Object

Representation ID: 22856

Received: 16/03/2020

Respondent: Crown Point Estate

Agent: Miss Kate Wood

Scale is not defined, but business scale should not simply be defined by numbers of employees. Some businesses are low-key but require more space, such as some B8 uses. Larger scale needs are not always able to be accommodated in new-build development sites, but rely on lower-cost rural sites, as they are priced out of new-build business parks in more central or prominent locations.

In terms of the conversion of rural buildings, we anticipate that the development management policies of each Council will control details of such provision, but it is important in the GNLP that appropriate sites are formally allocated, for example where there are clusters of such buildings that would usefully provide low-cost, low-tech business space. Without allocation, sites will be classed as countryside, where general development management policies would rule against their use for employment. For example, we are promoting Park Farm as an employment allocation, which will ensure that potential occupiers will be confident in the planning process to secure their proposed use.

We are also promoting Octagon Barn for a mixed use site, which will include employment, building upon the current employment use of the converted barn, which is a local destination. Independent businesses such as independent shops, galleries, workshops, garden centres and tea rooms rely on rural locations both for viability and for character. Expanding this existing offer with appropriate new-build will only be achievable if the site is allocated for development, since development management policies would not permit new buildings in the countryside. Space is not always available within the built-up parts of villages, so land at the edge is an appropriate location for such activities that would support the vitality and viability of the village, whilst remaining at a scale that is appropriate to the location.

Strategic growth in the city centre will need to be supported by accessibility, yet a reduction in traffic congestion and improvements in air quality. The P&R facilities will need to cater for these issues. The publication of the P&R review will require further input, but we submit a Transport Technical Note at Appendix A, setting out how the Loddon P&R site could be provided.