Site reference: GNLP2007
I write further to the Council's consultation with respect to the Joint Local Plan and in particular to the above site.
On behalf of our client we welcome and whole heartedly support the Council's decision and consideration that the site represents a suitable site for future residential development as identified within the Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (HELAA). To supplement this though and address some of the points raised in the site appraisal we would wish to make the following comments.
Suitability
We would reiterate that the site is suitable for residential development being located adjacent to the village boundary and to recent residential development. As set out in the earlier representations made in support of the site there are no access issues with this site when considered against other sites submitted in Rockland St Mary and the proposals would be sympathetic with the ribbon pattern of development defining the village and avoid insensitive back land development.

With regards to the comments in the HELAA assessment with respect to potential ecological constraints we note that the site sits immediately adjacent to a modern residential development of 10 dwellings, granted permission in 2009 under reference 2009/0254. Whilst a very similar distance to the Broads and its associated protected wildlife sites, of a similar scale and characteristics of use these were not a constraint on development of this adjacent site. Therefore, the wildlife sites within the Broads would not be a constraint on a development of the site with the size and scale indicated.
Furthermore, there are no other insurmountable technical constraints to the sites development. Therefore, the site represents a very suitable site for development to be included in the emerging plan.
Availability
The site is available and owned by our client and there are no known legal restrictions to bringing the site forward in the short term and indeed that would prevent an immediate delivery of new homes.

Achievability
It is noted that the HELAA assessment of the site indicates a yield of approximately 15 dwellings. This is based on recent planning permission 2018/0254 for 10 dwellings on the adjacent site and therefore provides a realistic and achievable figure for this slightly larger site.
Summary
The applicant welcomes the Council's decision that the site represents a suitable site for future residential development. We would stress that the proposals put forward in contrast to recent speculative applications and individual piecemeal development represents an opportunity to help deliver a plan-led future for the village and local community. One that addresses the specific existing and future needs of the village in a sensitive manner that respects the character and appearance of the village and is proportionate to the size of the village and facilities available.

We would therefore welcome your support for the inclusion of the above site and your consideration of the indicative scheme and masterplan attached.