Object
Draft Greater Norwich Local Plan – Part 1 The Strategy
Representation ID: 23145
Received: 16/03/2020
Respondent: Hopkins Homes
Agent: Bidwells
The proposal to require all developments of 40+ dwellings to provide 5% of plots as serviced
self/custom build plots is considered inappropriate and unjustified. The supporting text indicates that at
present there are 113 people on the Self Build Register in the Greater Norwich Area. The proposed
policy will result in a level of supply which significantly exceeds the demand. Furthermore, particularly
for the larger sites, it will have a significant impact on continuity in delivery, which is critical for both the
developers and for the Councils in ensuring they are able to maintain a 5-year land supply.
In addition, it may make it difficult to achieve a well-integrated development from a design perspective.
Self/Custom Build plots should be secured on a site-by-site basis, dependent on local need at the time
of the development, or alternatively an exception site approach could be taken to stimulate supply.
Please see attached for full submission and supporting documents.
As outlined in the attached submission, the site is suitable, available, achievable and viable, and is therefore deliverable within the plan period.
Development in this location would represent sustainable development, as defined within the National Planning Policy Framework. Aylsham, as a Main Town, with the fourth highest level of shops and services outside Norwich, is already acknowledged as a highly sustainable location for residential growth, as evidenced through the significant quantum of development that has been approved in the last decade, and the attached text demonstrates that this specific site is a suitable location for further development in all respects.
Economically, residential development here in the plan period would help sustain and enhance local
services and facilities, and would also provide employment opportunities during the construction period.
Socially, the scale of development envisaged is such that it will enable the creation of a strong, vibrant and
healthy community, with easy access to existing and planned local services and facilities, as well as onsite
open space. A wide mix of dwelling types, sizes and tenures will be provided to meet local needs, and
CIL payments will ensure the provision of the necessary health and cultural facilities. The site is located
in close proximity to established communities in Aylsham, which should assist in achieving social
integration between the existing and new residents.
Environmentally, the site is located close to a range of services and facilities, and enjoys good access to
sustainable transport options providing access to the extensive array of facilities and services available
within Norwich and further afield. Residents will be able to meet their day-to-day needs easily and without
the need to use their car, assisting in reducing pollution and minimising the contribution to climate change.
On this basis, the site should be taken forward as an allocation, and is capable of making an important
contribution to the planned growth of the Greater Norwich Area in the period to 2036.