Site Proposals document

GNLP 0292 - Land at Hevingham (East of Cromer Road and north of Town Corner)
Accessibility to Services: Appendix 3 of the 'Options Document' lists the services and facilities available at Hevingham including: Primary School, Pre-School, Village Hall, Public Transport Links, Pub and outdoor recreation space. As already highlighted, Broadland Council is seeking to reclassify Hevingham as a 'Service Village'; we support this proposed change. It is considered that Hevingham is capable of supporting additional residential development at the scale promoted by our client (approximately 35 dwellings).
Access: The HELAA states that 'Initial highway evidence has highlighted that potential access constraints could be overcome through development' support is given to this statement. The HELAA raises concern about the potential for residents to be dependent on private vehicles for trips however it is noted that the site is within walking distance of bus stops along Cromer Road which are served by regular services to Norwich and surrounding settlements. This provides an opportunity for sustainable modes of travel. Secondary school pupils would travel by bus to Aylsham High School. The HELAA raises concern about the 'suitability of the local road network'. It is noted that there is footpath provision along the western side of the Cromer Road (A140) and part way along the northern side of The Street. Consideration would need to be given to opportunities to improve the existing local pedestrian, cycle highway network in conjunction with Norfolk County Council Highways (for example safe crossing points and enhanced pedestrian and cycle routes).
Townscape: The HELAA notes that additional development to the east of Cromer Road (A140) could lead to a detrimental impact upon the existing townscape of Hevingham. It is however noted that there is existing development to the east of Cromer Road at present. In addition development at the site will incorporate open space and landscaping to mitigate the visual impact of the development. As noted above, consideration would need to be given to opportunities to improve the existing local pedestrian, cycle highway network in conjunction with Norfolk County Council Highways. For example safe crossing points and enhanced pedestrian and cycle routes to increase connectivity within Hevingham.
Biodiversity: The site is located immediately adjacent to the 'Hevingham Park County Wildlife Site'. This site is understood to be owned/managed by the Forestry Commission and is open to the public. In addition it is noted that the site is in proximity to the Buxton Heath Site of Special Scientific Interest. Any application at this site would need to be supported by a 'Preliminary Ecological Appraisal' and relevant site surveys. If the Council is minded to pursue a residential allocation at this site, our client would be would be willing to commission such technical documents to assist the Council.
Utilities: It is noted within the HELAA that 'sewerage infrastructure upgrades would be required to serve proposed growth in this location and the local sewage treatment works is known to be at capacity.' It is the requirement of the statutory undertaker(s) to provide capacity for planned development. This should not act as a constraint to residential delivery across the emerging plan period.
Conclusion: We agree with the HELAA conclusions that 'Land at Hevingham' is suitable for residential development of approximately 35 dwellings. It is considered that the technical matters discussed above could be addressed through detailed consideration of technical documentation and appropriate design solutions at the application stage.
It is reiterated that this site remains available for residential development. It is currently owned and promoted by the landowner. It is confirmed that subject to securing planning permission, the site can be delivered within the emerging plan period.