Support
Part One: Spatial Strategy and Policies (Regulation 19)
Representation ID: 938
Received: 21/11/2024
Respondent: Dennis R Whittaker
No comment needed.
Comment
Part One: Spatial Strategy and Policies (Regulation 19)
Representation ID: 1418
Received: 29/11/2024
Respondent: Network Rail
Agent: CBRE Limited
Policy DLP14 – Housing Development, Extensions and Alterations to Existing Dwellings
The draft Local Plan proposes housing allocations adjacent to, or in close proximity to, the railway line (e.g. DLP housing sites refs: H006, H007, H033, H054, H063). Network Rail does not object in principle to such development; it is important however that such development does not restrict existing or likely future operational rail requirements in line with the ‘agent of change’ principle established in paragraph 193 of the National Planning Policy Framework (“NPPF”).
Policy DLP14 sets out various considerations to be applied when assessing planning applications for housing development, setting out criteria to be satisfied to enable such proposals to be approved. Criterion c of the draft Policy requires that housing development does not cause unacceptable harm to the amenities of the occupiers of neighbouring dwellings. Criterion d requires that an appropriate level of amenity is provided for future occupiers.
The rail network is acknowledged in the draft Local Plan as a key piece of transport infrastructure for the Borough, and it is therefore important that it is safeguarded to allow for its continued operation and to ensure an ability for any future changes such as increase in usage. Notwithstanding the existing criteria set out in Policy DLP14, Network Rail requests that additional reference is made in Policy DLP14 relating to the avoidance of impacts on the existing and future operation of the railway. This is so that operational requirements for the railway are safeguarded by ensuring that housing development does not impact on the railway or the ability to carry out activities reasonably necessary for its ongoing operation. This will also ensure consistency with national planning policy in terms of the agent of change principle.