2109 Policy

Additional allocation of GNLP0116 for employment use.

We support the allocation of the land South of Hethel Industrial Estate but consider that land at Stanfield Road, Wymondham (GNLP0116) should also be allocated for the reasons we have set out previously. Our previous representations submitted at Regulation 18C stage still stand.

Given the proximity of the existing industrial area to the wood, and the sensitivity of ancient woodland to nearby development, we recommend that any allocations in this area include additional policy text specifically requiring the any applications to specifically address potential impacts on the CWS and ancient woodland from impacts including encroachment and light pollution. This area is also a key location for connectivity with other priority habitats in the south Norfolk claylands and net gain contributions could help link Hethel Wood with other nearby County Wildlife Sites and ancient woodland, improving their ecological value.

This allocation is adjacent to Hethel Wood CWS, an important ancient woodland site, likely to also be of importance for several bat species.

GNLP 2019 - South of Hethel Industrial. Whilst we welcome the reference to the grade II listed building at criterion 4, the policy needs to say that there is a need to conserve We continue to suggest a detailed
HIA is undertaken for this site prior to GNLP 2019 South of Hethel Industrial Unsound Whilst we welcome the reference to the grade II listed building at criterion 4, the policy needs to say that there is a need to conserve We continue to suggest a detailed HIA is undertaken for this site prior to

Thank you for consulting Historic England on the Greater Norwich Local Plan Regulation 19 Draft including The Strategy and The Sites. As a statutory consultee, our role is to ensure that the conservation of the historic environment is fully integrated into planning policy and that any policy documents make provision for a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment.

Our comments below should be read with reference to our previous comments dated 1.2.17, 15.3.18, 4.12.1, 26.4.19 and 16.3.20. Please also see our detailed comments in the attached tables, Appendix A in relation to The Strategy and Appendix B regarding The Sites.

SUMMARY
The Greater Norwich Local Plan covers the Strategy and Site Allocations. While commenting on the plan as a whole, Historic England is particularly concerned, for its implications for Norwich itself. Norwich is one of England’s great historic cities, and its architectural and historic character, and the sense of place associated with that, make a profound and wholly beneficial contribution to the city’s well-being.

In line with paragraph 185 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) it is important that the Plan should set out a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment, including heritage assets most at risk through neglect, decay or other threats.