The requirement for major developments to provide a Sustainability Statement is supported. However, the requirement for specific types of development to include a Health Impact Assessment is questioned.

Any requirements for new health care or sports facilities to support the scale of new development in Greater Norwich should be identified strategically in the preparation of the Local Plan and allocation of sites, in consultation with the NHS. Where large scale development (100+ homes) is proposed on unallocated sites then there would be greater justification to require applications to be supported by a bespoke Health Impact Assessment, but further guidance must be provided to understand the level of detail that would be required under such circumstances.

Where a need for health care infrastructure has been identified, whether through the Local Plan process or submission of HIAs on unallocated sites, funding should be delivered through the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Appropriate development management policies on design, open space and access can achieve the aim of ensuring schemes give new communities the best opportunity to live healthy and active lifestyles. These policies can be addressed generally within the Design and Access Statement rather than a separate Health Impact Assessment.