lydney neighbourhood development plan (2013-2034) -public version... · lydney expands with new...

Lydney Neighbourhood Development Plan – Public Version -

LYDNEY

NEIGHBOURHOOD

DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2013-2034)


DRAFT Public Document prepared by:

Lydney Town Council

&

The NDP Community Steer Group

Date: September 2013

Website: www.lydneyndp.org.uk

http://www.lydneyndp.org.uk/


Foreword Welcome to this DRAFT version of the Lydney Neighbourhood Development Plan. This is possibly the most important document prepared by a Community Steer Group in conjunction with the Town Council and its partners since the Town Council‟s formation in 1974. If approved by the community it will give the local residents/traders a much greater say and more control over the shape of our own destiny. It is an “enabling plan” that will determine the way the town can develop should private enterprise or public bodies have the funds and desire to invest in our town or surrounding area. The Town Council is grateful for the huge amount of work carried by the Neighbourhood Community Development Plan Steer Group and Town Council Officers, without whose tireless efforts this plan would not be the quality document that is presented to you today. This document emphasises the benefits of collaborative working between local organisations and the value of constant consultation with the community. „I would urge you all to read through this Plan and turn out when „Polled‟ in order to support its adoption in order that, collectively, we can secure Lydney‟s future economic and social wellbeing‟

Cllr Bob Berryman

Lydney Town Mayor


Contents

FOREWARD

INTRODUCTION

SECTION 1 – A Vision for Lydney

What are NDPs and how do they fit into the Planning System?

Sustainability and relevance to existing policies

What area does the Lydney NDP cover?


The Draft Plan process to date

Who has been consulted to date?

What is in the Neighbourhood Development Plan?

How the Plan is Organised

SECTION 2 - [Neighbourhood Plan Policies/Policies for Sustainable Growth]

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH (Residential/Commercial development/redevelopment)

- LYDNDP1/1 - Affordable Housing for Local People

- LYDNDP1/2 - Housing on Farms

- LYDNDP1/3 - Housing for Older People

- LYDNDP1/4 - Housing/Retail/Employment Land Densities -

- LYDNDP1/5 - Lydney Town Centre Improvements (Economic viability/sustainability)

-

- LYDNDP1/6 - Design and Access -

- LYDNDP1/7 - Car Parking Standards -

- LYDNDP1/8 - Burial Provision

- LYDNDP1/9 - Monitoring and Development Rates

- LYDNDP1/10 - De-designation Policy

- LYDNDP1/11 - Energy Efficiency of new developments

- LYDNDP1/12 - Surface Urban Drainage (SUDs)

- LYDNDP1/13 - Fibre to the Residential, Retail and Commercial Premises


HIGHWAY AND PEDESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE (Public Safety)

- LYDNDP2/1 - Roads, Rail and Footpaths/Cycle routes -

- LYDNDP2/2 - Improvements to the highway infrastructure -

- LYDNDP2/3 - Public Transport Service Provision -

- LYDNDP2/4 - Public Transport (Environmental considerations)

USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES/PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

- LYDNDP3/1 - Protecting the natural environment and its Eco/Bio-Diversity

- LYDNDP3/2 - Protecting Lydney’s Conservation Area

- LYDNDP3/3 - Policy LYD – Public and Information Signage (incl. Fingerposts)

- LYDNDP3/4 - Environment and Preservation of Open Space

- LYDNDP3/5 - Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

- LYDNDP3/6 - Protection of local green spaces of community value

FUTURE HEATHCARE PROVISION

- LYDNDP4/1 - Lydney’s Future Healthcare Provision

EDUCATION

- LYDNDP5/1 - Adequate educational provision for future generations

SECTION 3

What Happens Next


Introduction Neighbourhood Development Plans are a new type of planning document. The Localism Act (2011) introduced Neighbourhood Development Plans (NDP) as polices that focus on local planning and give communities the opportunity to become involved in the future of their community. NDPs give people a greater say in the planned development within their community and provides a focal point for local communities working with Local Authorities, Developers and other stakeholders. Lydney’s Neighbourhood Development Plan (the Plan) provides an economic and socially sustainable vision for the future of the town, and sets out clear planning policies to realise this vision. These policies accord with higher level planning policy; Lydney’s NDP sits below the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (March 2012), the Forest of Dean District Council’s Core Strategy (CS) (adopted February 2012) and has due regard to the draft Allocations Document currently being compiled by Forest of Dean District Council despite it having not as yet been formally adopted. The Plan positively embraces the expected changes in Lydney over the next 20 years and seeks to sustainably support the local population which is expected to grow. The Plan incorporates and embraces positive growth to help local people live and work in the Parished area ensuring that Lydney expands with new housing developments and industrial units into a cohesive and prosperous town. The Draft Plan will continue to evolve through public consultation with local residents, community groups and partners, all of whom have an interest in the town. Details of the consultation will be recorded; The Consultation Statement will, in due course, provide an overview of the process followed, demonstrating that it fully accords with the requirements of the Localism Act. This consultation process will meet the requirements of Regulation 14 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012. The Plan will then be amended where appropriate in response to consultation comments. An ‘Evidence Base’ is also being collated and will lend support to the Plan when it is finally submitted. All of the aforementioned reports will be made available in hard copy upon request and will be displayed on the NDP Website (www.lydneyndp.org.uk). The cost of preparing the Plan has been subsidised by a government grant paid to the Forest of Dean District Council. The NDP Steer Group were also fortunate enough to secure additional grant funding to the total of £5,446.00 which has been used by the Town Council to draft and publish the Plan. Much of the work included in this Plan has been undertaken by unpaid volunteers who live in, and care much for the town and surrounding areas.



What are NDPs and how do they fit into the Planning

System? The Localism Act (2011) stated Neighbourhood Development Plans (NDP) are part of the Local Development Framework (which has a much broader scope than the old land use plans/Local Plans) and must be in line with the National Planning Policy Framework, the Forest of Dean District Council Core Strategy and have due regard to the Forest of Dean District Council’s draft Allocations Document (ADPD). The Core Strategy requires Lydney to provide by 1,900 new homes by 2026 and a minimum of 30 hectares of employment land and additional retail floorspace (Policy Reference CSP13 also provides for a further 200 dwellings). The Localism Act allows the Plan to provide for more than a set allocation of houses/change of employment land, but it does not allow the Plan to provide for less. During the consultation process to date it has been evident that residents want to play a significant role in improving Lydney. Lydney’s NDP therefore incorporates policies and prioritises projects (included in the Plan to retain community focus and enthusiasm). As the qualifying body under Neighbourhood Planning legislation, Lydney Town Council are legally responsible for producing the Lydney NDP. Neighbourhood Plans must be in line with European Regulations on strategic environmental assessment and habitat regulations (as and where applicable).


It is required that the Lydney NDP complies with the strategic policies contained within Forest of Dean District Council’s Core Strategy Document (CS) this Plan also intends to have due regard to Forest of Dean District Council’s (Draft) Allocations Document (ADPD) where it embraces the vision contained within Lydney’s Draft Plan.


What area does the Lydney NDP cover?

The Plan covers the Parish of Lydney, having due regard and drawing on the views of neighbouring parishes.

NOTICE OF A DESIGNATION OF A NEIGHBOURHOOD AREA relating to Lydney

LOCALISM ACT 2011

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 Sections 61F-G NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING (GENERAL) REGULATIONS 2012

FOREST OF DEAN DISTRICT COUNCIL

The Forest of Dean District Council hereby gives notice that on 17 January 2013 it agreed to designate the parish of Lydney as a Neighbourhood Area within the meaning of Section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, pursuant to an application from Lydney Town Council. A map identifying the designated area is available on the Council’s website or at the Council Offices, High Street, Coleford, Gloucestershire during normal office hours.

Dated this 21st day of January 2013

Peter Williams

Group Manager Planning & Housing

Key

Designated Area


The Draft Plan process to date Representatives from both the community and business groups in the town have worked together to prepare the Draft Plan. A Community Steer Group, operating under the auspices of Lydney Town Council and Chaired by Cllr Brian Pearman, undertook most of the work.

Introduction of the Localism Act 2011/Planning Reform 2012

In April 2012 Lydney Community Board began discussing developing a Neighbourhood Development Plan and a group was formed to ascertain support and further this aim

Consultation to confirm support

By August a statement of intent was created and sent to Forest of Dean District Council (Principal Authority), together with an outline of the proposed designated Parished area

Area designation date 17 January 2013

On 8 November 2012 the Forest of Dean District Council acknowledged Lydney’s Steer Group/Lydney Town Council as correctly constituted body and gave their consent in support of a Neighbourhood Development Plan

In January 2013 a Lydney Public Town meeting was held. At this meeting a presentation of

the process was given and proposals to further a Plan was explained

Community Workshops/themed groups/Councillor surgeries/statutory consultation (education/healthcare/transport/flood alleviation)

Task group prepares visionary objectives

Community/strategic partner consultations continued via completed

questionnaires/website feedback/surgeries

Draft Plan prepared and made available for comment via the website and issued to Statutory Bodies etc, hard copies available upon request

The formal consultation process commences 2nd October 2013 – 22nd November 2013 following which amendments to the Draft Plan will be made prior to it being submitted to FODDC for independent inspection


Who has been consulted to date? The Draft Lydney Neighbourhood Plan has taken almost two years to prepare. The Community Steer Group has met on over 20 occasions and a large number of residents and businesses have already contributed their ideas. The Community Steer Group/Town Council have also organised consultative public events, Councillor surgeries, questionnaires, newsletters (distributed to every household in the Parished and surrounding areas; over 10,000 copies in total, via Royal Mail Door to Door), hosted consultative events and published web-based information available on-line at www.lydneyndp.org.uk.

The town’s businesses are now being asked to undertake surveys and enter into business debates. Residents’ Associations have held their own meetings to look at particular aspects of the Draft Plan. Interested developers have contributed their ideas at a public Developer Day and in discussion with the Community Steer Group. All of the ideas and proposals in the Draft Plan have come from these meetings and consultations. Conversations have revolved around what needs to be done to comply with the new housing requirements specified in Forest of

Dean District Council’s Core Strategy, what the town’s employment needs are, what modern infrastructure is needed and what changes should be made to ensure the economic vibrancy and sustainability of the town. There has been much talk of growth, increased amenity, history and heritage. The effective use of land and the preservation of green space have been central to many of the discussions. Quality of environment and the desire to vary housing density, size and design have been regular topics of debate. A sensible balance of affordable and executive homes, housing in clusters rather than in large estates and the wish to retain a rural perspective shone through these discussions. The Community Steer Group has consulted as many people as possible and this will continue through the formal consultation period; 2 October 2013 – 22 November 2013. Every household in the town has had a number of newsletters, inviting them to participate, or comment on proposals. There has been dialogue with strategic partners with regular updates provided to Lydney Town Councillors. In addition to talking to the community, the Community Steer Group has also benefitted from advice and support given by a wide range of external agencies and professional Statutory Bodies.



What is in the Neighbourhood Plan? Although deciding the extent of new housing and new employment areas remain an important part of the Plan, the Plan is about much more. It looks at a wide range of issues, including:

how new retail should support the town centre’s economic development

whether a new community facility is needed and where it should go to provide social inclusion and improve social integration

how walking and cycling around the town should be encouraged and improved promoting a healthier lifestyle

how the harbour area could enhance the town and attract additional tourism

what open space new housing should contribute to the Town thereby improving leisure facilities

encouraging Lydney to become a ‘greener’ town through recycling and renewable energy.


How the Plan is Organised

The Plan is divided into three sections

Section 1: The Vision for Lydney, which sets out - Lydney Today - What is the Plan trying to achieve - Objectives (actions to deliver the vision) - The future vision for Lydney Section 2: Neighbourhood Development Plan Policies, which sets out policies to support the communities overall vision. Section 3 What Happens Next?


Lydney Today Introduction Understanding Lydney today is the starting point for producing a good Neighbourhood Plan and A wide range of issues have been considered in producing the Plan. These can be grouped under five themes:

Housing Working and shopping Getting around Leisure and wellbeing Environment, sustainability and design quality

An overview of these five themes is set out below and is informed by a large range of background reports and issues raised by local people at the various consultation events to date (the full range of background documents and reports is available on the website www.lydneyndp.org.uk and will be included in the Evidence Base Summary which will support this finished version of The Plan). A full report of issues raised during the consultation process will also be compiled over the next 6 weeks and will form the ‘Consultation Statement’. Housing The Lydney NDP area has a population of 9,993 (figures from the 2011 census). A review of the available housing data shows that there is:

a high level of home ownership (70.9%) and correspondingly low proportions of social and private rented housing

a wide choice of properties with the exception of flats at the same time, a higher supply of 1 and 2 bed properties

Working and shopping Lydney is generally an affluent town. However, there are deprived areas: 3.1% of the population live in areas identified as among the most deprived 20% in the region. The rate of unemployment in Lydney is 3.4% which is less than half the average for England (7.9%). There are high levels of commuting out from Lydney. At the time of the xxx Census only 44 per cent of the resident working population worked within Lydney. Key employment sectors include: Retail: Lydney has a strong independent retail offer but lacks focus in the town centre. There is a lack of a lively weekly market. These are frequently cited by local people as a major asset to a thriving town. Industrial: Lydney has the potential for an attractive industrial market, with Lydney Harbour offering a range of industrial warehouse units and these brownfield site opportunities should be explored further. Office: Much of Lydney’s current office accommodation is based in converted buildings in the town centre. Local people and businesses say there is a shortage of good quality offices. This is reflected by Forest of Dean District Council’s studies which show there is a need for modern office accommodation, with demand for small flexible units.



Getting Around Lydney is not a highly walkable town, as although it is fairly compact the main concentrations of housing are somewhat elevated from the centre, and not all parts are well connected to the centre. Oakdale, a new development was identified by local people as poorly connected, with indirect and sometimes unattractive pedestrian and cycle routes, and car access only from the ring road. There is a lack of dedicated cycle routes with most cyclists using streets to get around. High Street, Hill Street and Newerne Street form the backbone of the town, forming a long, linear route running from south to north. This corridor which was part of the original A48 connects at either end to the Lydney by-pass which is perceived by local people as an ‘edge’ to the town. Car parks off Newerne Street and Hill Street both provide car parking spaces on a pay and display basis. Further, free parking is provided by the Coop, Tesco, NISA and other private sites. Parking charges are viewed by local people as detrimental to Lydney's independent retailers, whilst being concerned at the volume of traffic in the town centre. The Evidence Base to date appears to be suggesting that local bus services and access to them is relatively poor, likewise access from Lydney town centre to the rail station also appears problematic. Bus and rail links north to Gloucester are seen as adequate, but less so in a southerly direction to Chepstow by bus. Leisure and Wellbeing Members of the Lydney Neighbourhood Plan Group undertook an assessment of community facilities within Lydney, and this will be made available at the end of the consultation process as part of the Evidence Base. Lydney has a very active community life, representing many different groups and organisations. The majority of the existing community facilities are of small to medium capacity, and that the one large venue capable of accommodating 400 people is the Town Hall and the parish church which can accommodate up to 350. Environment, Sustainability and Design Quality Lydney generally has a high quality environment: an historic market town frequently referred to as "The Gateway to the Forest”, being bordered to the west by the Forest of Dean, and to the east by the river Severn. Flooding: The River Lyd flows through the town joining the Severn at the harbour. The Lyd has a catchment area of some 25 square miles, and due to the fact that Lydney is "Tide Locked", there is a risk of regular flooding in the Lakeside area. Open Space: Lydney has two main recreation areas; Bathurst Park and the Recreation Trust Grounds. A third area much used and valued by the residents is the harbour, which whilst accommodating the yacht club enjoys public access for walking, dog walking etc. Lydney’s open space provision is recognised as the best in the area. Character and heritage: Understanding the characteristics of the town however is important in designing new development. New development within or next to either of the Conservation Areas or listed buildings must make sure it preserves and enhances the character of the area. Other areas may require a different design approach - for example, there may be opportunities for new development to change the character of less positive places such as the industrial area by introducing a new character.


Conservation Area: Part of Lydney is a designated conservation area since 2005. Designation of a conservation area does not prevent change or development, but serious consideration must be taken of the impact of development and change on individual buildings. The Lydney conservation area extends from Westfield House and the Town Hall to the British Legion Club and also incorporates the Lydney Recreation Trust Grounds, Bathurst Park and Bathurst Park Road.

20 minute walking zone: Ideally people should be able to access the town centre with no more than a 20 minute walking distance from the town centre. This is a starting point for considering potential locations for ‘walkable’ development and should not be thought of as definitive - some people will be able to walk further in 20 minutes, and others will be able to walk less. Bus routes: It is important that there are sufficient bus links both within the town and surrounding areas. As the general principle appears to be according to the Core Strategy to earmark development sites to the east of the town, new routes will have to be designed to link the developments to each other and other areas of the town particularly the town centre.

Forest of Dean District Council Map

showing Lydney’s Conservation Area


Map depicting places of interest in Lydney


What is the Plan trying to achieve? Vision Statement “The Vision is to develop Lydney over the next 20 years as a thriving, prosperous, safe, integrated and attractive market town, serving its rural hinterland and as a centre from which to visit the area’s attractions; promoting:

The area’s own unique identity for residents and visitors

A sustainable mixed community with jobs, homes and facilities for all, including younger residents as well as the retired community; where long-distance commuting for work or leisure is a choice rather than a necessity

Opportunities for local people to voice their aspirations; where local talent and skills are encouraged and developed with special support for entrepreneurial visions which can be used in achieving strategic solutions.”

The aim of the Neighbourhood Development Plan (the Plan) is to retain and enhance the traditional values of our community and market town ensuring that future development in Lydney reflects the community’s needs and aspirations incorporating new technology where appropriate. The built environment should be compatible with local and national policies, but above all should enable all sections of our community to enjoy a sustainable way of life.

‘What makes a market town’? One definition is; - A small town in the countryside which has a regular market and acts as a centre for

surrounding villages ‘Action for Market Towns’ suggests that a market town will typically have a population of 2,000 – 35,000, that walkability is important; at present, the majority of people living in Lydney are within about 15 minutes’ walk of the Town Centre. Although the town will grow, it should remain reasonably compact continuing to have a close relationship with the open countryside around it. Lydney needs to provide a range of different uses as well as housing – that is; employment, shopping, and community facilities; including health and educational provision. It’s important that good car, public transport, walking and cycling access are provided.

Core Objectives Core Objectives can be grouped under five main headings and everyone is cordially invited to provide comment on any/all of the following:

Working and shopping

Getting around

Leisure and wellbeing

Housing

Environment and sustainability


Objectives (actions to deliver the vision) To achieve the long-range vision for Lydney, it is necessary to prioritise the tasks to be completed over the next 20 years in the areas listed below:

Expansion of employment opportunities o Re-establish the existing industrial sites as viable areas for new business to come o Improve the Road/Rail links to these existing industrial sites o Encourage hi-tech support industries to the area to further enhance the opportunities for large

scale industrial employment

Improved transport links, routes and facilities o Improving the highway infrastructure between Lydney and the Forest of Dean, especially along

the Bream Road intersection o Re-instating and developing the link between the Town Centre and the Bypass via possibly a

Swan Road Link o Establishing adequate links with the new housing developments on the east of Lydney and/or

future developments o Improving access to the Harbour, recreation areas, and the Industrial sites on the Harbour

approach/link roads o Improved Rail and Bus Station facilities o Improved Rail services and passenger information o Integrating Rail and Bus services to ensure seamless service transition to Lydney and the

surrounding areas

Revitalisation of retail centre o Re-development of key sites within the Town Centre to encourage new large scale stores to

move to the area; utilising /redevelopment of brown field sites o The enhancement of existing retail space/premise frontages o Reduce the amount of traffic using the Town Centre as a pass-through by encouraging use of

the A48 Bypass

Health provisions o Securing sufficient NHS G.P. and Dental services available for Lydney as a whole o Expanding the capacity of the Lydney Hospital, and if necessary, assisting in its relocation to a

site large enough to sustain anticipated growth

Housing strategies o Ensuring that there is sufficient provision for young first-time purchasers (affordable housing) o Making sure that the increasing retirement community have adequate housing provision to

enable them to maintain independent living

Education improvements o Support the increase for education provision/capacity in order to service the number of families

moving to the area o Working with the schools to ensure that a high standard of education is provided within a 10

mile radius

Development of leisure, sports and youth provisions o Promote the existing parkland areas as relaxation areas o Identify sites in and around Lydney for the development of a modern, multi-use sports arena o Promote the success of sports facilities/sport teams in Lydney o Identify needs of youth community and develop strategies in consultation with the Youth

Council o Improve utilisation of Lydney Harbour for leisure o Promote and support local tourism opportunity

(Source: - NDP vision, Aug 2012)


The Future Vision

The plan overleaf provides the overall future vision for Lydney

This plan embraces;

an additional 1,900 homes by 2026* Plus a further 200 dwellings (Policy Reference CSP13)* 30 hectares of new employment land* An additional 600m2 of retail within the town centre* Potential locations for a new Health Hub New and improved connections in and around the town New and improved open spaces.

* as required by FODDCs Core Strategy Additional Homes The majority of new homes are allocated in the east of Lydney. This approach: - ensures that housing is well dispersed across the town - improves the unattractive southern approach to the town by shielding views of the existing

and proposed employment areas These sites are included in the Plan: - provide new homes within walking distance of the town centre - provide public open spaces However, the planning proposal by Sainsbury’s, aimed at unlocking the Robert Hitchins site is yet to be approved. The Plan therefore proposes a ‘back up’ plan in case it does not come forward for development. The Future Vision identifies ‘reserve sites’ that will only come forward for residential development if the aforementioned land is not developed. These are: Reserve land on Site x, together with the Oakdale expansion Employment Land The Lydney Neighbourhood Plan must provide a minimum of 30 hectares of new employment land. The spatial vision: - provides land includes 15hectares at Hurst Farm, 5hectares as part of the new neighbourhood

to the east of Lydney and 7hectares at Mead Lane.


New Retail The future vision allows for up to 600 square metres of new retail in the town centre. This includes all types of retail within the A1-A5 use classes except convenience (that is, food shopping) along with primary shopfront expansion along the existing High Street. These will: - help to retain footfall in the town centre and prevent further pressure to provide ‘out-of-

town’ shopping - support the town centre shops. Community Facilities The Plan suggests sites that have the potential to accommodate a new community Health Hub, with Lydney acting as a centre of excellence for the Forest area. The three potential sites are currently being explored. Community Links and Transport / Highway Infrastructure The future vision identifies the potential to improve existing pedestrian and/or cycle routes, as well as providing new ones. Open Spaces The future vision protects key open spaces within the town, Including: - Bathurst Park - Lydney Recreational Ground - Lydney Lake In addition, the spatial vision sets out where new publicly accessible open spaces will be provided and these are: Land in Lydney designated as Protected Outdoor Recreation Space includes:

Rugby football grounds Recreation ground at Primrose Hill

Land designated as New or Additional Recreation Space includes:

Lydney Town Marsh Land south of Lydney lake at Lydney Recreation Trust Land east of Severnbank Avenue

Land designated as Important Open Area includes:

A strip of land by the river between the Recreation Trust lands and Bathurst Park The cemetery, Church Road The St Mary’s church grounds, Church Road Land between Lakeside Avenue and the Federal Mogul foundry

Land at Naas Lane Land at Wydean Close Land at Manor Road Land at Bracken Close


Land at Queen Street Land between Queen Street and Woodland Rise Land at Forest Road Land at Allaston Road

Land designated as Important Open Area and Recretion Space includes:

Bathurst Park Lydney Recreation Trust land

Equipped play spaces are provided at:

Wye Dean Close Primrose Hill Recreation Ground

Augustus Way Centurian Road Bathurst Park Beauchamp Meadow

The Harbour area, which is a scheduled Ancient Monument also provides a public open space


A map showing the proposed and allocated building in Lydney


SECTION 2

Policies A wide range of issues have been considered in producing the Plan and these can be grouped under 8 issue/topic headings and subsequent policies:

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH (Residential/Commercial development/redevelopment) - LYDNDP1/1 - Affordable Housing for Local People - LYDNDP1/2 - Housing on Farms - LYDNDP1/3 - Housing for Older People - LYDNDP1/4 - Housing/Retail/Employment Land Densities - LYDNDP1/5 - Lydney Town Centre Improvements (Economic viability/sustainability) - LYDNDP1/6 - Design and Access - LYDNDP1/7 - Car Parking Standards - LYDNDP1/8 - Burial Provision - LYDNDP1/9 - Monitoring and Development Rates - LYDNDP1/10 - De-designation Policy - LYDNDP1/11 - Energy Efficiency of new developments - LYDNDP1/12 - Surface Urban Drainage (SUDs) - LYDNDP1/13 - Fibre to the Residential, Retail and Commercial Premises

HIGHWAY AND PEDESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE (Public Safety) - LYDNDP2/1 - Roads, Rail and Footpaths/Cycle routes - LYDNDP2/2 - Improvements to the highway infrastructure - LYDNDP2/3 - Public Transport Service Provision - LYDNDP2/4 - Public Transport (Environmental considerations)

USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES/PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT - LYDNDP3/1 - Protecting the natural environment and its Eco/Bio-Diversity - LYDNDP3/2 - Protecting Lydney’s Conservation Area - LYDNDP3/3 - Policy LYD – Public and Information Signage (incl. Fingerposts) - LYDNDP3/4 - Environment and Preservation of Open Space - LYDNDP3/5 - Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) - LYDNDP3/6 - Protection of local green spaces of community value

FUTURE HEATHCARE PROVISION

- LYDNDP4/1 - Lydney’s Future Healthcare Provision

EDUCATION

- LYDNDP5/1 - Adequate educational provision for future generations


Proposals & Polices [2014 – 2034]

The following section sets out the policies to support and deliver the vision.

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH (Residential/Commercial development/redevelopment)

LYDNDP1/1 - Affordable Housing for Local People Reasoned Justification This will provide for appropriate sites within the Lydney area where the opportunity and the need for affordable housing coincide. The provision of housing which is secured as affordable in rural areas can benefit, not only the initial occupier(s), who may have work, family links, caring responsibilities or simply the best opportunity to provide a suitable house for themselves, but it will also benefit the local community by ensuring that the dwelling is available after initial occupation to those in housing need in the future from the Parish. Such housing may provide additional benefits in terms of sustaining local communities, providing opportunities for renewable energy production, reinstating abandoned dwellings, or retaining architecturally important buildings.

Intention The intention of this policy is to allow local people to access housing which is affordable to them. This policy is intended to help those local people who have access to land or buildings and who cannot afford to buy or rent on the open market but who have the means, skills or ability to convert an existing building or build a new house for themselves. It will be most applicable where the housing need and a housing opportunity coincide. There is no intention to impose a maximum size of any property built under this policy. It is considered that the occupancy restrictions, individual finances and circumstances will ensure sensible limits are self-imposed by the applicant.

LYDNDP1/1 - Exceptions - Housing for Local People Single plot affordable housing will be permitted to meet a local need where this need is evidenced and where the development does not have an unacceptable impact on the visual and landscape amenity of the area. This may be acceptable in the case of either new build dwellings or conversion of traditional buildings. In each case ancillary works such as access, outbuildings, curtilage boundaries also should not have an unacceptable impact on the visual and landscape amenity of the area. These developments will need to consider how the balance of benefits such as any social, economic, environmental or community benefits for the intended occupier or wider local community justifies the proposal. This policy operates for all of Lydney and no size restriction applies.

- Affordable housing for local people will be secured as such for its longevity through a Section 106/Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Agreement


LYDNDP1/2 - Housing on Farms Reasoned Justification Providing flexibility for farmers (or rural businesses) is an important objective if farms in the Lydney area are to remain viable and family owned and run. Many of the more successful farms in the area already have two unrestricted dwellings associated with the enterprise. This allows the farmer to use the second dwelling for family members, to help manage generational transition, create extra income through holiday letting, or simply to allow local people to rent a dwelling. However, current planning policy is silent on allowing such flexible use of dwellings on farms. It tends to expect that farmers want either to provide holiday letting accommodation, or housing for an agricultural worker, or to provide a form of affordable housing. All of these possible planning consents are tightly controlled without any in-built flexibility. To provide new housing on farms which has this flexibility will give the farmer better control of the business, allow easier investment decisions, and allow family members to remain on hand for changing circumstances within the sector or within the family. Where new housing is required, for any of these purposes, a justification for it should be made in relation to at least one of the purposes, or a combination of purposes. In terms of local housing need, evidence from a housing need survey will be required; in terms of managing generational transition, the family circumstances should show that either one household is retiring or one household is emerging and engaged in farming or caring for another family member; in terms of holiday letting, a viability assessment showing that the income from the new dwelling will help ensure the viability of the farm (or rural) business. The plight of tenant farmers is particularly acute when it comes to finding housing for family members. Their ability to invest in housing is often curtailed by land ownership or tenancy issues.

Intention This policy is intended to help existing farms or established businesses remain viable, family run, or provide rented accommodation for local people. The safeguard to prevent abuse of this policy is to ensure that these dwellings are to remain an indivisible part of that farm or rural business. However, in the unlikely event that the sale of one of these dwellings becomes required, then its occupancy must revert to an affordable dwelling in perpetuity, secured through s106 /CIL Agreement. This policy is also intended to help tenant farmers who can acquire a parcel of land or building for conversion to develop a dwelling to help them manage the generational transitions that occur. In the case of rural businesses these should be established for at least three years and be comparable to farms in their turnover, staffing or land holdings.

LYDNDP1/2 - Housing on Farms Established farm enterprises or rural businesses may have additional dwellings that can be used by family members, holiday letting or renting to local people. Applications for any additional housing must be accompanied by justification for at least one of the forms of housing that the policy intends to permit. In addition it will be subject to a s106 /CIL Agreement which specifically permits the use of the property as housing for family members, holiday letting, farm worker, and for rent to local people. The s106/CIL Agreement will prevent the sale of the property except as part of the farm enterprise or rural business or alternatively, as an affordable dwelling. In the case of tenant farmers who need to manage a generational transition and build a property which they will own, the new dwelling need not be tied to the main farm holding. It will be secured by a s106/CIL Agreement to be used only for agricultural workers, holiday letting, or local occupancy or affordable housing. Consideration of the siting and design of such new houses will be important to allow both the flexibility that the policy intends and also ensuring that there will be no unacceptable impact upon the visual or landscape of the area. The reuse of an existing traditional building within the landscape or a suitable plot within or near to the existing farmyard, may prove to be a suitable site.


LYDNDP1/3 - Housing for Older People Reasoned Justification Steps need to be taken to facilitate the delivery of housing for the older generation. Lydney has a high proportion of older people and owner occupiers and has attracted immigration of households often through down-sizing from more expensive areas. When those households need more specialist housing there is at times a lack of choice and there is the possibility of older people occupying unsuitable properties, those with limited mobility need to be housed within easy access of the town centre facilities to ensure their continued independence.

Intention The policy seeks to balance the need for more general residential housing with housing for older people in housing need. Often when larger new housing developments occur there is scope to provide both more general affordable housing and units for older people. There therefore needs to be negotiations with developers as part of the planning process. To qualify for consideration older persons housing should be restricted in price to no more than the mean local housing price and be available only to those local households that are unsuitably housed and whose household income is no more than the mean local household income. These restrictions will be covered by a s106/CIL agreement.

LYDNDP1/3 - Housing for Older People Within the Lydney Parished area housing developments of eight units or more should address the local need for older persons housing. This can occur through the provision of bungalows or other suitable housing types restricted to occupancy for those local households where one person is over the state retirement age. Where the viability of the proposal permits and in accordance with NPPF 173, the Council may seek affordable housing in addition to housing for older people. In specific cases where at least one person is over the state retirement age (or requires specialist housing by virtue of personal incapacity or impairment) that application will be assessed and supported where the following are met: a) meeting the needs of an identified older local person in housing need b) releasing an unsuitable dwelling into the market or, for transfer to a family member c) does not have an unacceptable impact on the visual or landscape amenity of the area The new dwelling will be subject to a s106/CIL Agreement ensuring that it remains available for local households where one member is over the state retirement age or as an affordable dwelling

for local people in perpetuity.


LYDNDP1/4 – Housing/Retail/Employment Land Densities Reasoned Justification The Core Strategy regards Lydney as having the greatest opportunity for change in the Forest and therefore is the main focus for development in the district. The Forest of Dean Core Strategy requires Lydney to provide 1,900 new dwellings and 30 Hectares of employment land by 2026, this is also to be accompanied by new town centre retailing and implementation of the highway strategy. The land east of Lydney has been allocated for housing and employment uses. Consideration should be given to consolidating the town of Lydney with the Harbour area by encouraging development of the brown field industrial estate and Dock area as expansion towards the Forest is not desirable in terms of loss of wildlife habitat and tourist opportunities. “Gateway to the Forest” should not signify expansion development in that direction.

Intention In order for Lydney to grow sustainably and prosper both economically and socially it is of paramount importance that the density levels are correctly assessed/monitored and balanced against the requisite infrastructure both readily available and that which is required via s106/CIL Agreements.

LYDNDP1/4 – Housing/Retail/Employment Land Densities This policy supports CSP12 which proposes development of the land east of Lydney for a new neighbourhood and will promote a new mixed development including amenity land along axis between the Harbour and the town centre.

o an additional 1,900 dwellings (40% of which will be affordable housing)

o 30 hectares of employment land (15ha Hurst Farm, 5ha as part of the Lydney neighbourhood area and approx. 7ha at Mead Lane, this employment land use should be prioritised by:

B1 Business - Offices (other than those that fall within A2), research and development of products and processes, light industry appropriate in a residential area;

B2 General industrial - Use for industrial process other than one falling within class B1 (excluding incineration purposes, chemical treatment or landfill or hazardous waste) and B8 Storage or distribution - this class includes open air storage)

o Improvement to the Town Centre (600m

2 convenience retailing & 1500m

2 for comparison goods principally within the south eastern part of the

town centre)

o Implementation of the highway strategy

In support of CSP13 (Draft Allocations Document), a new form will also be promoted, using mainly underutilised land and redeveloping or adapting redundant buildings to form an area between the Harbour and the town centre containing recreation, employment and housing, this will also address much needed links to improve the town centre. All new residential, retail and employment land will be subject to a s106/CIL Agreement ensuring that there are greater service provisions and improved facilities to serve the town and Lydney community as a whole (See CSP 5). This Policy supports the phased construction of up to 1,584 homes at:

- Primrose Hill 8 houses (by March 2016) - Highfield Hill 47 houses (by March 2016) - Lydney Hill Street 10 houses (by March 2018)


- Lydney Holms Farm 20 houses (by March 2017) - Oakdale MMC 390 houses - Lydney East (RHL) A 323 - Lydney East (RHL) B 750

These being in line with Forest of Dean District Council’s DRAFT Allocations Document for the period up to 2029. The progress of this policy will be reviewed after five years.


LYDNDP1/5 - Lydney Town Centre Improvements (Economic viability/ sustainability)

Reasoned Justification Consideration should be given to a Lydney Green Belt to ensure that the town remains the centre of the development area, this will provide a much needed, easily accessible ‘green space’ for future generations to enjoy. Any modernisation of the Market Place and High Street should reflect its heritage with the installation of modern infrastructure being as unobtrusive as possible. Such development should not hinder community use for events i.e. local food markets. The Town Council will continue to explore the case for public acquisition of any significant community land assets.

Intention To increase footfall by improving Lydney town centre, providing a focal and the inclusion of a weekly market.

LYDNDP1/5 - Lydney Town Centre Improvements (Economic viability/sustainability) The policy aims to enhance and expand the primary shop frontage area along Lydney High Street/Hams Road/Newerne Street areas, and creating a focal point; namely a town market square, which can be used to service commercially (during the day) and socially (in the evening) demands, improving the economic/social balance in Lydney. This policy supports a study of the ‘Change of use Policy’ to see if any strengthening or local control is required. The policy also seeks an exploration of the case for limiting the size of temporary signage such as ‘To Let’/For Sale boards in the Conservation Area. All new residential, retail and employment land will be subject to a s106/CIL Agreement ensuring that there are greater service provisions and improved facilities to serve the town and Lydney community as a whole (See CSP 5)


LYDNDP1/6 - Design and Access Reasoned Justification Materials and household waste facilities It is considered important by the community to ensure that the right materials are used to build new developments. In keeping with the other policies in this section, it is important that new residential development is of the highest standards to ensure that it is in keeping with the majority of residential properties in the rest of the town. The intention is not to have a uniform series of properties that all look the same, rather to ensure that new developments respect the features of buildings which make Lydney a desirable place to live.

Intention LYDNDP1/6 - Design and Access This policy will simply require new residential developments to have either brick or rendered elevations under tiled roofs. In addition, where there is no provision for direct access to the rear of the dwelling other than through the dwelling itself, a suitable store should be incorporated at the front of the dwelling so that wheelie bins for household refuse and recycling can be stored in concealed positions. This ensures that owners of smaller properties are able to store their wheelie bins away from sight at the front of the property where they can easily be accessed for refuse collection. This policy seeks to complement the other policies in this section by ensuring that new residential developments maintain the aesthetic quality of properties in the Parish. Developers must also demonstrate in a Design and Access Statement how their proposed development reinforces Lydney’s character and market town heritage. The Statement must set out how the proposals follow the policies and guidance in relevant national and local documents as well as this Plan. The Design and Access Statement must address the following: Context and character; Connection with the countryside; Quality for pedestrians; cyclists and the physically disadvantaged; Development density and build quality; Car Parking; Landscaping and access to open and green space; Occupier controlled access to fibre, copper and other home office services; Environmental footprint.

- The Town Council reserves the right to require an individual architectural review on any development application

- The Plan acknowledges existing policy guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the current and emerging policies of Forest of Dean District Council and Gloucestershire County Council


LYDNDP1/7 - Car Parking Standards All new dwellings should have sufficient off-road parking spaces to cater for the residents of that dwelling.

Reasoned Justification Recent developments have provided insufficient off-street parking for the number of cars owned by those occupying the dwellings. As a result, there are high levels of on-street parking which make it difficult for vehicles to pass, particularly emergency vehicles in certain areas i.e. Bream Road. It also makes it more dangerous for pedestrians who have to cross the road between parked cars. The 2011 Census has shown that Lydney has high levels of car ownership. On average, each household has access to 1.5 vehicles, up from 1.4 vehicles in 2001. It is therefore necessary to impose minimum off-road parking standards for any new development.

Intention The policy seeks to ensure that developments are designed to include off-road parking. This reflects the limited public transport serving the town and the high car ownership levels, so addresses the requirements of the NPPF.

LYDNDP1/7 - Car Parking Standards Parking standards for new residential development For all new residential developments of more than one dwelling, the following minimum standards shall apply for the provision of off-road parking: - 1-bed house/flat 1 off-road car parking space - 2-bed house/flat 2 off-road car parking spaces - 3-bed house/flat 2 off-road car parking spaces - 4-bed house/flat 3 off-road car parking spaces

Town Centre Parking This policy supports a move to local control or ownership of the town’s main car parks with a view to implementing local parking policies appropriate to a small market town should Forest of Dean District Council choose to relinquish these assets.


LYDNDP1/8 – Burial Provision Reasoned Justification Currently Lydney Town Council acts as the Burial Authority for the town’s cemetery and is also responsible for maintaining St Mary’s ‘closed’ churchyard, (no longer accepting new interments). Many, if not all of Lydney’s residents most likely believe that they will be afforded the option of being able to lay their loved ones to rest in Lydney, however it is anticipated (based on an average yearly interment figures) that Lydney Cemetery will only be able to meet local demand for a further 8-10 years; given the proposed developmental plans for the town there is a necessity to identify/secure suitable burial/interment ground.

Intention The policy seeks to ensure that developers consider as a necessity the requirement for additional burial ground within the Lydney Parished boundary as being that of a justifiable social requirement.

LYDNDP1/8 – Burial Provision This policy supports the provision required in order to meet future burial/interment demands for the residents of Lydney All new residential, retail and employment land will be subject to a s106/CIL Agreement ensuring that there are greater service provisions and improved facilities, burial provision (the securing/purchasing of suitable ground) must be included as part of these negotiations


LYDNDP1/9 - Monitoring and Development Rates Reasoned Justification Historically, housing development in the Lydney Area is characterised by moderate scale incremental growth with the exception of more recent larger schemes. This is the pattern of development that should continue whilst being in line with the strategic policies of the Core Strategy.

Intention There is a general presumption that all windfall and any allocated housing developed within the Lydney should not exceed a general annual development rate for each Parish as set out in Forest of Dean District Council’s Core Strategy/Allocations Document (ADPD) averaged out over the 20 year period of the plan. However, in light of the potential pent-up demand there may be higher development rates within the first few years of these policies coming into force where the general presumption may reasonably not be complied with where such pent-up demand is reasonably met by allowing such development. Conversely, where allocated sites within settlements (if any) come forward at the beginning of the plan period, this may mean that a lower development rate is then appropriate. The evidence from Forest of Dean District Council’s Housing Needs surveys or other indicators of need would be taken into account. The Town Council will be best placed to offer advice to Forest of Dean District Council on suitable annual rates of development within the Parish of Lydney from time to time. It is considered that the view of the Town Council as to the acceptability of any development proposal in relation to whether the development rate for the Parish has been breached/likely to be breached/exceeded/not exceeded, will carry significant weight in any decision that the Principal Planning Authority may take.


LYDNDP1/9 - Monitoring and Development Rates The Forest of Dean District Council has set out the principles of how the aims and objectives of the Core Strategy will be monitored which are contained with Policy CSP17. This policy states that the main areas to be monitored include;

- Serviced employment land provided, and occupied - Housing completions by location and type (including delivery of affordable housing, by

tenure and location), overall numbers against the annual requirement and against the numbers allocated to each location.

- Additional retail floorspace against allocation polices - Renewable energy installation, use of recycling and waste management - To monitor s106 agreements and the implementation of development requiring them

Excerpt from Policy CSP.17, Forest of Dean District Council’s Core Strategy

This policy seeks to support and enforce the correct monitoring of the towns build environment; the use of renewable energy (in line with the Town Council’s Renewable Energy Policy) and an active approach to monitoring S106/CIL Agreements in order to ensure Lydney receives allotted contributions in a timely manner and money is not instead lost. The policy also seeks to ensure identifiable trigger points are correctly assigned to each planning application, these are to be agreed in consultation with the town council for all future S106/CIL Agreements (FODDC to be charged interest at base rate for any/all S106/CIL Monies not made available within 7 days of the trigger point being met).


LYDNDP1/10 - De-designation Policy Reasoned Justification The Core Strategy allows that the land designation area is reviewed approximately once every five years allowing settlements to be added or removed if they gain or lose certain services or facilities, such as a bus service or a post office, a school or a pub. While the designation of settlements in this way is part of the strategy within Lydney for defining settlements in terms of the spatial hierarchy; the consequences of doing so risks exacerbating the issues faced in respect to achieving sustainable infrastructure for developments that fall out of this designation. It is widely recognised that the presence, or not, of some service does little to affect the actual sustainability of a community. The use of these services as a measure of sustainability is flawed because, amongst other things, no assessment of the quality or frequency of the service is undertaken. To prevent the ‘cliff edge’ effect of at one time allowing modest housing development, to suddenly only allowing affordable housing when a settlement is de-designated, the following policy will apply. This policy will help ensure that overall development levels in Lydney are maintained and that the strategic aim of maintaining the relative size of settlement is achieved.

Intention This policy is intended to help manage the transition in planning status that is occurring through the withdrawal or closure of some service. The effect of a relatively sudden de-designation could undermine the housing and development plans of local people who are relying on certain developments coming forward for their housing needs. This policy is intended to prevent unnecessary housing applications coming forward in Forest of Dean District Council’s Core Strategy/Allocations Document where the closure of a service is considered imminent in order to secure a consent before de-designation occurs, and to prevent undue pressure being placed on local service providers to maintain a service that is no longer viable or in their best interests.

LYDNDP1/10 - De-designation Policy Where a settlement is de-designated, single dwelling developments within or adjacent to and well related to the former will be permitted where the impact on landscape and character of the town will not be unacceptable. The requirement to contribute to the affordable housing fund as set out will apply to such developments.


SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (services provision) LYDNDP1/11 - Energy efficiency of new developments Reasoned Justification One issue that is felt by the community of Lydney to be important is ensuring that new developments, as far as possible, achieve the highest standards of energy efficiency. Whilst the sustainability of new development is commonly judged in respect of its accessibility by non-car modes, there is always a limit to how sustainable new developments in rural towns can ever be. However, one issue which can be addressed in every new development, irrespective of location, is the energy efficiency of the buildings. It is recognised that the Code for Sustainable Homes requires particular minimum levels of energy efficiency to be achieved in residential developments and these requirements will become increasingly stringent over time. However, this does not stop new development from always seeking to maximise the levels of energy efficiency where possible. All new developments should be designed to very high standards of energy efficiency, particularly those within the Conservation Area which commonly require older materials in order to be in keeping with surrounding buildings but which are less energy efficient. New developments should seek, where possible, to incorporate the use of renewable energy technologies and other low energy techniques, e.g. rainwater harvesting and reed beds.

Intention This policy seeks to go beyond the minimum standards expected of new residential developments. Lydney wants to ensure that new dwellings minimise their energy usage and maximise their self-sufficiency in energy terms.

LYDNDP1/11 - Energy efficiency of new developments All new developments should seek, where possible, to be designed to the very highest standards of energy efficiency. New developments should incorporate the use of renewable energy technologies and other low energy systems compatible with the type of development in question. If it is not possible to incorporate any such technologies or systems into the development because it would make the development unviable, then the applicant must clearly demonstrate that this is the case to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority and Lydney Town Council. If needed, an independent expert can be called upon to give an opinion on the viability of the development in light of the information submitted by the applicant. The costs incurred by this expert are to be borne by the applicant. Any such technologies or systems that are highly visible will be resisted. Any such technologies or systems which detract from the value of the Conservation Area will be resisted. Regard is to be given to Lydney Town Council’s Renewable Energy Policy available on our website.


LYDNDP1/12 - Surface Urban Drainage (SUDs) Reasoned Justification Increasing urbanisation has caused problems with increased flash flooding after sudden rain. As areas of vegetation are replaced by impermeable concrete, tarmac or roofed areas the area loses its ability to absorb rainwater. This rain is instead directed into surface water drainage systems, often overloading them and causing floods, a problem evident in Lydney especially in the areas in close proximity to the River Lyd.

Intention The idea behind SUDS is to try to replicate natural systems that use cost effective solutions with low environmental impact to drain away dirty and surface water run-off through collection, storage, and cleaning before allowing it to be released slowly back into the environment, such as into water courses. This is to counter the effects of conventional drainage systems that often allow for flooding, pollution of the environment – with the resultant harm to wildlife – and contamination of groundwater sources used to provide drinking water. Unlike traditional urban stormwater drainage systems, SUDS can also help to protect and enhance ground water quality.

LYDNDP1/12 - Surface Urban Drainage (SUDs) The paradigm of SUDS solutions should be that of a system that is easy to manage, requiring little or no energy input (except from environmental sources such as sunlight, etc.), resilient to use, and being environmentally as well as aesthetically attractive. Examples of this type of system are reed beds and other wetland habitats that collect, store, and filter dirty water along with providing a habitat for wildlife.

The SUDS system should aim to minimise or eliminate water discharges from the site, thus reducing the impact, the idea being that if all development sites incorporated SUDS then urban sewer flooding would also be less of a problem.

Given that Lydney is sited on a flood plain, all future developments (residential, retail and commercial ) must make adequate provision to contain surface water (SUDs) on site, and where possible, use the following techniques:

source control permeable paving and pervious concrete storm water detention storm water infiltration evapo – transpiration (e.g. from a green roof)


LYDNDP1/13 - Fibre to the Residential, Retail and Commercial Premises Reasoned Justification The provision of good telecommunications is increasingly important in the modern world. It is even more important in isolated rural areas. There has been a market failure to provide good connectivity in rural areas resulting in a number of government backed initiatives to remedy this situation. The ability of these initiatives to deliver good connectivity to all existing and new developments is, as yet, unknown. The world of telecommunications and connectivity is a changing environment with new technological advances occurring all the time. However, it is considered that the provision of fibre optic connections is the most robust and future-proof method of delivery connectivity, and this should be the aim for all developments. Other technologies may provide interim solutions.

Intention This policy is intended to ensure that all developers consider the connectivity requirement of their proposals at an early stage. It will inform adjustments or investment decisions to ensure that the desired connectivity can be achieved in such a way as to contribute to a wider network for neighbouring districts. This policy is also intended to ensure that where major projects (such as roads, utilities etc.) have been undertaken that can contribute to the provision of ducting for communication purposes, these opportunities are taken and offered to local groups first.

LYDNDP1/13 - Fibre to the Residential, Retail and Commercial Premises New development should demonstrate how it will contribute to and be compatible with local fibre or internet connectivity. This could be through a ‘Connectivity Statement’ provided with relevant planning applications. Such statements could consider such aspects as; the intended land use and the anticipated connectivity requirements of the development, known nearby data networks and their anticipated speed (fixed copper, 3G, 4G, fibre, satellite, microwave, etc), realistic assessments of connection potential or contribution to any such networks. This policy aims to see new development connect to the internet with a minimum symmetrical speed of 25Mbps and with realistic future proof upgrades available. Where no internet provider is available, as a minimum and subject to NPPF 173, suitable ducting that can accept fibre should be provided either to: the public highway; or a community led local access network; or another location that can be justified through the connectivity statement. Where possible and desirable, additional ducting should be provided that also contributes to a local access network for the wider community. Costs associated with additional works can be considered alongside affordable housing, or any other contributions in a viability assessment, submitted to the Council. Major infrastructure development must provide ducting that is available for community owned local access or strategic fibre deployment. Such developers are encouraged to have early discussions with local broadband groups.


Highway and Pedestrian Infrastructure (public safety) LYDNDP2/1 - Roads, Rail and Footpaths/Cycle routes Reasoned Justification Roads Lydney has an east west single carriageway main road link with Gloucester & Chepstow (A48). However, of great concern is the poor road system within the town to support the growing number of vehicular movements to & from the settlements north of Lydney. There is clearly a need to drastically improve the road network to ensure free access through the town from settlements to the north without causing congestion and air pollution. The priorities to address are:

1. Bream Road/Hill Street junction – This junction feeds the B4231 road from Bream, Coleford & beyond into the town centre. Much of the traffic is Heavy Goods traffic. This is also the main access to Lydney C. of E. Community Primary School and the Hospital. At peak times this junction becomes heavily congested, there is also on-going concern relating to air quality which is currently being monitored via Forest of Dean District Council’s Air Quality Management Team

2. Forest Road/Newerne Street junction – This junction feeds the B4234 road from Parkend, Lydbrook & beyond into the town centre; this also carries a high volume of goods traffic into the town centre. This area of the town is an extremely narrow shopping area with much pedestrian movement

3. In the current economic climate bus operators are cutting back on services. Links to the Oakdale development are still to be secured which has resulted in no public transport service; their only link to the town is via the Bypass which has inadequate footpaths/lighting resulting in increased car usage

Railway There is also a mainline railway station some 1.25 miles from the town centre. To ensure the transport plan for Lydney is integrated and sustainable the main line railway service (the only one in the Forest/District) needs to provide an efficient and useful means of transport and thus the priorities are:

1. The provision of an effective bus service needs to link the remote location of the station with both the town centre and residential areas

2. Additional cycle and pedestrian routes should form part of all future developmental discussions; providing requisite links and the option of a healthier lifestyle. Pedestrian routes should make provision for the less abled

3. There is also a necessity for additional railway car parking to cope with the proposed

population increase. Consideration must also be given to erecting a pedestrian bridge (or similar) to ensure public safety when accessing the southern line


Footways and Cycle-ways In general Lydney benefits from a good network of public footpaths (Public Rights of Way).

1. All new residential/commercial developments would however, benefit from improved footpaths to allow disabled & all weather access

2. Most of the footpaths are too narrow to provide for the upgrading for safe cycleway use In July 2013 a S106 trigger for Oakdale was reached. The Town Council resolved to request that the £24k be spent on improving pedestrian footpaths on/around the Oakdale development. To fit in with the NDP sustainable Transport Strategy it is suggested that this should be used to upgrade the Public Rights of Way (PROW) network to provide a pedestrian link between Oakdale and the Station. This will involve the widening and surfacing to a disabled access standard of Definitive paths FLY/84/2, FLY/27/1, FLY/93/3 & FLY/93/2. A bridge will be required over the widened water course between FLY/84 and 27. The narrow bridge near the start of FLY/84 will also need to be widened. In the interest of road safety the Bypass crossing point between FLY/27 and FLY/93 should have a central refuge and pedestrian controlled lights. This would have a beneficial calming effect some 350 yards east at the Oakdale roundabout. Currently cycle access from Lydney to the Forest is via narrow and dangerous highways. The geography of the Forest makes finding a reasonably flat cycle route difficult. We need to seek the cooperation of land owners and the Forestry Commission to provide cycle routes off the road. A further option may be to assign the minor road from Whitecroft via Brockhollands to the Lydney/Bream Road which is a quieter and less dangerous road for cyclists. From just south of that junction on the B4231 there is a wide track which is currently a public footpath through Lydney Park Estate down to Watery Lane and the western end of Lydney which could be upgraded to bridleway status.

Intention The introduction/implementation of policies which will ensure that every Lydney person has safe accessible paths/footways/cycle routes which in turn link existing and future developments to both the town centre retail and sporting/social networking facilities by:

o Improving the links between Lydney and the Forest of Dean, especially along the Bream Road intersection

o Re-instating and developing the link between the town centre and the Bypass via the Swan Road Link

o Establishing adequate links with the new housing developments on the East of Lydney

o Improving access to the Harbour recreation areas and the Industrial sites on the Harbour link roads

o Improved Rail and Bus Station facilities o Improved Rail services o Integrating Rail and Bus services to ensure seamless service to Lydney and

surrounding areas


LYDNDP2/1 - Pedestrian Infrastructure (Public Safety) Safer Walking and Cycling Routes The policy aims to support the construction of appropriately signed safer walking and cycling routes in and out of the town centre linking them to the design requirements of new development sites. Such routes should reflect the additional needs of the physically disadvantaged. All PROW across development sites should include wide landscaped wildlife corridors wherever possible. The policy also supports a major review and possible re-design of the suggested bus interchange with the aim of creating safer walking routes between the town centre and Oakdale/MCC Developments. A safer highway and a more attractive, landscaped environment linking walking and cycling routes and the town centre and improved access to public transport must be supported by all future developers. Developers of multiple housing (six or more units) and all commercial/retail employment sites shall be required to make a contribution towards Highway, Pedestrian and Cycle Community Infrastructure via s106/CIL Agreements. A further contribution should be secured towards providing an effective bus service linking the town with all future developments and the erection of a pedestrian bridge at the Railway Station. This policy will in the main adopt the key principles outlined in the Natural England Guidance on Local Transport Plans and the Natural Environment (DEFRA Rights of Way Circular 1/09). The policy ensures that Public Footpaths retain their beneficial aspect providing a safe and healthy environment for pedestrians.


LYDNDP2/2 - Improvements to the highway infrastructure Reasoned Justification Bream Road Junction:

a) GCC Highways are currently proposing managing with traffic lights.

b) A possible better long term solution would be to bypass the town to the west. This could be achieved by constructing a new highway to leave the B4231 about 0.4 mile from the town to skirt around Holms Farm and into Watery Lane to exit to the west of the main town area. The right turn towards the bypass should be given priority to reduce the traffic flow through the town centre. This solution would provide a safer environment adjacent to the school and would reduce town centre congestion and pollution.

Forest Road/Newerne Street junction: a) GCC Highways are proposing a Newerne Link which will

leave the Forest Road approximately 250 yards from Newerne Street to pass east through the car park area into Albert Street then on to the Highfield Hill/Newerne Street junction. This proposal will also link to the Hams Road/Naas Lane junction. This will still leave the traffic close to the town centre.

b) An enhancement to this scheme would be to relocate the Rugby Club to the Recreation Trust land south of the Bypass. This would create the opportunity to construct a road from Hams Road just beyond the Bus Station across to Swan Lane and then south to join up with the originally planned junction with the Bypass roundabout. This route could also incorporate a cycleway from the town centre to the railway station via the Lyd underpass.

Intentions The aim is to deliver transport infrastructure which the local community considers is needed in the town/Parished area to address safety concerns and the needs associated with growth. The transport network consists of several discrete parts working in harmony to support the community. 1. The Highways Strategy is as defined in the Lydney Highways Strategy 2013. 2. Improved access to Lydney Rail Station as defined in the Rail Station Master Plan. 3. An integrated public transport system designed to be accessible to the entire community. It is the intention of these policies to ensure that every Lydney person has safe access to use paths within the town ......that the infrastructure required to support a sustainable transport network is available and this network supports the entire community. Public transport needs to include existing residential settlements as well as new developments. There is a requirement to link the major housing areas with the town centre, Railway Station and Harbour. The “Gateway to the Forest of Dean” will also require a sustainable transport link to the villages and towns in the Forest to ensure easy access both for employment, retail and leisure


purposes. The new Oakdale development has no public transport service and their only car link to the town is via the Bypass. This must be addressed urgently. Circular bus services are required linking all residential areas (Primrose Hill, Centurion Road, Highfield Hill and Oakdale) with the town centre, hospital, Bypass retail outlets employment areas and the Railway Station. Bus services need to be integrated to fit into the rail timetable. The Railway Station needs to have an integrated bus service from all areas of the town. Consideration should be given to possible benefits of re-routing the Coleford to Gloucester number 23 service to visit the Station. Alternatively introduce a new service from Chepstow/Sedbury to Gloucester via Lydney Railway Station and town.

LYDNDP2/2 - Improvements to the highway infrastructure The identified transport improvements are required both to address existing problems as well as needs that are expected to arise through new development. Improvements represent a combination of improved public transport, parking and traffic calming measures. These infrastructure needs will principally be funded through developer contributions. These contributions will be collected either through s106 or CIL Agreement. However, certain items such as new bus shelters and speed reduction measures should also be considered as part of on-going local transport planning work by Gloucestershire County Council. In recognition of a joint approach by the town where strategic matters affect more than just a single location, the Neighbourhood Plan also wishes to reflect its commitment to a shared policy requiring the following: an appropriate investigation of the traffic generation aspects of proposed development on

the roads in close proximity to the proposed development highway improvement, traffic management and public transport measures to be agreed and

implemented, using Gloucestershire County Council Local Transport Plan funding and developer contributions (s106 Agreements and/or CIL)

LYDNDP2/3 - Public Transport Service Provision The following transport infrastructure policy shall be provided in Lydney:

Replacement bus shelters throughout the town with real time passenger information (RTPI). Replacement bus shelters should be in keeping and of similar construction to the current shelters in the town and be in the Council’s adopted corporate style i.e. Black and Gold

The policy supports the siting of both a local bus link and a long distance coach stop in the town. Appropriate speed reduction measures to be enforced.

LYDNDP2/4 - Public Transport (Environmental considerations) Encouragement should be given to developing an integrated light transport bus service using the latest low emission technology. This could be achieved using Kinetic Energy Recovery flywheel systems to boost the economy and reduce emissions from internal combustion engine buses. Such systems are currently available as a retro fit option. It is claimed that KERS will give a return on investment within 5 years at current fuel prices.


Protecting the Environment Reasoned Justification LYDNDP3/1 - Protecting the natural environment and its Eco/Bio-Diversity

Biodiversity is at the very heart of sustainable development and can contribute positively to social cohesion, community well-being and quality of life. There have recently been concerns regarding the effect on wildlife of a specific application regarding land at Pylers Way. This may be applicable to the whole area considering the on-going development around Lydney. The Plan seeks to ensure that protected species remain high priority when planning applications are submitted for consideration and that SEAs, Biodiversity and habitat studies are completed/submitted (as appropriate), as the norm with each and every planning application. Public Rights of Way and recognised local paths should not be routed along estate road pavements or tarmac alleyways. This policy is supported by DEFRA Rights of way Circular 1/09 which states in section 7.8 that in considering potential revisions to an existing right of way that are necessary to accommodate the planned development, but which are acceptable to the public, any alternative alignment should avoid the use of estate roads for the purpose wherever possible and preference should be given to the use of made up estate paths through landscaped or open space areas away from vehicular traffic

Intention Whilst Developers continue to make statements of intent regarding conservation and protection of flora and fauna, it is the duty of Public Authorities to ensure compliance with the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act, the policies below lend support to this aim.

LYDNDP3/1 - Protecting the natural environment and its Eco/Bio-Diversity Any new development within the Lydney settlement boundary (the designated Parished area) must adhere to government guidelines with regard to compliance with ecological & bio-diversity recommendations. Expansion towards the Forest is not desirable in terms of loss of wildlife habitat and tourist opportunities. ‘Gateway to the Forest’ should not signify expansion development in that direction.

LYDNDP3/2 - Protecting Lydney’s Conservation Area All future development in the Conservation Area should comply with the District/County Council’s conservation and heritage policies including those for listed buildings. Wherever possible, construction materials and finishes should reflect the surrounding area and the character and heritage of the immediate environment. Where approved, modern replacement/new build materials should visually reflect the immediate environment. Commercial property alterations and frontages should also reflect the heritage of the immediate environment with suitable wall mounted signage and facia. Any enhancement of the street furniture, signage and street lighting should have a heritage appearance and be in keeping with the Town Council’s corporate adopted ‘style’ i.e. Black and Gold, but must also have regard for energy conservation and public safety.


LYDNDP3/3 - Policy LYD – Public and Information Signage (incl. Fingerposts) This policy supports the installation of additional signage in the town. Signage should be in keeping with the Town Council’s corporate adopted ‘style’ i.e. Black and Gold, but must also have regard for energy conservation and public safety. All new residential, retail and employment land will be subject to a s106/CIL Agreement ensuring that there are greater service provisions and improved facilities, signage must also therefore be a major consideration. Highway signs must comply with County Council Highways policies with regard to size, height, materials and location. LYDNDP3/4 - Environment and Preservation of Open Space (Development outside the settlement boundary) It is recognised that the Plan has to enable a degree of growth with Lydney classified as a Strategic Town in the Core Strategy, the housing policies in this Plan demonstrate that the Plan is committed to this requirement. Well-designed developments should utilise natural landscape features such as water courses, trees and hedgerows to provide a good sized area for those wishing to enjoy the local environment. Consideration must be given to the natural lie of the land to maintain good views. Such features not only benefit the local community but they also make the homes more attractive to potential purchasers.

However, there are also some important principles which must be upheld in order to protect Lydney from unacceptable expansion. In particular, the proximity to the neighbouring settlements of Blakeney to the south-east means that further significant development of open fields between these settlements areas will serve to reduce the green gap between them. The extent of the settlement boundary is shown in the map below.

It is proposed that there will therefore be a strong presumption against any development outside the settlement boundary of Lydney. This will particularly be the case if development serves to reduce the Green space between Lydney and Blakeney, Alvington Bream and Yorkley.


Reasoned Justification The purpose of the boundary is to define the areas within which certain policies will apply. In particular, it defines those areas within which planning permission will normally be granted for new development, subject to other policies in this Neighbourhood Plan and the Core Strategy. The built-up area boundary also serves to preserve the setting of existing settlement by protecting surrounding countryside from unnecessary development. Without such a policy providing protection to Lydney, it is possible that the town/Parished area could completely change in character. It is clear that one of Lydney’s greatest assets is its rural appeal, its heritage and history therefore anything that threatens this should be resisted.

LYDNDP3/4 - Environment and Preservation of Open Space (Development outside the settlement boundary) The boundaries of the built-up area of Lydney are defined on the map. Development or redevelopment will be permitted within the built-up area boundaries, subject to the other policies. Outside the built-up area boundaries, development or redevelopment will not be permitted with the exception of sites that have planning permission or are allocated already in the Core Strategy, there is a clear presumption against development which serves to reduce the green space between Lydney and the settlements of Alvington, Blakeney, Bream and Yorkley The policy seeks to ensure that developments in adjoining areas further the benefits of a continuous wildlife corridor, in most cases this will fall in line with existing routes of PROWs. This policy also supports the aim that every household shall be within a one mile walk of the town centre facilities.

LYDNDP3/5 - Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) This policy supports the cataloguing/publication of existing TPOs and the necessity to continually monitor and add to this schedule as appropriate (Town Council tree designation submissions to be prioritised as high by Forest of Dean District Council). The policy recognises that there may be a necessity to sympathetically pollard/address remedial tree works in order to ensure species remain healthy. The policy seeks to enforce the replanting of same species where there has been a necessity to remove a tree bearing a TPO.


LYDNDP3/6 - Protection of local green spaces of community value Reasoned Justification The consultation process has identified a number of different green spaces within the town which members of the community consider make a positive contribution to life in Lydney. The NPPF requires that, in order to propose Local Green Space designations, the following criteria should be met: the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves 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 and the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land It is considered that all of the areas in this policy fulfil these criteria. In seeking to protect these sites, this has taken into account the importance of ecology considerations and the need to observe best practice. The local green spaces are as follows: Land in Lydney designated as Protected Outdoor Recreation Space includes:

Rugby football grounds Recreation ground at Primrose Hill

Land designated as New or Additional Recreation Space includes:

Lydney Town Marsh Land south of Lydney lake at Lydney Recreation Trust Land east of Severnbank Avenue

Land designated as Important Open Area includes:

A strip of land by the river between the Recreation Trust lands and Bathurst Park The cemetery, Church Road The St Mary’s church grounds, Church Road

Land between Lakeside Avenue and the Federal Mogul foundry Land at Naas Lane Land at Wydean Close Land at Manor Road Land at Bracken Close Land at Queen Street Land between Queen Street and Woodland Rise Land at Forest Road Land at Allaston Road

Land designated as Important Open Area and Recreation Space includes:

Bathurst Park Lydney Recreation Trust land


Equipped play spaces are provided at:

Wye Dean Close

Primrose Hill Recreation Ground Augustus Way Centurian Road Bathurst Park Beauchamp Meadow


Intention The intention is to preserve space, both public and private, which is considered important to the residents of Lydney. Development on any part of this land should be resisted.

LYDNDP3/6 - Protection of local green spaces of community value Development on all or part of the following open spaces of community value will be strongly resisted:

Rugby football grounds Recreation ground at Primrose Hill Lydney Town Marsh Land south of Lydney lake at Lydney Recreation Trust Land east of Severnbank Avenue

A strip of land by the river between the Recreation Trust lands and Bathurst Park The cemetery, Church Road The St Mary’s church grounds, Church Road Land between Lakeside Avenue and the Federal Mogul foundry Land at Naas Lane Land at Wydean Close Land at Manor Road Land at Bracken Close Land at Queen Street Land between Queen Street and Woodland Rise

Land at Forest Road Land at Allaston Road Bathurst Park Lydney Recreation Trust land Wye Dean Close Primrose Hill Recreation Ground Augustus Way Centurian Road Bathurst Park Beauchamp Meadow


This policy seeks to ensure that an appropriate balance is struck between the growth of the town and its continuing function as a town characterised by the quality of its open spaces.


HEALTHCARE LYDNDP4/1 - Future Healthcare Provision Reasoned Justification Consultation with the community identified that a community healthcare facility was required. Such a facility would have to be funded principally from developer contributions and an appropriate site found.

Contributions from development will be collected either through s106 or CIL Agreements. Whilst the CIL Regulations will restrict the pooling of s106 contributions, this is only where there are five or more contributions. Therefore, it is possible for future sites to contribute towards the new community facility without contravening the Regulations.

Intention The aim is to deliver the most important piece of community infrastructure which the local community wants. The policy recognises the importance of funding for its delivery being secured through a combination of developer contributions and other funding sources.

LYDNDP4/1 - Lydney’s Future Healthcare Provision To support residents in their desire to attain afforded healthcare treatment within a 20 mile radius, and to promote the vision that Lydney could easily lend itself as a healthcare hub for the Forest area. To continue to try and secure financial investment/expertise in order to meet this aim/objective. As it is possible for future development sites to contribute towards the new community healthcare facility without contravening Regulations, the policy seeks a percentage of each contribution gained (s106/CIL Agreement) is ‘pooled’ in order to support the delivery of a new healthcare facility in Lydney.


Whilst not ‘Policy Statements’ the following Aims and Objectives are reflected in Lydney’s NDP in order to retain community focus/interest in topical issues EDUCATION LYDNDP5/1 - Adequate educational provision for future generations Reasoned Justification The vision is to increase the school capacity for the increased number of families moving to the area and work with the schools to ensure that a high standard of education is provided. Primary Level Education Lydney has three excellent primary schools:-

a) Lydney Church of England Community School (VC) (Capacity 210 pupils) Ofsted: 1 – Excellent, 4-11 years, State funded, Mixed gender

b) Primrose Hill C of E Primary School (Capacity

315 pupils) Ofsted: 3 – Satisfactory, 4-11 years, State funded, Mixed gender

c) Severnbanks Primary School (Capacity 210 pupils)

Ofsted: 1 – Excellent, 4-11 years, State funded, Mixed gender

For the purposes of planning numbers and to help with the volatility of numbers in village schools the following schools located near Lydney are included in the allocation pool for planning purposes:

a) Aylburton C of E Primary (capacity 70 children)

b) Bream C of E (capacity 210 children) c) Parkend Primary (capacity 56 children)

In the 2011 census the population of Lydney NDP area was 9,993 linked to 4,468 households. Planning permission has been granted for the development by 2026 of:

Smaller Developments = 85 houses

Lydney East = 1,463 houses

Plus a possible additional allocation = 40 houses Total of new houses to be built in Lydney during 2013-2026 is = 1,588 Assuming the national average of occupancy per house of 2.3 people per house the population will increase by 3,652, providing a total population for Lydney of 13,645 people linked to 6,056 households.

A map showing the locations of schools


Intention Objective/Aim – Adequate educational provision for future generations To place pressure on Gloucestershire County Council’s Education Department supporting residents desire to ensure that the school capacity in Lydney is increased so every child has access to a high level of education within the town or within 10 miles of the town.

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LEISURE/TOURISM Reasoned Justification Lydney already promotes and embraces its many facets; to the south of the town are the tidal waters of the Severn, once a busy conduit for travel and trade shipped out from Lydney Harbour. The town itself is now a busy shopping and commercial centre with a diverse range of leisure facilities and tourist attractions; Dean Forest Railway operates regular steam trains and have recently extended their services to Parkend. Just outside the town lies Lydney Park Estate which contains spectacular Spring gardens and Taurus Crafts, one of the premier visitor attractions in the area featuring an art gallery, craft workshops, garden centre plus organic shop and restaurant. However in order for the tourist industry to thrive it is important that these enterprises are further supported by residents and visitors alike.

Intention The Town Council will continue to work with its partners to help promote Lydney as a unique visitor experience with quality at its heart, and take the lead in establishing a centralised information presence at an appropriate central location. Objective/Aim - Lydney's vision for the Development of leisure, sports and youth provisions is to:

o Promote the existing parkland areas as relaxation areas o Identify sites in and around Lydney for the development of a modern, multi-use

sports arena o Promote the success of its sporting facilities and sports teams in Lydney o Identify needs of youth community and develop strategies in conjunction with the

Youth Council o Promote the success of the Royal Forest Railway (DFR) o Identify and secure additional allotment land to meet growing need o To support the utilisation of Lydney Harbour


What Happens Next? Residents will receive notification of the date of the Public Referendum and where to vote from Forest of Dean District Council in early 2014. The ballot arrangements will be very similar to Town, District and County Council elections although the location of the voting booths has yet to be agreed. Only those on the current electoral role will be eligible to vote (the area polled is likely to include neighbouring Parishes who share the use of Lydney’s facilities).

----------------------------- Why it’s important to vote in the

Referendum

The NDP Steer Group and the Town Council wishes to encourage every eligible voter to use their vote to support this plan. The Localism Act has provided Lydney with its first ever opportunity to be more than just a statutory consultee on planning matters. At times, in the past, the majority view in the town has been disregarded by the Principal Planning Authority (Forest of Dean District Council). Voting for this first ever Lydney Neighbourhood Plan will ensure that the views of the local community prevail. A Neighbourhood Plan approved by its community will become a statutory planning document in its own right. Forest of Dean District Council are supporting the production of the Plan.

Please use your vote

VOTE YES!

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