.

Re-Use of Buildings in the Countryside

The re-use of buildings in the countryside for commercial use (including tourist accommodation) will be permitted provided that: a) the building is structurally sound and suitable for conversion without substantial rebuilding, extension or alteration; and b) the proposal would not result in the requirement for another building to fulfil the function of the building being converted; and c) the proposed use is restricted primarily to the building; and d) development would lead to an enhancement of its immediate setting. The re-use of buildings in the countryside for residential use will be permitted provided, in addition to criteria a) – d) above, that: e) the proposal is for occupational accommodation for rural workers; or f) it is demonstrated that every reasonable attempt has been made to secure commercial use (including tourist accommodation); or g) there is no other means of protecting and retaining the building which is of architectural or historic merit.

Employment Sites in the Countryside

The redevelopment, extension of buildings or erection of new buildings on existing employment sites for employment use will be permitted provided that: a) it is contained within the lawful employment site; and b) the proposal is well related to any retained buildings; and c) it does not include outside storage where this could be visually intrusive.

Land south of Brownhill Way, Nursling

South of Brownhill Way, Nursling (see Map H) the use of land and buildings will be restricted to storage and distribution uses (Class B8) and ancillary processing and assembly within Class B1.

Land at Bargain Farm, Nursling

Approximately 2 hectares of land for employment (Classes B1 and B2) north of Brownhill Way, Nursling at Bargain Farm is proposed to be allocated (see Map H). Development will be permitted provided that: a) a minimum width of 5m landscaping along Frogmore Lane, Adanac Drive and Yew Tree Lane is provided; and b) access to the site to be provided by: i) vehicular access from Adanac Drive ii) pedestrian and cycle access from Frogmore Lane; c) the development provides appropriate improvements to the transport network. Any future proposal would need to have special regard to the desirability of preserving the listed building or its setting or any historic feature of interest.

Land at Adanac Park, Nursling

Development for office/research/manufacturing Class B1 and exceptionally support facilities at Adanac Park, Nursling (see Map H) will be permitted provided that: a) it is designed to a high standard to respect the characteristics of the site, including its existing development, and neighbouring land uses; and b) the development provides appropriate improvements to the transport network.

Nursling Estate

Within Nursling Estate (see Map H), the use of land and buildings will be restricted to storage and distribution uses (Class B8) and ancillary processing and assembly within Class B1. Development will be permitted provided that: a) any buildings or structures are designed with and are screened by landscaping to ensure that they are not intrusive in significant views from the surrounding area and adjacent motorways; and b) open storage, including stacking of containers, will be restricted in height to no more than 7.8 metres or three containers, whichever is the lower.

Extension to Walworth Business Park

Approximately 11 hectares of land to the east of the Walworth Business Park is proposed for employment uses (Class B1(b), Class B1(c), Class B2 and Class B8) (See Map E) Development will be permitted provided that: a) it is designed to take account of its surroundings particularly with regard to Picket Piece (see policy COM6 and Map E) and its location on the approach to Andover; b) landscaping of approximately 15m wide on the southern and eastern boundary and landscaping of approximately 5m wide on the northern boundary with Walworth Road is provided; c) access to the site via; i) a new vehicular junction on Walworth Road; ii) pedestrian and cycle links to Walworth Road and to Ox Drove.

Andover Airfield Business Park

Land off Monxton Road (see Map I) is identified for employment uses (Class B1, B2 and B8). Development will be permitted provided that: a) a site of at least 0.5 hectares is to be reserved for facilities to serve the site; b) it is designed and landscaped to respect its surroundings and minimise visual intrusion particularly in relation to the A303(T); c) within the Class B1 elements 45% of the site should be provided as landscaping; and d) within the Class B2 & B8 elements 20% of the site should be provided as landscaping.

Skills and Training

Where a development has a significant impact on the labour market contributions towards the enhancement of skills training and the provision of apprenticeships within the local community will be required.

Protect, Conserve and Enhance the Landscape Character of the Borough

To ensure the protection, conservation and enhancement of the landscape of the Borough development will be permitted provided that: a) it does not have a detrimental impact on the appearance of the immediate area and the landscape character of the area within which it is located; b) it is designed and located to ensure that the health and future retention of important landscape features is not likely to be prejudiced; c) the existing and proposed landscaping and landscape features enable it to positively integrate into the landscape character of the area; d) arrangements for the long term management and maintenance of any existing and proposed landscaping have been made; and e) it conserves the landscape and scenic beauty of the New Forest National Park or the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where applicable; and f) does not result in the loss of important local features such as trees, walls, hedges or water courses.

Local Gaps

Development within Local Gaps will be permitted provided that: a) it would not diminish the physical separation and/or visual separation; and b) it would not individually or cumulatively with other existing or proposed development compromise the integrity of the gap. Local Gaps have been identified between: Andover – Anna Valley/Upper Clatford (see inset maps 1, 7 and 11); Andover – Enham Alamein/Smannell (see inset maps 1 and 19); Andover – Abbotts Ann (see inset maps 1 and 7); Andover – The Pentons (see inset maps 1 and 42); Ampfield – Valley Park (see inset maps 3, 8 and 9); North Baddesley – Chilworth (see inset maps 3 and 6); North Baddesley – Valley Park (see inset map 3); Romsey – North Baddesley (see inset map 3); and Southampton – Eastleigh (see inset maps 3, 5 and 6).

Biodiversity

Development in the Borough that will conserve, and where possible restore and / or enhance, biodiversity will be permitted. Development that is likely to result in a significant effect, either alone or in combination, on an international or European nature conservation designation, or a site proposed for such designation, will need to satisfy the requirements of the Habitat Regulations. Development likely to result in the loss, deterioration or harm to habitats or species of importance to biodiversity or geological conservation interests, either directly or indirectly, will not be permitted unless: a) the need for, and benefits of, the development in the proposed location outweighs the adverse effect on the relevant biodiversity interest; b) it can be demonstrated that it could not reasonably be located on an alternative site that would result in less or no harm to the biodiversity interests; and c) measures can be provided (and secured through planning conditions or legal agreements), that would avoid, mitigate against or, as a last resort, compensate for the adverse effects likely to result from development. The habitats and species of importance to biodiversity and sites of geological interest considered in relation to points a) to c) comprise: • Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs); • legally protected species; • Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs); • priority habitats and species listed in the national and local Biodiversity Action Plans; • habitats and species of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in England; • trees, woodlands, ancient woodland (including semi-natural and replanted woodland), aged and veteran trees, and hedgerows; and • features of the landscape that function as 'stepping stones' or form part of a wider network of sites by virtue of their coherent ecological structure or function or are of importance for the migration, dispersal and genetic exchange of wild species. The level of protection and mitigation should be proportionate to the status of the habitat or species and its importance individually and as part of a wider network.

Green Infrastructure

Development will be permitted provided that: a) it protects, conserves and where possible, enhances the Borough's Green Infrastructure network; b) it avoids the loss, fragmentation, severance or a negative impact on the function of the Green Infrastructure network; c) mitigation is provided where there would be an adverse impact on the Green Infrastructure network; and d) where it is necessary for development to take place on identified areas of Green Infrastructure an appropriate replacement is provided.

Water Management

Development will be permitted provided that: a) it does not result in the deterioration of and, where possible, assists in improving water quality and be planned to support the attainment of the requirements of the Water Framework Directive; b) it complies with national policy and guidance in relation to flood risk; c) it does not result in a risk to the quality of groundwater within a principal aquifer, including Groundwater Source Protection Zones and there is no risk to public water supplies; d) all new homes (including replacement dwellings) achieve a water consumption standard of no more than 110 litres per person per day; and e) all new non-residential development of 500sqm or more achieve the BREEAM 'excellent' credit required for water consumption (reference Wat 1). Criteria d) – e) need to be satisfied unless it can be demonstrated that it is not financially viable.

Pollution

Development will be permitted provided that it does not result in pollution which would cause unacceptable risks to human health, the natural environment or general amenity. Development that would or could potentially generate pollution will only be permitted if it can be demonstrated that there would not be any adverse impact on human health, the natural environment or general amenity. Development which is sensitive to pollution will only be permitted if the intended users are not subject to unacceptable impact from existing nearby uses having taken account of proposed mitigation measures.

Forest Park

Land adjoining the M27 Motorway is proposed as a Forest Park (see Map L). Vehicular and pedestrian/cycle access will be provided from the A3057 (Nightingale Wood); Rownhams Lane (Rownhams Wood); the A27 Botley Road (Lordswood); and Bournemouth Road (Hut Wood).

Heritage

Development and/or works affecting a heritage asset will be permitted provided that: a) it would make a positive contribution to sustaining or enhancing the significance of the heritage asset taking account of its character, appearance and setting; and b) the significance of the heritage asset has informed the proposal through an assessment proportionate to its importance. Development which will result in the substantial harm to or loss of the significance of a designated heritage asset will not be permitted unless: c) it is outweighed by the substantial benefit to the public of bringing the site back into use; or d) the nature of the heritage asset prevents all reasonable use; and e) its conservation can not be achieved by either a viable alternative use, support from public ownership or funding from other sources; and f) the harm or loss is outweighed by the benefit of bringing the site back into use. Development which will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset will be considered against the public benefit of the proposal, including securing a viable use. The merits of a development affecting an undesignated heritage asset will be balanced against the scale of the harm or loss, either directly or indirectly, to the significance of that heritage asset. The Council will only permit the loss of the whole or part of a heritage asset where it can be demonstrated that the new development will proceed after the loss has occurred.

New Neighbourhood at Whitenap, Romsey

A new neighbourhood of approximately 1,300 dwellings together with a range of facilities is proposed to the south of Romsey at Whitenap (see Map A). Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) affordable housing provision in accordance with policy COM7; b) community and education facilities, including a primary school, community hall and local centre comprising a number of uses, to meet the needs of the new community; c) public open space provision in accordance with policy LHW1 with the parkland requirement being met on the northern boundary; d) landscaping to be provided including: i) a landscape belt of approximately 20 metres along the southern boundary adjoining the A27/A3057; ii) a landscape belt of approximately 10 metres along the eastern boundary adjoining Mountbatten School; iii) new landscape and biodiversity corridors linking Beggarspath Wood to the countryside to the south; iv) retention of existing landscaping along the western boundary of the site with the A27/A3057; e) retention and enhancement of Beggarspath Wood; f) access to the development to be provided by; i) vehicular access to the A27/A3057 junction (Ashfield Roundabout); ii) vehicular access to a new junction to the east of Ashfield Roundabout iii) vehicular access to Whitenap Lane to serve development at Whitenap Barns; iv) pedestrian/cycle links to Botley Road, Whitenap Lane, Tadburn Road and the A27/A3057 via a new bridge over the railway line; v) pedestrian/cycle route within the proposed landscaping adjoining the A27 to Whitenap Lane; g) off site improvements to the transport network to manage the impact of additional movements including i) A27/Botley Rd ii) A27/Rownhams Lane iii) A27/A3090 iv) A3057/M271 h) 8.0 Ha per 1,000 population of land at Beggarspath Wood and Luzborough Plantation (Map C) to be provided to mitigate the impact of the development on sites of European importance.

New Neighbourhood at Hoe Lane, North Baddesley

A new neighbourhood of approximately 300 dwellings together with public open space and landscaping is proposed to the north of Hoe Lane, North Baddesley (see Map B). Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) affordable housing provision in accordance with policy COM7 b) improvements to community and education facilities to meet the needs of the new residents; c) public open space in accordance with policy LHW1; d) landscaping to be provided including i) a landscape belt of approximately 20m along the northern boundary adjoining the existing woodland; ii) a landscape belt of approximately 15m along the eastern boundary adjoining Sylvan Drive iii) a landscape belt of approximately 20m along the southern boundary adjoining Hoe Lane; iv) a landscape belt of approximately 20m along the western boundary. e) retention and enhancement of the existing woodland to the north of the site and the existing woodland within the site adjoining Sylvan Drive; f) access to the development via i) the primary vehicular access to Hoe Lane; ii) a secondary vehicular access to Sylvan Drive; iii) pedestrian/cycle links to Hoe Lane and Sylvan Drive; g) off-site improvements to the transport network to manage the impact of additional movements including: i) junctions of the A27 and Rownhams Road; ii) junction of the A27 and Rownhams Lane; iii) junction of the A3057 and Hoe Lane; and iv) Hoe Lane. h) 8.0Ha per 1,000 population of land at Luzborough Plantation (Map C) to be provided to mitigate the impact of the development on sites of European importance.

Residential Development at Park Farm, Stoneham

A site at Park Farm, Stoneham (see Map D) is allocated for approximately 50 dwellings to come forward alongside residential development of land south of Chestnut Avenue. Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) affordable housing provision in accordance with policy COM7; b) public open space provision in accordance with policy LHW1; c) retention and enhancement of the existing wooded boundary to the south and west of the site; d) access to the development via: i) vehicular access via Stoneham Lane; ii) pedestrian and cycle access to Stoneham Lane and the proposed development in Eastleigh; e) off-site improvements to the transport network to manage the impact of additional movements; Any future proposal would need to have special regard to the desirability of preserving the listed structure or its setting or any historic feature of interest.

New Neighbourhood at Picket Piece, Andover

A new neighbourhood of approximately 400 dwellings together with a range of associated facilities is proposed at Picket Piece, Andover (see Map E). Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) affordable housing provision in accordance with policy COM7; b) improvements to community and education facilities; c) public open space provision in accordance with policy LHW1; d) landscaping to be provided including i) a landscape belt of approximately 5 metres width south of the railway line ii) a landscape belt to complement that already permitted north of Ox Drove e) access to the development via; i) vehicular access to Walworth Rd ii) pedestrian/cycle links to Walworth Rd f) off-site improvements to the transport network to manage the impact of additional movements including: i) junctions of the A3093/A3057/A303(T) ii) pedestrian/cycle links along Ox Drove.

New Neighbourhood at Picket Twenty, Andover

A new neighbourhood of approximately 300 dwellings together with a range of facilities is proposed at Picket Twenty, Andover (see Map F). Development will be permitted subject to the provision of: a) affordable housing provision in accordance with policy COM7; b) improvements to community and education facilities; c) public open space provision in accordance with policy LHW1; d) landscaping to be provided including i) a landscape belt of approximately 10 metres width on the eastern boundary with Middle Way ii) a landscape belt of approximately 10 metres width on the northern boundary with the B3400 London Rd and existing residential properties on the B3400 London Rd iii) extension of Harewood Common to The Middle Way e) access to the development via; i) vehicular access to B3400 London Rd via the existing access road to the Picket Twenty development. ii) pedestrian/cycle links to B3400 London Road and wider network f) off-site improvements to the transport network to manage the impact of additional movements including: i) junctions and links of the A3093/A3057/A303(T).

Affordable Housing

The Council will negotiate provision on housing sites of a net gain of: • 15 or more dwellings (or sites of 0.5ha or more) for up to 40% of dwellings to be affordable; • 10-14 dwellings (or sites of 0.3-0.49ha) for up to 30% of dwellings to be affordable; • 5-9 dwellings (or sites of 0.2-0.29ha) for up to 20% of dwellings to be affordable or an equivalent off site provision made; and • 1-4 dwellings (or sites of up to 0.19ha) a financial contribution equivalent to up to 10% of dwellings to be affordable; and which will be secured via a legal agreement. In assessing the suitability of such sites for the provision of affordable housing the Council will take into account the size, suitability and the economics of provision. Development should provide for the appropriate integration of affordable housing and market housing, in order to achieve an inclusive and mixed community.

Rural Exception Affordable Housing

Development for rural affordable housing will be permitted provided that: a) the proposal is accompanied by evidence which demonstrates there is an unmet need within the parish for accommodation by households unable to afford open market housing where a member of each household has either: i) been ordinarily resident in the parish or previously lived in the parish and has a strong family connection; or ii) a demonstrable need by virtue of their employment to live in the village or its immediate surroundings; or iii) a demonstrable need to live within the village either to support or be supported by a family member. b) it is restricted in perpetuity to occupation by households with a member in housing need; and c) the proposed mix of housing meets the identified need.

Housing Provision 2011 – 2029

The housing requirement for the Borough is a minimum of 10,584 homes. Their delivery will be met through completions, commitments, unplanned development and the allocation of strategic sites. Area of the Borough | Minimum Housing Requirement for 18 year Plan Period (per annum figures provided in brackets) Andover | Northern Test Valley | 6,444 (358) | 7,092 (394) Rural Test Valley | 648 (36) Southern Test Valley | 3,492 (194) Borough Wide Total | 10,584 (588)

Occupational Accommodation for Rural Workers in the Countryside

Proposals for occupational accommodation for rural workers at or near where they work will be permitted provided that: a) where the proposal is linked to a new business in the countryside: the proposal is for temporary accommodation for a period of three years; i) there is an essential functional need for the dwelling based on evidence of that business; and ii) financial evidence has been submitted demonstrating the viability of the business and its intention to be established; and iii) the occupancy of the dwelling is restricted to those employed in the activity for which the dwelling was originally permitted; and iv) there is no other suitable and available existing accommodation within the area. b) where the proposal is linked to an existing business which has been established for three years or more: i) there is an essential functional need for the dwelling based on evidence of that business; and ii) financial evidence has been submitted demonstrating that the business is viable and established; iii) an existing dwelling, either on or closely connected to the business which would have been suitable, has not been sold separately from the unit or in some other way alienated from it within the past five years; iv) there is no other suitable and available alternative existing accommodation within the area; and v) the occupancy of the dwelling is restricted to those employed in the activity for which the dwelling was originally permitted. Where the proposal is for the removal of the occupancy condition this will be permitted provided that: c) it can be demonstrated that the dwelling is no longer required to meet the needs of the occupational workers engaged or last engaged in the activity for which the dwelling was originally permitted.

Replacement Dwellings in the Countryside

The replacement of an existing dwelling within the countryside will be permitted provided that: a) the existing dwelling is not currently the subject of temporary permission; and b) the size, siting and design of the proposal would not be more visually intrusive in the landscape.

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

Development to accommodate gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople will be permitted provided that:- a) it is located where services and facilities are accessible; and b) the potential occupants are recognised as gypsies, travellers or travelling showpeople; and c) the proposal helps meet the identified need; and d) evidence is provided to justify the reason for the proposal to be located in the Borough; and e) the site is of sufficient size to provide for accommodation; parking; turning and, where relevant, the servicing and storage of vehicles and equipment. Existing permanent authorised gypsy, traveller and travelling showpeople sites should be retained for the use of these groups unless it has been established that the sites are no longer required.

Infrastructure

Development will be permitted provided that the appropriate investment has been secured either in the form of works and/or financial contributions to mitigate the impact on existing infrastructure.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

Development that accords with the policies in the Revised Local Plan (and, where relevant, with policies in neighbourhood plans) will be approved through the correct planning process without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision then the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise – taking into account whether: a) any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole; or b) specific policies in that Framework indicate that development should be restricted.

Ground Floor Uses in Romsey

Only shops (Class A1 use), financial and professional services (Class A2 use), restaurants and cafes (Class A3 use), drinking establishments (Class A4 use), and hot food takeaways (Class A5 use) will be permitted within the ground floor units within the primary and secondary shopping frontages fronting a street or pedestrian thoroughfare (see Map 4). Within the primary shopping frontages of Romsey, the use of ground floor units fronting a street or pedestrian thoroughfare for financial and professional services (Class A2 use), restaurant and cafes (Class A3 use), drinking establishment (Class A4 use) and hot food takeaways (Class A5 use) will be permitted provided that: a) the proposed use would not result in the number of units in non shop (non-Class A1) use exceeding the proportion of 35%; or b) the proposed use would not result in a concentration of more than three consecutive units in non shop (non-Class A1) use.

Ground Floor Uses in Andover

Only shops (Class A1 use), financial and professional services (Class A2 use), restaurants and cafes (Class A3 use), drinking establishments (Class A4 use), and hot food takeaways (Class A5 use) will be permitted within the ground floor units within the primary and secondary shopping frontages fronting a street or pedestrian thoroughfare (see Map 2). Within the primary shopping frontages of Andover, the use of ground floor units fronting a street or pedestrian thoroughfare for financial and professional services (Class A2 use), restaurant and cafes (Class A3 use), drinking establishment (Class A4 use) and hot food takeaways (Class A5 use) will be permitted provided that: a) the proposed use would not result in the number of units in non shop (non-Class A1) use exceeding the proportion of 30%: or b) the proposed use would not result in a concentration of more than three consecutive units in non shop (non-Class A1) use.

Mixed Development at George Yard/Black Swan Yard

Land at Eastern Avenue is proposed for comparison retail floorspace together with offices, housing, leisure uses and car parking (see Map J).

Stockbridge Local Centre

Development fronting on to the High Street (Map 45) will be permitted provided that: a) its size is appropriate to the scale and function of the local centre; and b) it would not have a significant adverse impact on the vitality and viability of the local centre.

Main Town Centre Uses

Main town centre uses (such as large scale retail, office, entertainment and leisure) will be permitted within the town centres of Andover and Romsey (see maps 2 and 4). Development for main town centre uses and extensions, with a gross floorspace exceeding 280sqm, outside of Andover and Romsey town centre will not be permitted if following a Sequential Assessment they could be accommodated firstly within a town centre, or then secondly, an edge of centre location. Development for retail, leisure and office uses outside of the defined town centres of Andover and Romsey with a gross floorspace exceeding: a) 1,000sqm within Andover and Romsey; or b) 500sqm elsewhere in the borough, will be permitted, subject to the completion of an Impact Assessment demonstrating no significant adverse impact. Any main town centre uses that would harm the vitality and viability of town centres will not be permitted.

Tourism

Proposals for tourist development will be permitted provided that: a) the proposal is located within a settlement; or b) where the proposal is located within the countryside: i) it utilises an existing building and meets the requirements of policy LE16; and ii) any extension or new buildings form part of an existing tourist facility; and iii) in the case of seasonal structures these are temporary in nature and do not have an adverse impact on the landscape; and iv) in the case of touring caravans and camping sites these are not prominent in the landscape. Proposals which involve the loss of serviced accommodation (Class C1) and non-serviced tourist accommodation, including caravan and camping sites, will only be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated that the existing living accommodation unit is no longer economically viable or required.

Managing Movement

Development will be permitted provided that: a) its location is connected with existing and proposed pedestrian

Managing Movement

Development will be permitted provided that: a) its location is connected with existing and proposed pedestrian, cycle and public transport links to key destinations and networks; and b) measures are in place to minimise its impact on the highway and rights of way network and pedestrian, cycle or public transport users; and c) the internal layout, access and highway network is safe, attractive, in character, functional and accessible for all users and does not discourage existing and proposed users; and d) it does not have an adverse impact on the function, safety and character of and accessibility to the local or strategic highway network or rights of way network; and e) Provision is made to support and promote the use of sustainable transport, including the submission of a site travel plan where appropriate.

Parking Standards

Development (including change of use and conversions) will be required to provide parking in accordance with the standards set out in Annex G. Parking provisions should be well designed and appropriately located so as to be convenient to users. Residential parking provisions below the standards will be considered: a) where there is likely to be low demand for parking; b) where there are significant heritage or urban design issues; c) where any parking off site is appropriately controlled. It will be necessary for applications to be accompanied by evidence justifying variations from the standards.

Park & Ride at Bargain Farm, Nursling

Development for a park and ride site (see Map H) of approximately 3Ha will be permitted provided that: a) it can be demonstrated that the facility will promote sustainable travel patterns; b) a detailed transport assessment has been completed having taken account of the Strategic and Local Highway Network c) a minimum of 20m landscaping along Brownhill Way and a minimum of 5m landscaping along Adanac Drive is provided; d) the site is designed to create a safe and secure facility.