We would raise concern regarding the proposed approach for East Norwich. This area is subject to significant flood risk, contamination, infrastructure constraints, and is located adjacent to The Broads and a number of heritage assets. These constraints, together with the significant investment required to deliver development in this location has seen no scheme progress despite previous allocations and approved planning applications.
As a result of these constraints, in particular the significant areas of flood risk, we would query the compatibility of significant housing delivery in this area with the approach to meeting the challenges of climate change and the sequential approach to development, and the proposed Climate Change and Sustainability Statements as set out within the Draft Plan. This is particularly pertinent as extreme weather conditions are predicted to become more frequent, and much has been available in the press recently regarding predicted sea and river level increases in the region.
It is considered that a high level of information regarding deliverability in this area should be required before previous allocations are carried forward and new allocations are made, so as to ensure housing need is met and a five-year housing land supply can be secured. Whilst the regeneration of the area is desirable, it is considered that by virtue of the area characteristics outlined, the proposed scheme would be more suitable as a long-term initiative considered when the Greater Norwich Local Plan is reviewed.