GD5 clause 1

Sound/ Support
Once attractive and historic landscapes/ settings have been developed they are lost to both current and future generations.

The Burnmill Farm site is originally located outside the area for development. Due To its location it should be excluded to protect the rural appearance of the town from the North. this is even more important with the proposed development of the Airfield Farm site. The proposed development by David Wilson Homes (exhibition October 2017) shows that the density is too high for the peripheral location of the site and out of character with the existing development e.g. The design is too grid like and not flowing.

The development of Scraptoft would be detrimental to its distinctiveness as a village with a "conservation centre" if you allow such a large amount of houses to be built here on top of what we have already have had built.
Our Nature Reserve is on the historic site of Scraptoft's WWII prisoner of war camp and so helps preserve the history as well as the wildlife of the village.

1.4. This submission supports the proposed allocations of Land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough for employment and residential uses as identified on the Proposals Plan.

2.1. We have made Harborough District Council aware of the site's availability for development through various submissions, including the 'Call for Sites' as part of the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment.

2.2. The SHLAA 2016 identified the site as being suitable and deliverable over 6-15 years.

2.3. The proposed development site has partially been previously allocated for employment land uses. Saved Policy MH5 of the Harborough District Local Plan 2001 allocated 11.2 ha of Land East of Northampton Road (now known as Compass Point) for B1, B2 and B8 uses. The proposed allocation in Policy MH6 of the Draft Local Plan 2011-2031 broadly relates to this allocation, but excludes the area already development and land allocation for residential development in Policy MH2.

3.1. The proposed development site has a total site area of approximately 18.69 ha (46.2 acres) and is located on the southern edge of Market Harborough, east of Northampton Road, as shown outlined in red in Appendix 1.

3.2. The site comprises of three separate agricultural fields with clearly defined boundaries marked by mature hedgerow. The site is bordered to the north and east by the Brampton Valley Way, to the west by existing development at the Compass Point Business Park and ongoing residential development and to the south by open countryside.

3.3. The site is located in close proximity to a number of services and facilities located in Market Harborough town centre (Sub-Regional Centre). Services include GP Surgeries, St. Luke's Hospital, Dentists, a Library and a Museum, a Theatre, Post Offices, Food Stores, Primary Schools, Welland Park Middle School, Robert Smyth Academy, and a number of public houses and local businesses.

3.4. Furthermore, the town is well served in respect of public transport links including a railway station which provides connections to London St. Pancras, Leicester and Nottingham. There is a regular local bus service (No. 44) which serves the surrounding local villages to bring people into Market Harborough. There are also bus services to Leicester (X3/X7), Northampton (X7), Kettering (X17/18) and Lutterworth (58), which operate on an hourly basis.

3.5. We consider that the site has the capacity to accommodate a mix of residential and employment land uses, as follows:

3.5.1. It is considered that the allocated residential development site (Land East of Blackberry Grange), identified in red on the Proposals Plan could facilitate the development of approximately 350 dwellings, including associated vehicular access, pedestrian links, public open space, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any proposed development scheme would provide a range of property types and sizes, including a proportion of affordable housing, subject to viability assessment.

3.5.2. The site also has the capacity to accommodate approximately 2.3 ha of employment land, which could provide floor space for Use Class B1 facilities, associated parking, servicing and landscaping to complement to existing Class B employment land uses at the Compass Point Business Park.

3.5.3. Any development of the site could be sensitively designed to protect the residential amenity of the neighbouring residents to the west of the site through the retention and enhancement of existing boundary vegetation. Furthermore, any development scheme would be comprehensively designed with consideration given to balancing the demands of the proposed residential development in comparison to the existing and proposed employment land uses; to ensure that all land users enjoy an appropriate level of amenity.

3.6. Therefore, we consider the site to be in a sustainable location, close to a wide range of services and facilities, and highly accessible. It provides a good opportunity to make a valuable contribution towards meeting the Borough's development needs.

4.1. On behalf of Mr and Mrs Gowling we wish to make the following observations on the Harborough Local Plan Proposed Submission Draft Consultation.

4.2. We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity to a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, we consider Market Harborough to be a sustainable location with a large number of key services and facilities, and therefore we support its identification as the Sub-Regional Centre, which is expected to be a focus for development across the plan period.

4.3. In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of the Policy in the Draft Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District.

4.4. With regards to Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character we fully support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness. Any development scheme at Land at Northampton Road would be underpinned by the findings of a comprehensive Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment which would identify key viewpoints of and within the site. In addition, any design would be positively prepared to ensure that it provides a high quality and inclusive design that maintains a sense of place and reflects the distinctiveness of the town.

4.5. We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As stated above, any development scheme at Land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive development design. Any scheme would be sensitively designed to protect the residential amenity of the neighbouring residents to the west of the site through the retention and enhancement of the existing boundary vegetation. Furthermore, any development scheme would be comprehensively designed with significant regard given to ensuring the demands of the proposed residential development are balance with the requirements of existing and
proposed employment land uses; to ensure that all land users experience an appropriate level of amenity.

4.6. In respect of Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. In addition, we fully support the allocation of our land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough for residential development up around 350 dwellings as set out by Part 2(b) of the Draft Policy. As previously stated, we consider the site has the capacity to deliver approximately 350 dwellings with associated vehicular access, pedestrian links, public open space, car parking, landscaping and drainage.

4.7. In this light, we fully support the allocation of our land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough for residential development as outlined in Policy MH2: East of Blackberry Grange. As outlined above, we consider the site has the capacity to deliver approximately 350 dwellings with associated vehicular access, pedestrian links, public open space, car parking, landscaping and drainage.

4.8. In respect of the criteria for development outlined within the policy, any development of the site could be comprehensively designed using masterplanning to give consideration to the balanced demands of the proposed residential allocation in comparison to the existing and proposed employment land uses; to ensure that all land users benefit from an appropriate level of amenity. This could include the provision of open space and recreational facilities across the site, including the western boundary shared with the existing and proposed employment use. Furthermore, any development scheme would be underpinned by the results of a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment which would identify the key views of and within the site, to ensure that the proposed masterplan is sensitive to the site's location adjacent to the Brampton Valley Way.

4.9. Furthermore, it is considered likely that any application for development on the site would be supported by a wide range of technical reports, and that the findings would contribute the proposed masterplan. These reports would include a Phase 1 Ground Investigation, an Archaeological Desk Based Assessment, and a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and Protected Species Surveys. In addition to these reports, the application would be supported by a comprehensive Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy which would outline a surface water and foul water drainage strategy to ensure that the site is not at risk of flooding and does not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

4.10. With regards to Policy H2: Affordable Housing, we support the requirement for residential developments of more than 10 dwellings to provide 40% of affordable housing on site. As previously stated, our clients have stated their willingness to meet this requirement, subject to the appropriate viability assessment.

4.11. We fully support the objectives of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards and the requirement for new development schemes to deliver a range of housing types and sizes. Any development of Land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough would deliver a mix of property types and sizes, including bungalows, terraced, semi-detached and detached dwellings ranging in size from 1 to 5 bedrooms.

4.12. In respect of Policy BE1: Provision of New Business Development, we fully support the recognition that the development requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy enables. We fully support the allocation of land at Compass Point Business Park, Northampton Road for the development of 5ha of employment land use. As previously outlined, we consider that our clients land at Northampton Road has the capacity to accommodate 2.3ha of 5h allocation for employment land; the site could provide floor space for Use Class B1 facilities, associated parking, servicing and landscaping to complement the existing Class B land uses at the Business Park.

4.13. In this light, we fully support the allocation of our land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough for Use B1 employment development, as identified by Policy MH6: Compass Point Business Park. As previously stated, we consider that our client's land at Northampton Road has the capacity to provide approximately 2.3 ha of employment land, towards the total 6ha allocation. This land could be used to provide floor space for Use Class B1 facilities, associated parking, servicing and landscaping to complement the existing employment land uses located at the Compass Point Business Park.

4.14. In respect of the site specific criteria for development outlined within the policy, as previously outlined, any development for the site could be comprehensively designed using masterplans to ensure consideration is given to the balancing demands of the proposed and existing employment land uses in comparison to the proposed residential allocation; to ensure that all land uses experience an appropriate level of amenity. For example, this could include the provision of a landscape buffer along the northern boundary of the site, adjacent to the existing residential development and between the proposed employment and residential allocations. Furthermore, any development scheme would seek to ensure it provides a high quality and inclusive design that is in keeping with the scale, character and appearance of the existing Compass Point Business Park.

4.15. In addition, it is considered likely that any application for development at Land at Northampton Road would be underpinned by a wide range of technical reports and that the findings of these reports would contribute to the proposed masterplan. These reports would include a Phase 1 Ground Investigation, an Archaeological Desk Based Assessment, and a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and Protected Species Surveys. In addition, the application would be supported by a Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy which would outline an appropriate surface water and foul water drainage strategy to ensure that the site is not at risk of flooding and does not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

4.16. In respect of Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of this Policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given that the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site is predominately located within Flood Zone with the exception a small watercourse that serves as a tributary to the River Jordan. Any development scheme at the
site would be underpinned by a comprehensive Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage
Strategy which would ensure the development is not at risk of flooding and would not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

4.17. Finally, with regards to Policy IN1: Infrastructure Provision, we support the requirement for development proposals to make appropriate contributions to local infrastructure where necessary to support the proposal, in line with Paragraph 204 of the NPPF. As previously outlined, the clients are willing to enter into discussions with Harborough District Council in respect of planning obligations to be secured within a Section 106 Agreement.

5.1. We consider the proposed development site at Land at Northampton Road, Market Harborough has the capacity to accommodate approximately 350 dwellings, including associated vehicular access, pedestrian links, public open space, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any development scheme could be designed to provide a range of dwelling types and sizes, including a proportion of affordable housing subject to viability. The site also has the capacity to accommodate approximately 2.3 ha of employment land, which could provide for space for Use Class B1 facilities, associated parking, servicing and landscaping to complement the existing employment uses at Compass Point Business Park.

5.2. We fully support many of the objectives and policies contained within the Proposed Submission Draft of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031. In particular, we support the allocation of Land at Northampton Road for the development of around 350 dwellings as part of Policy H1 and for 5ha of employment land as part of Policy BE1.

5.3. We consider that the potential constraints of this site can be positively addressed and considered throughout the design process; for example any development scheme could be comprehensively designed to ensure that the demands of the proposed residential allocation in comparison to the existing and proposed employment land uses are appropriately balanced, to ensure that all land users benefit from an appropriate level of amenity.

5.4. The represents a suitable, available, achievable and viable source of housing land which can deliver a range of real and desired public benefits, now.

5.5. Andrew Granger & Co. would like to remain involved throughout the preparation of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031 and therefore request to be informed of any future consultation opportunities and when the document is submitted for Examination.

On behalf of Mr and Mrs Sellers we wish to make the following observations on the
Harborough Local Plan Proposed Submission Draft Consultation.

4.2. We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity to a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, we consider Great Easton to be a sustainable location with a wide range of services and facilities, and as such we support its identification as a Selected Rural Village, which is expected to support residential development of an appropriate scale.

4.3. In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of this Policy within the Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District.

4.4. We support the proposed strategy for locating growth within or contiguous to the built up area of Selected Rural Villages, such as Great Easton, as outlined in Policy GD2: Settlement Development. We consider that the proposed development at Land rear of 22 Broadgate is of an appropriate scale that reflects the size of the village and the level of service provision. The site is visually and physically well connected to the village and services within the village centre are within an appropriate walking distance. It is considered that a development of up to 8 units would be of an appropriate scale for the village and can be designed in a manner that respects and enhances the local character and distinctiveness. A development scheme could be designed to provide views through the site, from Broadgate, to the open countryside to the north.

4.5. With regards to Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character we fully support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness. The site to the rear of 22 Broadgate, Great Easton is bound to the east and west by existing and proposed residential development, and as such development of the site would be viewed as a continuation of development within the village envelope. Any development scheme would be positively prepared to ensure that the site provides a high quality and inclusive development design that makes a positive contribution to the local character and distinctiveness of Great Easton.

4.6. We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As stated above, any development proposal at Land rear of 22 Broadgate, Great Easton would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive design. Any design scheme would maintain and enhance the existing boundary features to ensure that the views and residential amenity currently experienced to the south, east and west of the site are retained. The site would also seek to include an area of Public Open Space which could be positioned to enable key views of the open countryside, seen through the site from Broadgate, to be preserved.

4.7. In respect of Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. We support the identification of Great Easton as an appropriate location for the delivery of a minimum of 30 dwellings. As previously outlined, we consider that the proposed development of Land rear of 22 Broadgate for up to 8 dwellings would be an appropriate scale of development for the village, and would deliver a scheme that could make a positive contribution to the character and distinctiveness of Great Easton.

4.8. We fully support the requirement of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards for new development schemes to deliver a range of housing types and sizes. Any development of Land rear of 22 Broadgate could deliver a mix of property types including semi-detached and detached houses ranging in size from 3 to 4 bedrooms.

4.9. With regards to Policy HC1: Built Heritage, we support the requirement to protect, conserve and enhance local heritage assets in line with Paragraph 134 of the NPPF. The previously submitted application was supported by a Heritage Statement which found that the proposed development would result in a low adverse impact on 22 Broadgate and would not amount to substantial harm to the significance of the asset. The Statement also found that the proposals would have a negligible impact on the setting of 22 Broadgate. Members concerns with the previous application related to the heritage impact of the proposed access; as such the clients are currently pursuing the potential of securing an alternative access point for the site, which would overcome these concerns. There were no concerns about the principle of development on the site from a heritage perspective.

4.10. Finally, in respect of Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of this policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given that the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through the national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site not located in an area at risk of flooding. We consider the proposed development site at Land rear of 22 Broadgate, Great Easton has the capacity to accommodate a small scale residential development scheme comprising up to 8 dwellings with associated vehicular access, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any development scheme would provide a mix of dwelling types and sizes.

5.2. We fully support many of the objectives and policies contained within the Proposed Submission Draft of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031. In particular, we support the identification of Great Easton as a Selected Rural Village, which is to accommodate a minimum of 30 new dwellings to assist in meeting the District's housing needs.

5.3. Any development proposal for Land rear of 22 Broadgate would be positively prepared to ensure high quality and inclusive design. The scheme would maintain and enhance the existing boundary features to ensure that the views and residential amenity currently experienced to the south, east and west of the site are retained. The site would also seek to include an area of Public Open Space, positioned to enable key views of the open countryside to be preserved.

5.4. Therefore, the site represents an opportunity to deliver a suitable, available, achievable and viable source of housing land that can be developed now.

5.5. Andrew Granger & Co. would like to remain involved throughout the preparation of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031 and therefore request to be informed of any future consultation opportunities and when the document is submitted for Examination.

Comments on the Harborough Local Plan Submission Draft

4.1. On behalf of the Carr Family we wish to make the following observations on the
Harborough Local Plan Proposed Submission Draft Consultation.

4.2. We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity of a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, we consider Great Glen to be a sustainable location with a wide range of services and facilities, and as such we consider to be appropriately identified as a Rural Centre, where development is expected to meet the needs of the settlement and the surrounding area. As such, we propose the formal allocation of Land off London Road, Great Glen for residential development to assist in meeting these needs.

4.3. In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of this Policy within the Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District.

4.4. We support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness, as outlined in Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character. Any development at Land off London Road, Great Glen would be positively prepared to ensure the provision of a high quality and inclusive development design. The scheme would seek to ensure that it respects the site's rural context and make a positive contribution to the local character.

4.5. We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As stated above, any development scheme at Land off London Road, Great Glen would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive design. Any proposal would be designed to protect the residential amenity of existing properties located to the east and west of the site through the retention of the existing boundary hedgerow and enhancement with additional planting. Any development would seek to utilise materials that are complementary to the local vernacular to ensure that the development is well integrated into the local street scene.

4.6. With regards to Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. We support the identification of Great Glen as an appropriate location to support residential development, however we consider that the village has the capacity to accommodate a greater quantum of development than the 35 dwelling minimum requirement proposed. As previously outlined, Great Glen has a wide range of key services and facilities, including a GP, a Primary School, Leicester Grammar
School, a Convenience Store and a Post Office. The village also benefits from good connectivity to higher order settlements such as Leicester, Oadby and Market Harborough and the services and employment opportunities available in these settlements. It is an attractive settlement where people want to live, and therefore we consider it to be an appropriate location for the delivery of a greater quantum of new homes. In this light, we are proposing the formal allocation of Land off London Road, Great Glen as a strategic residential development. As outlined above, we consider the site has the capacity for a first phase of up to 150 dwellings which will assist in the delivery of new homes to meet both the District's needs and any unmet needs arising from Oadby and Wigston Borough or Leicester City.

4.7. In respect of Policy H2: Affordable Housing, we support the requirement for residential developments of more than 10 dwellings to provide 40% of affordable housing on site. As previously stated, our clients have stated their willingness to meet this requirement, subject to the appropriate viability assessment.

4.8. We fully support the requirement of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards for new development schemes to deliver a range of housing types and sizes. Any development at Land off London Road, Great Glen would deliver a mix of property types and sizes, including bungalows, terraced, semi-detached and detached dwellings ranging in size from 1 to 5 bedrooms.

4.9. In respect of Policy HC1: Built Heritage, we support the requirement to protect, conserve and enhance local heritage assets in line with Paragraph 134 of the NPPF. Where a proposal will result in less than substantial harm to a designated heritage asset, Paragraph 134 of the Framework requires this harm to be weighed against the public benefits of a development scheme.

4.10. It is considered that the proposed development of Land off London Road, Great Glen would result in a range of social, economic and environmental benefits which contribute to the provision of a sustainable development.

Social Benefits
Housing Provision: Great Glen is considered to be an appropriate location for residential development; development of the site would result in the delivery of a first phase of up to 150 dwellings, including a range of housing types and sizes, which would assist in the delivery of new homes in the District High Quality Design: The proposed development would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive development design that would be informed by a number of technical reports, to ensure that it makes a positive contribution to the character of the
village.

Economic Benefits
Affordable Housing Provision: The site has the capacity to deliver up to 40% affordable housing on site, which would include the provision of starter homes to enable young people to remain in the village.

Environmental Benefits
-Additional Tree Planting: Any development of the site would seek to retain the boundary trees and hedgerow that define the site and would also include extensive additional planting within the site.
-On site surface water attenuation: Any application for development on the site would be supported by a Drainage Strategy which outlines how surface water would be managed on the site. The strategy would detail the appropriate measures which will ensure the development of the site does not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

4.11. With regards to Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of the policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given that the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through the national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site is located within Flood Zone 1.

4.12. In respect of Policy IN1: Infrastructure Provision, we support the requirement for development proposals to make appropriate contributions to local infrastructure where necessary to support the proposal, in line with Paragraph 204 in the NPPF.
The clients are willing to enter into discussions with Harborough District Council in respect of planning obligations to be secured within a Section 106 Agreement.

5. Conclusion
5.1. We consider the proposed development site at Land off London Road, Great Glen has the capacity to accommodate a strategic residential development comprising a first phase of up to 150 dwellings with associated vehicular access, public open space, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any development scheme would provide a mix of dwelling types and sizes, and would provide a proportion of affordable housing, subject to viability.

5.2. We fully support many of the objectives and policies contained within the Proposed Submission Draft of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031. In particular, we support the identification of Great Glen as a Rural Centre, which is to accommodate development to meet the needs of the settlement and the surrounding area.

5.3. In light of this, we consider that the village has the capacity to accommodate a greater quantum of development than the 35 dwelling minimum requirement proposed in Policy H1: Provision of New Housing. Great Glen has a wide range of key services and facilities, and also benefits from good connectivity to higher order settlements such as Market Harborough, Oadby and Leicester, and the services and employment opportunities available in these settlements. It is an attractive place where people want to live and work, and therefore we consider it to be an appropriate location for the delivery of a greater quantum of new homes.

5.4. As such, we are proposing the formal allocation of Land off London Road, Great Glen for a strategic residential development to assist in the delivery of new homes to meet the District's needs and any unmet needs arising from Oadby and Wigston Borough and Leicester City.

5.5. Andrew Granger & Co. would like to remain involved throughout the preparation of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031 and therefore request to be informed of any future consultation opportunities and when the document is submitted for Examination.

Thurnby and Bushby Parish Councils supports as sound.

3.1. On behalf of Mr and Mrs Welton we wish to make the following observations on the Harborough Local Plan Proposed Submission Draft Consultation.

3.2. We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity of a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, we consider Market Harborough to be a sustainable location with a large number of key services and facilities and as such we support its identification as the Sub-Regional Centre, which is expected to be a focus for development.

3.3. In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of this Policy in the Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District. We consider that the proposed development at Land off Harborough Road, Market Harborough should be viewed favourably in respect of the economic, social and environmental strands that comprise sustainable development.

3.4. We support the proposed strategy for locating growth within or continuous to the built-up area of settlements as identified in Policy GD2: Settlement Development. We consider that the proposed development of Land off Harborough Road, Market Harborough reflects the size of the town and level of service provision available. It is considered that the site is visually well connected to the town; the site is bound to the east by existing residential properties and is located less than 185 metres from a large-scale committed development to the north-east. The proposed development would enhance the local character and would include the retention of the site's natural boundary features.

3.5. With regards to Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character we fully support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness. The proposed development at Land off Harborough Road has been positively prepared with the provision of a high quality and inclusive design at the core of the development objectives. As outlined previously, the materials selected for the scheme are considered to be well related to the site's rural location and will complement the natural features of the site to create a unique, high quality development.

3.6. We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As stated above, the proposed development at Land off Harborough Road has been positively prepared with the desire to provide a unique, high quality and innovative scheme at the core of the development's objectives. The proposals have given significant consideration to utilising materials that reflect the rural character of the site and complement the site's natural boundaries and features. The siting of the proposed development will ensure that the proposals have a limited impact on the existing residential properties to the east of the site, or the occupied businesses on the northern part of the site. It is considered that the proposed design scheme appropriately delivers a high quality, low energy residential development that will enhance the local character and distinctiveness.

3.7. In respect of Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. We support the identification of Market Harborough as an appropriate location for the delivery of a minimum of 1,140 new dwellings. As previously outlined, we consider that the proposed development of Land off Harborough Road for 15 new 2-bedroom low energy apartments is an appropriate scale for the town, and will deliver a scheme that makes a positive contribution to the character and distinctiveness of Market Harborough.

3.8. With regards to Policy H2: Affordable Housing, we support the requirement for residential developments of more than 10 dwellings to provide 40% of affordable housing on site. In relation to the proposed development of 15no. 2-bedroom low-energy apartments at Land off Harborough Road, the clients are will to meet this requirement subject to the appropriate viability assessments.

3.9. We fully support the requirement of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards for new development schemes to deliver housing at an appropriate density and include a range of dwelling types and sizes. The proposed development at Land off Harborough Road has been designed to provide new dwellings at a density that is considered to respect the rural nature of the site's location on the western edge of Market Harborough. The scheme will provide a mix of 2 bedroom apartments ranging from approximately 1,000 sq. ft. to 1,200 sq. ft.

3.10. In relation to Policy RT4: Tourism and Leisure we support the identification of Market Harborough as a focal point for tourism development. The proposed development at Land off Harborough Road, Market Harborough will likely serve to enhance the attractiveness of the District for visitors due to the unique nature of the proposed low-energy development. As outlined above, the client's intend to make arrangements with Harborough District Council for the organisation of a series of open days during the construction period to allow people to visit the site and learn more about the materials and techniques being used in the development, and how they can be utilised elsewhere.

3.11. We fully support the objectives of Policy CC1: Mitigating Climate Change in line with Paragraphs 93 and 94 of the Framework. The proposed development at Land off Harborough Road will serve to demonstrate how residential developments can be delivered in a low energy manner. The central aim of the development is to deliver homes that require no additional power or heat; in order to achieve this the development includes the following design features:
-Passive House design techniques
-Highly insulated and well-sealed, high density fabric - provides high thermal mass and limited heat loss
-Limited windows to southern facing elevations
-Stepped 3-storey units to shade southern and western elevations from low angle sunlight
-Orientation of roofs within 20 degrees of due south to optimise rooftop photovoltaic panels to provide electricity.
-Localised high capacity batteries to provide continuous power
-High efficiency exhaust air heat exchanges within each dwelling - provides heating and hot water from the warm air extracted by kitchens and bathrooms.
-Any surplus energy generated by the development will be supplied to the National -Grid or used to charge electric vehicles.

3.12. Finally, in respect of Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of this Policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given that the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site is predominately located within Flood Zone 1. The area to the south of the siting for the proposed apartment unit is located within Flood Zone 3; this area will be left undeveloped. Initial investigations have been undertaken by the client to ensure that the proposed development would not be at risk of flooding; as such it is proposed that the internal finish flood level will be 83.6 metres..
We consider the proposed development site at Land off Harborough Road, Market Harborough has the capacity to accommodate a low energy residential development comprising up to 15no. 2 bedroom apartments. The scheme has been designed using Passive House techniques to deliver homes which can be operated without any power or heating bills.

4.2. We fully support many of the objectives and policies contained within the Proposed Submission Draft of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031. In particular, we support the identification of Market Harborough as the Sub-Regional Centre which is to be a focus for new development, including a minimum of 1,140 new dwellings to assist in meeting the District's housing needs.

4.3. The proposed development at Land off Harborough Road will serve to enhance the attractiveness of the District to visitors due to its unique character and function as a low-energy development. The client's intend to make arrangements with Harborough District Council to utilise this opportunity, by organising a series of open days during the construction period to enable people visit the site and learn more about the materials and techniques that are being used in the development and how they could be utilised in other schemes.

4.4. Therefore, the site represents an opportunity to deliver a scheme that will enhance the District's attractiveness and identity whilst providing a suitable, available, achievable and viable source of housing land that can be developed now.

4.5. Andrew Granger & Co. would like to remain involved throughout the preparation of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031 and therefore request to be informed of any future consultation opportunities and when the document is submitted for Examination.

1.2. On behalf of Westleigh Partnerships Limited we are seeking to work with Harborough District Council in promoting the Land south of Grange Lane, Thurnby (Appendix 1 of attached) for residential development.

2.1. The proposed development site comprises a grassland field located south of Grange Lane, to the west of the village centre of Thurnby, as shown outlined in red in Appendix 1.

2.2. The site covers an area of approximately 1.36ha (3.36 acres) and consists of a single field of broadly flat arable land, marked by clearly defined boundaries. The site is bound by residential development on three sides; to the north by Grange Lane, to the east by Firs Farm and Court Road, and to the west by The Spinneys. The southern boundary is marked by mature hedgerow, beyond which lies open countryside. The site lies adjacent to the Thurnby and Bushby Conservation Area, as designated in 1977.

2.3. Thurnby is a compact village that benefits from a number of local services and facilities including a Primary School, a Public House, a Co-Operative Supermarket and the Church of St. Luke.

2.4. Furthermore, the village also lies within close proximity to further services and employment opportunities located in Leicester (approx. 4.9 miles), Oadby (approx. 3.3 miles), Great Glen (approx. 5.2 miles) and Billesdon (approx. 4.9 miles).

2.5. The site is considered to have good access to public transport links; the nearest bus stop is located opposite the St. Luke's Church of England Primary School, which is approximately 0.2 miles to the east of the site entrance. The bus stop is served by the Arriva 56 bus service, which runs between Leicester, Scraptoft and Thurnby from 7am - 7pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8am - 6pm on Saturdays, with buses calling at the stop every 30 minutes. The bus route provides access to Leicester Rail Station, where frequent connections are available to Birmingham, Nottingham, London St. Pancras, Sheffield and Lincoln.

2.6. We consider that the site has capacity to deliver up to 28 residential dwellings, including vehicular access, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any development of the site could deliver a mix of dwelling types and sizes, including bungalows, terraced, semi-detached and detached dwellings ranging in size from 2 to 5 bedrooms, including a proportion of affordable housing subject to viability.

2.7. Any development scheme would be sensitively designed to protect the residential amenity of properties to the north, east and west of the site by limiting development to two storeys, where possible and providing additional planting within the site boundaries.

2.8. Therefore, we consider the site is in a sustainable location, close to a number of services and employment, and is highly accessible. It represents an opportunity to deliver a high quality development that will make a valuable contribution towards meeting the District's development needs.


3.2. We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity to a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, Thurnby benefits from a good functional relationship with Leicester and the facilities and services available in the city. As such, we support its identification as part of the Leicester Principal Urban Area where development should support the regeneration and development objectives of Leicester City and Oadby and Wigston Borough.

3.3. In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of this policy in the Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District.

3.4. We support the proposed strategy for locating growth within or contiguous to the built up area of settlements, as outlined in Policy GD2: Settlement Development. We consider that the proposed development at Land South of Grange Lane is of an appropriate scale that reflects the size of Thurnby and the level of service provision. It is considered that the site is visually and physically well connected to the village and services within the village are within an appropriate walking distance. Development of the site for up to 28 units would be of an appropriate scale for the village and can be designed in a manner that respects and enhances the local character and distinctiveness. The site is bound on three sides by residential development and as such development of the site would not impact on the separation of settlements.


3.5. With regards to Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character we fully support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness. Any development of the Land South of Grange Lane, Thurnby would be positively prepared to ensure the provision of a high quality and inclusive development. Any scheme would seek to ensure that it makes a positive contribution to the local character and respects the site's edge of settlement location.

3.6. We are strongly opposed to the allocation of our site within the proposed Thurnby/Leicester/Oadby Green Wedge, as identified by Policy GD7: Green Wedges.

3.7. We consider that the proposed development site does not perform the functions of a green wedge, as outlined above, and therefore propose its removal from the Thurnby/Leicester/Oadby Green Wedge. The primary function of the proposed green wedge is to prevent the merging of settlements. However, the proposed development site is bound on three sides by existing residential development; as such the built form of the village already encroaches on the separation of Thurnby and Leicester beyond that which is proposed by development of this site, and likewise to the south between Thurnby and Oadby. Thus, development of this site would not contribute to the merging of settlements.

3.8. Furthermore, in respect of the function of the Green Wedge to guide the development form, as stated above the site is bound on three sites by existing residential development and the current built form of the village extends further west and south than the proposed site boundaries. As such, development of the Land south of Grange Lane, Thurnby would be complimentary to the existing built form of the village.

3.9. With regards to Green Wedges providing access to the open countryside, the proposed development site is currently under private ownership and as such the site cannot be used as a local green space, nor can it currently provide access to the open countryside to the south. As such, development of the site would lead to the site being a greater asset to the community, as it would enable the local community to access Bushby Brook and the open countryside with greater ease.

3.10. Additionally, the site is not currently used for recreational purposes; the site is located in close proximity to Manor Field Park and the community scout hall, both of which are more suitable recreation locations. Therefore, it is considered that the proposed development site at Land south of Grange Lane, Thurnby does not perform the functions of a Green Wedge site and as such we proposed removal of the site from the allocated Green Wedge.

3.11. We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As previously outlined, any development scheme for Land South of Grange Lane, Thurnby would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive development design. Any proposal would be designed to protect the residential amenity of existing properties located to the north, east and west of the site by strengthening the landscaping of the site's boundaries and limiting development height to 2 storeys.

3.12. In respect of Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. However, we are concerned that development within the Leicester PUA is to be located within a single Strategic Development Area [SDA] on land north of Scraptoft. Given the high level of infrastructure that is required to be implemented prior to the delivery of housing at large strategic developments, such as the proposed SDA, there are often substantial delays between their initial identification and the first delivery of housing. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial for the Local Plan to identify a number of smaller housing sites that could assist in the short-term delivery of housing in the PUA. In this light, we are proposing the allocation of Land South of Grange Lane, Thurnby for residential development. The site represents a sustainable development that is suitable, available, achievable and viable and can be delivered now.

3.13. With regards to Policy H2: Affordable Housing, we support the requirement for residential development to provide a proportion of affordable housing on site. As previously stated, the clients have stated their willingness to meet this requirement, subject to the appropriate viability assessment.

3.14. We fully support the requirement of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards for new development schemes to deliver a range of housing types and sizes. Any development scheme at Land South of Grange Lane, Thurnby would deliver a mix of property types and sizes, including bungalows, terraced, semi-detached and detached dwellings ranging in size from 2 to 5 bedrooms.

3.15. Finally, in respect of Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of this policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site is not located in an area at risk of flooding.

4.1. We consider the proposed development site at Land South of Grange Lane, Thurnby has the capacity to accommodate up to 28 dwellings with associated vehicular access, car parking, landscaping and drainage. Any development scheme could provide a mix of dwelling types and sizes and could be positively prepared to preserve and enhance the village's character and distinctiveness.

4.2. We fully support many of the objectives and policies contained within the Proposed Submission Draft of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031. However, to ensure that the strategy for delivering new housing is robust, we propose the allocation of the land south of Grange Lane, Thurnby for residential development. We are concerned that the Draft Local Plan proposes to locate all new development in the Leicester PUA within a single Strategic Development Area. Given the level of infrastructure provision required at developments of this scale, there can often be substantial delays between their initial identification and the first delivery of housing. As such, we believe in would be beneficial for the plan to identify a number of smaller sites, such as Grange Lane, Thurnby, which can come forward in the short-term to assist in the immediate need for housing delivery in the PUA.
4.3. In this light, we are strongly opposed to the identification of our site as part of the Thurnby/Leicester/Oadby Green Wedge. We consider that the proposed development site does not perform the function of a Green Wedge that are clearly set out within Policy GD7 of the Draft Local Plan.

4.4. We consider that the site represents an opportunity to deliver a sustainable, available, achievable and viable source of housing that can be developed now.

4.5. Andrew Granger & Co. would like to remain involved throughout the preparation of the Harborough Local Plan 2011-2031 and therefore request to be informed of any future consultation opportunities and when the document is submitted for Examination.

On behalf of Mr and Mrs Sandercock we are seeking to work with Harborough District Council in promoting the Land off Station Road, North Kilworth (Appendix 1 of attached) for residential development. The subject site lies outside the Limits to Development identified within the Neighbourhood Plan, where development is strictly controlled. The proposed development site has a total site area of approximately 0.61 ha (1.5 acres) and is located on the eastern edge of North Kilworth, a village within the Harborough District of Leicestershire.

We support the proposed spatial strategy for growth set out in Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy. The NPPF and the Draft Local Plan are underpinned by a 'presumption in favour of sustainable development'. It is therefore considered rational to direct development towards locations that are within close proximity to a wide range of employment opportunities and local services and facilities. As outlined above, we consider North Kilworth to be a sustainable location with a wide range of services and facilities, and as such we consider it appropriate for identification as a Selected Rural Village, which are expected to accommodate an appropriate scale of residential development.

In respect of Policy GD1: Achieving Sustainable Development, we strongly support the inclusion of this Policy in the Harborough Local Plan in line with Paragraph 14 of the NPPF. We are encouraged by the Council's desire to positively consider proposals that contribute to the sustainable development of the District.

We support the proposed strategy for locating growth within or contiguous to the built up area of Selected Rural Villages, such as North Kilworth, outlined in Policy GD2: Settlement Development. We consider that the proposed development at Land off Station Road is of an appropriate scale that reflects the size of the village and the level of service provision. It is considered that the site is physically well connected to the village and the proposals include the provision of a footpath along the north of Station Road to assist with the functional connectivity between the site and the village centre. A development of 10 units would be an appropriate scale for the village and could be designed in a manner that respects and enhances the local character and distinctiveness. Any development of the site would seek to retain the existing natural boundary, with the exception of the site entrance and the footpath entrance. Development of the site would not impact on the separation of settlements, as the site is bound to the east by existing residential development.

With regards to Policy GD5: Landscape and Townscape Character we fully support the requirement for new development to be sensitive to the landscape setting and the settlement's distinctiveness. Any development of the Land off Station Road, North Kilworth would be positively prepared to ensure the provision of a high quality and inclusive development design. Any scheme would seek to ensure that it makes a positive contribution to the local character and respects the site's rural context.

We fully support the objectives of Policy GD8: Good Design in Development, good planning and good design are inseparable and we are pleased that this has been identified by this policy. As stated above, any development scheme at Land off Station Road, North Kilworth would be positively prepared to ensure a high quality and inclusive design. Any proposal could be designed to protect the residential amenity of existing properties located to the east and west of the site through the retention of the existing boundary hedgerow and enhancement with additional planting.

In respect of Policy H1: Provision of New Housing, we fully support the recognition that the housing requirements outlined in this policy are a minimum and the level of flexibility that this element of the policy provides. However, we are concerned that the policy does not identify a minimum residential requirement for North Kilworth. The village is identified within Policy SS1: Spatial Strategy as a Selected Rural Village, which is considered to be an appropriate location for growth. All of the Selected Rural Villages, with the exception of North Kilworth, have an identified minimum requirement in Policy H1, and as such abstaining from allocating a minimum requirement for North Kilworth should be considered to be unjustified.

With regards to Policy H2: Affordable Housing, we support the requirement for residential developments of more than 10 dwellings to provide 40% of affordable housing on site. As previously stated, the clients are willing to meet this requirement, subject to the completion of the appropriate viability assessment.

We fully support the requirement of Policy H5: Housing Density, Mix and Standards for new development schemes to deliver a range of housing types and sizes. Any development at Land off Station Road, North Kilworth would provide a mix of property types and sizes, including a mix of 2 to 4 bedroom dwellings which would include a mix of bungalows, semi-detached and detached houses.

Finally, in respect of Policy CC3: Managing Flood Risk, we fully support the objectives of the policy in line with Paragraphs 14 and 100 of the NPPF. Given that the presumption in favour of sustainable development is the golden thread running through the national and local planning policy, it is logical that this translates into development being located in areas that are not at high risk of flooding, and that schemes do not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere. With reference to the Environment Agency Flood Map for Planning, the proposed development site is located within Flood Zone 1.