The Policy 7.5 approach to enable small scale windfall housing developments beyond those allocated or allowed for as larger scale windfall sites is supported, as it provides opportunities for self and custom build housing in accordance with the NPPF’s recognition of the important contribution of small sites (NPPF Paragraph 68) and those wishing to build or commission their own homes (NPPF Paragraph 61), and helps to support local services.

However, the wording of the policy is not consistent with the supporting text or Policy 1. The wording of Policy 7.5 should clarify that a maximum of 3 dwellings per site is permitted, not a total of 3 dwellings per Parish.

A limit of 3 dwellings per site would help to ensure respect for the character of the settlement and landscape and prevent over-development. A limit of 3 dwellings per Parish is an arbitrary restriction, which would be unrelated to the scale and sustainability of the Parish. The policy should instead state that the cumulative amount of windfall development permitted during the plan period should not have a negative impact on the character and scale of the settlement or group of dwellings and the wider Parish.