brentwood.gov.uk

Crest Nicholson Eastern (CNE) support the Plan in principle and in particular the allocation of site 032, Land east of Nags Head Lane, Brentwood (hereafter referred to as "the site"). However, CNE object to the quantum of development suggested - 125 dwellings. This represents a reduction of 25 dwellings from the previous iteration of the Plan. The justification for this reduction is contained in BBC's Sustainability Appraisal and simply states "The proposal to reduce the number of homes delivered at Land east of Nags Head Lane is supported, given proximity to several listed buildings at Brook Street". However, BBC has not prepared any evidence regarding the relationship of the site with any listed buildings to justify this arbitrary 25 unit reduction. Under the heading "site constraints" in the allocation summary table on page 76 it states "Impact on nearby Listed Building will need to be considered". In response, a Built Heritage Assessment has been prepared by CgMs Heritage on behalf of CNE and forms part of this representation submission. It assesses the impact of a circa 150 unit scheme and concludes: The Site does not include any statutorily or locally listed buildings. Also, it does not lie within a conservation area. However, the Grade II listed Nag's Head Inn stands in close proximity to the Site. In accordance with Paragraph 128 of the NPPF, this assessment has assessed the significance of this listed building, including setting contribution. It has also assessed the impact of the development proposals on this significance. The development proposals are considered to cause a minor level of less than substantial harm to the significance of the Grade II listed Nag's Head Inn. In accordance with Paragraph 134 of the NPPF, this level of harm should be weighed against the public benefits of the scheme, including the provision of affordable housing to meet the needs of the borough. The development proposals are therefore considered to be in accordance with the policies of the NPPF, Policy C16 of the Brentwood Replacement Local Plan, and Policies 9.1 and 9.5 of the Brentwood Draft Local Plan. CNE therefore request that the previous allocation for approximately 150 dwellings be reinstated. This represents a low density of 25.5 dwellings per hectare and allows for a landscape-led scheme providing a mix of private and affordable house types for local families, first time buyers and those wanting to downsize. Detailed design and technical work undertaken to-date demonstrates that a high quality, Essex Design Guide compliant scheme of 150 units can be delivered. CNE also request that the suggested delivery forecast of 5-10 years be amended to 1-5 years. Crest Nicholson has been building new homes for over 50 years and is a market leader in the planning, design and construction of high quality, community-led residential schemes. Crest are proud to have been awarded national 'Housebuilder of the Year' twice in the last three years alongside a collection of industry excellence awards. They have achieved more CABE Building for Life Gold Awards than any other housebuilder which reflects their approach to high quality design and the creation of sustainable communities. CNE are based on Brook Street opposite the site and can deliver the proposals within three to four years of Local Plan adoption (an average of 50 units per year after obtaining detailed planning consent). (Built Heritage Assessment attached).