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Strategic Growth Options
Question 1
Representation ID: 6116
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Support
Strategic Growth Options
Question 2
Representation ID: 6117
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Yes.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Comment
Strategic Growth Options
1.13 Evidence
Representation ID: 6130
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Green Belt land will therefore have to be released to meet the objectively assessed need. Recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. There are a number of anomalies in the Green Belt boundaries (e.g. cutting across middle of residential cartilage) that should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line (e.g. river, road or railway). The Green Belt boundary should exclude the whole residential cartilage of existing residential development (except where the Green Belt covers the entire village).
To minimise the overall impact on the Green Belt the Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Comment
Strategic Growth Options
200 Entire Land East of A128, south of A127
Representation ID: 6131
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Very unlikely that Dunton Garden Suburb will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Support
Strategic Growth Options
230 Bowmer (Waste Disposal), Magpie Lane, Little Warley
Representation ID: 6133
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Support the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. This is a brownfield site and is currently harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Comment
Strategic Growth Options
Question 4
Representation ID: 6143
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Question the viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period. This development fails four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (NPPF, para 80). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon;
* Encroachment upon the countryside, creating ribbon development along the A127.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Question the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon BC Local Plan is delayed, with adoption not expected until late 2018. Brentwood BC will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary DPD until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon BC. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of the scheme and whether 2,500 dwellings can be delivered within the 15 year period.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Support
Strategic Growth Options
Question 5
Representation ID: 6144
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Comment
Strategic Growth Options
Question 6
Representation ID: 6155
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and in hamlets for development to meet housing need. Such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations will need to be considered even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
Question the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Due to the Green Belt most of the brownfield land is likely to have been considered for development (referenced NPPF, para 89). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. If there are Greenfield sites in more sustainable locations on the edge of villages these should be considered.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Support
Strategic Growth Options
Question 7
Representation ID: 6156
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Agree that new employment sites should be located close to the strategic highway network. The site to the south of East Horndon meets those requirements, and is already partly used for industrial purposes.
SEE COMMENTS AGAINST Q3 - SITE 187 FOR FURTHER POINTS RELATING TO THIS SITE.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.
Support
Strategic Growth Options
Question 8
Representation ID: 6157
Received: 17/02/2015
Respondent: Robert Mulholland & Co Ltd
Agent: JTS Partnership LLP
Yes - No further comment.
Q1: Yes - The Borough logically splits itself into three identified areas, which are of different character. The Borough contains two main infrastructure corridors, with more rural villages to the north and each area provides different development opportunities. The growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
Q2: Yes - These representations concern the A127 Corridor and it is considered that the issues raised in relation to this area are correct.
Q3: Yes - As stated within Question 1, the growth figure of 5,500 dwellings for the next 15 years is supported, however it is considered optimistic that 2,500 dwellings will come from the brownfield sites within the urban area.
It is evident therefore, that some Green Belt land will have to be released in order to meet the objectively assessed target. As a result, it is recommended that a detailed review of Green Belt boundaries is undertaken. Over the years a number of anomalies have been created by inept drawing of the Green Belt boundaries. There are quite a few examples, for instance, of the Green Belt boundary cutting across the middle of a residential curtilage or wrapping around a single site. This makes no sense at all, and should be corrected.
The Green Belt boundary should be established on a strong defensible line. This should be a clearly defined and reasonably permanent physical feature in the landscape, such as a river, road or railway. Drawing the boundary across the middle of fields or gardens is totally unsatisfactory and even field boundaries may not be sufficiently permanent to form a reliable long-term boundary. At the very least, the Green Belt boundary should exclude existing residential development (except, where acknowledged, the Green Belt 'washes over' the entire village) and this exclusion must extend to the whole of the residential curtilage. What is required is not a straight line but a clearly defined and readily defensible boundary.
The Council should follow a hierarchical approach to identifying land to meet residential need, along the following lines:
1. Existing urban areas
2. Existing developed sites in Green Belt
3. Review of Green Belt boundaries to ensure consistency with para 84 and 85 NPPG guidance. Boundaries to follow clear, recognisable, physical features and Green Belt not to include land which is unnecessary to keep open (such as land surrounded by development or which is part of a village).
4. Release of sites on the edge of existing settlements.
5. New settlements (Dutton Garden Suburb).
It is only by following a hierarchical approach, and analysing the impact of the Green Belt at each stage, that the Council can assure itself that the overall impact of the Green Belt will be minimised.
If this analysis justifies the release of the Dunton Garden Suburb then (for the reasons that we indicate in the following question) it is very unlikely that it will make any contribution to current 5 year housing supply or that will be built out in this Local Plan period. It is an allocation that will cover two Local Plan periods and the Council will therefore need to allocate additional land in this Local Plan.
LAND SOUTH OF EAST HORNDON HALL
Concern is raised at the prospect of the West Horndon strategic allocations, particularly in regard to the development on employment sites. Whilst the development of those sites is supported, the Council must ensure that sufficient employment land is brought forward alongside the allocation of these sites to ensure that employment is not lost in the Borough. The existing, undesignated, land at East Horndon Hall is ideally suited to provide additional employment land to accommodate those lost through brownfield redevelopment.
FAIRVIEW, MAGPIE LANE
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Fairview, Magpie Lane, Brentwood. (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality. It is predominantly used as a waste transfer station and generates excessive heavy goods vehicle traffic on the local rural road network. The allocation of the site for residential use possibly with a small element of appropriate employment space would improve local amenity and provide resources to relocate the business.
A preliminary assessment indicates that up to 25 dwellings of range of sizes and tenures could be accommodated on the site, helping meet local housing need and improving the character and appearance of the area.
CHITRAL, SWALLOWS CROSS
We would like as part of this submission to confirm support for the allocation of a parcel of land at Chitral, Swallows Cross, Brentwood (see attached Site Location Plan). The site would fall within criteria 2 of the above approach to identifying land. The site is a brownfield site and is harmful to character and visual amenity in its locality
Our client has prepared a masterplan study including an indicative layout, indicative elevations and perspectives to demonstrate an appropriate formof development that can be achieved on this site. The proposals also show the provision of some employment space for local rural businesses The site delivers a range of planning benefits including providing towards housing need, making efficient use of a brownfield site and improving visual amenity . The preliminary proposals indicates approximately 20 houses and 2 commercial units.
Q4: The focus of this submission is centred on the A12 Corridor. However, proposals for development at West Horndon are supported, in principle. Questions continue to be raised regarding viability, sustainability and deliverability of these sites and whether there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they could come forward within the plan period.
Representations will be made separately to the Dunton Garden Suburb Consultation; however it is considered that this development fails in four of the five purposes of the Green Belt (Paragraph 80 of the NPPF). Such a suburb would: -
* Encourage the sprawl of large built-up areas (Basildon/Laindon);
* Potentially merge Laindon with East Horndon and West Horndon. Laindon itself is already merged with Basildon
* Further encroaches upon the countryside, creating a continuous stretch of development on the southern side of the A127, running from Nevendon to the A128.
* Failing to encourage the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
Questions are also raised over the deliverability of The Dunton Garden Suburb. Basildon Borough Council's Local Plan process has been set back, with the Council not expecting adoption until late 2018. Brentwood Borough Council will not be able to adopt their cross-boundary Development Plan Document until it is agreed and adopted by Basildon Borough Council. The proposals do not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the deliverability of such a scheme and whether there is reasonable prospect of the full delivery of 2,500 dwellings within the 15 year period.
Q5: Yes - As part of the review of the existing Green Belt boundaries, development on sites on the edge of urban areas within the A12 corridor is supported.
Q6: It is appropriate to consider brownfield sites within villages, on the edge of villages and within smaller hamlets for development to meet housing need. Whilst less sustainable than town centre development such schemes can contribute to housing supply for local rural needs and affordable housing. Greenfield sites in sustainable locations are likely to need to be considered for development even after appropriate brownfield sites are developed.
It is questioned as to the extent of brownfield land available within villages. Given currently Green Belt restrictions, most of that land which was previously in brownfield use is likely to have been considered for development (under Paragraph 89 of the NPPF, an exception to inappropriate development is the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites (brownfield land), whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt). The brownfield land that is available within the Green Belt is generally found in more unsustainable locations outside of village boundaries. As a result, it is considered that, if in more suitable locations, Greenfield sites on the edge of villages should be considered.
Q7: Yes - It is a logical decision to seek to allocated employment sites close to the strategic highway network and away from the higher populated areas of residential development. The site to the south of East Horndon Hall meets those requirements, being located on the junction of the A127 and A128. The land is currently partly used for industrial purposes, however there is potential for the land to the south to also be considered for employment use.
An Indicative Masterplan has been prepared together with a Highway Feasibility Summary (both attached), demonstrating that a mixed employment development of up to approximately 21 acres and potentially 34,000 sq m of new employment floorspace can be accommodated within the constraints of imposed by the highway and junction capacities.
The range of uses suggested is predominantly B1 light industrial uses, with elements of B2 and B8 use incorporated.
The proposals provide an opportunity to regulate the existing industrial uses and, whilst the site is heavily screened from the west and north, further landscaping and planting can be provided to create a buffer between the site and the A128.
The site is in a highly sustainable location in terms of highway networks, being located adjacent to the roundabout with the A127 and A128, with direct links to the M25, Brentwood, Thurrock and east Essex.
Furthermore, with the potential proposed allocation for housing within West Horndon, replacing the existing employment land, this site is ideally located for an increase in employment numbers resulting from the additional housing.
Given the lawful uses of the northern element of the site, the condition of the land, the containment around primary roads and the existing screening, the site currently makes only a minor contribution to the purposes of the Green Belt as set out in paragraph 80 of the NPPF.
Q8: Yes - No further comment.
Q9: Yes - No further comment.
Q12: Yes - No further comment.
Q13: No comment.