CHAPTER 4 – COMMUNITY, RECREATION AND TOURIST FACILITIES (CRT)
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INTRODUCTION
4.1 A basic social requirement for residents of the District is the provision of recreation and community facilities. Through Local Plans adequate land and water resources should be allocated for both organised sport and for informal recreation. There are growing links between sport, recreation and tourism, and the economy of the District can be affected by the success of these types of facilities. Non-residents and visitors to the District may be attracted by the availability of plentiful indoor and outdoor recreational and sports facilities.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
4.2 The role of the planning system is in assessing opportunities and needs for sport, recreation and community use provision and safeguarding open space with recreational value. Policies in the Local Plan First Review in relation to recreation and community facilities should follow these objectives:
· Facilitate the provision of indoor and outdoor facilities to meet the needs of local communities.
· Protect public and private open space and other land of recreational, conservation, wildlife, historical or amenity value.
· Encourage the provision of playing fields where local communities have identified suitable projects.
· Support the Lincoln Greenways Strategy.
4.3 Although there is a strong relationship between the provision of recreation and community facilities and tourism facilities, the Council has specific objectives relating to the provision of tourism facilities. These are to:
· Encourage a range of appropriate tourism opportunities.
· Increase enjoyment and enhance the visitor experience.
· Encourage tourism proposals which will enhance, protect and work in harmony with the environment and heritage of the District.
· Protect the existing amenities of residents.
· Maintain, improve and increase the range and quality of visitor and holiday accommodation.
NATIONAL, REGIONAL AND STRATEGIC GUIDANCE
4.4 Tourism is an important part of the British economy; it provides a significant number of jobs and boosts the economy. In West Lindsey there is a need to develop both new tourism facilities to attract visitors and to maintain and enhance the District’s existing recreation and community facilities. Such development will have a potential impact upon existing communities in terms of traffic and commercial competition etc. It is essential that the benefits of any new schemes outweigh any possible negative impacts.
4.5 The Regional Spatial Strategy for the East Midlands (RSS8) generally supports tourism. National policy is currently set out in PPG21 (Tourism) however this is due to be replaced in September 2006 by a Good Practice Guide. National policy for sport and recreation is set out in PPG17 (Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation).
4.6 Thus, any new development must meet the aims and objectives of the Plan as a whole including the desire for sustainable development. The Lincoln Area is the national pilot for the Greenways Strategy. The Council will support the development of this national example as it will create safe routes for walking, cycling and horse riding on suitable paths or quiet roads.
LOCAL NEEDS RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES
POLICY CRT 1 - LOCAL NEEDS RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Proposals for the development of recreation and community facilities serving local needs will be permitted provided that:
i. The development is of appropriate scale with regard to its settings and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside or settlement;
ii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
In the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, development proposals for recreation and community facilities will only be permitted if it would not harm the natural beauty of the landscape or impose itself upon the skyline.
JUSTIFICATION
4.7 The Council will in principle support any proposal to provide recreational or community facilities provided that they are genuinely to serve the local community. Other planning issues will be given consideration against the criteria in Policy STRAT 1, against which all developments are judged.
4.8 The Council will emphasise the need to ensure that new facilities enable the widest use by local people, including the particular needs of the elderly and disabled.
4.9 Development can only be justified where it will not have an adverse impact on the character of the surrounding area.
STANDARDS FOR OPEN SPACE AND TOURISM FACILITIES
POLICY CRT 2 – STANDARDS FOR OPEN SPACE SPORTS PROVISION
Within settlements of greater than 2,500 population the Council will apply the standards contained within Appendix 10 for open spaces, play and sports provision.
Within settlements of population of less than 2,500 the provision of open spaces, play and sports provision will be based upon the findings of local surveys identifying deficiencies of provision.
JUSTIFICATION
4.10 The provision of open space, which has a recreational value, is essential to the social well-being of residents of the District. The 2001 Census will be used as the basis for population figures when applying this policy.
Settlements over 2,500 population are:
Caistor 2,601
Cherry Willingham 2,947
Gainsborough 16,869
Market Rasen 3,230
Nettleham 3,514
Saxilby 3,679
Scotter 2,591
Welton 3,821
4.11 Open space with a recreational value includes sports pitches, greens and courts, training areas in the ownership of public and private bodies and playgrounds equipped for children of all ages. Also included is more informal play space within housing areas.
4.12 Sport and recreation facilities and open space can form an important component of housing, major office or retail developments as well as new initiatives.
LOSS OF RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES
POLICY CRT 3 - LOSS OF RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Development proposals which would lead to the loss of or reduce the suitability or adequacy of recreation and community facilities, to the detriment of the local community, will only be permitted provided that:
i. The development proposal is of proven public interest that outweighs the recreation, leisure, nature conservation and amenity interest of the existing facility; or
ii. If the existing sport, recreational or community facilities can best be retained and enhanced through redevelopment of part of the site.
Where such a proposal is considered acceptable, the Council will seek to secure, by negotiations, suitable replacement of lost recreational and leisure-related use elsewhere within the Plan Area where the need is greatest.
JUSTIFICATION
4.13 These facilities are being increasingly regarded as not just desirable, but essential requirements of the local community. They are important because they provide an opportunity to protect, conserve and enhance wildlife habitats and ecosystems and help contribute to community identity and the health and well being of residents. Finding available, suitable and well-located sites can be difficult. Relocation of such facilities will not always be possible and will often necessitate accepting a less conveniently located site.
4.14 Public playing fields and play areas, as “under-developed” green areas, can often come under threat and therefore need special protection. This policy is consistent with and will be applied in conjunction with strategic policy in which it is concluded that recreational open space should be protected from development in Local Plans except where specific criteria can be met.
4.15 This policy approach is consistent with national policy, which advises that planning authorities should have regard to resisting pressures for the development of open space which conflict with the wider public interest. The Council through its Community Services Directorate will be identifying areas within the District where deficiency of existing recreation and sports provision exists.
PROTECTION OF COMMUNITY POST OFFICES, CONVENIENCE STORES AND PUBLIC HOUSES
4.16 Settlements containing a range of services and facilities are arguably more sustainable than those settlements without. The Rural White Paper highlighted the importance of retaining local services and facilities within villages.
POLICY CRT 4 - PROTECTION OF COMMUNITY POST OFFICES, CONVENIENCE STORES AND PUBLIC HOUSES
Planning permission will not be granted for new development or a change of use which results in the loss of a community post office, essential community convenience store or public house unless:
i. A suitable and convenient alternative facility is available nearby either within the same settlement or a neighbouring settlement;
ii. It can be satisfactorily demonstrated that the facility is no longer economically viable in the long term for retail or public house purposes and that reasonable efforts have been made to market the property for a class A1 or public house use;
iii. The proposed use would have significant alternative benefits for the local community.
JUSTIFICATION
4.17 In recent years some areas have suffered from a decline in services and facilities. This can be blamed on a number of reasons including the increased numbers of large supermarkets offering competitive prices, easily accessed by the increased usage of the private car and second home owners using services and facilities outside the settlement.
4.18 Retaining life services and facilities in smaller communities is essential for those residents who are unable to access services and facilities elsewhere. A pub, a local shop or post office for example can also be a focal point in the community.
COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION FACILITIES
POLICY CRT 5 - COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION FACILITIES
Proposals for countryside recreational facilities will be permitted provided that:
i. Development is of appropriate scale with regard to its setting and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside or settlement;
ii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
In the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, development proposals for recreation and community facilities will only be permitted if it would not harm the natural beauty of the landscape or impose itself upon the skyline.
JUSTIFICATION
4.19 The development of countryside recreational facilities is desirable to cater for existing and future demand and to help realise the tourism potential of the area. Conservation of the countryside will, however, remain of paramount importance. Development should not be visually intrusive or compromise the quality of life of local communities or the interests of agriculture, nature conservation or archaeology.
4.20 The capacity of local roads must also be sufficient to accommodate the traffic generated by the development. An example of a suitable facility could be a picnic area or the creation of a path as part of the Greenways network.
MAJOR FACILITIES WITHIN THE DISTRICT - RISEHOLME PARK UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
4.21 Riseholme Park is the University of Lincoln’s rural campus where it provides amongst others the agricultural, horticultural and equestrian related courses. The University has developed it into an important educational facility for the County.
POLICY CRT 6 - RISEHOLME PARK CAMPUS (UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN)
Within the Riseholme Park Campus as defined on the Proposals Map development proposals involving the expansion/alteration of existing educational related uses will be permitted provided that:
i. The development is of appropriate scale with regard to its settings and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside, the setting of Listed Buildings or the setting of the Historic Park and Gardenand Scheduled Ancient Monuments;
ii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety;
iii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on residential amenity by reason of noise and traffic.
JUSTIFICATION
4.22 Riseholme Park campus has become an important educational facility in the District. The expansion or improvement of this educational facility would be a benefit to the District and the County as a whole.
4.23 This campus-style site is located in the open countryside; this policy is required to set a context for development proposals for the site. The site is also identified as a historic park and garden by English Heritage and therefore requires more careful consideration when development is proposed in order to ensure the character and setting of all of the historical and cultural assets of the site are not harmed.
MAJOR FACILITIES WITHIN THE DISTRICT - LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND AND MARKET RASENRACECOURSE
4.24 Both the Lincolnshire Showground and the Market Rasen Racecourse are important assets to the County as a whole and to West Lindsey in particular. At the Lincolnshire Showground there are a range of uses which can be complementary to the principal use of the site for shows. Diversification into other uses on site can help to sustain the showground as one of the key agricultural show venues in the UK. The Market Rasen Racecourse is a well known and supported recreational and sporting venue for West Lindsey and beyond.
POLICY CRT 7 - LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND AND MARKET RASEN RACECOURSE
Within the Lincolnshire Showground Area as defined on the Proposals Map, development proposals for conference facilities, leisure and recreational uses will be permitted provided that:
i. The development is compatible with and ancillary to the main showground use;
ii. The development is of appropriate scale with regard to its landscape setting and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside;
iii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
Within the Market Rasen Racecourse Area as defined on the Proposals Map, development proposals for leisure, recreation, education and rural business opportunities together with ancillary equine related activities, retail and food and drink uses to serve the racecourse visitors will be permitted provided that:
i. The development is compatible with the main racecourse use; and the ancillary equine related activities, retail and food and drink uses are located within the core of the existing built racecourse development;
ii. The development is of an appropriate scale with regard to the existing built form, its open landscape setting and would not have an adverse effect on the characterand appearance of the open countryside;
iii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
JUSTIFICATION
4.25 The Lincolnshire Showground is an important resource, attracting large numbers of visitors at certain times in the year. Its careful development with appropriate conference, leisure or recreational facilities could make a significant enhancement to this already well-known site. The close proximity of this site to Lincoln makes it ideally located to attract business visitors from the city. Accommodation proposals may be appropriate if they are provided as an ancillary element of any conference scheme.
4.26 The Market Rasen Racecourse is a prominent attraction within West Lindsey and therefore measures to increase the visitors to the venue would in turn aid rural tourism initiatives and the overall regeneration proposals for Market Rasen. A master plan shall be prepared by the owners in consultation with the District Council to devise a strategy for the continued development of the racecourse site. This would define the broad areas for the location of various land uses and activities, both existing and to be developed at the site, including the core area of the racecourse.
WATER-BASED RECREATION
POLICY CRT 8 – WATER-BASED RECREATION
Development proposals will be permitted which improve existing or provide new water-based recreational activities including:
i. New car parking facilities and/or picnic facilities or other visitor facilities and/or information interpretation boards;
ii. Marinas or short-stay moorings at appropriate locations on the Witham, Trent, Ancholme and Fossdyke Navigations;
iii. New Fishing Ponds or Fishing Facilities.
Provided that:
a. Development is of appropriate scale with regard to its settings and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside or settlement;
b. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety;
c. The development avoids damage to important and irreplaceable wildlife and natural assets, and minimises or compensates for the unavoidable effects.
JUSTIFICATION
4.27 In the provision of water-based activities the environment should be a primary concern. Some activities are considered less damaging than others, for example fishing and windsurfing do not cause pollution, whereas damage to banks and noise can be created by activities involving powerboats.
4.28 Visitors to the water may have an adverse impact on the surrounding countryside with increased traffic and litter generation, over-use of paths to banks and wildlife habitat destruction.
4.29 In addition to sporting activities, the waterways are also one of the principal leisure/tourism attractions and are therefore likely to be a focus of demands for new facilities which serve these needs.
4.30 Parking facilities are required for almost all recreational users. Activities are often interrelated; therefore proposals should take account of the need for wide-ranging and flexible use of the waterways and associated land.
4.31 Marinas provide permanent moorings for boats clear of the navigational channel, normally in the form of independent basins. Conflict is thereby reduced with other recreational users. Linear moorings are generally unacceptable to the British Waterways Board and the Environment Agency except as small capacity overnight facilities. Any proposal to create a marina development in Gainsborough will be strongly supported.
PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY AFFECTED BY DEVELOPMENT
4.32 Provision and retention of an extensive rights of way system is a crucial way of providing for informal countryside recreation whilst ensuring that the character of the countryside and interests of farmers are unharmed. These rights of way are becoming increasingly important to enable people to get away from busy roads. The County Council as a Highway Authority is responsible for protecting the rights of the public to use and enjoy public rights of way.
4.33 District Councils may protect rights of way but are under no obligation to do so. The Council takes the view that the promotion and protection of footpaths and bridleways is of great importance.
4.34 Through neglect or mismanagement, public rights of way can become obstructed. Statute places a strong duty on farmers to restore quickly any disturbed footpath and ensure that the line is clear and unobstructed by crops.
4.35 Development can also affect public rights of way. Adequate consideration of rights to way needs to be given before planning permission is granted. Once granted, the right of way must be kept open and unobstructed until the statutory procedures authorising closure or diversion have been completed. This means that development must not commence if it is likely to obstruct any part of the footpath. The existence of a public footpath does not automatically indicate that development of the particular area of land is unsuitable.
POLICY CRT 9 – PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY
Development proposals involving the extinguishment or diversion of a public right of way will not be permitted unless an alternative right of way or the diversion proposed would not be significantly detrimental to existing users and potential future users.
JUSTIFICATION
4.36 The provision of public footpaths is an important attraction for visitors and local people, even though many footpaths and bridleways only extend for a short way. It is desirable to link these to make longer walks and introduce a network between woodland walks, waterside walks, town paths, field paths etc, giving those without access to a car the opportunity to visit the countryside.
4.37 Because of the importance of the rights of way system, its quantity and quality should not be reduced. National policy indicates that the effect of development on a public right of way is a material consideration in the determination of planning applications. Proposals to create new cycle and pedestrian routes as part of new development are addressed by Policy SUS 4.
GOLF COURSES
4.38 Golf courses can be a popular proposition for landowners wishing to diversify away from farming. National policy expresses caution regarding development of ‘˜soft’ uses such as golf courses, where agricultural land or natural habitats are important since restoration of these previous uses is rarely possible.
POLICY CRT 10 – GOLF COURSES
Development proposals for golf courses in the countryside will be permitted provided that:
i. Any new buildings/structures necessary to the playing of golf are of an appropriate scale and design, and sited so as to minimise impact upon the landscape;
ii. There is no detriment to the countryside environment or amenity of the public generally;
iii. The proposals would not lead to an over concentration of golf courses in the locality;
iv. The development would not result in the loss of the best and most versatile land (Grades 1, 2 and 3a) or ecological features, or result in adverse impacts on any historic parks or gardens, or archaeological features on site;
v. The development makes provision for the retention and management of important landscape features and any landscaping reflects the area’s character in form and choice of species;
vi. The proposed golf course should be located close to urban areas wherever possible and practical to avoid the need for extra travel;
vii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
JUSTIFICATION
4.39 The Council acknowledges that the popularity of golf as a recreational sport is increasing. The land required for courses, between 60 to 80 hectares is significant and can have a substantial impact on the character of the countryside. The Council is concerned that the loss of large areas of land should not include large areas of high-grade agricultural land.
4.40 It will rarely be acceptable for golf courses to be sited in the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The appearance of the golf course is likely to be contrary to the basic principles of AONB designation, which are to protect and enhance the existing ‘˜natural’ beauty of the special landscapes.
4.41 Golf courses serve principally urban populations and should be located close to urban areas where possible to avoid the need for extra car journeys.
4.42 The success of many golf courses depends upon associated developments such as housing or leisure facilities. These facilities may significantly alter the character of the landscape. The Council will resist proposals for new golf courses which have unnecessary amounts of associated built development and which conflict with other policies in the Local Plan First Review.
EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES
POLICY CRT 11 - EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES
Development of equestrian facilities, both for commercial riding or private use purposes that require planning permission, will be permitted if:
i. The proposal does not materially detract from the amenities or appearance of the surrounding area by reason of noise, smell, traffic generation or visual intrusion;
ii. The proposal does not adversely affect sites of ecological or historic or archaeological importance;
iii. The site is accessible to adequate off-road trails in the form of bridleways or sufficient land for exercising horses is available on site;
iv. The proposal is accompanied by an integrated landscaping scheme and a scheme of boundary treatment reflecting the character of the surrounding rural landscape;
v. The proposal uses existing buildings or, where new buildings are proposed, they are sited next to existing buildings or otherwise visually form an integrated part of the overall development;
vi. Where no stabling is proposed a minimum of 0.6 ha of grazing land per horse or pony is available;
vii. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety.
JUSTIFICATION
4.43 The District has a strong agricultural heritage. With the increasing desire for farm diversification and the opportunities for alternative uses such as leisure and tourism, this type of proposal may increase in the future.
4.44 It is important that, in the interests of animal welfare and the protection of the countryside, sufficient land for grazing is provided. The British Horse Society recommends that between 0.4 and 0.8 hectares of pastureland can provide grazing for a single horse through the summer months.
4.45 Any new buildings associated to this type of development must be screened with some form of boundary treatment. Because equestrian facilities will often be located in rural locations and in order to retain the rural character of the District, it is important that new buildings should be carefully chosen to reflect local tradition in terms of materials, size and scale. Where possible and appropriate, existing buildings should be re-used.
4.46 Locations of equestrian facilities need to take into account the availability of land for exercising horses or the availability of bridleways and off-road trails or suitable greenway routes. Access to these may need to be secured through private agreement.
4.47 The impact of such proposals must be taken into account in terms of effect on the amenity of nearby residents by reason of noise, smell or traffic generation.
ENVIRONMENTALLY DAMAGING SPORTS
4.48 Certain types of sporting or leisure pursuits have particular planning implications, mainly by reason of noise generation.
4.49 Throughout Lincolnshire considerable use has been made of former airfields and agricultural land for motor sports. The concern is the impact events may have on the natural habitat, the amenity of local residents and the character of areas used for this type of activity.
4.50 Power boating and water skiing can conflict with demands for more passive water sports such as fishing. Clay pigeon shooting and the use of rifle ranges are arguably environmentally damaging. If these activities take place close to settlements they can give rise to noise which must be suitably mitigated to ensure no harm to the amenity of local residents.
4.51 Other leisure activities such as ‘˜war games’ can cause danger and disturbance to the environment as well as noise problems.
4.52 National policy indicates the importance of minimising the damage caused by sporting activity on adjacent land uses and considers suitable sites include degraded land, former mineral sites, and well screened areas.
4.53 Many uses covered by this category are carried out under the temporary use of land exemption identified in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order. Where such a proposal intensifies to the extent that planning permission is now required then regard will be given to the track record of the existing operation in relation to the impact it has had on residential amenity and the locality in general.
POLICY CRT 12 – ENVIRONMENTALLY DAMAGING SPORTS
Development proposals for outdoor leisure activities involving the use of motorised vehicles or firearms or other noisy or environmentally damaging sports will not be permitted within the following areas:
· Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty;
· Scheduled Ancient Monuments;
· Areas of Great Landscape Value;
· Sites of Special Scientific Interest;
· Sites of Nature Conservation Importance;
· National Nature Reserves;
· Regionally Important Geological, Geomorphological Sites; or
· Any other important natural areas.
Elsewhere, development proposals will only be permitted if:
i. They do not cause unacceptable disturbance to local communities and/or the environment by way of noise, odours, litter, traffic generation or visual intrusion;
ii. They do not harm the character, appearance and setting of or impose on the skyline of the landscape;
iii. They do not harm wildlife habitats;
iv. They do not create highway and road safety problems;
v. They are located where existing topography or landscape forms an effective noise barrier;
vi. Appropriate attenuation measures are incorporated to reduce ambient noise levels to an acceptable level;
vii. The hours of operation are strictly controlled.
In all cases, conditions will be imposed on any planning permission, or a planning obligation entered into, to ensure that no successive alteration to the development would cause a noise problem.
Conditions will be imposed, where necessary, on planning permissions for noisy sports or recreational uses to ensure that all available sound attenuation measures appropriate to the activity are incorporated in the proposal so that, at 800 metres distance, sound levels are no greater than background noise levels expected in the locality.
JUSTIFICATION
4.54 A specific policy is needed for adequate control of potentially damaging sports. Local amenities of both residents and the area generally will be of paramount importance when proposals for the use of land for such sports are being considered. Where proposals are brought forward for development the applicant must demonstrate the socio-economic benefits to be gained from the increasing demand for such sports.
4.55 Rarely will such sports be acceptable in areas of special protection. The use of land for such activities would be contrary to national, strategic and regional policy guidance, which has a primary aim to protect the environment.
4.56 In all cases the Council will expect a thorough investigative report concerning the effect of the proposed use on the environment and the landscape. The level of noise expected to be generated and how this should be mitigated, if appropriate, will also be included. The Council will ensure that the visual intrusion in the countryside will be kept to a minimum.
4.57 Restrictions on the hours of operation may assist in reducing the disturbance in the countryside.
SITES USED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
4.58 Education is the responsibility of the County Council as the Local Education Authority (LEA). Schools act as a focal point for settlements so any closure is a significant loss to the community as schools often provide for far more than the educational needs of the pupils. Educational premises, sports halls and playing fields often have potential for a wider use and community benefit. The Council supports efforts to keep existing schools open in recognition of their wider social role.
4.59 In addition to making sound economic sense, the extended use of existing facilities and the joint provision and sharing of new facilities is an efficient use of resources and will help facilitate the provision of recreation and community facilities, which might otherwise not be attainable. Joint and extended use may not always be appropriate.
4.60 National policy encourages Local Authorities to make use of school premises for community recreation purposes. It is also indicated that, as valuable community assets, school playing fields should normally be protected.
POLICY CRT 13 – SITES FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
Within sites used for educational purposes development proposals for non-educational uses will be permitted provided that:
i. They are compatible with adjacent and existing uses;
ii. They involve buildings formally declared to be surplus to Local Education Authority requirement under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.
Development proposals involving the loss of school playing fields and other open spaces within educational areas will only be permitted provided that:
a. The proposal is of proven public interest that outweighs the recreational and community interest of the site and has been declared surplus by the Local Educational Authority under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998; or
b. The facilities can best be retained and enhanced through redevelopment of part of the site; or
c. An equivalent area of open space can be provided equal amenity value to the local community with regard to the convenience of access and general amenity.
JUSTIFICATION
4.61 It is important that school sites are safeguarded from other forms of development due to their valuable community and recreational use.
4.62 This policy reflects national policy on the importance of educational facilities in the context of the growing need for recreational land in the wider community. Green space is also an excellent educational facility as it gives people a chance to learn about nature and how to help protect it in practical ways. Once redeveloped, it is unlikely that school playing fields and other green spaces can be recovered as open space.
4.63 Given that West Lindsey is a rural area, like many other such areas, has seen a general decline in several facilities and services, it is the Council’s view that educational establishments and their associated playing fields are assets too valuable to lose. In the policy it is indicated that equivalent provision must be made if redevelopment is proposed.
OTHER SERVICES IN THE COMMUNITY – RESIDENTIAL NURSING HOMES
4.64 Private residential and nursing homes are often established within existing larger and older properties both within settlements and in the countryside. There are a number of planning issues that need to be considered in association with such homes, whether it is a conversion or a new build scheme:
· Possible resulting age imbalance in the local community.
· Accessibility of the home in relation to commercial and community facilities.
· Effect on adjoining and nearby land uses.
· Vehicular access, parking and design.
· Possible need to restrict changes of use between the various categories within the Residential Institutions Class of the Use Classes Order.
POLICY CRT 14 - RESIDENTIAL AND NURSING HOMES
Development proposals for residential homes or nursing homes including change of use of an existing building, extension or associated development will be permitted provided that the home is located within a settlement in a predominately residential area. In all cases the development shall:
i. Not result in the loss of essential amenity open space or harm the general amenities or character of the locality;
ii. Be located close to existing services and facilities, including public transport and health services;
iii. Not, where appropriate, harm the existing character of the premises by conversion or extension;
iv. Provide suitable and adequate amenity open space and landscaping;
v. Not harm the amenities of adjoining properties or residents.
JUSTIFICATION
4.65 It is expected that all residential and nursing homes will be located close to existing community facilities. This means that isolated developments, which may involve the conversion of older country homes outside settlements, are only likely to be acceptable with strong and exceptional justification. Many residents in such homes are without personal transport, therefore it is reasonable to expect homes to be located on good public transport routes.
4.66 Where new developments, conversions or extensions are proposed, they will be expected to comply with normal planning control criteria that the Council applies to ensure a good standard of development. Private amenity space around the home is important and extensions that result in the reduction in such space to an unacceptable degree will be resisted.
RESIDENTIAL OR DAY CARE PROVISION FOR CHILDREN
POLICY CRT 15 – RESIDENTIAL OR DAY CARE PROVISION FOR CHILDREN
Development proposals involving the new build or the conversion of residential or other properties for residential or day care of children will be permitted provided that:
i. It does not harm the quality of life of adjoining properties or residents;
ii. Suitable adequate outdoor play space is available;
iii. Suitable and adequate off-street parking or ‘˜dropping and collection’ areas are provided.
JUSTIFICATION
4.67 Careful consideration of traffic generation must be made when assessing the development of day care uses. Parents can be arriving and leaving at peak times and often throughout the day, most will use cars. Large centres will generate a greater amount of traffic and as such should be sited to ensure no highway problems occur.
4.68 Amenity space in association with the premises is important to ensure the children have somewhere to play outdoors.
4.69 Noise disturbance can sometimes be a problem to adjacent residents and careful consideration must be given to the proximity of adjoining neighbours.
TOURISM
4.70 The development of tourism facilities is encouraged due to the financial benefits they can bring to the District. It is essential however, that the possible negative impacts of any new development, including traffic generation, effect on the amenities of nearby residents and impact on the character of the area, are considered.
POLICY CRT 16 – GENERAL POLICY FOR TOURISM
Proposals for the development of tourist facilities or proposals likely to increase the attraction of the area to tourists, will be permitted provided that:
i. The proposal is of a scale and type which respects and complements the character of the District’s historic towns, attractive villages and countryside;
ii. The proposal has regard to the existing overall provision of other similar facilities in the locality and is of an appropriate scale having regard to the size and type of attraction it is associated with;
iii. Access is available, as far as practically possible by a choice of means of transport including public transport;
iv. The proposal would not have a detrimental impact on highway safety.
In the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty tourist-related development will only be permitted if it would not harm the natural beauty of the landscape.
JUSTIFICATION
4.71 The Council is keen to promote appropriate tourism throughout West Lindsey, in the interests of boosting the local economy, providing job opportunities and providing facilities for the enjoyment and satisfaction of visitors and residents alike.
4.72 The realisation of existing, and development of further tourism potential depends upon the provision of adequate tourist facilities of various kinds. While tourism can sometimes conflict with environmental objectives and compromise the amenity interests of local communities, through appropriate management, tourism and the naturalenvironment can be united to provide an enhanced visitor experience.
4.73 Poorly located or badly designed developments can easily damage rural areas. Proposals for tourist developments must therefore take account of landscape, village character, natural history, traffic and agriculture as well as the commercial requirements of developers and operators.
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
4.74 Appropriate accommodation is important when promoting tourism. This policy seeks to facilitate suitable proposals to help to attract visitors to the District.
POLICY CRT 17 – HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
The development of holiday flats, holiday cottages, hotels, motels and guest houses will be permitted in the countryside provided that:
i. The development is located within a settlement; or
ii. Development is in association with existing or proposed tourist facilities; or
iii. Development is contained within a building or group of buildings with an existing residential use and character and that residential character is not altered; or
iv. The proposal relates to the rural diversification of a farm holding in accordance with Policy ECON 4.
And provided that:
a. The development would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside, settlement or locality in which it is situated;
b. The development is compatible with its surroundings in terms of scale, design, materials and landscaping;
c. The development would not have a detrimental effect on highway safety;
d. The development would not have an adverse effect on neighbouring residential, amenity or other land uses.
JUSTIFICATION
4.75 Through this policy the Council seeks to guide new accommodation facilities to towns and villages, which already have some of the services, and facilities tourists may need. However, the character of smaller settlements may be affected by large numbers of visitors in terms of traffic generation leading to conflicts between the needs of visitors and residents.
4.76 Normally, holiday accommodation should aim to blend into the existing form and architectural style of settlements. In this context, conversion and change of use of existing buildings is likely to be more acceptable than new build.
LOSS OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OR SITES
4.77 With the growth of the tourism industry, holiday accommodation has a vital role in attracting visitors to the District. Demand can fluctuate but, overall, a good choice of such premises will contribute to the vitality of an area and, once lost, such accommodation can be difficult to replace in the short term.
POLICY CRT 18 – LOSS OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OR SITES
A change of use of existing static holiday caravans, holiday chalets or other tourist accommodation to permanent residential accommodation or redevelopment of the site for housing will not be permitted unless it meets all the criteria applied to housing proposals of the same scale.
JUSTIFICATION
4.78 Modern caravans and chalets are very sophisticated and, in many ways, reasonable permanent homes but, most are not designed to be lived in all year round.
4.79 Purpose-built housing will almost always provide a higher standard of accommodation for year-round use. If occupied permanently, there are likely to be requirements for other services such as water and sewerage, roads and schools.
4.80 Where other purpose-built holiday accommodation, such as flats and holiday cottages, is proposed for permanent residential use, the same presumption against change of use applies.
CARAVAN SITES
4.81 There is a need in Local Plans to consider the impact of caravans on the amenity of surrounding residents and the visual impact of siting groups of caravans. Any structure falling within the statutory definition of a caravan will be determined in accordance with this policy.
POLICY CRT 19 - CARAVAN SITES
Outside areas that are the subject of special protection proposals for the development or extension of caravanning and camping facilities will be permitted provided that:
i. The development is associated with existing or proposed tourist attractions;
ii. The site can be suitably screened by existing land forms and/or vegetation and will not be visible for long distances;
iii. The provision of any ancillary development is restricted to those facilities which are required to service the site;
iv. The development is of appropriate scale with regard to its setting and would not have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the open countryside or settlement;
v. The proposal has regard to the existing overall provision of other sites in the locality and will not lead to an over concentration in the area.
JUSTIFICATION
4.82 Areas of special protection include the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Conservation Areas, Areas of Great Landscape Value, Sites of Nature Conservation Importance and the setting of Listed Buildings. All these areas are recognised to be of a particular character, which is sensitive to new development. Caravan and camping facilities could rarely be satisfactorily assimilated into the landscape or built form of these special areas.
4.83 Where permission is granted, the site should be adequately screened to minimise its impact on the landscape and should not be visible for long distances.
4.84 The scale of the facility should also reflect the tourist attraction which it serves, and the availability of other such facilities in the area. In West Lindsey the majority of caravan sites also serve the needs of walkers or cyclists and are not therefore associated with any large built facilities.
4.85 The need for on-site facilities and in some instances warden’s accommodation is recognised, but these should be restricted to the site’s immediate needs. Caravan sites shall not be deemed to require new dwellings or additional facilities such as shops, cafes and petrol stations in the countryside. Dwellings associated with these sites will need to satisfy similar criteria to those permitted in association with agriculture and forestry as set out in PPS7 (Sustainable Development in Rural Areas).
4.86 The Council aims to provide a variety of sites to allow visitor choice. Inadequate provision of sites can lead to overnight parking of caravans in lay-bys and field gateways, which leads to visual intrusion and road safety and public health hazards.
4.87 Restricting the use of a site and warden’s accommodation to the holiday season will ensure that those vans are not used for permanent residential purposes. Storage of vans will rarely be allowed on such sites. However, it is accepted that there is a trend towards tourism as a year-round activity, effectively extending the length of the holiday season, and bringing economic benefits.
WATERCOURSE CORRIDORS
4.88 A watercoursecorridor is the area of land that is physically and visually linked to each watercourse. It forms a continuous corridor of land along the length of the river. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between watercoursecorridors and existing environmental designations, notably Sites of Scientific Interest, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In urban areas, the importance of watercoursecorridors is even more pronounced as they are one of the few remaining features to link areas of open space within the urban area to the countryside beyond via Green Wedges. Such links are significant not only for amenity and recreation but also for wildlife.
POLICY CRT 20 – WATERCOURSE CORRIDORS
Development will not be permitted which would lead to the unacceptable loss of or cause significant harm to the landscape character, nature conservation importance or recreational roles of the watercourse corridors throughout the plan area, including the Trent, Ancholme, Rase, Witham, Fossdyke, Till, Eau and Barlings Eau watercourses and those minor watercourses which flow through urban areas.
JUSTIFICATION
4.89 The Council recognises that watercourse corridors are of great importance for water resources, water quality, nature conservation, fisheries and recreation and they often make a significant contribution to the character of the landscape.
4.90 In many instances watercourse corridors are an important source of open space and provide channels between open spaces, which can be crucial to the survival of wildlife.
4.91 The Council will support initiatives and proposals that will result in the conservation or enhancement of the natural elements of the river environment and result in landscape improvements, or will enhance opportunities for public access to rivers and for water-based recreation.