Main purpose of this Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) document is to offer supplementary and extra information for supporting the Local Plan of 'Grotchester'. This document is built upon national and regional guidance with a wider perspective of innovative and upcoming ideas and advancements from other local authorities who are moving forward very rapidly towards achievement of sustainability. The intention of this SPG document is to confirm accomplishment of Sustainable development right through the Borough for protection of Borough's environmental resources, to provide guidance on sustainable site layout and design, issues related with water, waste pollution, open space, etc and protection of biodiversity and historical environment.
Context for environmental changes affecting the 'Grotchester Borough'
Levels of snow and ice cover are decreasing, making effect on sea levels which are rising and temperatures are increasing in almost every part of the world. These environmental changes could be the root causes for the risk of flooding in North-West region. The North-West region consists of around 14 major catchment areas of rivers, like Mersey Estuary, Upper Mersey, and Lune etc. 'Grotchester' which lies on banks of 'River Grot' has large flood plains on the Northern and Southern part of the town. Some areas of city centre are also having a big threat from flooding. (DEFRA, 2010)
Flooding not only make threats to lives but also is a root cause for extensive damages to properties in affected area. The probability of river water flooding increases due to some mistakes from decisions taken in past related with location, design and allocation of land use and due to probable results of climate change. Though total prevention of flooding is not possible, disastrous effects from flooding can be avoided and condensed by means of proper planning and flood management within these areas. Proper planning plays a major role in application of policy prepared on flood risk management (PPS 25) by Government and achievement of sustainable development.
This major concern of climate change in UK could cause milder wetter winter and hotter drier summers with a noticeable increase in sea levels causing threat of flooding. This is one of the reasons of taking into account issue of flooding while sanctioning the development applications and plans within 'Grotchester'. (4NW, 2010)
National and regional policies context
National Policy
As compared with production level of carbon dioxide in 1997/98, Energy White Paper published by UK Government in February 2003 sets regulations for reducing CO2 emissions to around 60% by 2050.The role of sustainable development as central theory which underpins planning is stated by 'PPS1: Delivering Sustainable Development' which defines a policy for declination of CO2 emissions and sustainable development. In addition UK Government's supplementary document to 'PPS1: Planning and Climate Change' places a major purpose that Planning authorities,
"Prepare and deliver spatial strategies that secure the highest viable standards of resource and energy efficiency and reduction in carbon emissions". (PPS 1: 2010)
'PPS3: Housing' carry forwards this approach by stating in Paragraph 15,
"Local Planning Authorities should encourage applicants to bring forward sustainable and environmentally friendly new housing developments, including affordable housing developments, and in doing so should reflect the approach set out in the forthcoming
PPS on climate change, including on the Code for Sustainable Homes". (PPS 3, 2010)
Regional Policy
Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) for North-West was adopted in March 2003, which has been revised in to RSS for the North-West of England Plan for 2021 in September 2008.The main objective of this RSS is to develop a region which has performed well in achievement of Sustainable development and running rapidly to attain improved quality of life for everyone, and decreased social, environmental and economical inequality in the region. The main aim of Regional Waste Strategy for North-West states that,
"To contribute to the sustainable development of the Northwest region by promoting and supporting waste management infrastructure, facilities and systems which reduce harm to the environment (including reducing impacts on climate change),improve the efficiency of resources, stimulate investment and maximise economic opportunities in line with specific targets." (4NW, 2010)
Key principles of RSS for North-West region are stated below,
"Promoting sustainable communities
Promoting sustainable economic communities
Making the best use of existing resources and infrastructure
Managing travel demand, reducing the need to travel and increasing accessibility
Promote environmental quality" (4NW, 2010)
Key principles of sustainable development & Vision for the 'Greener Borough' for 2030
What is Sustainable development?
Worldwide accepted definition of sustainable development is "Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." (DCLG, 2010) As per government sustainable is development, "Is about ensuring a better quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come" (DCLG, 2010)
Key Principles of Sustainable development
The conventional planning system has been related with the effects on the communities by the proposed development. The innovative concept of sustainability is primarily concerned about wider range impacts like global impacts of the development as explained below,
"Reducing the impact of human activity on the Earth's life support systems;
Reducing the adverse impact of human activity on natural resources; Creating a stable economy and society which reduce social inequity and enable a high quality of life for everyone." (Wakefield, 2010)
These basic principles of sustainability can be sub-divided further with respect to site layout and design, location of new development and individual building design. Guidance from the Government highlighted integration of land use policies and transport plans and programmes for achievement of sustainable patterns of development. The significant principles mentioned in the Government guidance documents like Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) states that new development must,
"Make effective use of land within urban areas and minimise the need to develop green field sites, by directing development to previously developed land and encouraging a mix of uses, whilst protecting open space, green space and playing fields;
Conserve natural resources and our cultural heritage;
Reduce the number and length of motorised journeys;
Encourage alternative means of travel which have less environmental impact, such as use of public transport, cycling and walking." (Wakefield, 2010)
Vision for 'Greener Borough' 2030
'In 2030, Borough of Grotchester will be moving rapidly towards achievement of sustainability in comparison with surrounding councils. Most of the energy used in borough will be produced from natural and renewable resources, and CO2 emission will be reduced significantly. All dwellings and other buildings with sustainable material use and proper layout orientation will reduce in artificial energy consumption. Instead of using private vehicles for travelling to workplaces most of the people will prefer modified and cheaper sustainable public transport systems, provision of cycle tracks with safety measures will increase Cycle use. Implementation of Rainwater harvesting plants, in-built waste recycling plants and domestic waste recycling units will make borough cleaner, healthier and sustainable after reducing extra demand of fresh water and increasing waste treatment. The tourism feature of Grotchester will be enhanced through conservation of Biodiversity around the Borough and preservation of Historic environment. Improved air quality and reduced pollution with redeveloped landscape and greener open public spaces will create healthier and sustainable community neighbourhood life in the Borough.'
Guidelines for incorporating sustainability into development within the borough
Delivering a low carbon economy and energy consumption
Approximately 50% of the CO2 production in UK comes from excessive use of energy in buildings. And large amount of which is caused by air conditioning system, water heating and household appliances. UK Government's goal of attaining 20% of energy from renewable sources by 2020 is emphasised in 'PPS 22: Renewable Energy' and White Paper on Energy. Some techniques like 'Community Heating Projects' and 'Combined Heat & Power Systems' which enhances the effective efficiency of fuel use should be installed in large scaled developments. (Wakefield, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Using of Energy Statements
A submission of 'Energy Statement' during primary stage of planning application is necessary to express the fulfilment of requirements mentioned in this SPG. This energy statement particularly must:
Illustrate modified layouts and designs via encouragement of eco-friendly layouts, energy proficient design and thermally insulated buildings;
Demonstrate the reduced use of non-biological recourses within the premises of development;
Illustrate how the use of Biological and renewable resources will be encouraged within the development; (Aberdeenshire Council, 2010)
Appendix 2 can be referred by the developer or promoter as guidance for preparation of energy statements.
Transport
As transport being important element of achieving sustainable development in Borough, more care should be taken while designing road layouts by ensuring low traffic speeds by implementing traffic calming techniques. Priority for pedestrians and cyclists should be given in road layouts with enhanced accessibility for public transport systems. Work Place developments like 'Brokebank', 'Bustbank' office areas in the Borough, must be provided with sufficient cycle storage area to encourage use of cycles, with necessary facilities like shower and changing rooms. With reference to 'PPS 13: Transport' and Local Plan Policy on transport of 'Grotchester', an Assessment of 'Transport Impact' must be submitted with related planning applications of developments consisting of major transport proposals. Submission of a 'Green Travel Plan' with relevant planning applications is necessary for all major developments to demonstrate provisions other than private car. (Wakefield, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Site Layout and building design
Site Layout
Site layout makes noticeable changes in consumption of energy into buildings and for circulation and accessibility within and outside of development. Enhancement in use of renewable energy sources like wind power and solar energy can be achieved by proper orientation and location of built structures and open spaces within development. Implementing mixed land use within development creates wider scope for higher density locations and places of concentrated activities with enhanced access to public transport helping in reduction of travel need. (Vale of Glamorgan, 2010)
Internal Building Design
For more consumption of passive solar gain from sunlight, rooms used the most like living rooms, should be located on southern sides. The glazing materials for windows should be such which increases solar gain. Consideration of SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) ratings is necessary while deciding internal layout provisions like lighting facilities, utility rooms etc. (Wakefield, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Water conservation, flooding and recycling
Water conservation being an element of sustainable development, it is necessary first to decrease the demand and after that discovering unconventional sources to reduce the consumption of affluently treated drinking water which is used for flushing and gardening. Industrial sector has large percentage in water consumptions followed by hospitals and hotels. Some innovative and simple objectives can reduce demand of water up to 40% in residential and commercial developments. Following are some guidelines to reduce the demand: (See Appendix 3)
Where possible integrating 'dual water supplies' (grey water used for flushing and gardening);
Using equipments which requires less water (Low water using washing machines and dishwashers);
Rain water harvesting and using water butts in garden;
Using local ground water for air-conditioning purposes. (Vale of Glamorgan, 2010)
All development proposals in areas of Grotchester having threat of flooding, like northern and southern parts and city centre area will be given permission if sufficient provisions are made in development and which fulfils the requirements of the City Council. Following are some requirements mentioned for this purpose:
Sufficient 'Flood risk assessment' has be undertaken;
Development should not raise the risk of flooding somewhere else;
Proper and sufficient provision of defence against flood;
Measures integrated into development helping to prevent danger to life and damage to properties will be encouraged;
Appropriate provisions made for surface water run-off. (Vale of Glamorgan, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Waste minimisation and management
Production of waste is unavoidable outcome due to industrial, commercial, agricultural and various domestic activities. In achievement of sustainable development proper management of waste plays a crucial role including reducing stress on inadequate resources and minimising its impact of treatment and disposal, on surrounding environment. All planning application should satisfy Borough's standards for waste recycling and storage capacity. Some guidelines for proper recycling and reuse of waste are mentioned as follows:
Encouragement will be offered for suitable dealing with spoiled and contaminated sites for proposing new developments.
Re-use of materials gained from existing structures on development site should be increased, where it is not appropriate the re-use such materials like slate, tiles, stones etc should be used within new developments for example paving, or landscape features etc.
Proper provisions like 'Home composting bins', for the organic and biodegradable waste like garden waste for composting purposes will be encouraged. (Wakefield, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Air Quality and Pollution
People from community have right to deserve air should be clean, and not harmful which they breath. As mentioned in 'PPS 23: Planning and Pollution control' if any issues related with air and pollution are rising up due to development, there should be a proper discussion between developer and planning as well as pollution control authorities on mitigating these issues before submission of planning applications. Some areas in Grotchester are dedicated as AQMA (Air Quality Management Areas) on the southern side having 'landscape attractions'. 'Air Quality Assessment' must be carried out for new developments causing following threats in future before submitting planning application,
The developments causing declination and degradation of local air quality. (After completion it will raise the pollutant concentrations);
Location of new developments in poor air quality area (Areas with unacceptable pollutant concentrations);
Demolitions or new construction in the development causing significant ill effect on surrounding environment. (Through Fugitive dust, exhaust emissions etc) (Wakefield, 2010) (See Appendix 3)
Landscape and green space
Integration of landscape and green spaces within despoilment must be treated as fundamental element of design process. In the new developments where implementation of landscape schemes is suitable, it will be developer's responsibility to prove how proposals for planting in development are sustainable in terms of maintenance. These proposals for landscaping schemes should demonstrate dealing with existing landscape features and their re-use in new planting schemes. As there are existing landscape attractions on the southern side of Grotchester, developers should be more careful about types of species of plants will be used in landscape schemes. The location and design of landscape schemes and features within the development should encourage in modification of microclimate of the development and must act as buffer to reduce noise pollution from streets. Landscaped gardens on rear sides of buildings should be designed to provide maximum privacy through visual buffers, wherever possible some arrangements should be made for kitchen waste recycling and water harvesting bins. (Vale of Glamorgan, 2010)
Biodiversity
On southern side of Borough, area of Grotchester hills is a habitat for many rare wildlife species. Also some brown field sites within the Borough carry high importance in terms of Biodiversity. This area has been mooted as 'Regional Park' some part of this comes in dedicated 'New Forest of the North'. Though the 'Five Brothers' hills on the western side are dedicated for wind farms, should be considered vital in terms of biodiversity. Mitigation of negative impacts on wildlife and various species habitat must be considered in any new development. For this purpose suitable ecological surveys should be conducted before applying for planning permission for recognising these impacts on biodiversity due to new development within Grotchester. Protection of existing biodiversity and wildlife should be encouraged wherever possible within and surrounding areas of new developments. And where undesirable impacts will be recognised, necessary improvements and mitigating measures should be applied. Biodiversity Report of Grotchester borough offers exact statistics of habitats and wildlife species within borough which consists of action plans and targets set for security and improvement of Biodiversity. (Wakefield, 2010)
Historic environment
Uniqueness and restoration of urban character of built environment is one of the major elements of Sustainable development, and should be respected by new developments. This can be done by maintaining the features and characteristics of existing urban as well as historical environment in new developments. The local plan of Grotchester through 'Areas of Historical Importance' initiative confirms that structures like 'Castle' and 'Industrial Heritage site' are protected from damage and destruction. Where ever possible all characteristics of historically, archeologically and culturally important structures and buildings with aesthetic values must be retained and improved within Grotcheter. Any person intending to raze down or make some alterations to listed buildings within borough, must acquire 'approval for listed building' from Grotchester Authority. It is a serious offence if anyone does it without proper consent. The owner or the responsible professional like architect, agent will be prosecuted against this crime. At last as stated in 'Heritage Counts' document by English Heritage (2003), it is significant to understand that more embodied energy can be gained through conservation of existing buildings and their materials. (Wakefield, 2010)
Appendices
Appendix 1: Checklist for Sustainable development
Sustainable development checklist and details will be available at following link:
http://www.sdchecklist-northwest.org.uk/checklist
Appendix 2: Energy Statements reference chart
(Source: Aberdeenshire Council, 2010)
Appendix 3: Sources of Information
Sustainable site layout and Building design
Building Research Establishment (BRE) : http://www.bre.co.uk/
Strategy for Sustainable Construction: http://www.greenspec.co.uk/documents/drivers/strateg_sust_const_08.pdf
Ecotricity-Turning Electric bills into Windmills: http://www.ecotricity.co.uk/
Sustainable Construction: http://www.sustainableconstruction.co.uk/sheepdog.htm
Sustainable construction Brief: http://www.bis.gov.uk/files/file13939.pdf
Sustainable Build: http://www.sustainablebuild.co.uk/
Transport
Department for transport: http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/sustainable/
Sustainable transport: http://www.uk-energy-saving.com/sustainable_transport.html
Transport and Environment: http://www.transportenvironment.org/
Sustainable transport solutions: http://www.sustainable-transport.net/
Water conservation and recycling
Rain water harvesting: http://www.rainwater-harvesting.biz/
UK Rain water Harvesting Association: http://www.ukrha.org/
Kingspan water - Rainwater harvesting and recycling of waste water: http://www.kingspanwater.com/
Let's go Green - Grey water recycling basics: http://www.letsgogreen.com/greywater-recycling.html
Safe gardening - Water recycling techniques: http://www.safegardening.co.uk/WaterRecycling.html
Waste management
Waste Management - Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waste_management
Waste management - Think Green: http://www.wm.com/
DEFRA - Waste management: http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/waste/
Waste management Consultants: http://www.grundon.com/
Air Quality & Pollution
Development Control - Planning for Air Quality: http://www.environmental-protection.org.uk/assets/library/documents/Development_Control_planning_for_air_quality.pdf
Environmental Protection - UK: http://www.environmental-protection.org.uk/biomass/
Appendix 4: National Planning Policies
Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development
Planning Policy Statement: Planning and Climate Change - Supplement to PPS 1
Planning Policy Statement 3: Housing
Planning Policy Statement 4: Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth
Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment
Planning Policy Statement 7: Sustainable Development in Rural Areas
Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation
Planning Policy Statement 10: Planning for Sustainable Waste Management
Planning Policy Statement 12: Local Spatial Planning
Planning Policy Guidance 13: Transport
Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy
Planning Policy Statement 23: Planning and Pollution Control
Planning Policy Statement 25: Development and Flood Risk
(Source: DCLG, 2010)
