Draft Greater Norwich Local Plan – Part 1 The Strategy

We support the requirements of the policy as proposed, it would be a missed opportunity if these were to be diluted. In order to meet the objectives and vision of this Plan, and to meet the national target of being carbon neutral by 2050 it is essential that all future development should deliver all elements, it is not considered that there should be any justification for this not being the norm.
We would support more demanding standards, in particular in relation to water consumption and energy efficiency, should Government change its policy approach.
Consultation responses are welcomed on the likely cost of implementing the proposed energy policy approach locally.
It is the intention for the proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe to be carbon neutral. Clarion believe that whilst the up-front cost may be higher, the investment is necessary in order to create healthy, resilient, and vibrant communities, to meet the challenges of climate change, and to create a positive change for future generations.

We support the approach to the built and historic environment.
The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe would respect the built and historic environment of the local area, avoiding coalescence with the existing surrounding villages whilst providing opportunities for their enhancement. Technical surveys already carried out have concluded that the proposed development would not have a significant adverse impact upon the local built and heritage environment. Additional technical work will be undertaken, and future plans would seek to respect local features including Saint Peter’s Church at Easton and St Andrew’s Church to the north of the A47.

We support the approach to the natural environment.
The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe is well related to the existing green infrastructure network to the west of Norwich and it is proposed to link with this and enhance it. A comprehensive multi-functional green infrastructure network would be delivered within the site and form the spine of the development.
A key element of the proposed new settlement would be the delivery of a new country park to the south, along the Yare River Valley. Whilst the natural features are already present public access to these is poor. The proposals would help to alleviate visitor pressure on Natura 2000 sites elsewhere in the region, as well as providing the opportunity for educational facilities.

It is considered that additional emphasis is required regarding the protection of the landscape, with reference to landscape character assessments.

We support the approach to transport.
The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe is well related to the strategic road network, in particular it would support the planned improvements to the A47. Highways England are currently consulting on their plans for dualling the A47 between Easton and North Tuddenham, at present it is their intention to provide a grade separated junction directly to the north of the site to serve the Food Enterprise Park and surrounding villages. Clarion and Brown & Co. have engaged with Highways England throughout and will make suitable representations to their consultation. The proposed delivery of these improvements corresponds with the proposed timetable of the Greater Norwich Local Plan.
The creation of a new settlement would facilitate a modal shift from car reliance to walking and cycling through the creation of truly walkable neighbourhoods, with all essential social infrastructure within the village centre and a wide range of employment opportunities across the settlement. Honingham Thorpe is predicated upon a comprehensive multi-functional green infrastructure network, creating attractive green routes which are accessible to all and encourage walking.
It is the intention of Clarion to secure an electric bus service for the village, to facilitate access to Norwich and the retail and leisure opportunities on offer there. Additionally, the site is well related to Easton, where it is proposed to provide a Rapid Bus Transit route to the city centre as part of the Transforming Cities programme. Should this proceed then it is proposed to link with this network and enhance it where possible.

We support the approach to other strategic infrastructure.
The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe would deliver strategic infrastructure from the start, to facilitate the creation of a sustainable community from the first occupation of any dwelling.

The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe would deliver on-site infrastructure, services and facilities prior to first occupation, for some services this would likely be in the form of smaller temporary spaces which evolve as the community grows. Clarion believe such provision is essential to create a vibrant and sustainable community, and to reduce pressures on existing community facilities elsewhere.

We support the approach to affordable homes.
Clarion Housing is the country’s largest housing association, they are therefore well positioned to provide policy compliant affordable housing. Clarion believe that the issue is about access to housing generally, not just the provision of affordable housing. It is their belief that the provision of high quality mixed tenure housing is key to the creation of sustainable communities. Honingham Thorpe would provide high quality, energy efficient affordable housing throughout the development.

We support the approach to space standards.
Clarion believe that a home is the beginning of everything, so providing suitable high quality space is imperative to ensure a good quality of life.

We support the approach to accessible and specialist housing.
Clarion provide specialist LiveSmart Housing; delivering facilities management and intensive housing management for older residents. This enables residents to benefit from safe, secure and consistent services, and a designated staff member to provide regular contact and comfort.
Clarion believe that it is vital for older residents to remain in the heart of the community, so specialist housing would be provided at the centre of Honingham Thorpe. The provision of truly walkable services, including medical facilities, and a village centre with ‘room to breathe’ will help support older generations and help them to remain active and within their own homes.