Planning in West Northamptonshire

OPEN SPACE, SPORT AND RECREATION

1. Sports facilities play and recreation opportunities must be provided in accordance with the standards set out within this plan and the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy. 2. Open space contributions will be sought on developments of 11 or more homes or 0.2ha, whichever is the lesser. 3. The need for open space within the rural areas will be calculated at a parish level in terms of quantity, quality and accessibility. 4. Where the calculation of open space results in a surplus of a typology the Council will work with the applicant to determine the appropriate contribution(s). 5. The loss of playing pitches will be resisted unless: a. it can be demonstrated that the pitch is surplus to requirements; and b. the resulting loss will be replaced by an equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity, quality or accessibility; and c. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision which outweigh the loss. 6. In the Rural Service Centres of Brackley and Towcester, the co-location of sports clubs and facilities will be supported in principle where they will: a. support the future viability and vitality of existing sports clubs; and b. will provide equal or improved facilities in terms of accessibility, changing facilities and pitch provision; and c. will provide opportunities for smaller sports clubs to have a permanent facility; and d. will enhance opportunities and accessibility for use by residents of the district.

COMMUNITY FACILITIES

1. Proposals for the provision of new community facilities will be permitted within town or village confines or on land immediately adjacent to the settlement confines of a rural Service Centre, Primary Service Village, Secondary Service Village or Small Settlement. 2. Community facilities intended to meet the needs of the wider district should be located within or adjoining rural service centres. 3. Proposals for the extension of existing or new recreational or community facilities in open countryside will only be permitted where: a. the scale is appropriate to the locality it serves; and b. they are appropriately located and designed; and c. they are, or can be made accessible by public transport, walking and cycling to the community they are intended to serve. 4. Development proposing the change of use or loss of land or premises either currently or last used as a community facility will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that: a. a replacement facility of equal or greater value is provided in the locality; or b. the use no longer serves the needs of the community in which it is located and the site or facility has marketed for an alternative community facility via a marketing exercise or such process agreed with the council; or c. the use is no longer financially viable and site or facility has marketed for an alternative community facility via a marketing exercise or such process agreed with the council.

HEALTH FACILITIES AND WELLBEING

1. The Council will support the provision, extension and co-location of health facilities within or adjoining settlement confines in Rural Service Centres, Primary Service Villages and Secondary Villages (A). Facilities should: a. be designed to accommodate a range of health related services; and b. be accessible by walking, cycling and public transport; and c. be informed by discussion with relevant health providers to ensure the facilities meet identified health needs of the communities they are intended to serve. 2. The health and wellbeing of communities will be maintained and improved by requiring developments to contribute to creating a healthy and equitable living environment through: a. locating new development in sustainable locations with access to a range of community facilities; and b. promoting an inclusive environment with a mixture of housing types and tenures; and c. promoting access to public and private or semi-private green spaces; and d. ensuring new developments are legible and connected to existing and planned footpaths and cycleways to promote active travel; and e. ensuring adequate space for bicycle storage within the development; and f. promoting access for all to sports facilities, play and recreation opportunities in accordance with Policy GS1 and g. promoting allotments or similar opportunities for local food production either on site or via financial contribution where there is an identified need.

GENERAL DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1. Planning permission will be granted where the proposed development: a. maintains the individual identity of towns and villages and their distinct parts, does not result in physical coalescence that would harm this identity and does not result in the unacceptable loss of undeveloped land, open spaces and locally important views of particular significance to the form and character of a settlement; and b. uses a design-led approach to demonstrate compatibility and integration with its surroundings and the distinctive local character of the area in terms of type, scale, massing, siting, form, design, materials and details; and c. is designed to provide an accessible, safe and inclusive environment which maximises opportunities to increase personal safety and security through preventative or mitigation measures; and d. incorporates suitable landscape treatment as an integral part of the planning of the development; and e. incorporates sensitive lighting schemes that respects the surrounding area and reduce harmful impacts on wildlife and neighbours; and f. will result in a good standard of amenity for its future occupiers in terms of privacy, sunlight, daylight, outlook, natural ventilation, noise, odour and vibration; and will not unacceptably harm the amenity of occupiers and users of neighbouring properties and the area through noise, odour, vibration, overshadowing or result in loss of privacy, sunlight daylight or outlook, unless adequate mitigation measures are proposed and secured; and g. has appropriate regard to its effect on air quality and the effects of air quality on its future occupiers; and h. does not result in the loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land or valued soils; and i. contributes towards the creation of a healthy community and, in the case of major development, demonstrates the health and wellbeing implications of the proposed development through a suitable health impact assessment (HIA). All major developments (10 or more dwellings or 1000 or more square metres) will be expected to complete and submit a rapid HIA in order to determine if more substantial HIA is necessary or not, while larger developments above 100 homes will be expected to complete a more substantial HIA to support their application; and j. would include a safe and suitable means of access for all people (including pedestrians, cyclists and those using vehicles); and k. takes into account existing or planned social and transport infrastructure to ensure development is adequately served by public transport or is in reasonable proximity to a range of local facilities which can be reached without the need for private car journeys; and l. is adequately serviced with utility infrastructure appropriate to the development including power, water supply, sewerage, waste management and telecommunications, and provides for satisfactory foul and surface water drainage and incorporates mitigation identified through an assessment of flood risk and the management requirements to address current and future risks incorporating the required climate change allowances; and meets the optional higher water efficiency standard of 110 litres per person per day and m. will not adversely affect built heritage and sites of nature conservation value or sites of geological, geomorphological or archaeological importance; and n. is not on or in proximity to land containing known mineral resources, or if known resources exist without first considering the need to safeguard these resources; and o. would not pose additional risk to users, occupiers and neighbours located in the vicinity of sites that are used for the storage, or processing or transporting of hazardous substances; and p. shows a detailed consideration of ecological impacts, wildlife mitigation and the creation, restoration and enhancement of wildlife corridors to preserve and enhance biodiversity; and q. ensures an appropriate degree of facility provision and waste and recycling storage. Provision should be made for discrete bin storage, ideally within private rear gardens and service yards where it will not result in visual clutter which can substantially detract from the character and perceived quality of the streetscene. 2. Proposals that contravene any of the above criteria (of relevance to that proposal) will be refused unless outweighed by other material considerations. 3. Major development proposals will also be required to: a. retain, enhance or create a high quality public or semi-public realm; and b. enhance legibility through the spatial pattern of development and street hierarchy. 4. The use of design codes, masterplans or planning briefs will be considered for multi-phased developments to ensure consistency of design approach.

LAND AT SHACKS BARN, WHITTLEBURY

1. Development description: located an important position adjoining the A43, southwest of Towcester, close to the Whittlebury junction, this development site provides for 10ha of mixed employment generating development. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the Local Planning Authority and statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 2. Land uses employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (office), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 3. Access and transport a. Access to the site to be based on the existing access only; and b. Provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks; and c. Good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for, including contributions to the cost of diverting existing routes through the site or to support existing local services to help promote sustainable travel as well as the enhancement of pedestrian cycling and walking links between the site and Towcester town; and d. A transport assessment and travel plan will be required to assess the transportation implications of the proposed development and to identify appropriate mitigation measures; and 4. Key site specific design and place shaping principles (whole development) in addition to those required under Policy SS2 include: a. A detailed heritage impact assessment will be required for the whole site, to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority in consultation with Historic England, prior to the design of the scheme in order to inform the height of any proposed buildings, layout and extent of the development. This will explicitly include an assessment of the height of any new buildings and impact on the Easton Neston Grade II* Registered Park and Garden as well as detailed consideration of any impacts on the designated and non designated heritage assets and subject to the assessment being agreed a programme of informed mitigation to be included with any application; and b. Prior to submission of an application, detailed assessment for the whole site to characterise archaeological remains and identify direct impact of development proposals to inform design and a programme of archaeological mitigation; and c. A detailed strategic landscape assessment of the whole site to deliver a high quality landscaped setting within and around the boundary of the proposal; and d. Appropriate financial contributions to mitigate the impact of the development on services and facilities as required by the council's policies.

LAND AT FORMER FURTHO PIT, OLD STRATFORD/COSGROVE

1. Development description: located at an important position adjoining the A5 and A508, this development site provides for 16 ha. of mixed employment generating development. A variety of employment types will be sought to reflect the need for diversity and resilience in the local economy as expressed in the council's economic growth strategy. 2. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken for the employment site and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the local planning authority, the relevant highway authorities and other statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 3. Land uses employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (business)(office), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with ancillary with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 4. Access and transport a. Access from a new roundabout junction from the A508; and b. Provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks including to a proposed new adjoining country park and utilising the existing pedestrian crossing over the A5 linking to Old Stratford having appropriate regard to the retention and enhancement of the existing public rights of way through the site; and c. Good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for including contributions to the cost of establishing bus services including stops to the site, to promote sustainable transport; and d. A transport assessment and travel plan will be required to assess the transportation implications of the proposed development (including noise from the A5 and A508) and to identify appropriate mitigation measures 5. Key site specific design and place shaping principles (whole development); in addition to those required under Policy SS2 include: a. a detailed heritage impact assessment will be required to be agreed with the local Planning Authority in consultation with Historic England, prior to the design of the scheme in order to inform the height of any proposed buildings, their layout and the extent of the development. This will include a detailed assessment of the effects of the development of the site on the significance of the scheduled monument 1013660 'Motte and Bailey Castle' Deserted Village and Monastic Grange at Old Wolverton; as well as detailed consideration of the development's effects on the significance of other designated and non-designated heritage assets, if any. The agreed assessment will inform any mitigation works required to ensure that the development of the site would avoid harm to the significance of heritage assets; and b. detailed consideration of the safeguarding of the existing canal route through the site and how the layout of the country park has regard to the potential future need for new sections of canal to cross it to facilitate restoration; and c. prior to submission of an application, detailed assessment to characterise archaeological remains and identify direct impact of development proposals to inform design and a programme of archaeological mitigation which could involve preservation in situ by design or record or a combination of the two. This to be agreed with Historic England; and d. protection of the existing Anglian water drainage and water infrastructure that crosses the site; and e. detailed strategic landscape and visual impact assessments of the whole site to deliver a high quality landscaped setting within and around the boundary of the proposal; and f. appropriate financial contributions to mitigate the impact of the development on services and facilities as required by the council's policies; and g. detailed impact assessments will be required explaining how the proposals will safeguard the local wildlife site within its boundary and contribute towards biodiversity net gains.

Land at London Road, Towcester

1. Development description: located to the south of Towcester this development site provides for approximately 20ha of mixed employment generating development and 6ha for Towcester Town Football Club. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken for the site and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the local planning authority and the local highway authority, Towcester Town Council and other statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 3. Land Uses: Employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (business), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 4. Land uses: Towcester Town Football Club a. 6ha to be provided within the allocated site with the precise location dependent on suitable topography; and b. The design and layout of the employment element of the mixed use site should be compatible with, and not prejudice the delivery of, the football facilities. c. Funding for the football club may be funded in part by contributions from the Council's Community Infrastructure Levy. 5. Access and transport a. Access to the employment site to be from the A5; and b. access to the football club site to be provided by the developer of the employment part of the site, from either within the employment site or from a new separate access from the A5 and provision of an unfettered road access point to the edge of the football club site; and c. good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for, including contributions to the cost of diverting existing routes through the site or to support existing local services and promote sustainable travel; and d. a transport assessment and travel plan will be required to assess the transportation implications of the proposed development and to identify appropriate mitigation measures; and e. provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks and safe crossing points on the A43. 6. Key site specific design and place shaping principles (whole development), in addition to those required under policy SS2 include: a. a detailed heritage impact assessment will be required for the whole site, to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority in consultation with Historic England, prior to the design of the scheme in order to inform the height of any proposed buildings, layout and extent of the development. This will explicitly include an assessment of the height of any new buildings and impact on the Easton Neston Grade II* Registered Park and Garden as well as detailed consideration of any impacts on designated and non-designated heritage assets and subject to the assessment being agreed a programme of informed mitigation to be included with any application; and b. a detailed strategic landscape assessment of the whole site to deliver a high quality landscaped setting within and around the boundary of the proposal; and c. prior to submission of an application, detailed assessment for the whole site to characterise archaeological remains and identify direct impact of development proposals to inform design and a programme of archaeological mitigation; and d. provision of utilities up to the edge of the site for the football club; and e. appropriate financial contributions to mitigate the impact of the development.

Land at Woolgrowers Field, Towcester

1. Development description: located to the north of Towcester bounded by the A5 to the east and Towcester road and the A43 to the south, this development site provides for 4.5 hectares of mixed employment generating development. A variety of employment types will be sought to reflect the need for diversity and resilience in the local economy as expressed in the council's economic growth strategy. 2. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken for the employment site and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the local planning authority, the local highway authority and other statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 3. Land Uses: Employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (business), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 4. Access and transport a. Access to the employment site to be from the A5 and/or the Greens Norton Road; and b. good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for, including contributions to the cost of diverting existing routes through the site or to support existing local services and promote sustainable travel; and c. a transport assessment and travel plan will be required to assess the transportation implications of the proposed development and to identify appropriate mitigation measures; and d. provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks and safe crossing points on the A43. 5. Key site specific design and place shaping principles (whole development), in addition to those required under Policy SS2 include: a. a detailed heritage impact assessment will be required for the whole site to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority in consultation with Historic England, prior to the design of the scheme in order to inform the height of any proposed buildings, layout and extent of the development. This will explicitly include an assessment of the height of any new buildings and impact on the Easton Neston Grade II* Registered Park and Garden as well as detailed consideration of any impacts on designated and non-designated heritage assets and subject to the assessment being agreed a programme of informed mitigation to be included with any application; and b. prior to submission of an application, detailed assessment for the whole site to characterise archaeological remains and identify direct impact of development proposals to inform design and a programme of archaeological mitigation; and c. a detailed strategic landscape assessment of the whole site to deliver a high quality landscaped setting within and around the boundary of the proposal.

Land at Tiffield Lane, Towcester

1. Development description: located to the north of Towcester, and the A43 the allocated site provides for 21ha of new mixed employment generating development. 2. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken for the employment site and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the local planning authority, the local highway authority and other statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 3. Land Uses: Employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (business), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 4. Access and transport a. A new roundabout facility will be provided at the junction of the A43 and the Northampton road (Hulcote Turn) and the layout of the proposal will enable the closure of the central reservation turn at the Tiffield Lane junction in order to improve road safety on the A43; and b. good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for, including contributions to the cost of diverting existing routes through the site or to support existing local services and to promote sustainable travel; and c. a transport assessment and travel plan will be required to assess the transportation implications of the proposed development and to identify appropriate mitigation measures; and d. provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks and safe crossing points on the A43. 5. Key site specific design and place shaping principles (whole development), in addition to those required under policy SS2 include: a. a detailed heritage impact assessment will be required to be agreed with the Local Planning Authority in consultation with Historic England, prior to the design of the scheme in order to inform the height of any proposed buildings, layout and extent of the development. This will explicitly include an assessment of any new buildings and impact on the Easton Neston Grade II* Registered Park and Garden as well as detailed consideration of any impacts on designated and non-designated heritage assets and subject to the assessment being agreed a programme of informed mitigation to be included with any application; and b. Prior to submission of an application, detailed assessment for the whole site to characterise archaeological remains and identify direct impact of development proposals to inform design and a programme of archaeological mitigation; and c. a detailed strategic landscape assessment of the whole site to deliver a high quality landscaped setting within and around the boundary of the proposal including the protection of the Green Infrastructure Corridor identified in Policy NE3 that crosses the site.

Land at Shacks Barn, Whittlebury

1. Development description: located an important position adjoining the A43, southwest of Towcester, close to the Whittlebury junction, this development site provides for 10ha of mixed employment generating development. An integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the Local Planning Authority and statutory undertakers prior to the submission of a planning application covering the development of the whole site. 2. Land uses employment a. An independently assessed, market-evidenced proportion of B1 (office), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with supporting uses that are demonstrably subservient and complementary in both scale and nature to an existing or proposed B class use. 3. Access and transport a. Access to the site to be based on the existing access only; and b. Provision of new footpaths and cycleways that link to existing networks; and c. Good accessibility to public transport services should be provided for, including contributions to the cost of diverting existing routes through the site or to support existing local services

Supporting Skills

This Policy's focus is on the council's general approach to ensuring that suitable opportunities are provided for improvements in skills development through improvements to existing higher, further and specialist accommodation uses.

SUPPORTING SKILLS

1. To support the retention of skilled resident workforce proposals for major new industrial and commercial development will be required to contribute to increasing or maintaining a skilled workforce. 2. Applicants should reach an agreement with the Council on appropriate and proportional measures to achieve this through an appropriate skills agreement which will be secured through a legal agreement.

Existing Commercial Sites

No net reduction in existing employment and retail sites and land allocated for commercial uses.

EXISTING COMMERCIAL SITES

1. Existing employment and retail sites and land allocated for commercial uses should be retained for employment use unless the following criteria are met: a. The proposal can demonstrate that there are valid reasons why the use of the site for the existing or other commercial uses is not economically viable, including showing that the site has been marketed for at least 12 months and has been vacant in the long term; or b. The proposal can demonstrate that there are valid reasons why the retention of the site for the existing or other employment or commercial uses is not compatible with and would have an unacceptable long-term impact on the surrounding area and its residents; 2. New dwellings (Class C3) will not be permitted within employment, retail or commercial sites except where this is in accordance with specific site proposals and policies set out in the development plan. 3. On existing employment, retail or commercial sites, employment generating development including intensification will normally be permitted within the existing curtilage or through appropriate extensions subject to compliance with other policies in the plan and other material considerations.

NEW EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT

1. New employment and commercial development will be directed to the most sustainable locations in accordance with Policy SS1: The Settlement Hierarchy. 2. Employment generating development on suitable sites outside of the settlement confines will be considered acceptable where the proposal: a. is allocated for employment uses; or i. is for a change of use, conversion or extension of a suitable permanent building; where the proposal; either would not result in the requirement for another building to fulfil the function of the building being converted or replaced; or ii. is on brownfield land; or iii. can only operate in an open countryside location; or iv. is an extension to an existing commercial site in accordance with Policy EMP2 of this Plan. 3. Proposals for change of use or new employment development will need to be accompanied by evidence that demonstrates: a. the current use is no longer viable or, in the case of the conversion of agricultural buildings that the buildings are redundant; and b. the proposed uses and associated employment activities can be carried out without causing harm to residential amenity. 4. Proposals for the relocation of whole or part of a business to another site within the district required as a direct consequence of the HS2 development will be permitted in open countryside locations where it is demonstrated that: a. reasonable steps have been taken to locate the business as close to the current community as possible; and b. there is justification that these businesses can only operate in an open countryside location.

NEW EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT

1. New employment and commercial development will be directed to the most sustainable locations in accordance with Policy SS1: The Settlement Hierarchy. 2.

FARM DIVERSIFICATION

1. Development that relates to the diversification of an existing farm, agricultural estate, or other land-based rural business will be acceptable in principle provided that: a. The proposal would not prejudice the continued viable operation of the existing use; and; b. The character, scale and type of proposal is compatible with its location and landscape setting; and c. Existing buildings are reused wherever possible; and d. Where new or replacement buildings are required, the proposal is in scale with the surroundings and well related to any existing buildings on the site.

SPECIAL LANDSCAPE AREAS

1. Within Special Landscape Areas development related to unallocated site and sites outside of settlement confines should avoid harmful impacts to the character and appearance of the area. 2. Proposals for development within a Special Landscape Area should: a. pay particular regards to design, materials, siting of buildings and the use of land; and b. make best use of the land available; and c. be informed by, the qualities of the special landscape area as set out in South Northamptonshire: A Review of Special Landscape Areas 2017 or any successor document(s); and d. contribute, where appropriate, to the conservation, restoration or enhancement, or restoration of the area's character and appearance. 3. Dependent on scale and context development proposals within the SLA may require a full landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA) where required, the LVIA should inform the design of the proposal to minimise negative landscape impacts including the incorporation of mitigation and compensatory measures.

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE CORRIDORS

1. Development proposals which would undermine the integrity of green infrastructure corridors identified on the proposals map will not be permitted unless the benefits of development clearly outweigh the adverse impacts and adequate mitigation or compensation measures can be provided. 2. Development proposals which accord with the development plan will be permitted where they contribute to the delivery of green infrastructure that meets the needs of communities both within and beyond the boundaries of the district, including the establishment of new infrastructure and improvements to the quality, use and provision of existing infrastructure.

TREES, WOODLANDS AND HEDGEROWS

1. Proposals for development should seek to integrate existing trees, woodland and hedgerows. 2. Development that results in the loss of ancient woodland or aged and veteran trees or other protected trees will rarely be acceptable. Proposals that would result in the loss or deterioration of these specimens will be refused unless the need for, and benefit of the development in that location clearly and demonstrably outweighs the loss. 3. Proposals for felling or pruning will not be permitted to a tree in a conservation area or to a tree subject to a tree preservation order except where the proposal is justified in the interests of good arboricultural practice or other clear environmental benefits. 4. Where the loss of existing trees, woodland or hedgerows is unavoidable, suitable replacement planting will be required within the development site, or secured via planning obligation to be provided at another location with direct links to the development site. 5. Planting schemes should, where possible, use native or similar species and varieties, and maximise the benefits to the local landscape and wildlife.

Open Space, Sport and Recreation

This Policy's focus is to ensure the provision of appropriate open space, sport and recreation provision from new developments of 11 or more dwellings or on sites of 0.2ha or more. Resist the loss of playing pitches. Support the co-location of sports clubs and facilities in Brackley and Towcester.

Local Green Spaces

1. Development proposals, which would result in the loss of a local green space defined on the Proposals Map or that would have a harmful impact on the features which make it locally significant, will not be permitted unless very special circumstances can be demonstrated. 2. The only form of development considered appropriate within a local green space is that which: a. ancillary to the use of the space or to any buildings on that land; and b. will enhance its beneficial use; and c. is appropriate in scale; and d. will contribute positively to the character and quality of the space.

Residential Garden Extensions

1. Where they are in conformity with the development plan taken as a whole, and in particular Policy SS2, extensions to residential gardens will normally be allowed within settlement confines. 2. Conditions may be attached to planning permissions for garden extensions to mitigate the visual impact of extensions on the landscape and may include: a. removal of an occupier's permitted development rights to erect sheds, greenhouses and other garden structures b. a requirement that the boundary of the extension (and, where relevant, other land in the control of the house-owner) should be enclosed either by a hedge formed of indigenous plant species or a natural stone wall, c. a landscaping requirement to ensure that the new garden area is assimilated into the surrounding countryside. 3. Planning permission will not normally be granted for extensions beyond settlement confines 4. Planning permission will not be granted for extensions to gardens extending beyond settlement confines in order to create space for enlarging dwellings or the development of additional dwellings

UPPER NENE GRAVEL PITS SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA

1. In order to protect sightlines for birds included within the Upper Nene Gravel Pits Special Protection Area, new development within a 3km zone of the Special Protection Area shown on the proposals map must undertake an assessment to demonstrate that it will not have a significant adverse effect on birds within the area or, if directly adjacent to existing buildings, should reflect surrounding building heights. 2. New development will need to demonstrate through the development management process that there will be no significant adverse effects upon the integrity of the Special Protection Area and the species for which the land is designated including the loss of supporting habitat and impacts due to water runoff, water abstraction or discharges from the foul drainage system either as a direct result of the development alone or in combination. 3. New development will need to demonstrate that the impact of any increased recreational activity (indirect or direct) on the Special Protection Area will not have a detrimental impact. Any development that will lead to an increase in recreational activity on the Special Protection Area will be required to include necessary mitigation including providing or contributing towards a combination of the following measures: a. development of and implementation of habitat and access management plans within the SPA; and b. improvement of existing greenspace and recreational routes; and c. provision of alternative natural greenspace and recreational routes; and d. monitoring of the impacts of new development on European designated sites to inform the necessary mitigation requirements and future refinement of any mitigation measures. 4. The Local Planning Authority or successor authority will prepare a Mitigation Strategy document concerning the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area with a view to its subsequent adoption as an Addendum to the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area Supplementary Planning Document within 12 months of the adoption of the Part 2 Plan.

BIODIVERSITY AND GEODIVERSITY

1. Development proposals should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity in order to provide measurable net gains. 2. Development proposals will be expected to mitigate harm and incorporate measures to enhance biodiversity within or around a development site, and to contribute to the consolidation and development of local ecological networks, including beyond the district's boundary. Measures should be appropriate and compatible with existing biodiversity, ecosystems and designated wildlife sites. 3. The council will seek to ensure new development maintains, enhances, and helps to create or extend networks of natural habitats. Proposals for improved access, recreation and tourism within such networks will be supported where they are compatible with biodiversity aims. 4. Development proposals will not be permitted where they would result in significant harm to biodiversity or geodiversity, including protected species and sites of international, national and local significance, ancient woodland, and species and habitats of principal importance identified in the United Kingdom Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.

SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST AND PROTECTED SPECIES

1. Development proposals that are likely to have a significant adverse effect on the integrity of a Site of Special Scientific Interest will only be permitted where: a. there are no suitable and available sites of lesser ecological value; and b. the proposal is justified by reason of overriding public interest where the public benefits clearly outweigh the impacts that the development it is likely to have on: i. The features of the site that make it of special scientific interest; and ii. Any broader impacts on the national network of sites of special scientific interest. 2. Development proposals where there is a reasonable likelihood of the presence of protected or priority species of their habitats will not be permitted until it has been demonstrated that the proposed development will not result in a negative impact on these species or their habitats.

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT 7 – DEVELOPMENT IN THE NATURE IMPROVEMENT AREA

Development within the Nene Valley Nature Improvement Area will be permitted where it: a. enables the functioning of the Nature Improvement Area; and b. where appropriate, contributes to the opportunities for habitat creation and/or habitat management within the Nature Improvement Area; and c. is consistent with other policies in the development plan.

SIGNIFICANCE OF HERITAGE ASSETS

When considering proposals that affect both designated and non-designated heritage assets and their settings including those identified on local lists, the significance of those assets should first be established by the applicant through a proportionate but thorough and systematic heritage assessment. Such an assessment should be sufficient so as to understand the potential impact of the proposal on the significance of the asset.

SCHEDULED ANCIENT MONUMENTS AND ARCHAEOLOGY

1. Development that would harm nationally important Scheduled Ancient Monuments or archaeological remains or their settings, whether scheduled or not will not be permitted except in wholly exceptional circumstances where a clear and convincing justification can be demonstrated. 2. Development that would harm locally important archaeological remains or their settings will only be permitted where the public benefits of that development are significant and can be demonstrated to outweigh the harm to the archaeological interest of the asset and its setting 3. There is a presumption in favour of preservation in situ in the case of both nationally and locally important remains. Preservation of important remains by record will only be supported where the public benefits derived from a development can be demonstrated to outweigh the ability to preserve those remains in situ. 4. When considering proposals that may affect sites that potentially have remains of archaeological importance, they will not be assessed until an appropriate desk based assessment and where necessary, a field assessment has been undertaken. 5. Where archaeological sites are known or found to exist within a development site the design of the development should seek to preserve the site in the overall scheme in order to allow the preservation in situ.

HISTORIC PARKS AND GARDENS

1. Applications must seek to protect original or significant designed landscapes, their components, built features and those aspects of setting that contribute to significance. Proposals which seek to restore or reinstate historic landscape features to original designs must be supported by appropriate evidence. Such proposals and those to better reveal the setting of historic parks or gardens will be supported. 2. Proposals which are considered to cause harm to an historic park or garden require clear and convincing justification and will not be supported unless clear public benefits can be demonstrated that outweigh that harm. Where harm is considered to be substantial those benefits must be exceptional. 3. As part of any permission that is granted, the council may seek the adoption of a management plan to ensure the long-term preservation of the asset, to promote good land management and to encourage best use of resources.

REGISTERED BATTLEFIELDS

1. Except in the most exceptional of circumstances proposals affecting the Registered Battlefield will be resisted where they cause harm to its historic, archaeological or landscape interest or prejudice any potential interpretation. 2. As part of any permission that is granted, the council may seek the adoption of a management plan to ensure the long-term preservation of the asset, to promote good land management and to encourage best use of resources.

LISTED BUILDINGS

1. Proposals to alter or extend a listed building including its change of use or development within its setting will be permitted where they: a. contribute to the preservation of the building and are not detrimental to its special architectural or historic interest or any features that contribute towards it; and b. are of an appropriate scale, form, massing and design and use appropriate materials and methods of construction which are compatible with the character and construction of the building; and c. have regard to the historic layout of the building and other internal features of significance; and d. preserve the setting being mindful that the setting may extend beyond the immediate curtilage of the building.

Significance of Heritage Assets

This Policy's focus is on the council's general approach to ensuring that development is not of detrimental

CONSERVATION AREAS

1. Within a conservation area proposals for development including alteration, extensions and change of use or the display of advertisements will normally be permitted where they: a. respect the character and appearance of the area in terms of, scale, form, massing, design, materials and detailing; and b. preserve or enhance the significance of the asset; and c. in the case of an intensification of use or a change of use the proposal will be in scale with and not harm the established character of the area. 2. The council will seek to preserve or enhance the special character and appearance of its conservation areas by resisting the loss of attractive buildings, walls, trees, hedges, open spaces and other features of importance to the significance of the area. 3. Where harm would be caused, including through development proposals outside of a conservation area which have an adverse effect on the setting of the conservation area or any views into or out of the area such harm will need to be weighed against the public benefits of the proposals.

NON-DESIGNATED HERITAGE ASSETS

1. Alterations, additions and changes of use should respect the character appearance and setting of the asset in terms of design, materials, form, scale and massing. 2. Proposals involving the full or partial loss of a non-designated asset should balance the scale of any harm or loss that is caused and the significance of the heritage asset against any benefits. Where loss is permitted a full recording of the asset is likely to be requested.

Backland Development

1. Development proposals involving infilling, backland, tandem or the complete or partial redevelopment of residential garden land will not normally be permitted, unless the development scheme can demonstrate the following: a. it will not adversely affect the character of that part of the settlement; and b. it will not adversely affect the amenities of neighbouring residential properties; and c. suitable parking can be provided.

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE SETTLEMENT CONFINES

1. Residential development within town and village confines as defined on the Proposals Map, and within the boundary of the NRDA will be acceptable in principle where it: a. provides for an appropriate mix of dwellings in accordance with Policy LH10 of this Plan; and b. would not result in harm to the character of the area or the loss of public or private open spaces that contribute positively to the local character of the area (including residential gardens); and c. does not need substantial new infrastructure or other facilities to support it; and d. would not displace an existing viable use such as employment, leisure or community facility. 2. Development outside settlement confines is considered to be in the open countryside and will not be acceptable unless it: a. Is allocated within a made neighbourhood plan; b. is for starter homes in accordance with Policy LH2; or c. meets an exception test as set out in Policy LH3; or d. is for a single dwelling in accordance with Policy LH4; or e. is a self or custom build project in accordance with Policy LH5; or f. is a specialist housing and accommodation needs proposal in accordance with Policy LH6 g. is a residential/nursing care proposal in accordance with Policy LH7 h. is an isolated home in the countryside that meets one of the exceptions set out in the NPPF. i. i. is otherwise provided for within Policy R1 criteria i-v of the WNJCS Local Plan (Part 1). ii. Is NRDA-related housing development compliant with Policy S4 of the WNJCS and directly adjoins the NRDA.

HOUSING MIX AND TYPE

1. New residential development should ensure: a. A mixture of types, tenure, size and costs of homes are provided to meet the varied needs of existing and future residents to contribute to the creation of mixed, balanced and inclusive communities. b. The provision of at least 5% bungalows on all developments of 20 or more dwellings with the exception of Sustainable Urban Extensions within and directly adjoining the NRDA, Brackley and Towcester where the council will require appropriate provision of bungalows to be proportionate to the scale of development and evidence based. The 5% requirement will not apply to starter homes sites outside of settlement confines (pursuant to Policy LH2), entry level exception sites (pursuant to Policy LH3) and in relation to any flats that may come forward over the plan period where provision is not required. 2. The council will secure high quality accessible homes to meet people's changing circumstances over their lifetime as follows: a. 50% of developments of 10 or more market or affordable dwellings should be constructed to meet the optional accessibility standards set out in Part M of the Building Regulations. In terms of affordable housing, where the Local Authority is responsible for allocating and nominating people to live in the relevant dwellings, 10% of the 50% requirement should be constructed to meet the Building Regulations M4(3) standard for wheelchair user dwellings, with the remaining 40% constructed to meet the M4(2) standard for accessible and adaptable dwellings. b. Where feasible, subject to site and proposal-specific considerations, smaller schemes will be expected to deliver a proportion of accessible and adaptable dwellings. c. Where site specific factors such as vulnerability to flooding, site topography, and other circumstances, which may make a specific site less suitable for M4(2) and M4(3) compliant dwellings, can be robustly evidenced neither of the Optional Requirements of Part M will be applied. 3. Proposals will be considered with regard to viability and Policy INF1 of this Plan.

GYPSIES, TRAVELLERS AND TRAVELLING SHOW PEOPLE

1. The Council will seek to ensure that the needs of gypsies, travellers and travelling show people are provided for. Applications for new permanent and temporary sites to meet the needs of gypsies, travellers and travelling show people will be required to meet the following criteria: a. the site has safe and convenient vehicular access from the public highway, and provides adequate space for parking, turning and servicing on-site; b. the site is reasonably and safely accessible to a range of services set out in national policy, i.e. shops, public transport, primary health care and schools; c. the site will provide good standard of amenity for the proposed residents; d. the site will be capable of providing adequate on-site services for water supply, power, drainage, sewage disposal, waste disposal, composting and recycling facilities; e. the scale, location and design of the site will not have an unacceptable impact on landscape, local infrastructure, or the residential amenities of the occupants of adjacent properties; and f. in the case of sites for travelling showpeople there will be sufficient space for the storage and maintenance of equipment and the parking and manoeuvring of all vehicles associated with the occupiers. 2. Where applications relate to sites outside of settlement confines, a lack of alternative accommodation for the applicants should be demonstrated in an accompanying statement, unless otherwise agreed with the local planning authority. 3. New sites or extensions to existing sites should be accompanied by a proportionate management plan, to ensure effective management of the site in line with the above policy requirements.

STARTER HOMES OUTSIDE SETTLEMENT CONFINES

1. Proposals to deliver starter homes outside settlement confines at Rural Service Centres and Primary, Secondary (A & B) and Small Villages will be supported where: I. the site is located immediately adjoining the defined settlement confines; and II. the site is underused or unviable industrial and commercial land; and III. the mix of dwellings types and sizes proposed reflects the identified housing needs of new entrants to the local housing market 2. Where it can be demonstrated market housing is required to enable development, it will be supported where: I. the full development proposal can be accommodated on previously developed land, sites comprising underused or unviable industrial and commercial land, and II. the market housing is the minimum required to enable the delivery of the site for starter homes; and III. the proposal conforms with Policy LH10 of this Plan 3. The use of planning conditions, obligations or other legally defensible limitations will be used to ensure the site is available and meets the definition of a starter home in perpetuity

ENTRY LEVEL AND SINGLE PLOT EXCEPTION SITES

1. Proposals to deliver entry level exception sites adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres, and Primary and Secondary villages (A) as defined within policy SS1, will be supported where: a. the scheme comprises at least one or more types of affordable housing that are suitable for first time buyers or renters; and b. the scheme can demonstrate that products have regard to local income and local house prices; and c. arrangements are in place to ensure housing remains at a discount for future eligible households. 2. Single plot exception sites adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres and, Primary, Secondary (A & B) and Small villages as defined within Policy SS1 will be supported where: a. the proposal is for low cost home ownership and: I. the applicant can demonstrate that they are unable to access a suitable home currently available on the open market in the parish; and II. the applicant has an evidenced strong local connection to the parish where the new dwelling is proposed; and III. the dwelling meets the council's current definition of affordable housing and will remain affordable in perpetuity; b. or alternatively, the proposal will meet a locally agreed specific need for people with long term disabilities provided that: I. the size and form of the building, its access and parking provide for the specific needs of residents with disabilities; and II. the application clearly demonstrates a local connection as well as a local need or requirement for the housing through medical evidence; and III. there are no alternative suitable or available sites within the confines; and IV. there is no suitable property to meet the identified need available within the village. 3. In order to ensure that dwellings on exception sites remain affordable in perpetuity planning permissions relating to such sites may include conditions which restrict permitted development rights relating to extensions.

SINGLE DWELLINGS IN THE OPEN COUNTRYSIDE

1. Development proposals for single market dwellings in the open countryside will not be considered acceptable unless: a. The proposal involves the re-use of a redundant or disused permanent building provided the proposal: I. does not involve a building in such a state of dereliction or disrepair that it would require complete demolition and re-building; and II. does not result in the requirement for another building to fulfil the function of the building being converted; and III. the development enhances its immediate setting b. In the case of a proposal for a replacement dwelling, where: I. the residential use of the original dwelling has not been abandoned; and II. the original dwelling because of its design or negative contribution to the landscape is not worthy of retention; and III. the proposal is located within the curtilage of the existing dwelling; and IV. the proposal is of an appropriate scale to the plot and its setting in the landscape; and V. the development enhances its immediate setting c. In the case of a proposal linked to an existing and viable agricultural, forestry, equine or equivalent rural business, and it can be demonstrated there is an essential need for the occupant to be on site at all times. Such proposals should demonstrate: I. no alternative suitable accommodation is available in the locality; and II. the rural business linked to the proposed dwelling has been financially viable for the previous three years; and III. the proposal is of a scale commensurate with the function and need. d. The proposal is of exceptional quality or innovative design, reflects the highest standards of architecture, significantly enhances its immediate setting and is sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area. e. The proposal is for the subdivision of an existing residential dwelling. 2. Any development permitted under this policy may be subject to a restrictive occupancy condition and local connection condition on resale, or equivalent requirement in a planning obligation.

SELF AND CUSTOM BUILT HOMES

1. Proposals for single self or custom build sites immediately adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres, Primary, Secondary (A and B) and Small Villages as defined in policy SS1 of this plan will normally be permitted where they help to meet demand as demonstrated by Part 1 of the council's Self and Custom Housebuilding Register and is compliant with other policies of this plan. 2. Proposals for two or more self or custom build sites immediately adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres, Primary or Secondary Villages (A) as defined in policy SS1 of this plan will normally be permitted where they help to meet demand as demonstrated by part 1 of the council's Self and Custom Housebuilding Register. 3. Householders occupying a self or custom build dwelling will be required to demonstrate a local connection. 4. Proposals will need to demonstrate the ongoing involvement of the intended occupier in the design and planning process. 5. Proposals for custom and self-build dwellings will be controlled by the following means: a. developments of 10 or more custom build dwellings in a single site location are to be supported by a design code; and b. where plots have been made available and marketed and have not sold the council will consider proposals for the development of housing in accordance with policy LH8 and LH10 where: I. they have been actively marketed for self/custom build for at least 12 months; and II. prior to the application being made they have been offered to the council, a housing association or the town/parish council for the delivery of affordable housing products.

SPECIALIST HOUSING AND ACCOMMODATION NEEDS

1. Proposals to meet older persons/specialist housing needs for two or more dwellings will be supported on suitable sites that are within settlement confines subject to the following criteria: a. the location is well served by public transport or within walking distance of community facilities (within 400m) such as shops, medical services, public open space, and social networks appropriate to the needs of the intended occupiers, or where this is not the case, such facilities are provided on site; and b. the scale, form and design of the development is appropriate to the client group and in relation to the settlement where it is located; and c. highway, parking and servicing arrangements are satisfactorily addressed; and d. gardens and amenity space are provided and are of an appropriate size and quality. Proposals for older persons/specialist housing on suitable sites immediately adjacent to the settlement confines of Rural Service Centres and Primary Service and Secondary Villages (A) should meet all of criteria (a) to (d) above and e. the scale of development should be clearly justified by evidence of need in the district; and f. evidence is provided which demonstrates that there are no alternative suitable available sites within the adjacent confines. 2. Proposals for specialist housing and accommodation to meet clearly evidenced needs arising from outside the district will be considered where they relate to suitable sites that are within or immediately adjacent to the confines of the Rural Services Centres.

RESIDENTIAL AND NURSING CARE

1. Proposals for residential care homes/nursing care will be supported on suitable sites that are within or adjoining the settlement confines of Rural Services Centres, Primary Service Villages or Secondary Service Villages (A): 2. Where proposals relate to sites adjoining settlement confines they will be subject to the following criteria: a. the local need or requirement for the facility is clearly evidenced; and b. evidence is provided which demonstrates that there are no suitable available sites within the confines of settlements within the same or adjoining parishes. 3. Residential institutions which fall within Use Class C2 and do not provide self-contained accommodation or support independent living are not classified as housing and will not expected to contribute to the provision of affordable housing.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

1. Proposals for 10 or more dwellings, or on sites of 0.5ha or more should achieve: a. 40% affordable dwellings in the market towns of Towcester and Brackley; b. 50% in the rural areas; c. 35% within or directly adjoining the Northampton Related Development Area as defined in Policy S4 of the WNJCS. Affordable housing should be provided on the application site as an integral part of the development and units should be dispersed throughout the site and integrated with the market housing to promote community cohesion and tenure blindness. 2. In exceptional circumstances, off site provision and/or commuted payments in lieu of on-site provision may be supported. Any such provision must provide an equivalent or enhanced level of affordable housing Northampton Related Development Area needs for affordable housing will be secured through nomination agreements on sites within the Northampton Related Development Area. 3. On all developments where an affordable housing contribution is required 10% of the overall total of dwellings on a site should be available for affordable home ownership as part of the overall contribution of affordable housing due. This should be incorporated into the overall affordable housing mix for the site with the Council seeking a tenure split of: a. 70% affordable housing for rent b. 30% affordable home ownership 4. Proposals for redevelopment that result in the net loss of social/affordable rented housing will not be supported.

BUILD TO RENT

1. Proposals to deliver sites for build to rent housing schemes will be permitted within the confines of settlements subject to the following: a. All the units are self-contained and let separately; and b. 20% of the homes are for affordable private rent; and c. Affordable private rental dwellings will be broadly representative of the mix and type of the overall development; and d. Affordable private rent is provided with a minimum 20% discount of local market rents; and e. The discount on the affordable private rent home will apply in perpetuity; and f. Units are to be in a single ownership and management control; and g. There is to be an agreed professional and on-site management scheme, run by a member of an accredited ombudsman scheme and a recognised professional body; and h. The homes are to be used as build to rent properties for at least 15 years 2. In granting planning permission for build to rent the Local Planning Authority will impose a planning condition requiring scheme operators to offer tenancies of 3 or more years to all tenants in the development, who are eligible to live in the country for that period (under the right to rent). 3. In granting planning permission for build to rent the Local Planning Authority will consider the use of planning obligations to ensure the appropriate continued management of both affordable and private rent units.

RESIDENTIAL EXTENSIONS AND UPWARD EXTENSIONS

1. Within settlement confines proposals for residential extensions will normally be permitted provided they: a. incorporate a good quality design which maintains or enhances the character and appearance of the building, street scene and surroundings; and b. do not have an unacceptable impact on the amenities of neighbouring occupiers or adversely affect neighbouring non-domestic uses; and c. provide suitable amenity and utility space; and adequate access and parking in line with the council's Parking Standards and Design SPD. 2. Proposals for extensions to dwellings in the open countryside should be appropriate to their context. 3. Upward extensions to single storey dwellings will be considered acceptable in principle where they are detached; or the proposal involves the whole of a semi-detached pair or terrace; and i. are in an area with little uniformity of design and layout; and ii. have been designed to minimise the effect on neighbours' properties by overshadowing and overlooking iii. are in keeping with the existing property and context with regard to style and materials.

CANAL MOORING PROVISION

1. The provision of a range of additional short-term visitor moorings will be encouraged to ensure that visitor moorings are available in appropriate locations, and where they are most needed, and where they contribute to the management of a safe and attractive waterway. Existing visitor moorings will be protected. The council will also support the provision of residential moorings in appropriate locations. 2. Applications for permanent residential moorings will be supported provided that: a. the mooring is in a mooring basin, marina or boatyard that is within or adjacent to a defined settlement confines boundary and, if more than one residential mooring is proposed, the scale of the proposal is commensurate with the size and form of that settlement; and b. an adequate and appropriate range of services and ancillary facilities to meet the needs of the occupiers of the residential moorings is provided; and c. it would not result in the loss of moorings available to visitors/short stay use; and d. it would not impede the use of the waterway; and e. it would not have an adverse impact upon the character or appearance of the surrounding area and the amenities of neighbouring occupiers; and f. it would not have an adverse impact upon protected species, priority habitats and designated wildlife sites; and g. it has adequate car parking and makes provision for safe access for service and emergency vehicles and pedestrians; h. it makes adequate provision for recycling and the disposal of waste; and i. it provides for the installation of pump-out facilities (where on mains sewer) unless there are adequate facilities in the vicinity.

CANAL FACILITIES AND NEW MARINAS

1. Proposals for new development alongside canals at Rural Service Centres, Primary, Secondary or Small Villages within the settlement hierarchy will be supported where they take the opportunity to provide economic uses by creating an active canal frontage and have regard to the canal's use and accessibility, including safety measures. 2. Away from these settlements, proposals for canal related development with limited service facilities will be accepted provided: a. they constitute uses that are essential to be located in proximity to the canal; and b. the countryside is protected, in terms of its openness, rural character and attractiveness; and c. they would not have an adverse impact upon the character and appearance of the surrounding area and the amenities of neighbouring occupiers; and d. the development does not adversely affect public access to the canal; and e. the traffic generated by the proposal does not adversely affect the safety of the existing road network and adequate car parking facilities can be provided within the site for the likely needs arising from the proposal.

A5 TOWCESTER SAFEGUARDING

1. Land to the south of the proposed Towcester relief road is safeguarded as shown on the proposals map.

INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY AND FUNDING

1. New development will be required to provide for the necessary infrastructure requirements and affordable housing obligations arising from the proposal. This will be delivered directly by the developer and/or through an appropriate financial contribution prior to, or in conjunction with, new development. Where appropriate, developers will be expected to collaborate on the provision of infrastructure needed to serve more than one site. 2. If infrastructure requirements or other policy obligations such as affordable housing render a development financially unviable, proposals should be supported by an independent viability assessment undertaken on terms agreed by the council and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach. Where viability constraints are demonstrated by evidence, the council may: a prioritise developer contributions for essential infrastructure, affordable housing and then other infrastructure; or b use an appropriate mechanism to defer part of the developer contributions requirement to a later date; or c refuse planning permission if the development would be unsustainable without inclusion of the unfunded infrastructure requirements or affordable housing taking into account reasonable contributions from elsewhere including CIL. 3. Where not covered by the CIL charging schedule, infrastructure and services, including provision for their maintenance, should be delivered directly by the developer through the development management process and in accordance with the Regulation 122 tests. 4. Water and wastewater infrastructure reinforcement works necessary to support new development and ensure compliance with Policy BN7A of the WNJCS will be supported. The delivery of new wastewater infrastructure necessary to support growth, support long term wastewater management or deliver environmental improvements will normally be permitted provided that the need for such facilities outweighs any adverse land use or environmental impact and that any such adverse impact is minimised.

EDUCATION FACILITIES

1. The council will work with partners to ensure the provision of pre-school, school, community learning and other facilities which provide for education and the development of skills across the district. 2. The co-location of community and education facilities will be supported where they create community hubs that can serve the needs of the community. 3. Education facilities should be designed to: a. achieve a high degree of environmental efficiency to minimise running costs; and b. provide a safe, secure and pleasant environment conducive to learning; and c. be sustainably located to promote sustainable methods of travel; and d. be designed to enable future expansion, if required. 4. Where proposals relate to large schemes or the expansion of existing campuses and integrated, coordinated and comprehensive planning approach will be taken and a masterplan must be prepared, in consultation with the local planning authority, the local highway authority and other statutory undertakers covering the development of the whole site.

THE SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY

1. Proposals for new development will be directed towards the most sustainable locations in accordance with the District's settlement hierarchy. 2. Settlement confines for first, second, third and fourth category settlements are defined on the proposals maps. New development should be within the settlement boundaries of these settlements in accordance with their scale, role and function unless otherwise indicated in the local plan. A. Rural Service Centres – first category Brackley and Towcester B. Primary Service Villages – second category Bugbrooke, Deanshanger, Kings Sutton, Middleton Cheney and Roade C. Secondary Service Villages – third category Secondary Villages are split into two categories. This reflects their respective level of services and proximity to other higher order settlements. Secondary Villages (A) are likely to be more suitable for limited development by virtue of the Plan's policies for housing (LH1-LH11) than Secondary Service Villages (B). Secondary Villages (A) Blisworth, Charlton, Cogenhoe, Grange Park, Greens Norton, Hackleton (with Horton and Piddington), Kislingbury, Nether Heyford, Old Stratford, Paulerspury (with Pury End), Potterspury, Silverstone and Yardley Gobion. Secondary Villages (B) Blakesley, Brafield On The Green, Chacombe, Cosgrove, Croughton, Culworth, Denton, Farthinghoe, Greatworth, Harpole, Hartwell, Little Houghton, Milton Malsor, Pattishall (with Ascote and Eastcote), Stoke Bruerne and Yardley Hastings. D. Small Villages – fourth category Abthorpe, Adstone, Ashton, Aston Le Walls, Aynho, Boddington (Lower And Upper) Bradden, Caldecote, Castle Ashby, Chipping Warden, Courteenhall, Evenley, Eydon, Gayton, Grafton Regis, Helmdon, Hinton In The Hedges, Litchborough, Maidford, Marston St Lawrence, Moreton Pinkney, Overthorpe, Quinton, Radstone, Rothersthorpe, Shutlanger, Slapton, Sulgrave, Syresham, Thenford, Thorpe Mandeville, Tiffield, Upper Heyford, Wappenham, Warkworth, Weedon Lois (with Weston), Whitfield, Whittlebury, Wicken, Wood Burcote, and Wootton Fields 3. All areas outside defined confines including hamlets and isolated groups of buildings are 'open countryside'. 4. (i) The Local Plan supports the delivery of housing beyond settlement confines where it would comply with housing policies LH1(3), LH2, LH3, LH5, LH6, LH7 as follows: Rural Service Centres LH2 Starter homes outside settlement confines LH3 Entry level and single plot exception sites LH5 Self and custom build homes LH6 specialist housing and accommodation needs LH7 residential and nursing care. Primary Service Villages LH2 Starter homes outside settlement confines LH3 Entry level and single plot exception sites LH5 Self and custom build homes LH6 Specialist housing and accommodation needs LH7 residential and nursing care. Secondary Service Village (A) LH2 Starter homes outside settlement confines LH3 Entry level and single plot exception sites LH5 Self and custom build homes LH6 Specialist housing and accommodation needs LH7 residential and nursing care. Secondary Service Village (B) LH2 Starter homes outside settlement confines LH3 Entry level and single plot exception sites LH5 Self and custom build homes. Small Villages LH2 Starter homes outside settlement confines LH3 Entry level and single plot exception sites LH5 Self and custom build homes (ii) In addition, NRDA-related housing development beyond settlement confines would be supported where it complies with Policy S4 of the WNJCS and directly adjoins the NRDA.

THE VISITOR ECONOMY

1. Proposals for tourism and leisure development, including tourist accommodation, will be acceptable in accordance with Policy SS1 and where the proposal is within settlement confines. 2. Proposals outside of the settlement confines, within the open countryside will be acceptable where: a. The proposed location is essential to the business, and; b. It does not adversely affect the vitality and viability of nearby settlements; and c. It complements existing tourism service and facility provision in neighbouring settlements and the surrounding area. 3. Proposals which involve the loss of tourist accommodation will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated the existing accommodation unit is no longer economically viable following a robust marketing exercise. 4. Proposals for caravan, holiday chalets and camping development (new and extensions to existing) will be required to comply with the following criteria: a. it is located in an area with local opportunities for informal countryside recreation; and b. it will be accessible to existing local services and public utilities; and c. it will not have an adverse effect on the visual amenity of the area or the character of the countryside; and d. the overall level of development in any one area should not detract from the amenity presently enjoyed by local residents; and e. sites accommodating caravans should have good access to the road network and should not give rise to significant problems of traffic congestion or safety; and f. static caravans and chalets should be sympathetic to the environment in terms of their number, siting and colour and, additionally for chalets, their design and materials. 5. Where planning permission for caravans and chalet sites is granted, a condition restricting the type of occupation to holiday use will be used in order to retain the tourist accommodation and ensure it is not used for permanent residential use.

LEISURE AND TOURISM AT WHITTLEBURY HALL

1. An indicative masterplan will need to be prepared and agreed with the Local Planning Authority in respect of leisure and tourism development at Whittlebury Park and Hall. This could include development proposals for the following uses: a. Increased bed space for short stays; b. Enhanced and improved function space; c. Improved onsite camping and caravanning facilities; d. Further investment in longer stay self-catering holiday accommodation either through additional golf holiday apartments and/or log cabins. 2. Any accommodation will be under Use Class C1. 3. The masterplan will need to demonstrate that all proposals for new development: a. are of a nature and scale suitable for a rural location; and b. are sympathetic to the character and form of adjacent existing buildings and landscape setting and can be successfully integrated within existing landscape character and the character and form of the existing built development. 4. The masterplan will need to consider the following design principles: a. layout, scale, and massing to respect the surrounding landscape features; b. architectural styles, materials and colour palette to reduce visual impact to be sympathetic to the character and appearance of the site; c. planting and landscaping to integrate the site into the surrounding landscape and reduce visual impacts and intrusions on the special landscape area. d. the enhancement of wildlife corridors to preserve and enhance biodiversity that have been created over the past three decades.

PRIMARY SHOPPING FRONTAGE

1 Proposals involving the loss or change of use of ground floor premises from use class A1 to: A2, A3, A4 or A5 within the Primary Frontage of a town centre will only be permitted where no more than two non-retail units would be located adjacent to one another within the same primary frontage section; 2. Proposals for the loss of ground floor retail uses (A1–A5) to other uses in the defined primary shopping frontage will not normally be permitted unless: a. the proposal positively contributes to the viability and vitality of the shopping area; and b. the proposal would not adversely impact the environment and amenities of the surrounding areas including residential properties, by reason of smell, noise or other environmental problems; Exceptions to this policy may be considered acceptable where the property is vacant or is currently occupied by a meanwhile or temporary use and the applicant is able to demonstrate that the property has been effectively marketed for sale or letting at a realistic price on the open market for a minimum period of 12 months and that no reasonable offers have been refused. 3. The council may seek the advice of independent experts to verify the quality and robustness of the marketing exercise.

BRACKLEY AND TOWCESTER TOWN CENTRES

1. Within the town centres of Brackley and Towcester, the council will support proposals for new development, redevelopment, extension or change of use where they are appropriate in terms of scale, type and design and consistent with other policies of this plan. 2. Future growth in retail and town centre uses should follow a town centre first approach. Retail proposals located outside the defined town centres that would result in a significant adverse impact on the vitality and viability of town centres will be resisted. 3. Proposals will be supported where they are: a. appropriately located employment and housing provision, within and near to town centres, particularly within the part of the town centre not covered by primary shopping frontage area designation; or b. the re-use of under-utilised or outdated floorspace, above existing commercial premises in town centres, as a source of employment space and housing supply; or c. the introduction of 'meanwhile' uses that deliver more vitality to town centres, where these help reduce the number of vacant properties and will support valuable, long term uses; or d. mixed use edge of centre developments that help to achieve more balanced communities by delivering a mix of employment, leisure, retail, family housing, healthcare, education and local centre facilities. 4. Proposals involving the change of use of ground floor premises from use class A1 to A2, A3, A4, A5 or other appropriate main town centre sui generis uses, within the town centre (excluding the Primary Frontage Area) will only be permitted where: a. The proposal maintains, wherever possible, an 'active' shop front ie a window display; and b. The proposal does not eliminate separate access arrangements to the upper floors, which could be used for residential, community or employment uses. 5. Proposals for A3, A4 or A5 uses will need to comply with policies in respect of pollution and noise control. Regard will be had to: I. the contribution that could be made to the evening economy; II. the location of development proposals within town centres. 6. Premises which may produce noise or give rise to disturbance for longer hours should not be located within or where they would affect adjoining residential uses or areas.

Primary Shopping Frontage

No net reduction from 44% of Brackley Primary Retail Frontage from A1 use. No net reduction from 51% of Towcester Primary Retail Frontage from A1 use. No more than two non-retail units would be located adjacent to one another within the same primary frontage section. No net loss of ground floor retail uses (A1 – A5) to non-retail uses in the defined primary shopping frontage.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING POINTS

1. On all sites where an additional dwelling is created (including conversions) with a garage or driveway, electric charging equipment of AC Level 2 (or equipment providing for no lesser standard of efficiency) will be required. 2. For residential developments of 10 or more units (including conversions) with communal parking areas for every 10 dwellings provided, 2 parking bays marked out for use by electric vehicles only together with electric charging equipment of AC Level 2 (or equipment providing for no lesser standard of efficiency) will be required. 3. Where business, retail, commercial or leisure developments provide 10 or more parking bays, for every 10 bays or part thereof one parking bay marked out for use by electric vehicles only together with DC fast charging equipment or equivalent charging equipment providing no less standard of efficiency, will be required.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

Provision of an electric charging point for 100% of new dwellings with driveways and/or garages. Provision of two electric charging point for every 10 dwellings with communal parking areas. Provision of one electric charging point for business, commercial or leisure uses with a minimum of 10 parking spaces.