How to use this document - Hook Neighbourhood...

1.1 1.2 Hook Neighbourhood Plan1.3 Objectives and Policies Draft 0.8 April 2017

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1.2 Date xx xx 2017

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1.5 Insert alternative illustration or Photograph

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1.6 Version History

1.70.3 1.87/11/16 1.9Extract from Draft Plan v0.31.10 0.4 1.11 13/12

/161.12 Paras 4.83 to 101 (Business and economy) added. Small

stylistic changes elsewhere.1.13 0.5 1.14 13/1/

171.15 Updated after discussion at Dec meeting

1.16 0.6 1.17 23/2/17

1.18 Working copy of 0.5

1.19 0.7 1.20 19/04/17

1.21 Transferred into AECOM recommended template based upon made neighbourhood plans and current best practice

1.22 0.8 1.23 25/4/17

1.24 MW edits, plus incorporation of straightforward DC changes

1.25 [MW: Note that all text in brackets and italics is either a comment or a drafting note with the initials of the person making it]

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1.28 HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT.............................................................................................................. 4

1.29 1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................. 5

1.30 2 VISION AND OBJECTIVES..................................................................................................................... 6

1.31 Vision Statement........................................................................................................................................61.32 Objectives...................................................................................................................................................6

1.33 3 PROMOTE SENSE OF COMMUNITY....................................................................................................10

1.34 SC1 Provision of Community Facilities 101.35 SC2 Protect Community Assets 10

1.36 4 ENVIRONMENT................................................................................................................................. 12

1.37 E1 Open spaces 121.38 E2 Natural environment within new developments 13

1.39 5 TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING.....................................................................................................14

1.40 T1 Access to the countryside around Hook 141.41 T2 Links to other communities 141.42 T3 Sustainable travel 151.43 T4 Parking 151.44 T5 Access to Village Centre by foot and cycle 16

1.45 6 HOUSING DESIGN............................................................................................................................. 17

1.46 HD1 High Quality Design 171.47 HD2 Previously developed areas 181.48 HD3 Social Inclusivity and Cohesion 18

1.49 7 EDUCATION, WELLBEING, SPORT AND LEISURE.................................................................................19

1.50 EW1 Policy Title 19

1.51 8 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY................................................................................................................ 20

1.52 BE1 Commercial Conversions 201.53 BE2 Commercial Pollution and Safety 201.54 BE3 Small and Medium Enterprises 201.55 BE4 Retail and Commercial Frontages 21

1.56 9 SITE ALLOCATIONS............................................................................................................................ 23

1.57 SA1 Site Allocation 1 231.58 SA1 Site Allocation 2 231.59 SA1 Site Allocation 3 23

1.60 10.............................................................................................................DELIVERY AND IMPLEMENTATION24

1.61 11............................................................................................ANNEX A – LIST OF AREAS TO BE PROTECTED28

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1.62 HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT 1.63 The vision, objectives and policies are the key elements that make up the Neighbourhood Plan. Policies

are grouped under themes and accompanied with a description of the aspirations and challenges each policy is seeking to address. The policies are set out in boxes and followed by a reasoned justification to assist the applicant, decision makers and stakeholders to understand their intent and the evidence that lies behind them. A number of policies reference appendices where further detailed guidance is included. Whilst these appendices are not statutory policy they should be considered as material considerations in the determination of planning applications.

1.64 Section 1 sets out the background to the Neighbourhood Plan, describing what makes Hook unique and the opportunities and constraints the plan seeks to respond to. Section 2 presents our vision and objectives which acts as the golden thread running through all of the statutory policies and projects identified in the plan. Sections 3 – X include the statutory land use planning policies along with their rationale. The policies in this section are set out under the headings listed in paragraph below:

Promote Sense of Community Environment Transportation and Parking Housing Design Education, Wellbeing, Sport and Leisure Business Planning/Site Selection

1.65 Section X details some of the projects and neighbourhood infrastructure that shall assist in the implementation of the plan. Appendices 1-X includes further evidence and guidance related to the plan’s policies.

1.66 The Neighbourhood Plan’s policies are structured as follows:

Context Policy box – land use planning policy delineated in colour boxes and figures (where applicable) Reasoned Justification – summary of the supporting evidence for the policy and guidance on how to

interpret and apply the policy Implementation – each policy will include alongside it brief details on how it shall be delivered

identifying relevant community projects and neighbourhood infrastructure (where relevant).

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1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Insert general introduction to Hook, setting the scene of the place and what makes it tick…what are

the key issues and what are the main opportunities that may be addressed in the next 15 years?

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2 VISION AND OBJECTIVES 2.1 The Vison and Objectives were developed by consultation with the residents and businesses within

the parish. These were then refined by the Steering Group to produce the following Vision Statement and Objectives

1.69Vision Statement1.70 Hook is a village. This is not because of its size, but because it still operates

as a village: one school site, a single shopping area, one surgery, and a wealth of clubs and societies that draw their membership from the whole of

Hook.

1.71 Our Vision for Hook is that it should continue to function as a village with a strong sense of community and social engagement, surrounded by unspoilt

and easily accessible countryside. As many social and leisure facilities as practical should be available without travelling elsewhere. Together these

should retain an excellent quality of life for those who live and work in Hook

1.72Objectives1.73 Overview

2.2 Hook’s objectives for the Neighbourhood Plan are grouped under the following headings:

Promote a Sense of Community Environment Transportation and Parking Housing Design Education, Wellbeing, Sport and Leisure Business and Economy Planning/Site Selection

2.3 Not all objectives will be achieved by statutory land use policies included within the main body of the Plan. The process of preparing a plan gives rise to Community Projects and Neighbourhood Infrastructure priorities identified by the local community. This plan includes details on how the plan shall be implemented, with the vision and objectives acting as the golden thread for plan making and implementation activities. The objectives serve to guide the Parish Council, District Council, and the rest of the community during the period covered by this Plan.

2.4 The plan’s objectives, derived from the original community consultation, were tested against SMART criteria:

Specific – need to say what will actually need to happen Measurable – need to be able to tell it has happened Achievable – within the scope of a Neighbourhood Plan Realistic – could actually be achieved with the resources we can access Timely – within the timescales of a Neighbourhood Plan.

2.5 Only those that could be shown to satisfy these criteria are included in the list below.

1.74 List of Objectives

1.75 [MW: This will be refined and consolidated wrt the policy sections as they are written]

1.76 Promote Sense of Community

2.6 O/SC.2 Promote a single Centre for Hook that provides a focus and critical mass for community and commercial activities.

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David Carlisle, 21/04/17,

This reads like a statement of fact not a vision statement for the future of the place. The vision and objectives should establish the ‘golden thread’ that runs through the plan and acts as a touchstone for each policy, project and infrastructure item identified as necessary or desirable. If you were to redact the word Hook from the above vision statement it would be difficult to identify what part of the world we’re talking about (what are Hook’s unique characteristics?) and what your main aims are for the future. The vision should ideally be drafted as a future statement e.g. “In 2030 Hook has improved accessibility to the surrounding unspoilt northern Hampshire countryside and enhanced the village core with new commercial, leisure and community facilities etc.”


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2.7 O/SC.2 Encourage and support (re-)developments in the Hook Centre to provide a range of ‘active ground floor uses’ that maintain and enhance the vitality and vibrancy of the area and continue to support the widest range of community and commercial uses, whilst continuing to mix residential and community/commercial use of available space to best advantage.

2.8 O/SC.3 Provide facilities the people of Hook and visitors need and will want to use, to secure a commercially viable centre in an environment which is attractive and of good quality design.

O/SC.4 Enhance the Hook Centre to encourage visits and use of its facilities and bolster its position in competition with other local centres.

2.9 O/SC.5 Make the Hook Centre easily accessible and welcoming to all Hook residents and visitors.

O/SC.6 Protect Community Assets. [MW: I wrote a policy for this]

1.77 Environment

2.10 O/E.1 Protect green spaces within the village and provide new ones as part of future development.

2.11 O/E.2 Protect ancient woodland, hedgerows and biodiversity in and around Hook.

1.78 Transportation and Parking

[2.12] O/T.1 Maintain safe and convenient access to the countryside and neighbouring communities by foot and cycle by for residents to the countryside around Hook, and too and from the village centre by foot and cycle.

[2.13] O/T.2 Provide, enhance and maintain safe and convenient pedestrian and cycle links between Hook and other communities.

[2.14] O/T.3 Provide accessible public transportation facilities within the whole of Hook, especially to the Village Centre, by promoting new and enhanced bus services and bus stops.

[2.15] O/T.4 Provide sufficient public parking in key locations within the Village to suit that balances the needs of commuters, workers, shoppers and other visitors, for example leisure uses, especially in the Village Centre.both in commercial and residential areas.

[2.16] O/T.5 Provide safe, convenient and enjoyable facilities to encourage movements to and from the Village Centre by foot and cycle.

[2.17] O/T.6 Ensure new houses are provided with sufficient allocated parking spaces for the likely number of residents and visitors to avoid the need for parking on the street.

1.79 Housing Design

[2.18] O/HD.1 Ensure all new development is Developments must be of high quality design that is in keeping with its surroundings, and is appropriate for our area and drives social inclusivity and cohesion.

[2.19] O/HD.2 In any areas where properties appear tired and/or have deteriorated over time, new development must aim to improve the character of the area and be in keeping with the general style of Hook.

[2.20] O/HD.3 Housing design must aim to drive social inclusivity and cohesion.

[1.80] Education, Wellbeing, Sport and Leisure

1.80[1.81] [MW – to be written]

2.12[2.21] Improve the wellbeing of residents by ensuring new developments contribute high quality sports, leisure and cultural facilities and therefore minimise the need to travel outside Hook for these purposes, as well as providing new facilities as part of future developments.

2.13[2.22] Maintain as far as possible the existing schools on a single site.

2.14[2.23] Encourage the provision of high-quality pre-school facilities.

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The above all read like policies, I would be tempted to consolidate them down into one overall housing design or general design policy that also covers commercial applications


The above all read like policies, I would be tempted to consolidate them down into one overall housing design or general design policy that also covers commercial applications


Consolidate into one objective that seeks sufficient car parking for both new residential development; and adequate public car parking serving the village so as to support local businesses and leisure. Some of the content about pedestrians and cyclists should be incorporated into the more general sustainable modes of transport objectives OT1 & 2.


Bus services is not really a land use planning issue unless you’re planning to allocate land for bus parking/turning or the provision of infrastructure associated with the bus network e.g. cycle parking at bus stops, new covered bus stops etc


Consolidate OT1 and OT2 to make one objective they’re essentially the same


Consolidate the two objectives into one all-encompassing green infrastructure objective which covers quantity, quality and accessibility (links between spaces, entraces, signposting etc). Are there any native species or issues of particular relevance to Hook that would differentiate this objective from Local Plan/NPPF objectives?


This could be a project as opposed to a policy/objective. Such a project (investigate assets of community value designation) could be included in a final delivery and implementation chapter.


Feels like repetition of the later transport objectives


The first four objectives could be consolidated down to a couple of shorter objectives focussing on the twin issues of: (1) establishing a critical mass/well designed and welcoming village core; and (2) promoting the village as a suitable location for new residential/commercial/tourism development.


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1.81[1.82] Business and Economy

2.15[2.24] O/BE.1 To retain current sites and uses that provide jobs, unless clearly proven to not be viable.

2.16[2.25] O/BE.2 To encourage business enterprise, but make sure it will not adversely impact on the character of the area, the amenity of neighbours or the safety of road users.

2.17[2.26] O/BE.3 To encourage supply of suitable spaces for micro and small businesses as being appropriate and sustainable for our area.

[MW: is there anything other than Hook Centre that needs to go in here?]

2.18[2.27] Hook has a natural focus point at the junction of the A30 and Station Road around which businesses and community facilities have gathered as Hook has developed. Consultation with the residents has shown that they wish to maintain this as a vibrant village centre, acting as a focus of vitality and cohesion

2.19[2.28] The Neighbourhood Plan includes Objectives and supporting Planning Policies and Community Projects to encourage enterprises and activities that are a focus of community vitality and cohesion.

1.82[1.83] Planning/Site Selection

1.83[1.84] [MW – to be written]

[a.] Provide for the number of dwellings required by the Local Plan in a way that ensure that the rate of development does not exceed the ability of the infrastructure and social cohesion of the village to cope with the change.

[b.] Encourage a housing mix that meets the needs of Hook residents including first-time buyers, the ageing population and those in need of social housing.

a.[c.] Prevent the coalescence of Hook with surrounding villages, particularly Newnham and Rotherwick, whilst avoiding isolated developments.

1.84[1.85] [RL: To be added if the format and direction are agreed …

1.85[1.86] I will add a more detailed definition of the Centre with maps and pictures. I propose that this is based upon the existing “Hart Urban Characterisation and Density Study” document which provides lots of good information that we don’t need to repeat. See - Appendix 3 section 3.4 ‘Hook Historic Core Neighbourhood Area’.

1.86[1.87] We may need to discuss the precise definition, to cover points like are we including the station in the Centre, and if so, do we need to say anything about it!]

1.87[1.88] [RL Note: I recognise that permission has been given for a Sainsbury’s supermarket outside of Hook Centre. Development of the site has not started and may never start. The current permission puts constraints on the business that can be conducted on the Sainsbury site. The aim is to make this the only exception to the Hook Centre strategy.]

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B & C read more like policies and not objectives, consider rephrasing them to make them SMART


This is something you will do as part of your ‘plan making’ it doesn’t need an explicit objective


OBE1 comes across as quite prescriptive and reads like a policy, maybe consolidate OBE1 and 3 into “Preserve and enhance Hooks role as an area for employment, a driver for local economic development and incubator for SMEs and new enterprises”. Whilst keeping OBE2.


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3 PROMOTE SENSE OF COMMUNITY 1.88[1.89] Context

3.1 The Policies that will steer and control the development and redevelopment of Hook Centre have been created in recognition that it is unlikely that a single development plan for the Centre will emerge. Therefore, these Policies must accommodate several separate proposals that may come to pass piecemeal over the period of the Plan. Consequently, it is not possible to be prescriptive about any one site, but the intention is to set a framework which enables the objectives to be delivered cumulatively.

3.2 At the outset it should be made clear that this Plan seeks to encourage and support all developments that contribute to the achievement of the plan’s Objectives. [Not sure what the role of this section is]

1.89[1.90] SC1 Provision of Community Facilities

1.90[1.91] Development in Hook Centre will be supported where it:

i. Provides active ground floor uses and spaces for community use

ii. Maintains or increases the community space provided on the site(s), although the uses post-redevelopment may differ from those in place prior

iii. Maintains or increases the public/visitor car parking space in the Centre; or if it reduces public car parking provision it offers suitable alternatives in mitigation Reference to cycle parking here to encourage sustainable modes of transport

iv. Makes good use of the central location, such as would a residential development targeted at older age groups who would benefit from the proximity of the retail and community assets.

1.91[1.92] Reasoned justification

3.3 Insert text

1.92[1.93] Implementation

3.4 Insert text

1.93[1.94] SC2 Protect Community Assets

1.94[1.95] Development will not be supported if it threatens the existence or the viability of the Community Assets listed in [MW: ref?] unless it can be shown that there is significant benefit to the community or enhancement to the community asset.


3.5 Hook is widely regarded, both by residents and those aspiring to live here, as an excellent place to live with an outstanding combination of attributes. It has a lively and vibrant community based on formal and informal social and commercial contact.

3.6 Hook Centre has a selection of commercial operations covering retail, services and food/drink that are valued by the community. However, there are a number of competing local centres: smaller

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Again this will be seen as a negative policy that isn’t proactively promoting sustainable development. A caveat should also be introduced to allow development if the site becomes unviable as a community asset. Likewise development should be allowed on a community asset subject to replacement by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location.


Not specific enough - it would be prudent to identify which use classes the plan would be supportive of as additions to what exists already e.g. would you accept live work units on old employment sites or office on industrial sites and vice versa? Are you also alluding to densification here i.e. maintain what commercial floorspace exists as part of any redevelopment that includes new uses e.g. residential uses above ground floor commercial? Commercial policies best located in the business chapter.


It seems odd to have a housing policy in what appears to be a commercial and community facilities policy?


Planning policies largely should be worded positively, through the plan the word ‘only’ and ‘unless’ are overused whereby each policy acts as a prerequisite to commencing development rather than encouraging the right kind of development through promotional policies. The overuse of the word only and unless give a protectionist feel to the plan, are overly restrictive and may not be supported by the LPA or Inspector if they do not promote sustainable development (one of the basic conditions). Please see link here for more general advice on the wording of policies:http://mycommunity.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Writing-planning-policies-v51.pdf


You could do both (criteria-based policy and site allocations that only cover uses, quantum of development…plus any site-specific considerations). Allocations would allow you to benefit from Ministers Written Statement (regarding a 3 year supply of housing being sufficient to ward off unwanted applications under the ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’)


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nearby ones such as Hartley Wintney and Odiham, and larger but more distant ones such as Basingstoke, Fleet, Farnham and Reading. Hook has a relatively prosperous demographic and therefore there appear to be opportunities for additional, successful enterprises if the right combination of premises and ambiance can be created.

3.7 The commercial core of Hook Centre has a mix of properties where sites that are solely residential are mixed with office, retail and food/beverage premises, many of which also provide residential space. This mix is attractive and something that the community wants to continue. However, several buildings appear tired and are suffering deterioration with the passage of time, which makes the are less attractive to visit.

3.8 The commercial core of Hook Centre is surrounded by a mix of residential developments and key community assets including: Hook Infant and Junior Schools, the Elizabeth Hall, the Community Centre and Hartlett’s Park, Hook Surgery, Crossways car park and Wellworth Park. This annulus is then itself surrounded by a residential hinterland.

3.9 The proposals for Hook Centre, covering both the commercial and community areas, in this Plan are founded on the following principles, which have been tested and agreed with the community:

a. Hook Centre is key to many community activities; the community wants to see a thriving and successful Hook Centre providing a range of facilities and services.

a. It would be detrimental to community cohesion and the success of retail and food/beverage outlets for other ‘centres’ to be established within Hook.

b. The current layout and mix of residential, community and commercial activities in Hook Centre is thought by the community to be balanced and attractive.

c. The community believes that there is scope for regeneration of parts of the Centre that would provide improvements to both the commercial opportunities in the Centre and to its attractiveness.

d. There are opportunities for community/Parish projects to further improve the Hook Centre, especially if these are linked to redevelopment plans.

e. There are considerable opportunities for collaboration between those operating the community assets and the proprietors of commercial premises in Hook Centre to work together to mutual benefit.

3.10 Like most centres within existing settlements, Hook Centre is constrained but offers a number of opportunities for re-development. This Plan seeks to set a strategy that will optimise, coordinate and regulate the various re-development plans that may come forward and link them to the Projects that the community and the Parish aim to promote, either directly or through partnership with other parties (such as the County Highways).

1.96[1.97] [RL: To be added – evidence from the survey + feedback from testing/consultation.]


3.11 Insert summary of relevant neighbourhood infrastructure or community projects/aims

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As a general comment on all evidence sections in the plan - there’s not much objective evidence cited. It may be better to term the evidence sections as ‘reasoned justifications’. This is where you should briefly cite the main sources of evidence (technical studies, consultation feedback, SEA etc.) and it also where you can provide additional guidance to the decision maker on how to interpret and apply the policy. This will also help you to keep the policies concise. Your more restrictive policies may in some circumstances be overruled by permitted development (General Permitted Development Order – see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/when-is-permission-required#What-are-permitted-development-rights) – something to watch out for.


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4 ENVIRONMENT 1.98[1.99] Context

4.1 Hook offers residents, animals and insects a diverse selection of habitats in dry and wet areas to thrive. These habitats should be protected from the effects of development.

1.99[1.100] E1 Open spaces

i. Development of public open spaces as listed in Annex A – List of Areas to be Protected, will be supported if it is to promote access, use and enjoyment of public land and buildings.

ii. Development will only be supported if it can be shown not to materially harm where it respects the distinctive local character; or accessibility of areas of public open space and/or areas of visual significance; and would not or cause the loss of such areas.

iii. Protect irreplaceable habitats, particularly those listed in Annex A –List of Areas to be Protected.

iv. Development over 50 homes or 1000m2 of commercial floor space will only be supported if maintenance of open space and the protection of wildlife they demonstrate how they will is safeguarded the future management and. [MW: What exactly does this mean?]

v. Development in close proximity to the Whitewater River Corridor environment and approaches to it will only be supported where they take advantage of opportunities are undertaken to enhance to improve the River Corridor environment, including access, subject to suitable ecological assessment.

vi. Development that is close to a copse will only be supported if, for leased property it includes in the lease and for freehold property includes in the freehold documents, a list of “do’s and don’ts”, along with fencing boundaries etc. [MW: what are the does and don’ts? What is included in “etc”? This is probably not enforceable. Better to rephrase as eg “For every tree destroyed, must plant another one. For any development other than an individual property? Just trees over a certain size?]

vii. Development that is close to a wooded hedgerow will only be supported if it allows sufficient distance between the development and the hedgerow to allow for public access on a footpath.

viii. Development on previously undeveloped land, e.g. arable land, meadow, etc will only be supported if it retains the surface soil integrity when the surface is levelled or cleared, and this natural topsoil is then replaced in garden and grassed areas in order the rebuild the insect colonies important for other species feed, thus reducing emissions due to less purchase of compost and less traffic to remove and deliver such.

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I’ve not encountered a soil policy previously, it will be worth running this by the planners, the Environment Agency and Natural England to check this isn’t covered elsewhere under a different regime to planning e.g. Environmental Impact Assessment or via the Construction Management Plan.


Not a land use policy – agree that a tree policy would be a more appropriate response for this issue.


Some criteria can be further added to this policy to add further local value.


Not a land use policy per se, the principle of this draft policy is to protect biodiversity which is covered by the NPPF and Local Plan. How can you make this policy more specific to the neighbourhood?


Irreplaceable habitats are largely protected under the NPPF. Check if these habitats are protected under European, national or local designations at: http://magic.defra.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx


May already be covered in the NPPF


This would be more effective if you utilised the Local Green Space Designation. For more information see: http://mycommunity.org.uk/resources/neighbourhood-planning-local-green-spaces/ Annex A should include a plan of each public area (to be protected), with the area to be protected enclosed in a redline boundary and justification using the advice from the Local Green Space Designation guide.


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ix. Development that remove habitats in their entirety will only be supported if it proposes alternative habitats and is responsible for the cost of providing these.

1.100[1.101] [MW: not in scope of NP]


4.2 Insert text


4.3 Insert text

1.103[1.104] E2 Natural environment within new developments

i. Development will only be supported if where it protects the natural environment within the development by:

ii. Using native green hedging and/or trees that are in keeping with the existing streetscape are used for property/highway boundaries wherever possible; schemes must allow space for such trees to mature, to avoid any later pressure for their removal

iii. Taking every opportunity, where practicable and viable, to incorporate features that improve its environmental performance thereby reducing carbon emissions; these can include both energy efficiency measures and green energy generation [MW: May be covered in Local Plan. Check.]

iv. Making provision for bat boxes, nesting boxes and hedgehog tunnels where it can be demonstrated that these species are present.


4.4 Insert text

Implementation

4.5 Insert text

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Check if any or all of these subsections are not already a Local Plan policy or emerging policy. If they are you should consider how the policy can be tailored to be more specific to the neighbourhood.


Check Local Plan policy to see if there is a similar policy for priority habitats or ecological networks as referenced in paragraph 117 of the NPPF. Policy needs to be developed further.


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5 TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING 1.104.1[1.105.1] Context

5.1 The whole of the village will be safe and enjoyable to move around both by foot and by cycle and will be well connected to both the village centre and neighbouring communities by public transportation modes.

1.104.2[1.105.2] T1 Access to the countryside around Hook

i. All existing footpaths and cyclepaths open to the public within Hook shall be retained and maintained by the relevant Authorities and land owners as appropriate. [MW: how could this be enforced under planning law?] [CR: The Open Spaces Society has a link on the website to the Ramblers Association site that suggests the purchase of 'A guide to Law and Practice' otherwise known as The Blue Book. If the office does not have a copy of this document you could suggest purchase £29.95. There is a local representative of the Open Spaces Society at Basingstoke, we could contact him [email protected] as he may already be advising NP groups.]]

ii. Development should incorporate links from within the site to the wider existing pedestrian and cycle networks wherever reasonably feasible.

1.104.3[1.105.3] Reasoned justification

5.2 Insert text

1.104.4[1.105.4] Implementation

5.3 Insert text

1.104.5[1.105.5] T2 Links to other communities

i. Development will be supported if it includes provision for permeability by both pedestrians and cyclists through the site and provide connections to key destinations within the village identified in the Plan PA [MW: TBP] and to surrounding communities.

ii. Development will be supported where new pedestrian routes are designed to cater for cyclists, with segregated provision where reasonably practicable and shared provision elsewhere.


5.4 Insert text


5.5 Insert text

1.104.8[1.105.8] T3 Sustainable travel

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This could be rephrased to say new development should maintain and enhance existing linkages.


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1.104.9[1.105.9] Development will be supported if contributions are made to the provision of non-car modes of travel within the village that ensure accessibility from the site to such modes to facilitate travel to the key destinations within the Village Centre as identified in Plan PA [MW: TBP].


5.6 Insert text


5.7 Insert text

1.104.12[1.105.12] T4 Parking

i. Development and/or redevelopment will be supported if it maintains at least the existing level of off-road public or commercial car parking provision in the Village Centre as identified in Plan PB [MW: TBP].

ii. Provision of new retail facilities will be supported where it enhances the provision of off-road public parking within the Village Centre to cater for any forecast demand having regard to the level of increase in retail offer.

iii. Residential development will not be supported unless it provides as a minimum for each residential unit or dwelling:

a. For each dwelling of up to 2 bedrooms, 1 parking space per bedroom

b. For each dwelling of 3 bedrooms and above, 1 parking space per bedroom minus 1

iv. A driveway of sufficient width and length to allow the required number of spaces to be provided clear of any pavement or community area after allowing for any clearance to doorways, etc at the dwelling where the garage is not counted as a parking space in the above. [JO: will check to see if this is covered by Hart stds]

v. Development of 3 dwellings or more will not be supported unless there is provision for visitor parking clear of any roadway or pavement of one space per 3 dwellings. [JO: will check]

vi. Proposals for the conversion of an existing garage to other uses will only be supported unless there is adequate space within the property boundary to satisfy the minimum provision of parking spaces as required for a new development.

vii. Development will not be supported unless the layout of parking spaces is designed to allow ease of access from the road or street without causing obstruction.

viii. Development will not be supported unless parking provision on the development is well integrated so as not to dominate the public realm.

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Check if this is contrary to permitted development (GPDO)


If these parking policies are different to Hart Local Plan policies then it would need to be justified through robust evidence.Its good practice to check your parking policies are consistent with the Council’s own standards. I would also group all the parking policies together for ease of reference.


This is a planning obligations based policy, it may be better to identify the specific infrastructure items that would be essential/desirable in encouraging more sustainable modes.


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5.8 Insert text


5.9 Insert text

1.104.15[1.105.15] T5 Access to Village Centre by foot and cycle

i. Development will be supported where it includes measures that enhance the attractiveness of walking and cycling. [JO: will reword to be clearer – if it’s worth keeping]

ii. Development will be where it includes provision for safe pedestrian and cycle connections into and through the site.

iii. Development will be supported where it is integrated into the existing overall village transport infrastructure, such that any opportunities for improved pedestrian and/or cycle linkages into or through the development to/from key destinations as identified on Plan A [MW: TBP] shall be provided by the developer.


5.10 Insert text


5.11 Insert text

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These clauses are very similar to T1 – consider consolidating.


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6 HOUSING DESIGN 1.104.18[1.105.18] Context

6.1 Housing in Hook continues to contribute to Hook being a pleasant place to live.

1.104.19[1.105.19] HD1 High Quality Design

1.104.20[1.105.20] Development will be supported if it demonstrates good quality design that reflects the character and appearance of the surrounding area and is in accordance with the Hook Design Statement [include as Appendix], including:

i. development built using good quality materials which are in keeping with the Hook area and complements surrounding developments. Developments in brick, in colours which are in keeping with the area, are preferred

ii. Pitched roofs tiled in clay tiles are preferred over flat roofs

iii. is sustainable by design, in construction and in operation

iv. does not include areas of uniform type and size

v. for infill housing, is sympathetic to the adjacent dwellings in height, density and design

vi. promotes high quality interior spaces and light

vii. respects the local landscape quality ensuring that views and vistas are maintained wherever possible.

viii. Incorporates adequate refuse and recycling storage to minimise visual impact

ix. In order to gauge whether good design is at the heart of proposed new developments, applicants should include with their planning applications an assessment of how their scheme performs against the twelve criteria set out in “Building for Life” [MW: ref?].


6.2 This Neighbourhood Plan supports the NPPF’s objective to achieve excellence in design, especially design that will help establish a “strong sense of place” and “create attractive and comfortable places to live, work and visit” (NPPF para 58). Hook has grown over time and has a variety of architectural styles. However, generally the underlying theme is one of good quality design using materials which are sympathetic to other buildings in the area, providing a sense of space, limited overlooking, verges, good size garden and good parking. The community would like to see new development be sympathetic to the existing character of the area and of adjoining developments, and this is reflected in our policy xxx regarding density, scale and bulk of new builds.


Insert text

1.104.23[1.105.23] HD2 Previously developed areas

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I would advise cherry picking the most appropriate elements of Building for Life 12 and converting those policies suitable for Hart. Many Councils push back on the inclusion of particular standards such as these.


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i. In areas which appear tired and are suffering deterioration with the passage of time, development will be supported that enhances the character and quality of the area and the way it functions.

ii. Brownfield development only be supported if constructed within the original building curtilage unless, in exceptional circumstances, the design demonstrates that it enhances the character and quality of the area and the way it functions.


6.3 The residents advise that design is not only important because of the street scene and the look of the area but also because of the quality of life that it enables. Design also needs to recognise the demographic of the people living in Hook; eg as families grow they tend to have multiple cars and may wish to extend their houses. A certain number of properties are deemed by residents as appearing tired and are suffering deterioration with the passage of time (a prime example of which is the buildings in the centre of Hook). It is the residents’ wish that the design of any development in these areas will eliminate this and improve the overall appearance.


6.4 Insert text

1.104.26[1.105.26] HD3 Social Inclusivity and Cohesion

i. New development will only be supported if aims to improve social inclusivity and cohesion by:

ii. excluding gated developments, as Hook is a socially cohesive and low-crime area

iii. meeting the requirements of ‘Secure by Design’ [MW ref?] to minimise the likelihood and fear of crime.


6.5 Insert text


6.6 Insert text

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Very similar to first chapter on promoting a sense of community


This is largely accepted as an approach in Conservation Areas, however the broad majority of brownfield development can largely occur across the whole site where it would result in an acceptable quantum of development and design. Otherwise this could be interpreted as needlessly restrictive.


Does this need to be stated given most planners would already consider such factors in their decision-making. To make this more effective you should allocate the brownfield sites you have in mind.


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7 EDUCATION, WELLBEING, SPORT AND LEISURE 1.104.29[1.105.29] Context

7.1 Insert text TBC

1.104.30[1.105.30] EW1 Policy Title

1.104.31[1.105.31] Insert policy text

1.104.32[1.105.32]


7.1 Insert text


7.2 Insert text

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8 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY 1.104.35[1.105.35] Context

8.1 Insert text

1.104.36[1.105.36] BE1 Commercial Conversions

i. Development or change of use of an existing site where the current use provides jobs to a use where jobs will not be provided will only be supported where the applicant demonstrates that all practical appropriate alternative job providing options have been considered and actively marketed on a realistic basis for a period of at least 12 months without any economically viable options resulting.

ii. For the avoidance of doubt, the applicant shall be required to demonstrate that conversion for occupation by micro or small businesses is not an economically viable option.


8.2 Insert text


8.3 Insert text

1.104.39[1.105.39] BE2 Commercial Pollution and Safety

i. Development that will result in the creation of jobs will only be supported if it demonstrates that:

ii. Any parking, noise, lighting, signage, vibration, smell and emissions likely to be generated will not adversely impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties and the more generally surrounding area

iii. Conditions are applied to the planning permission such that it will not have an adverse impact on the safety of road users and pedestrians or on traffic congestion (eg. big delivery lorries picking up/ dropping off goods), especially the case where the proposal is in, or is accessed through, a residential area.


8.4 Insert text


8.5 Insert text

1.104.42[1.105.42] BE3 Small and Medium Enterprises

i. To the extent that planning consent is required to convert or split up existing employment space to create offices or light industrial units of 50-150 square metres suitable for micro or small

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This is likely contrary to some permitted development rights (GPDO) for some uses but otherwise these policies are common elsewhere.


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businesses, such applications will be supported, subject to considerations of parking and traffic. [MW: What considerations?]

ii. Development suitable for micro businesses, including serviced offices, will be supported.


8.6 Insert text


8.7 Insert text

1.104.45[1.105.45] BE4 Retail and Commercial Frontages

i. New or renovated shop frontages will only be supported if they are of high quality design and where possible improve the character of their local environment, and the design of frontages complements the architectural design of the rest of the buildings in the area.

ii. Development of retail locations that are not part of the Centre will not be supported unless it can be shown that there is significant benefit to the community.


8.8 In addition to Hook Centre supporting businesses, there are several other locations where businesses are concentrated, specifically Bartley Wood Business Park, Murrell Green and Osborne Way. As well as providing employment opportunities for residents, the presence of the businesses within Hook brings people into the village during the working week, when many Hook residents commute away from Hook, providing trade for retail and other local services. In addition, a number of Hook residents operate businesses from home, many of which are very successful and are expanding. A growing number of residents also work from home for part or all of their working week. [MW: Evidence?]

8.9 The NPPF is strongly supportive of building a ‘strong, competitive economy” (NPPF paras 18–21). There is strong support from the community for retaining job employment in the area, but there is also a desire to ensure that it is sustainable:

a. It does not harm the overall semi-rural character of the areab. Does not add further pressure to the transport infrastructure, c. Does not adversely impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties.

8.10 With development applications for major new sites providing jobs unlikely to come forward [MW: Why?], it is very important to protect our existing small and large sites and ensure they are kept in active use providing jobs wherever possible.

8.11 In policy SP/BE.1 (see above), 12 months is set as the period for which a site that currently provides jobs must have been actively marketed before a change of use to nonemployment will be considered. This is a reasonable length of time in which viability of the site can be determined. [MW: How do we know?]

8.12 Evidence gathered from the Business Survey during the Plan’s preparation indicates that there is a growth in micro and small businesses, many of which are eminently suited to this area [MW: In what way?] and there is active demand for more light industrial units of between 50 and 150 square metres.

8.13 The community believes that small scale mixed development - sites that include a combination of commercial and residential accommodation - is a good way of providing suitable space for such businesses, which are either office-based or require small light industrial units for their operation and are encouraging this in some of the Hook Centre policies [MW ref to be added].

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Check the Local Plan for strategic promotional edge of centre and secondary retail area policies that this policy may conflict with. The sequential test should also be applied to strengthen the retail centre but also give leeway for the creation of development that leads to enabling employment opportunities. Also be careful that this policy would also allow ancillary convenience retail where it may be required e.g. a corner shop for the new west of Hook site.


Elements of this may already be within permitted development rights where permission may not be required.


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8.14


8.15 Insert text

1.104.48[1.105.48] [MW: No policies for O/SC.3 and 4 yet. Are these covered by Community Aims?]

1.104.49[1.105.49]

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9 SITE ALLOCATIONS 1.104.50[1.105.50] Context

9.1 Insert text TBC

1.104.51[1.105.51] SA1 Site Allocation 1


1.104.53[1.105.53]


9.2 Insert text


9.3 Insert text



1.104.58[1.105.58]


9.4 Insert text


9.5 Insert text



1.104.63[1.105.63]


9.6 Insert text


9.7 Insert text

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10DELIVERY AND IMPLEMENTATION 1.104.66[1.105.66] Promoting a Sense of Community

10.1 CA/SC.1 - The community encourages the active management of the Hook Centre strategy and objectives set out in this Plan. This will include:

a. encouragement of collaboration between the operators and users of community facilities with commercial operations in the Centre.

b. Further consultation on ways to promote Hook Centre, such as provision of signage that increases awareness

c. Encouragement of the use of both retail and community assets across the central area.

10.2 CA/SC.3 Community Facilities – The community will encourage investment in the community facilities in Hook Centre.

1.104.67[1.105.67] [RL: I had previously suggested “by adoption of a ‘centre first’ policy for projects using developer contributions (this does not rule out projects outside of the Centre, but seeks to ensure that investment in the centre is always tested first)”, but I am not now sure whether this is required or adds to the intent.]

1.104.68[1.105.68] Environment

10.3 Insert details on implementation

1.104.69[1.105.69] Transportation and Parking

10.4 CA/SC.2 Pedestrian-friendly development – development will be supported where it encourages and promotes changes to the road use and layout that make the area pedestrian-friendly, such as full pedestrianisation, widened pavements, shared road space designs and reduced speed limits.

10.5 CP/SC.4 Parking – The community will encourage the owners and operators of public car parking space within Hook Centre to work with the district and parish councils to seek to ensure that the parking regime(s) and charges encourage residents and visitors to Hook Centre, including ensuring that parking for cars and cycles is safe and secure.

1.104.70[1.105.70] [RL: I wonder whether we need something about encouragement to make Crossways car park an integral part of the Centre?

1.104.71[1.105.71] Also, I would like to add something specifically about working with the schools to ensure that wherever possible investments can be used by both the schools and the community. I realise that this has been problematic in the past, but I hope that the NP gives us the vehicle to make some progress, where HPC has previously been rebuffed.]

1.104.72[1.105.72] Housing Design


1.104.73[1.105.73] Education, Wellbeing, Sport and Leisure


1.104.74[1.105.74] Business and Economy

10.8 The community wishes for opportunities for both businesses and residents to be created, including:

10.9 CA/BE.1 - Providing a mechanism to communicate jobs in local businesses to local people. If more local people work locally, this will improve the traffic congestion in the business park and give a supply of labour to the businesses. In a recent survey of the businesses in Hook, 50% cited that they have difficulty recruiting staff, some included cleaning roles which present opportunity for all age groups and 31% reported that they had recruited apprentices within the past 12 months. Examples would include a local job board.

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This is a policy with some tweaks and refinement.


The above is a project not a land use planning policy and should be moved to a separate delivery chapter


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10.10 CA/BE.2 - The community would like to support the enhancement of the provision of independent shops in the Centre of Hook when opportunities arise. Just over 40% of responding businesses in the business survey said they would like to see enhanced shopping facilities and more choices of food establishments for their employees, and would use the facilities in Hook regularly, ensuring businesses are a sustainable business proposition for owners.

10.11 CA/BE.3 - The congestion in Hook’s business park is cited as a very large issue for businesses and impacts their ability to function as well as causing inconvenience/pollution to residents. The community would like the businesses to work together with appropriate authorities and agencies to either resolve, or at least not exacerbate, the current situation when approving further development

10.12 CA/BE.4 - The community wishes to find ways of informing the businesses as to what is going on in the community and identifying opportunities for them to become more involved in the Hook Community.

1.104.75[1.105.75] Planning/Site Selection


1.104.76[1.105.76]

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1.105[1.106] Infrastructure or Project

1.106[1.107] What?

1.107[1.108] Physical / Green / Social Infrastructure OR Community Project

1.108[1.109] Where?

1.109[1.110] Address / Area / Whole Neighbourhood

1.110[1.111] When?

1.111[1.112] Now / Soon / Later / Whole plan period

1.112[1.113] Who?

1.113[1.114] Partners involved in delivery

1.114[1.115] How?

1.115[1.116] CIL / Community volunteers / Public / Private / Third Sector

1.116[1.117] Cost

1.117[1.118] Estimate of costs where applicable

1.118[1.119] 1.119[1.120] 1.120[1.121] 1.121[1.122] 1.122[1.123] 1.123[1.124] 1.124[1.125]

1.125[1.126] 1.126[1.127] 1.127[1.128] 1.128[1.129] 1.129[1.130] 1.130[1.131] 1.131[1.132]

1.132[1.133] 1.133[1.134] 1.134[1.135] 1.135[1.136] 1.136[1.137] 1.137[1.138] 1.138[1.139]

1.139[1.140] 1.140[1.141] 1.141[1.142] 1.142[1.143] 1.143[1.144] 1.144[1.145] 1.145[1.146]

1.146[1.147] 1.147[1.148] 1.148[1.149] 1.149[1.150] 1.150[1.151] 1.151[1.152] 1.152[1.153]

1.153[1.154] 1.154[1.155] 1.155[1.156] 1.156[1.157] 1.157[1.158] 1.158[1.159] 1.159[1.160]

1.160[1.161] 1.161[1.162] 1.162[1.163] 1.163[1.164] 1.164[1.165] 1.165[1.166] 1.166[1.167]

1.167[1.168] 1.168[1.169] 1.169[1.170] 1.170[1.171] 1.171[1.172] 1.172[1.173] 1.173[1.174]

1.174[1.175] 1.175[1.176] 1.176[1.177] 1.177[1.178] 1.178[1.179] 1.179[1.180] 1.180[1.181]

1.181[1.182] 1.182[1.183] 1.183[1.184] 1.184[1.185] 1.185[1.186] 1.186[1.187] 1.187[1.188]

1.188[1.189] 1.189[1.190] 1.190[1.191] 1.191[1.192] 1.192[1.193] 1.193[1.194] 1.194[1.195]

1.195[1.196] 1.196[1.197] 1.197[1.198] 1.198[1.199] 1.199[1.200] 1.200[1.201] 1.201[1.202]

1.202[1.203] 1.203[1.204] 1.204[1.205] 1.205[1.206] 1.206[1.207] 1.207[1.208] 1.208[1.209]

1.209[1.210] 1.210[1.211] 1.211[1.212] 1.212[1.213] 1.213[1.214] 1.214[1.215] 1.215[1.216]

1.216[1.217] 1.217[1.218] 1.218[1.219] 1.219[1.220] 1.220[1.221] 1.221[1.222] 1.222[1.223]

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1.223[1.224]

1.224[1.225]

1.225[1.226]

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11ANNEX A – LIST OF AREAS TO BE PROTECTED 1.226[1.227] This annex lists the areas to be protected under clauses i and iiiabove.

Green Spaces1.227[1.228] Para 77 of the NPPF states:

1.228[1.229] The Local Green Space designation will not be appropriate for most green areas or open space. The designation should only be used:

1.229[1.230] where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;1.230[1.231] where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular

local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife;

1.231[1.232] and

1.232[1.233] where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land.

1.233[1.234] The Green Spaces conforming to these criteria are: [DC: include a plan of each green space so as they can easily be identified]

1.234[1.235] Corner of Bell Meadow Road and Compton Close1.235[1.236] Hartletts Park1.236[1.237] Wellworth Park1.237[1.238] Mitchells Field1.238[1.239] Play area/space in John Morgan Close1.239[1.240] Bassetts Mead Country Park (SANG)1.240[1.241] The Mound (Holt Park) [MW: this is known as the Mound rather than the Bund by local

residents]1.241[1.242] Coal House Corner – Newnham Road1.242[1.243] Varndell Road play area/surrounding space1.243[1.244] Felders Mead triangle (Holt Park)1.244[1.245] Oak Tree Drive – area of green between entrances to Cherry Place and Hornbeam Place

Habitats1.245[1.246] Para 118 of the NPPF states:

1.246[1.247] Planning permission should be refused for development resulting in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss.

1.247[1.248] The habitats conforming to these criteria are: [DC: include a plan of each green space so as they can easily be identified]

1.248[1.249] Towards Rotherwick ancient hedgerow1.249[1.250] Hedgerow at the top of Mitchell’s field1.250[1.251] Ashlea Copse – off Griffin Way South1.251[1.252] Shirlen’s Copse - off Great Sheldon’s Road1.252[1.253] College Copse – north of Owen’s Farm1.253[1.254] Hill Copse – connected to College Copse

1.254[1.255]

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