96
Sustainability Appraisal Report Core Strategy Development Plan Document

Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

  • Upload
    letram

  • View
    219

  • Download
    2

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Sustainability Appraisal Report

Core Strategy

Development Plan Document

Page 2: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 3: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Eden District Council

SA of the Eden District Core Strategy

Final Sustainability Appraisal Report for Preferred Options

August 2006

Entec UK Limited

Page 4: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 5: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Report for

Roger Hopcraft

Planning Policy Manager

Eden District Council

Planning Policy

Town Hall

Penrith

Cumbria

CA11 7QF

Main Contributors

Ross McLaughlin

Luke McDonald

Neil Marlborough

Georgina McGough

Issued by

…………………………………………………………

Ross McLaughlin

Consultant

Approved by

………………………………………………………… Luke McDonald

Principal Consultant

Entec UK Limited

Northumbria House Regent Centre Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 3PX England Tel: +44 (0) 191 272 6100 Fax: +44 (0) 191 272 6592

15064-01

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

Eden District Council

SA of the Eden District Core Strategy LDF Core Strategy

Final Sustainability Appraisal Report for Preferred Options

August 2006

Entec UK Limited

Certificate No. EMS 69090

In accordance with an environmentally responsible approach,

this document is printed on recycled paper produced from 100%

post-consumer waste, or on ECF (elemental chlorine free) paper

Certificate No. FS 13881

Page 6: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 7: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

i

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Non Technical Summary

Introduction to Sustainable Development

A widely used definition of sustainable development is “Development which meets the needs of

the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”

(Rio Summit, 1992). Sustainable development, as defined by UK Government, is the

integration of social, economic and environmental objectives.

An updated Sustainable Development Strategy1 has now been introduced by UK Government.

This contains four priority areas for immediate action, and emphasises a need for changing

behaviour to bring about long term sustainability improvements. The four areas for action are:

1. Sustainable Consumption and Production

2. Climate Change and Energy

3. Natural Resource Protection and Environmental Enhancement

4. Sustainable Communities

Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment

This document is the Final Sustainability Appraisal (SA) Report of the Core Strategy for the

Eden District Local Development Framework (LDF). It has been produced following the

implementation of the European Commission Directive 2001/42/EC (enacted in the UK under

the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004) which requires a

‘Strategic Environmental Assessment’ (SEA) of Development Plans, as well as other plans and

programmes. This Report has also been informed by guidance from the Office of the Deputy

Prime Minister (ODPM) on undertaking a SEA combined with Sustainability Appraisal.

The Directive seeks to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to

contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation of plans in

order to promote sustainable development. Sustainability Appraisal extends the consideration

of issues to include social and economic factors as well as environmental issues. In

consequence, this appraisal considers the effects of policies on social, economic and

environmental objectives that collectively define sustainability within the District. Where those

effects are considered likely to be significantly detrimental, mitigating measures are proposed.

These will take the form of proposed amendments to the plan policy wording.

In completing this work, this SA Report (supported by work carried out by the Joint Cumbria

Planning Authorities) has assembled relevant baseline information, outlined key sustainability

issues, highlighted future trends and targets and outlined proposals for monitoring the impacts

of the subsequent implementation of the Plan policies.

There will always be significant tensions in the process of appraisal. The process makes explicit

the potential conflict between economic growth and environmental impacts. Whilst these cannot

1 DEFRA, (March 2005). Securing the Future: delivering UK sustainable development strategy

Page 8: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

ii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

always be resolved, the appraisal, in highlighting such tensions is able to provide this

information to decision-makers. Decisions can then be taken that are informed, based on

evidence and that have sought to balance potentially competing interests.

Whilst no local authority development plan can claim to ever achieve sustainability, its

contribution towards realising sustainability can always be improved.

Scope of the Report

This final SA report comprises the following:

• Background to the purpose and objectives of the appraisal process

• The methodology used to complete the appraisal

• A summary of the current sustainability issues in Eden (i.e. the baseline situation)

and the key issues that need to be considered

• A summary of the appraisal of the options

• A summary of the consultation carried out and the response to those consultations

• An assessment of the contribution of the plan policies to social, economic and

environmental objectives within the District

• An outline of the proposed mitigating measures for where these impacts are

negative and

• Proposed monitoring arrangements

The report also contains a number of appendices which contain the additional and supporting

information relevant to the assessment. This includes the completed appraisal framework for

each policy in the Draft Core Strategy, the review of plans and programmes (necessary to

inform the appraisal framework objectives) and more detailed information on the monitoring

and baseline information gathered.

Please note that the development of the Core Strategy is an evolving process and the version

appraised has been progressed towards the widely spread consultation version. Significant

alterations, following the consultation process, will be appraised in a sustainability appraisal

addendum report.

Statement on the difference the process has made

This Final SA Report is an integral part of the process of the Core Strategy preparation and

development. Earlier findings of the appraisal process have been used to refine provisional

policy options.

Where appropriate and consistent with the assessment, for specific policies, recommendations

have now been made (which are summarised in Table NTS1). It remains at the Council’s

discretion whether it decides to accept or decline the proposed amendments to the plan policies;

however, where the decision has been taken not to accept the recommendation, the reason is

also provided. The amended policies will then appear in the final version of the Core Strategy.

Page 9: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

iii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

The Sustainability Appraisal allowed stakeholders to critically analyse the Core Strategy across

the range of sustainable development objectives. It was especially useful in checking that, for

example, environmental policies took full account of social, economic and natural resources

factors. This not only helped to improve the sustainability performance of policies but also had

the added benefit of highlighting any conflict between or lack of clarity within policies. This

was true not only in terms of mitigating potentially negative impacts but also in terms of

establishing a positive relationship [where none was made previously] and enhancing already

favourable impacts.

The appraisal emphasised the need to look particularly carefully at certain impacts relating to

the climate change, biodiversity, accessibility and cultural heritage across a wide range of

policies. This offered the opportunity to look at these factors across the Core Strategy as a

whole. Occasionally the points raised were more relevant as points to be considered when later,

more site specific, Local Development Documents are prepared.

The recommendations that were made during the appraisal process are shown below:

Table NTS1 Sustainability Appraisal Recommendations for the Core Strategy

Policy Objective Issue Recommendation of Sustainability Appraisal

Eden District Council Response

CS1 11 It was noted that the policy does not explicitly relate to the sustainable use of water.

A positive score would be afforded by inserting ‘and prudent use of water’ at the end of bullet point 4.

Agreed

All objectives Discussions noted that the term ‘appropriate provision’ may be subject to scrutiny or mis-interpretation. However, it was considered that ‘appropriate’ relates to the location of the services dependant on the settlement size. To this extent, the policy should be read in conjunction with Policy CS2, CS3 and CS6.

Insert wording similar to that of bullet point 5 to bullet point 3 would firm up this emphasis. For example, bullet point 3 would read ‘Make appropriate provision of services, facilities and infrastructure to meet its own needs consistent with policies CS2, CS3 and CS6’.

Agreed

CS2

& CS3

10 and 15 Accessibility is not noted as a key consideration of the location strategy.

First bullet point of CS2 is reworded to include accessibility: - ‘sustained development at accessible locations within defined settlement limits appropriate to that of a large town.’

By their nature Key Service Centres are the most accessible locations in the District. To this extent, this insertion is deemed unnecessary.

CS8 6 Elements of ‘designing out crime’ should be emphasised.

The policy may be strengthened by inserting the phrase ‘and security’ to the end of bullet point 3.

Agreed

Page 10: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

iv

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Policy Objective Issue Recommendation of Sustainability Appraisal

Eden District Council Response

7 and 8 The policy encourages the redevelopment of PDL and locates development within existing settlements. This does not necessarily imply that biodiversity will not be harmed. For example, some Brownfield sites support a wider range of biodiversity than greenfield locations.

To this extent, it is considered that a positive score would be afforded if the final bullet point was amended to include: - ‘that will not adversely affect biodiversity’’ at the end of the bullet.

Agreed

10 ‘Good design’ and use of ‘sustainable materials’ may imply that design would be energy efficient however this is not explicit within the policy. Reference to Policy CS23 ‘Energy Efficiency and Conservation’ would result in a significantly positive relationship.

Final bullet point should be reworded to: -‘Promote good design, consistent with Policy CS23, using sustainable local materials that will not adversely affect biodiversity’.

Agreed

CS12 7, 8 and 9 There is currently no caveat to ensure that biodiversity or the historic environment is protected or should be taken into consideration in the policy or the pre-text.

Reword bullet point two to read:-

‘All of the dwellings are affordable, they would meet a local need for such housing, there is a lack of alternative previously developed sites and their provision would not significantly impact on the natural / historic environment.’

Alternatively if it is not considered that the policy itself is reworded a similar caveat should be inserted into pretext.

Agreed to include in Policy

CS16 10, 12 and 13 There is currently no reference to the protection of the natural environment.

Amend final line of Policy to read ‘…..in line with the locational strategy as set out in Policy CS2 and principles of CS19’.

Agreed

CS18 7, 8 and 9 Although no negative relationships were identified it was considered that Objectives 7, 8 and 9 would score positively if bullet point 3 was amended to be more proactive for the enhancement of the natural / built environment.

Reword Bullet point 3 to read:-

‘Development is at a scale which maintains and enhances the quality of the natural and built environment’

Agreed

Page 11: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

v

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Summary of the effects of Core Strategy policies

The following table (Table NTS2) summarises the impacts of the Core Strategy policies. The

impacts listed reflect the requirements of Annex 1 (f) of the SEA Directive. Further detail on

these impacts can be found in the main body of the report and in the appendices.

Table NTS2 Summary of the sustainability impacts of the Core Strategy policies

Air The core strategy in its entirety has been appraised to impact positively against air quality.

Traditional policies relating to economic development and expansion of transport infrastructure usually negatively impact on air quality however this is not always the case in Eden’s Core Strategy. Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) does seek to stimulate the development of appropriate infrastructure, however the emphasis is firmly placed on accessibility, limiting environmental impacts and reducing the need to travel by private modes. To this extent, CS6 scores well against air objectives.

Furthermore, CS15 and CS17 (Principles for Economic Development) also emphasis accessibility and even ‘promoting high environmental standards on existing and new employment sites’. This is a clear indication that impacts of air have been carefully considered in the production of this preferred option.

CS2&CS3 (Locational Strategy), CS4 (The Sequential Approach), CS10 (Location of New Housing) and CS24 (Principles for Services and Facilities) also scored well in terms of increasing accessibility and reducing the need to travel thereby minimising air pollution.

Policy CS22 (Energy Efficiency and Conservation) and CS23 (Renewable Energy) also impact positively on air quality given they seek to minimise emissions, use sustainable materials and maximise the potential of ‘green energy’.

Landscape and Soil The majority of the development polices focus development in and around the Key and Local Service Centres and where possible Previously Developed Land (PDL) (CS3 (Locational Strategy), CS11 (Making efficient use of Land) and CS17 (Employment Development in rural areas). The development on such sites will therefore require remediation and contribute to the improvement of the Borough’s soils and landscape. This is bolstered by the more strategic policies which encourage environmental protection such as CS19 (Principles for the Natural Environment) and CS20 (Principles for the Built Environment).

Polices which protect or enhance natural features of Eden District also score well against Landscaping objectives. These include CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) and CS15 (Principles for Economic Development and Tourism) which both explicitly seek to protect and enhance aspects of the natural and built environment and seek ‘high environmental standards’.

Biodiversity (Fauna and Flora)

It was assessed that policies encouraging development and remediation on PDL would positively impact on biodiversity, subject to appropriate mitigation to ensure that proposals on brownfield sites have due regard to biodiversity considerations. Policies CS16 and CS17 (Employment Development) focus major developments on PDL which eases pressure on greenfield sites.

Policy, CS19 (Principles for the Natural Environment) also scores significantly well against this objective given that it aims to protect and enhance the Natural Environmental Assets of Eden District which will include fauna and flora.

Impacts on biodiversity were appraised to be uncertain for Policy CS3 (Locational Strategy and CS16 (Employment Land Provision) on the grounds that detailed ecological surveys would have to be carried out to establish clear impacts at specific sites prior to development taking place. It is noted that future allocations DPD’s and the development control process may alleviate concern and produce a positive impact however at this present time no certain impact can be afforded. It was also noted that CS2 uses phrases such as ‘appropriate scale’ and ‘encouraging development on brownfield sites’ which suggest a steer away from negatively affecting biodiversity. Sufficient Phase 1 habitat investigations must taker place prior to the allocation of sites.

Page 12: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

vi

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Climatic factors Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility), CS15 (Principles for Economic Development and Tourism) and CS3 (Locational Strategy) have been appraised to score positively against climatic factors on the grounds it emphasises accessibility and reducing the need to travel. Both aspects will have the knock on effect of reducing CO

2 emissions

from private car usage thereby having a positive impact on climate change.

Policies such as CS10 (Location of new housing) and other which emphasis locating development in Key and Local Service Centres also score well against climatic objectives given that these areas are the most accessible in the District by public transport modes.

Policy CS22 (Energy Efficiency and Conservation) and CS23 (Renewable Energy) also impact positively on air quality given they seek to minimise emissions, use sustainable materials and maximise the potential of sustainable energy sources.

Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage

The Core Strategy notes the importance of the Districts cultural environment, especially its historic market towns, for tourists and locals alike. Many policies encourages the sensitive protection / enhancement of the built environment whilst addressing complementary issues. For example, CS17 (Employment Development in Rural Areas) is primarily concerned with the development of the rural economy however it also affords that development is ‘of a scale and type sympathetic to the area’ implying the protection of aesthetics and ‘sense of place’.

Policies which seek to encourage recreation or tourism through the enjoyment of open spaces or traditional rural services, such as town halls and village pubs, also score well against this objective and include CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) and CS25 (Protection of Village Services and Facilities).

Policy CS20 (Principles for the Built Environment) and CS21 (The design of new Development) all explicitly seek to protect and enhance elements of the built environment including the Districts cultural heritage.

Human health Policies CS24 (Principles for Services and Facilities) and CS25 (Protection of Village Services and Facilities) actively seek to protect important services likely to include local GP’s, pharmacy’s and informal community care groups. This in its very nature will protect access and provision of health care facilities.

Human health may also be supported by policies encouraging walking and cycling, provided by Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) which focuses on improving accessibility and ‘promoting a healthier lifestyle through travel choice’.

Policy CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) was also appraised to have significantly positive impacts on human health given it seeks to protect and enhance areas used for recreation and leisure which is important for mental and physical well being.

Material assets Material assets cover a wide range of provisions including natural resources and also features of the built environment. Notwithstanding this, impacts on the built environment have already been assessed against the above ‘architectural’ heritage objective which shows that the majority of policies score well and embrace Eden District’s existing assets.

Policy CS21 (The Design of New Development) scores significantly well against ‘Material Assets’ given its primary function is to protect and complement existing aesthetics of the built environment whilst improving accessibility, energy efficiency and maximises the use of land.

Policy CS5 (Flood Risk) also scored well given that it protects the Districts material assets against flood events.

Page 13: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

vii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Population Population covers a wide range of impacts on people, and as such, the Core Strategy policies are associated with population in a variety of ways. This includes impacts on the natural and built environment, which may encourage outdoor recreation and health, or may increase spending in the area by attracting tourists or improving retail facilities for example. Issues of health and the natural and built environment are summarised above and not considered again here.

CS10 (Location of New Housing) and CS13 (affordable Housing) will affect social, environmental and economic vitality through influencing the nature and location of housing. CS13 in particular will have major population impacts for a wide variety of people who seek affordable accommodation in the District. The term ‘local need’ is used within this policy to display the importance of identifying communities with the greatest requirements.

CS14 (Provision for Gypsies and Travellers) also is deemed to impact on population, especially for the Gypsy/ travelling community. The policy seeks to positively influence the location of sites which are accessible and are in proximity to facilities and public transport.

Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) and CS3 (Locational Strategy) relating to improving accessibility and spatial development contributes to establishing a positive impact on the District’ population as development will be strategically located and destinations will be permeable.

Conclusions on the performance of the Core Strategy

In broad terms the Core Strategy performs very well against the sustainable development

objectives and it provides a robust framework from which to progress sustainability within the

District. Through the completion of this SA and the various iterations of the Core Strategy the

Council has ensured that its performance and contribution towards a more sustainable future is

one that has been improved.

The role of the LDF and the documents within it is not to achieve sustainability on its own, but

to make the spatial planning contribution to sustainable development and to be integrated with

other strategic documents. The sustainability appraisal process has provided the opportunity for

the sustainability issues associated with spatial planning to be considered in a prescribed manner

(via SEA Directive) by policy makers, consultees and the wider community. The frontloading

of such involvement has enabled issues and mitigation to be identified and resolved at earlier

stages of the policy making process.

Does this SA comply with the SEA Directive?

Whilst the term ‘sustainability appraisal’ has been around for a number of years, it is with the

implementation of the SEA Directive that the process has moved from being solely a qualitative

process to one that relies more substantively on an evidence base. The guidance from the

ODPM has detailed how SA could be undertaken in a manner to include the requirements of the

SEA Directive. The ODPM Guidance2 details the following four phases in the process of

developing development plan documents for an LDF:

1. Pre-production – evidence gathering and establishing the social, economic and

environmental baseline

2. Production – preparation and refinement of issues and options, assessing effects,

determining preferred options, consultation and submission of development

documents

2 ODPM Sustainability Appraisals of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks

Page 14: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

viii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

3. Examination – representations, independent examination and binding report

4. Adoption – adoption and monitoring

For each of these stages, there are a number of requirements outlined in the integrated SA/SEA

guidance as amended by the Interim Advice Note. This is detailed below in Table NTS3:

Table NTS3 Integrated SA/SEA Requirements

Phase SEA Stage Action

Pre-production Stage A: Setting the context and objectives, establishing the baseline and deciding on the scope

Develop and agree appraisal methodology and programme

Ensure that stakeholder involvement in the appraisal process has been included in the community consultation process

Identify and review other relevant policies, plans and programmes and sustainable development objectives that will affect or influence the LDF DPD and undertake relevant surveys

Collect relevant social, environmental and economic baseline information and production of a characterisation of the borough

Identify key sustainability issues for the SA to address

Develop the SA framework, consisting of the sustainability objectives, indicators and targets

Test the plan objectives against the sustainability objectives and whether the plan objectives are consistent with one another

Produce a scoping report and consult relevant authorities, the public and other key stakeholders on the scope of the appraisal and the key issues and possible solutions

Production

Stages B Developing and refining options

Develop the SA consulting relevant stakeholders, and test issues and options against the SA Framework

Involvement of stakeholders on issues and options appraisal

Stage C: Appraising the effects of the LDF DPD

Take account of consultation on issues and options in ongoing SA approach

Predict the effects and carry out detailed assessment of the effects of the Preferred Options

Propose measures to maximise beneficial effects and mitigate adverse effects

Develop proposals for monitoring

Prepare the final SA Report of the LDF DPD

Stage D: Consultation on the Preferred Options and SA Report

Consult on the final SA Report along with the Preferred Options

Carry out, where necessary, appraisal of any significant changes made as a result of public participation, including possible alternative site proposals

Submit LDF DPD and SA to Secretary of State

Examination If necessary, carry out appraisal of any significant changes proposed as a result of representations, including possible alternative site proposals

Page 15: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

ix

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Phase SEA Stage Action

Adoption and Monitoring

Inform consultees that the LDF DPD has been adopted

Issue statement summarising information on how the SA results and consultees opinions were taken into account, reason for choice of options and proposals for monitoring, in relation to any recommended changes

Make the LDF DPD and SA Report available to the public and other stakeholders

Stage E: Monitoring implementation of the DPD

Monitor significant effects of the LDF DPD to identify the at an early stage any unforeseen effect

Publish sustainability monitoring reports periodically as part of the Annual Monitoring Report

Undertake appropriate remedial action where necessary

In order to share professional knowledge, to achieve the optimum output from available

resources and to ensure that statutory consultees were fully and actively engaged in the process,

the joint Planning Authorities of Cumbria collectively devised a County-wide Sustainability

Appraisal Framework that could be applied to the Local Development Frameworks for

individual Local Planning Authorities. This essentially resulted in a thorough and elongated

Stage A of the process, which concluded with a shared Sustainability Framework supported by

relevant baseline information and document reviews. The outcome of this process was reported

in the Council’s Scoping Report that was consulted upon in tandem with the Council’s Core

Strategy issues and Options Paper.

The appraisal of the Issues and Options occurred subsequent to consultation on the Core

Strategy Issues and Options Paper but prior to the preparation of the Preferred Options. This

ensured that the findings of the appraisal of the Issues and Options Paper were fully considered

in the formulation of the Preferred Options.

Page 16: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

xiii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

How to comment on this report

We would welcome your comments on the Final SA Report for the LDF Core Strategy. Please

send them by 6th October 2006 to:

Planning Policy Manager

Eden District Council

Planning Policy

Town Hall

Penrith

Cumbria

CA11 7QF

The Council will acknowledge receipt of your submission and provide a response to your views

as part of the consultation process on the Plan.

Page 17: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

xiv

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Contents

Non Technical Summary i

1. Introduction and Background 1

1.1 Purpose of this report 1

1.2 Requirement for appraisal of the Eden District Core Strategy 1

1.3 Eden District Core Strategy 2

1.4 Compliance with the SEA Directive / Regulations 3

2. Appraisal Methodology 7

2.1 What was the approach adopted for the SA? 7

2.2 When was the SA was carried out? 8

2.3 How has the SA been completed? 8

2.3.1 Preparation and Consultation of Issues and Options Paper 8

2.3.2 Completion, Issue and Consultation on draft SA Scoping Report 9

2.3.3 Retrospective Appraisal of Options and Consultation 10

2.3.4 Appraisal of Preferred Options 10

3. Sustainability Objectives, Baseline and Context 13

3.1 Link to other strategies, plans, programmes and sustainability objectives 13

3.2 Description of the social, environmental and economic baseline characteristics and the predicted future baseline 14

3.3 Difficulties in collecting data and limitations of the data 18

3.4 The SA Framework, including objectives, targets and indicators 19

3.4.1 Developing the Objectives 19

3.4.2 Compatibility of the Objectives 21

4. Issues and Options Appraisal 23

4.1 Introduction 23

4.2 The options appraisal 23

Page 18: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

xv

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

5. Responding to Consultation 37

6. Core Strategy Policies 43

6.1 How social, environmental and economic problems were considered in developing policies 43

6.2 Significant social, environmental and economic effects of the preferred policies 43

6.2.1 Policy CS1 – Sustainable Development Principles 44

6.2.2 Policy CS2, CS3 and CS4– Locational Strategy 45

6.2.3 Policy CS5 – Flood Risk 45

6.2.4 Policy CS6 – Transport and Accessibility 45

6.2.5 Policy CS7 – Developer Contributions 45

6.2.6 Policy CS8 – Principles for Housing 46

6.2.7 Policy CS9 – Meeting Housing Requirements 46

6.2.8 Policy CS10 – Location of New Housing 47

6.2.9 Policy CS11 – Making Efficient use of Land 47

6.2.10 Policy CS12 – Housing on Green Field Sites 47

6.2.11 Policy CS13 – Affordable Housing 48

6.2.12 Policy CS14 – Provision for Gypsies and Travellers 48

6.2.13 Policy CS15 – Principles for Economic Development and Tourism 48

6.2.14 Policy CS16 – Employment Land Provision 48

6.2.15 Policy CS17 – Employment Development in Rural Areas 49

6.2.16 Policy CS18 – Tourism and the Visitor Economy 49

6.2.17 Policy CS19 – Principles for the Natural Environment 49

6.2.18 Policy CS20 – Principles for the Built Environment 49

6.2.19 Policy CS21 – The Design of New Development 50

6.2.20 Policy CS22 – Energy Efficiency and Conservation 50

6.2.21 Policy CS23 – Renewable Energy 50

6.2.22 Policy CS24 – Principles for Services and Facilities 50

6.2.23 Policy CS25 – Protection of Village Services and Facilities 50

6.2.24 Policy CS26 – Hierarchy of Retail Centres 51

6.2.25 Policy CS27 – Open Space and Recreational Land 51

6.3 Effects of plan policies on overall objectives 51

6.4 How has the appraisal improved the plan? 53

7. Implementation 55

7.1 Links to other tiers of plans and programmes and the project level 55

7.2 Proposals for monitoring implementation 55

Page 19: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

xvi

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Table NTS1 Sustainability Appraisal Recommendations for the Core Strategy iii Table NTS2 Summary of the sustainability impacts of the Core Strategy policies v Table NTS3 Integrated SA/SEA Requirements viii Box 1 Schedule 2 of the SEA Regulations: Information for Environmental Reports 3 Table 1.1 Compatibility of Eden SA Report with ODPM SA Report Requirements 4 Table 3.1 Summary of relevant plans and policies 13 Table 3.2 Social breakdown 18 Table 3.3 Objectives and key questions / Indicators 20 Table 5.1 Consultee Comments regarding Sustainability Appraisal 37 Table 6.1 Appraisal of CS1 44 Table 6.2 Appraisal of CS2, CS3 and CS4 45 Table 6.3 Appraisal of CS8 46 Table 6.4 Appraisal of CS12 47 Table 6.5 Appraisal of CS16 48 Table 6.6 Appraisal of CS18 49 Table 6.7 Summary of the impacts of the Core Strategy policies 51

Figure 3.1 Integrated DPD and SA Development 9 Figure 7.1 Hierarchy of plans and programmes feeding into LDF 55

Appendix A Issues and Options Paper Appendix B List of consultees invited to comment Appendix C Core Strategy (draft appraised at 22

nd June 2006)

Appendix D Plans, Programmes and Strategies Review Appendix E Baseline information and trends Appendix F Objective compatibility assessment Appendix G Appraisal of options Appendix H Appraisal of core strategy policies

Page 20: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

xvii

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 21: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

1

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

1. Introduction and Background

1.1 Purpose of this report

This document is the Final Sustainability Appraisal (SA) Report of the Preferred Options

forming the Core Strategy for the Eden District Core Strategy. It has been produced to meet the

SA reporting requirements of the guidance from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

(ODPM) on implementing the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive3.

This SA Report sets out the appraisal methodology, the sustainability objectives, baseline

information used in the appraisal process, the assessment of the Core Strategy options and

preferred policies and proposals for monitoring the LDF implementation.

Consistent with the requirements for consultation on the emerging LDF, this Report is being

circulated widely for views. It follows on from the publication and consultation on the SA

Scoping Report and Core Strategy Issues and Options Paper released in September 2005.

1.2 Requirement for appraisal of the Eden District Core Strategy

The European Directive 2001/42/EC requires a ‘Strategic Environmental Assessment’ (SEA) of

proposed Regional Spatial Strategies, Development Plan Documents, and Supplementary

Planning Documents. The objective of the Directive is:

“to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute

to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and

adoption of plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable

development” (Article 1).

These aims are consistent with a range of UK Government policies on the environment and

sustainable development.

The Directive applies to all relevant plans and programmes whose formal preparation began

after 21st July 2004 and those that will not be adopted by 21

st June 2006. The Directive has

been enacted in the UK through the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes

Regulations 2004 (SI 1633).

The Directive defines ‘environmental assessment’ as a procedure comprising:

• preparing an Environmental Report on the likely significant effects of the draft plan

or programme;

• carrying out consultation on the draft plan or programme and the accompanying

Environmental Report;

3 ODPM Sustainability Appraisals of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks

Page 22: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

2

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

• taking into account the Environmental Report and the results of consultation in

decision making; and

• providing information when the plan or programme is adopted and showing how the

results of the environmental assessment have been taken into account.

Separately, Section 39 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act (2004) also requires that

relevant organisations must exercise their functions with the purpose of contributing towards

sustainable development. SA provides one means by which this requirement can be

implemented by ensuring that the contribution of a policy towards the realisation of a range of

sustainable development objectives can be assessed.

1.3 Eden District Core Strategy

The existing Eden District Local Plan (the Local Plan) was adopted in 1996. Following the

publication of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, and the requirements of

Planning Policy Statement 12 – Local Development Frameworks, Eden District Council decided

to commence the process of preparing their Local Development Framework (LDF) in 2005.

The LDF will contain a portfolio of documents covering spatial planning within the District.

These documents will include Development Plan Documents (DPDs) and Supplementary Plan

Documents (SPDs). The DPDs include the Core Strategy, Development Control policies, Site

Specific Allocations and Area Action Plans.

The overarching vision for Eden has been prescribed in the Council’s community strategy titled

‘Vision for the Future’ and was prepared after extensive consultation. The vision is:

“To maintain and improve a viable and sustainable Eden, ensuring a place of

involvement, opportunity and prosperity for all”

This vision and the aims of the Community Strategy as well as the Council’s corporate aims and

objectives have been translated into a suite of objectives for Core Strategy:

1. To ensure that people from all sectors of our local communities have equal access

to services; that our communities are safe and that participation and influence in the

decision-making process across all sectors is increased.

2. To improve the health and well being of our communities by reducing health

inequalities, promoting healthy living and supporting locally accessible, high

quality health care.

3. To support and develop an economically sustainable and prosperous area where

investment is encouraged, skills are developed and retained and new and existing

businesses are supported.

4. To develop the local economy and meet local employment needs by providing a

sufficient number and variety of employment locations and opportunities.

5. To provide a framework where children and young people can thrive and improve

their life chances.

6. To support the development and maintenance of a variety of decent, affordable

housing and related services which meet the needs of local people and support

economic and community development.

Page 23: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

3

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

7. To protect and enhance the environment, maintaining and enhancing biodiversity.

8. To assist in the development of an effective, accessible and sustainable transport

system, whilst reducing the need for travel and protecting the environment.

9. To promote the heritage and unique qualities of the area locally, nationally and

internationally.

10. To achieve an acceptable balance between facilitating development and maintaining

the amenity of settlements and the countryside.

11. To use natural resources in the most sustainable way including recycling and re-use

of previously developed land.

12. To guide changes in the built environment in a way that takes proper account of

climate change, promoting energy efficiency in design and construction of all new

development.

13. To encourage the exploitation and development of renewable energy sources

wherever they have prospects of being economically attractive, and

environmentally and socially acceptable.

14. To promote the principles of sustainable tourism by seeking to maximise social and

economic benefits in a manner which is acceptable to the local community and does

not prejudice the environment.

In accordance with good practice guidance, these objectives were assessed for consistency with

the Framework objectives, the results of which were reported in the Core Strategy SA Scoping

Report.

1.4 Compliance with the SEA Directive / Regulations

The European Directive 2001/42/EC (EC 2001) and the Environmental Assessment of Plans and

Programmes Regulations 2004 require an Environmental Report to be completed. Schedule 2 of

the Regulations defines the content of the Environment Report as follows:

Box 1 Schedule 2 of the SEA Regulations: Information for Environmental Reports

1. An outline of the contents and main objectives of the plan or programme, and of its relationship with other relevant plans and programmes.

2. The relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan or programme.

3. The environmental characteristics of areas likely to be significantly affected.

4. Any existing environmental problems which are relevant to the plan or programme including, in particular, those relating to any areas of a particular environmental importance, such as areas designated pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds(a) and the Habitats Directive.

5. The environmental protection objectives, established at international, Community or Member State level, which are relevant to the plan or programme and the way those objectives and any environmental considerations have been taken into account during its preparation.

Page 24: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

4

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6. The likely significant effects on the environment, including short, medium and long-term effects, permanent and temporary effects, positive and negative effects, and secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects, on issues such as—

(a) biodiversity;

(b) population;

(c) human health;

(d) fauna;

(e) flora;

(f) soil;

(g) water;

(h) air;

(i) climatic factors;

(j) material assets;

(k) cultural heritage, including architectural and archaeological heritage;

(l) landscape; and

(m) the inter-relationship between the issues referred to in sub-paragraphs (a) to (l).

7. The measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme.

8. An outline of the reasons for selecting the alternatives dealt with, and a description of how the assessment was undertaken including any difficulties (such as technical deficiencies or lack of know-how) encountered in compiling the required information.

9. A description of the measures envisaged concerning monitoring in accordance with regulation

10. A non-technical summary of the information provided under paragraphs 1 to 9.

Further guidance has been provided by ODPM on the contents of the Environment Report

consistent with its extension to include wider sustainability objectives. The guidance has

adapted the requirements of the SEA Regulations.

Table 1.1 presents the ODPM report requirements and how this Sustainability Report complies

with this requirement. The final column in the table identifies where these issues have been

captured within this report.

Table 1.1 Compatibility of Eden SA Report with ODPM SA Report Requirements

SA Report Sections Information to be included Eden SA Report

Summary of outcomes Non technical summary, statement of the difference that the process has made, how to comment on the report

Non-Technical Summary

Appraisal Methodology Appraisal method, summary of who was involved and when the appraisal was completed

Section 2

Background Purpose of the SA and SA Report, plan objectives, compliance

Section 3

Page 25: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

5

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

SA Report Sections Information to be included Eden SA Report

Sustainability Objectives, baseline and context

Links to other plans, programmes and strategies, description of the baseline and trend information, any difficulties encountered, the SA framework and the main sustainability issues

Section 3

Plan issues and options Presentation of the main strategic options and their appraisal

Section 4

Plan policies Summary of the significant sustainability effects of the preferred policies, outline of how they were considered, proposed mitigation and associated residual risks

Section 6

Implementation Links to other plans and programmes and proposals for monitoring

Section 7

Page 26: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

6

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 27: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

7

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

2. Appraisal Methodology

2.1 What was the approach adopted for the SA?

An integrated SA and SEA process can be defined as:

"a systematic and iterative appraisal process, incorporating the requirements of

the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive. The purpose of sustainability

appraisal is to appraise the social, environmental and economic effects of the

strategies and policies in a local development document from the outset of the

preparation process. This will ensure that decisions are made that accord with

sustainable development."4.

The appraisal is therefore a qualitative exercise using the expertise of the appraisers and

available information to assess how the proposed policy, plan or proposal is aligned with each

objective. ‘The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive: Guidance for Planning

Authorities’, October 2003 and ‘The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive: Draft

Practical Guidance”, July 2004 issued by ODPM highlighted that the new areas of emphasis of

the SEA Directive were on:

• Collecting and presenting baseline environmental information;

• Predicting the significant environmental effects of the plan and addressing them

during its preparation;

• Identifying the strategic alternatives and their effects;

• Consulting the public and authorities with environmental responsibilities as part of

the assessment process; and

• Monitoring the actual environmental effects of the plan during its implementation.

The consultation guidance on SA, `Sustainability Appraisals of Regional Spatial Strategies and

Local Development Frameworks’, September 2004 (as amended by the Interim Advice Note)

highlights some refinements to the broad approach:

• The review of plans and programmes precedes the determination of objectives and

information gathering;

• The scope and detail of the baseline report has been considerably expanded to

include detailed information on the social and environmental aspects of the area;

• A scoping report of the SA is required at the end of the baseline and appraisal

development stage;

4 PPS12 “Local Development Frameworks”, 2005

Page 28: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

8

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

• Formal consultation with statutory consultees is required at three stages in the

process.

It is important to realise that the objective of sustainability appraisal is not to ‘score’ the strategy

or proposals but rather to work closely with their developers to help overcome conflicts, or to

make explicit the nature of any trade-offs that may result. Sustainability appraisals should be an

objectives-led approach that makes use of clearly articulated objectives which are achievement-

orientated and implemented through policies and proposals which, where possible should be

quantified by targets which can be measured.

In applying the approach of SA to the Eden Local Development Framework, there are a number

of distinct stages in the work. These are as follows:

• Preparation and Consultation of Issues and Options Paper (September 2005)

• Completion, issue and consultation of a SA Scoping Report (September 2005).

• Retrospective appraisal of options (May 2006).

• Refinement of the framework and appraisal of the preferred options (forming Core

Strategy policies) through workshop (May 2006)

• Completion issue and consultation on the Final SA Report (July 2006).

2.2 When was the SA was carried out?

The SA has been carried out over a period of 10 months from September 2005 to July 2006.

The work undertaken at each stage is illustrated below.

2.3 How has the SA been completed?

2.3.1 Preparation and Consultation of Issues and Options Paper

As the figure below shows, the process of preparing an LDF and undertaking SA of that

emerging LDF is integrated, particularly at several key points.

The initial baseline and data gathering stage for the SA was carried out by the Council in

consultation with the Joint Cumbria Local Planning Authorities and the County Council. This

process coincided with the commencement of preparation of the Council’s Core Strategy Issues

and Options Paper. As a result of the work carried out by the Joint Cumbria Local Planning

Authorities, a shared Draft SA Framework was prepared. This Framework was reported in the

SA Scoping Report that was consulted upon alongside the consultation for the Council’s Core

Strategy Issues and Options Paper.

Eden District Council commissioned Entec UK Ltd in March 2006 to complete the retrospective

appraisal of the Issues and Options and of the Preferred Options for the Core Strategy. The

approach and methodology adopted by Entec has been informed by the ODPM guidance and

experience gained elsewhere in providing support to Local Planning Authorities.

Page 29: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

9

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Figure 3.1 Integrated DPD and SA Development

The Issues and Options Paper as prepared by Eden District Council and on which the Options

Appraisal was based is available at Appendix A.

2.3.2 Completion, Issue and Consultation on draft SA Scoping Report

The methodology used in the preparation of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework closely

followed ODPM guidance and best practice in SA/SEA to provide an approach that is

transparent, compliant and replicable for all subsequent Development Plans Documents.

The process followed closely the five tasks required for the Scoping Stage as identified in the

SEA guidance, which lead to the completion of the Scoping Report and its subsequent

consultation. The five tasks are:

A1. Identifying other relevant plans, programmes and sustainability objectives

A2. Develop relevant baseline information and characterise the area

A3. Identifying key sustainability issues

A4. Developing the SA Framework including objectives, indicators and targets

A5. Testing the DPD (or Local Plan) objectives against the SA Framework

Tasks A1 to A4 were all carried out in consultation with the Joint Cumbria Planning Authorities

and statutory consultees.

DP development SEA/SA

Plan review, objectives and principles

Baseline, appraisal framework, scope

Scoping Report &

ConsultationDevelopment of issues and options,

publication and consultation

Appraisal of options (Retrospective in case

of Eden)

Development of preferred options, publication

Appraisal of preferred

options (assessment, mitigation, monitoring)

Final SA & Consultation

Consultation and revision, submissionAppraisal of

significant changesAmended final SA

Stage A

Stage B

Stage C

Stage D

Examination and adoption

Page 30: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

10

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Consultation

The SA Scoping Report was consulted upon in tandem with the Core Strategy Issues and

Options Paper in September 2005. The consultation included the general public, stakeholders

and the statutory consultees.

The consultation responses received were acknowledged and taken on board where appropriate

into the SA Framework and informed the subsequent options appraisal process. A table

identifying the consultation responses and how they were addressed is contained in Section 5 of

this Report.

2.3.3 Retrospective Appraisal of Options and Consultation

As a result of work undertaken by Eden District Council in the 2005, it became apparent that

they would need to undertake a retrospective or ‘retrofit’ appraisal of the options in order to

ensure that the preferred options taken forward were the most sustainable – economically,

environmentally, resource-wise and socially – and not just the most popular through

consultation. The results of the appraisal have been assembled into an Options Appraisal

Report which will be publicised and consulted upon alongside this SA Report and the Core

Strategy Preferred Options.

The Workshop Sessions

A number of in-house workshop sessions were held to appraise the options in the Issues and

Options Paper by Entec. Each of these sessions included staff members of varied backgrounds

but all with SA experience. The participants included:

• Luke McDonald (Principal Consultant)

• Ross McLaughlin (Consultant)

• Neil Marlborough (Consultant)

• Georgina McGough (Assistant Consultant)

2.3.4 Appraisal of Preferred Options

Following the appraisal of the options and the conclusions prepared to take forward preferred

options Eden District Council were able to prepare the policies for the Core Strategy document.

It was not deemed necessary to amend or refine the SA framework and so we continued to use

the existing version. The policies subjected to appraisal are reproduced in Appendix G

The Workshop Session

A workshop with a number of Council officers at the Eden District Council and Entec staff was

held on 10th May 2006. The following people attended:

• Roger Hopcraft, Eden District Council

• Anne Roger, Housing Officer, Eden District Council

• Julie Monk, Principle EHO Housing, Eden District Council

• Suzanne Kidger, Local Planning, Eden District Council

Page 31: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

11

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

• Andrea Hines, Economic Development and Tourism, Eden District Council

• Jeremy Pickup, Environment Agency

• Jonathan Smith, Cumbria County Council, Transport Manager

• Ross McLaughlin, Entec UK Ltd

• Luke McDonald, Entec UK Ltd

The Council were encouraged to select a range of policies which they felt had strategic

importance, were likely to have potentially significant effects and which were of relevance

to the Council officers who attended the meeting. The remaining policies were appraised by

Entec in subsequent workshop sessions involving Ross McLaughlin, Luke McDonald,

Georgina McGough and Neil Marlborough.

Page 32: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

12

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 33: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

13

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

3. Sustainability Objectives, Baseline and Context

3.1 Link to other strategies, plans, programmes and sustainability objectives

The SEA Regulation 2004 requires an analysis of the Plan’s “relationship with other relevant

plans and programmes” (Schedule 2 (1)) and of “the environmental protection objectives…

which are relevant to the plan or programme and the way those objectives and any

environmental considerations have been taken into account during its preparation” (Schedule 2

(5)).

In order to document other factors, a list of polices plans and programmes and environmental

objectives relevant to the Local Plan has been compiled and analysed by the Joint Cumbria

Local Planning Authorities. Appendix D contains a full list of the relevant plans and

programmes. This has been summarised to consider how the objectives and requirements of

other plans and policies will be considered in the SA. A list of documents reviewed are

summarised in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1 Summary of relevant plans and policies

Messages Source

Efforts to build a truly sustainable way of life require the integration of action in three key areas: economic growth and equity; conserving natural resources and the environment; and social development.

UN World Summit on Sustainable Development

Each Party [Government; Local Authority] shall endeavour to ensure that officials and authorities assist and provide guidance to the public in seeking access to information, in facilitating participation in decision-making and in seeking access to justice in environmental matters.

Aarhus Convention

Community involvement is an essential element in delivering sustainable development and creating sustainable and safe communities

PPS1

Planned extensions to existing urban areas are likely to prove the next most sustainable option after building on appropriate sites within urban areas

PPG3

Encouraging a wide range of services that are accessible to all PPS6

The core strategy should set out broad locations for delivering the housing and other strategic development needs such as employment, retail, leisure, community, essential public services and transport development

PPS12

Local authorities should ensure that development comprising jobs, shopping, leisure and services offers a realistic choice of access by public transport, walking, and cycling, recognising that this may be less achievable in some rural areas

PPG13

Page 34: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

14

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Messages Source

Sustaining the distinctive character and appearance of a given area PPG15

Small-scale projects can provide a limited but valuable contribution to overall outputs of renewable energy and to meeting energy needs both locally and nationally

PPS22

The general acceptance of biodiversity’s essential role is in enhancing the quality of life, with its conservation becoming a natural consideration in all relevant public, private and non-governmental decisions and policies

Working With The Grain of Nature: A Biodiversity Plan for England

Energy is often wasted because of poorly insulated

buildings or where heating, ventilation, air conditioning and lighting are poorly controlled

Energy White Paper:

Our Energy Future

Market Towns play a critical role in helping rural communities to thrive Rural White Paper:

A Fair Deal for Rural England

Reasonable provision should be made in dwellings, so that people, including disabled people, can gain access into and within the principal storey of the dwelling

Building Regulations:

Part M

To encourage communities to be actively involved in local decision making and voluntary activities

Taking Forward Action for Sustainability: North West Action Plan

Cumbria is England's second largest and second most sparsely populated county

Connected Cumbria

The County Council have implemented [for Cumbria] £5.4 million worth of integrated transport improvement schemes and £13.3 million in structural highway maintenance (incorporating modern standards of accessibility and priority to vulnerable road users)

Cumbria County Council

Local Transport Plan

(2001-2006)

Education for sustainable development is the learning that people need to improve and maintain quality of life for all, now and for generations to come.

Sustainable Cumbria

To create a diverse and thriving rural area, with high quality landscape and wildlife, recreational access for the whole community

East Cumbria Countryside Partnership

Providing the best possible opportunities for local young people upon leaving school to obtain suitable post 16 education, access work and set up their own homes without the need to leave the area

Eden Local Strategic Partnership

3.2 Description of the social, environmental and economic baseline characteristics and the predicted future baseline

Eden District is the largest geographical area of all Cumbrian authorities. At 215,814 ha and

with a population of 50,218 (mid 2002 estimate) it is the second largest and most sparsely

populated District within England.

Approximately one-fifth of the District lies within the Lake District National Park and one

quarter within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It stretches

Page 35: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

15

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

from North Lakeland in the west, to the Pennines in the east, with Eden Valley running through

the centre.

The District benefits from good road transport links running east / west along the A66 trunk

road and north / south via the M6 and A6. Most of the county is within a travel time of one hour

except for parts of the borders with Scotland, Northumberland, and Yorkshire and down to the

west coast of Barrow.

The West Coast Mainline provides rail links to the north and south and the regional railways

link from Carlisle to Leeds (via Settle / Carlisle) is of particular importance to settlements in the

Eden Valley.

A number of key topic areas and / or issues are consistently referred to either implicitly or

explicitly in plans, programmes and strategies as well as showing through in reviewed baseline

information. These issues should be reflected within the SA framework. In order to comply

with the SEA Regulations, we have grouped the issues identified into 4 key topics, namely:

1. Economic

2. Environment

3. Prudent Use of Natural Resources

4. Social

These are summarised below and the full baseline review is recorded in Appendix E.

Economic

There are just over 24,000 people employed within the District (2001 Census). Distributive

trades, hotels and restaurants account for more than one third of all those employed (37%)

which is significantly higher than the current national average of 25%. Other tourism jobs

represent almost a further 21% of Eden’s workforce, compared to only 8% nationally.

Employment in agriculture and fishing represents 5% compared to 1% nationally. When figures

for self employment are added this 5% figure is substantially higher. The proportion of

manufacturing jobs, just over 12%, is similar to the national average. The most significant area

of growth for the District in the period 1998-2002 has been in the sectors of public

administration, education and health care, these having risen by 6%. Finance, IT and other

business activities are lower in Eden at 8.5% than the national average (20%).

There are 3,110 businesses registered for VAT in Eden. This represents 62 businesses per 1,000

population, as compared to an approximate figure of 27 nationally. The District has a higher

proportion of small businesses employing less than 10 people than nationally with a

correspondingly lower proportion of larger businesses. Business survival rates are higher than

nationally but formation rates are lower.

The unemployment rate in Eden is the lowest in the county at 0.6% in July 2005 whilst the

national level is 2.4% (July 2005). Employment land requirements are established through the

Structure Plan and the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy. The alteration to the Cumbria and

Lake District Joint Structure Plan establishes the need for 55 hectares of employment land up to

2016. The requirements cover strategic and local employment sites and also an allocation for

land for a business / science park.

Page 36: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

16

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Although the area has high levels of employment, this masks a dependency on low paid work.

With the allocations above, opportunities to improve the economic base will be made available

providing for a more skilled labour force and the attraction and retention of young economically

active people.

Implications for the SA Framework

The Framework should contain objectives and/or criteria that support a balanced economy that

reduces the dependency on high paid works, and should seek to provide a more skilled

workforce.

Environment

Eden District has an exceptionally high quality of environment, both in terms of the natural

environment and the built. A substantial part of the area comprises landscapes which have been

recognised for their high quality. These include the North Pennines AONB, significant parts of

the Lake District National Park, and a number of areas including parts of the Eden Valley, the

Pennine foothills, Westmorland Fells, Howgills and Greystoke Forest all of which are

recognised in the County Structure Plan as Landscapes of County Importance.

The protection of areas of wildlife and geological interest is also very important in the District

and there are ninety one Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) designated and accorded

protection due to the national significance of their flora, fauna or particular geological value.

Seventy of these are wholly or partly within in Eden itself and the other twenty one are within

the boundaries of the national park. The District also has, at Orton Scar and Great Asby Scar,

some of the most extensive areas of limestone pavement in Britain and these are accorded the

extra protection of designation as Special Areas of Conservation due to their international value.

Eden has a fine historic environment including many attractive villages and outstanding

examples of both vernacular and fine architecture drawing upon local materials. Also there is

evidence, both archaeological and within the built form of settlements of the growth,

development and change which has taken place in the past. This historic environment together

with the natural environment gives the District its distinctive and attractive character that makes

it an important asset to the local economy.

Eden has many fine seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth century buildings and currently has

one thousand, six hundred and eight entries in the Listed Building Register denoting those that

are of particular architectural or historical interest. Twenty two Conservation Areas have been

designated reflecting their special character and there are intentions to consider more in the

future. In addition, several historic parks and gardens have been identified as of particular value

while there are also many Scheduled Ancient Monuments and sites of recognised archaeological

value.

Within the built environment of the District’s settlements there are a number of undeveloped

open spaces such as orchards, garths, paddocks and greens, which make an essential

contribution to their character. It is important that such areas of amenity importance are

accorded a high measure of protection.

Changes in the rural economy have led to a number of buildings in the countryside becoming

redundant. This often results in a desire to convert the buildings to residential use. Unless these

buildings are in sustainable locations it is often difficult to justify their conversion given the

Government’s current guidance.

Page 37: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

17

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Implications for the SA Framework

The Framework should include objectives that acknowledge the high quality of the built and

natural environment.

Prudent Use of Natural Resources

A study undertaken by Sustainability North West (2001) suggests that by 2010, 8.5% of energy

capacity in the NW region should be from renewable sources. Cumbria is identified in this

study as having the greatest potential contribution of new renewable energy amounting to 27%

of the regional total, mainly from on and offshore wind power, biomass, landfill gas and small

scale hydro.

Eden is characterised by small scattered settlements and effective transport links are vital to the

local economy, residents and visitors. However, the small size of many of the settlements

means they are unable to support a viable public transport system. Bus services are fairly

infrequent apart from in the main centres of Penrith, Appleby, Kirkby Stephen and Alston.

Car ownership rates are high with 84% of households owning a car compared with the national

average of 73%.

Implications for the SA Framework

The Framework should include objectives, which encourage prudent use of natural resources. It

should seek to encourage meeting targets for the provision of renewables and ensure that

development is located in the most sustainable locations in order to reduce reliance on the

private car.

Social

The population is scattered in small villages through a wide rural area. Penrith, Kirkby Stephen,

Alston and Appleby are the four main towns with Penrith the largest having a population of

14,756. Eden is the most sparsely populated district in England with only 0.23 people per

hectare compared with a national average of 3.8 persons per hectare.

The population of Eden has increased by 8% since 1991, this contrasts with Cumbria generally

which experienced a growth of 0.3%. Tying in with the increase already observed, the Office

for National Statistics have published projections for the Eden area that envisage a population

growth of 5.1% between 2000 and 2010. This expected increase is the fourth highest in the

North West and is more than five times the expected growth of Cumbria. The growth in

population is caused by net in migration, which exceeds the natural decline (more deaths than

births).

Looking at the population profile below it can be seen that Eden has a relatively old population

compared with the national picture. Again this possibly ties in with the rise in population as

people move to the area after retirement.

Page 38: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

18

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Table 3.2 Social breakdown

AGE GROUP EDEN CUMBRIA UK

0 - 44 years 52% 55% 60%

45 – 59 years 22% 21% 22%

60 and over 26% 24% 18%

Main services such as secondary schools and health facilities are concentrated in the main

centres and whilst there are some villages which provide for local needs, there are many without

basic facilities such as a shop, school or post office. Many people have to travel to a larger

village or main centre to access basic services. Some higher level or specialist facilities are only

found in areas such as Carlisle. This raises issues relating to access to services.

Housing, and particularly affordable housing, is a key issue within the District. At the time of

the 2001 Census there were 23,369 households in Eden of which 1,451 were second homes or

holiday lets and 775 were vacant properties.

House prices in Eden are amongst the highest in Cumbria. Mid 2004 the average house price

was £187,000 compared with an average of approximately £134,000 in the North West. The

average price of a flat / maisonette, which is the cheapest type of property, is currently

approximately £105,000.

Average incomes in Eden are below the regional average and the estimates are that the house

prices are more than six times greater than incomes making the private housing market

inaccessible to many local people.

Implications for the SA Framework

The Framework should include objectives and criteria that seek to ensure appropriate provision

and access to appropriate services and affordable housing for all.

3.3 Difficulties in collecting data and limitations of the data

The objectives were used to formulate sub-questions which in conjunction with the baseline

information were then used to develop indicators for each of the sustainability objectives. (See

Appendix E). The indicators show how Eden District Council is currently performing for each

of the objectives. This information is used to help support the assessment of the potential

impacts of the LDF. The indicators are shown in Table 3.3, which brings together objectives,

indicators and the framework for assessing potential impacts.

The main problems encountered in collecting the baseline information and developing the

indicators were focussed around the following:

• Data not readily available at all at either local, regional or national level;

Page 39: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

19

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

• Data not available at the local level. It was considered that using regional data

would not have given a clear indication of the main issues affecting the Borough

(this was a particular problem with the environmental indicators), although in some

instances this was all that was available;

• Information only available on specific issues, and not necessarily matching the ideal

set of information required by the indicator;

• Unable to identify trends for a number of the indicators due to the monitoring data

only being available over the past year, or data only being available from the 2001

Census.

This means that in some cases the indicators presented do not fully reflect the objectives, but

provide the information that is currently available. However, it is hoped that as the plan is

developed, the sustainability appraisal process continues and the monitoring framework is

progressed, more information will become available so that the indicators are more relevant and

more accurate.

3.4 The SA Framework, including objectives, targets and indicators

The SA framework contains objectives and criteria and is the key tool used within the appraisal

process. Whilst objectives are not a requirement of the SEA Directive, the provide the means

by which impacts can be identified, considered and assessed along with the opportunity to

monitor subsequent changes in environmental effects. Objectives help to identify what is

desirable or intended and targets can provide further clarity on specific aspects to be achieved

within prescribed timeframes. Indicators can help monitor progress towards achieving the

objectives.

3.4.1 Developing the Objectives

Table 3.3 lists the draft sustainability appraisal objectives for the Eden District Local

Development Framework. These have been produced by analysing the baseline information and

the objectives identified in the Plans, Programmes and Strategies Review in conjunction with

the Cumbria Planning Authorities.

The SEA Directive requires that the assessment should include

“the likely significant effects on the environment, which also includes issues such as

biodiversity, population, human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material

assets, cultural heritage (including architectural and archaeological heritage), landscape and

the interrelationship between the above factors” (Annex 1f).

The final column of Table 3.3 indicates the main SEA topics relevant to each objective,

although as the Directive itself recognises, there are many areas of overlap.

For each objective, a number of key questions are also presented, to help identify the different

issues to be considered and provide more detail on the purpose of the objective.

Page 40: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

20

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Table 3.3 Objectives and key questions / Indicators

Objectives Key Questions SEA topics

To increase the level of participation in democratic process

Will it encourage participation in democratic process?

Will it increase the ability of people to influence decisions?

Population

To improve access to services and facilities

Will it improve accessibility to key services?

Will it improve access to facilities?

Population

Climatic Factors

Human Health

Air

To provide everyone with a decent home

Will it improve the quality and location of housing?

Will it increase the range and affordability of housing for all social groups?

Population

To improve the level of skills, education and training

Will it improve qualifications of children?

Will it improve qualifications and skills of adults?

Population

To improve the health and sense of wellbeing of people

Will it increase the access to, and availability of health services?

Will it positively affect the wellbeing of people?

Will it reduce the need for health benefits?

Population

Human Health

To create vibrant, active, inclusive and open-minded communities with a strong sense of local history

Will it enhance the inclusiveness of communities?

Will it contribute to cultural identity and crime reduction?

Population

To protect and enhance biodiversity

Will it protect and enhance biodiversity?

Will it maintain and enhance sites designated for their nature conservation interests?

Fauna

Flora

Biodiversity

To preserve and enhance landscape quality and character

Will it improve the landscape and ecological quality and character of the environment?

Will it reduce the amount of derelict, underused or degraded land in the District?

Landscape

Material Assets

Climatic Factors

Soil

To improve the quality of the built environment

Will it protect and enhance sites, features and areas of historical, archaeological and cultural value?

Will it protect and enhance sites, features and areas of historical, archaeological and cultural value?

Will it incorporate protection against flooding and inappropriate design?

Cultural Heritage

Material Assets

Climatic Factors

Water

To improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Will it reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by reducing energy consumption?

Will it lead to an improvement in air quality?

Climatic Factors

Air

Page 41: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

21

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Objectives Key Questions SEA topics

To improve water quality and water resources

Will it improve water quality and reduce consumption? Water

Climatic Factors

To restore and protect land and soil

Will it minimise the loss of soils to development?

Will it maintain the present condition and use of land?

Soil

Climatic Factors

To manage mineral resources sustainably and minimise waste

Will it reduce household waste?

Will it increase waste recovery and recycling?

Will it encourage energy efficiency and renewable energies?

Climatic Factors

To retain existing jobs and create new employment opportunities

Will it retain existing jobs?

Will new employment opportunities be created with good access?

Population

To improve access to jobs

Will it reduce need to travel?

Will it improve accessibility to work?

Will it reduce the effect of congestion?

Will it reduce journey times between key destinations?

Population

Climatic Factors

Air

To diversify and strengthen the local economy

Will it encourage inward investment?

Will it make efficient use of economic land and property?

Population

3.4.2 Compatibility of the Objectives

As previously identified Eden District Council tested the Core Strategy objectives against the

Framework objectives in their Core Strategy SA Scoping Report. This is reproduced at

Appendix F.

Page 42: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

22

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 43: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

23

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

4. Issues and Options Appraisal

4.1 Introduction

Eden District Council commenced preparatory works on their LDF in the summer of 2005 with

the release of the Issues and Options Paper and the SA Scoping Report in November 2005. In

order to comply with the ODPM SA Guidance, a retrospective (or retrofit) appraisal of the

issues and options was undertaken in May 2006. This culminated in the production of an

Options Appraisal Report.

This section incorporates the requirements of ODPM SA guidance and outlines the options

identified, a comparison of the social, environmental and economic issues considered in

determining the preferred options, alternative options considered and rejected and proposed

mitigation where necessary.

The full appraisal of the options is at Appendix G

4.2 The options appraisal

Owing to the number of options considered and the length of the appraisal, the following

summary concentrates only on the preferred options and identifies mitigation where the

preferred option does have one or more negative score.

Issue 1– Is the vision for the core strategy appropriate?

Summary -It is considered that this open ended question relating to the vision will provide

valuable information during the assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or

implicit options can be drawn from the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried

out as no options are identified.

Issue 2– do you agree with the draft objectives? Are there any missing? How might they be made more specific to the district?

It is considered that this open ended question relating to the vision will provide valuable

information during the assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit

options can be drawn from the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no

options are identified.

Issue 3 – With regard to housing development in Eden District should the council;

Option A – accept the proposed RSS / Structure Plan figures for housing

Option B – Request a higher housing land requirement – if so how many?

Option C – Request a lower housing land requirement than proposed.

Page 44: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

24

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Preferred Option/s – A

In conclusion Option A was assessed to be the preferred option assuming that the Draft RSS

allowance figure is implemented, 239 units P.A., not the 170 afforded in Structure Plan.

Option A appraised well against environmental, economic and social objectives, with the

exception of water quality and landscape objectives. The effects should be mitigated in relevant

policy.

Option B performed well when appraised against social and economic objectives, but was the

worst performer against environmental objectives. Option C however, appraises very well

against environmental objectives, but poorly against social and economic objectives.

Mitigation – Although the Option A generally scored highly there was a marginal conflict

against the objective 8 and 11 concerned with protection of landscape and protection of water

resources. Consideration should be given, in preparing a policy, to adopt a strong sequential

approach and high quality design to minimise negative impacts on the existing landscapes.

Policy should also encourage the use of SUDS and the like to neutralise negative impacts

associated with objective 11.

Issue 4 – Allocations within Key and Local Service Centres (LSC)

Option A – Retain the percentage figures as allocated in the Eden Local Plan Housing Policies

2004

Option B – Alter the allocation in Local Service Centres (lower allocation in LSC)

Option C - Alter the allocation in Local Service Centres (higher allocation in LSC)

Preferred Option/s – A

All options score positively overall. Options B and C both score negative relationships with

certain objectives. Option A recorded no negative relationships

Issue 5 – Defining LSC. What criteria should be used to define villages with an adequate range of services?

Option A – Retain the current approach (A pub, village hall, bus or rail service, a primary

school and 3 out of 4 of; post office, a shop, doctors surgery or church)

Option B – The village should have a pub, village hall, bus or rail service, primary school and a

shop selling food to meet day to day needs

Option C – The village should have a bus or rail service, a primary school and a shop selling

foods to meet day to day needs

Preferred Option/s – A

Option A was assessed to be the most positive against the objectives and did not produce a

negative score. Both option B and C were deemed to be a dilution of Option A by allowing

development in smaller settlements which has been appraised to be unsustainable against the

framework. In particular, B and C scored poorly against access to jobs, facilities, services and

the need to travel.

Page 45: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

25

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Issue 6 – Should the Council define village / town boundaries for:-

Option A – Key and local service centres

Option B – All towns and villages in the District

Option C – The Council should not define town / village boundaries

Preferred Option/s – B

Option A and B, the definition of some or all settlement boundaries respectively, were appraised

to perform significantly better than Option C, the ‘business as usual’ approach.

Option B, in particular, scored significantly well against sustainability objectives relating to

access, restoration of land, pollution, protection of character and community spirit. This shows

that the policy performs well against social, economic and environmental indicators. Option B

scored no negative relationships.

Issue 7 – Bearing in mind that lower densities are likely to mean more greenfield development do you think

Option A – High densities should be encouraged just in the key service centres?

Option B – High densities should be encouraged in key and local services centres?

Option C – High densities should only be encouraged if they do not harm the character of an

area?

Preferred Option/s – Combination of B and C

Option A and B score significantly well overall producing a number of positive and

significantly scores. Option B in particular scored a number of significantly positive marks

across social and economic considerations such as access and providing homes.

There was debate over how to define ‘higher densities’, and for the purposes of this appraisal,

over 35 dwellings per hectare was assumed.

Furthermore, it was noted that a combination of options A and C or B and C would represent a

reasonable approach. Based on this appraisal, it is considered that a combination of B and C

would represent the most sustainable option.

Issue 8 – The District council will need to allow some greenfield development on the edge of Penrith. Which location do you think would be the most appropriate?

Option A – To the west of Penrith

Option B – To the south of Penrith

Option C – To the east of Penrith

Option D – To the north of Penrith

Option E– Let the market decide where necessary?

Page 46: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

26

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Preferred Option/s – A

Given the lack of detail on specific sites, all sites performed similarly against this appraisal, and

more detailed site specific information is required to achieve a more robust assessment. Given

the inherent greenfield characteristics of each of the sites, all performed equally poorly against

environmental objectives.

The appraisal concludes that Option A performs slightly better than B, C and E, with Option D

performing the poorest.

Mitigation – Policy provisions to protect biodiversity and landscape character should be

included in future Core Strategy drafts to ensure Greenfield development does not significantly

impede on the District’s special environmental character.

Issue 9– Should the Council attach a local occupancy clause to;

Option A – All new development?

Option B – Only on the affordable element of a development?

Preferred Option/s – B

Option A, although it would bring significant security to people with a local connection, would

impede and restrict inward migration which is harmful to any community. Option B on the

other hand has been appraised to score well against a host of objectives including economic and

social indicators on the grounds that it will allow for more organic growth whilst still protecting

interests of locals on affordable properties. Option B scored no negative relationships.

Issue 10 – Do you agree with this definition of a local connection:-

Option A – Yes

Option B – No – Tighter description

Option C – No – Widen scope of Local Connection

Preferred Option/s – A, C

Option A and C scored well against 2 social indicators relating to access to housing and

community spirit / well being. Option B scored poorly against the same indicators given its

predicted restrictive nature towards inward migration. A large number of ‘no relationship’

scored were merited due to the specific nature of this issue / options.

Issue 11 – What do you consider to be an appropriate figure for the provision of Affordable Housing:-

Option A – Continue the current policy; 50% - 100% on all sites in key and local service

centres

Option B – Seek a lower percentage on key service centres, maximum 50%, but maintain the

higher range for local service centres 50% - 100%

Option C – Introduce variable targets taking into account the nature of the site and existing

surrounding housing areas

Page 47: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

27

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Option D – Do nothing – do not secure any affordable housing in the district

Preferred Option/s – A

Option A and B scored well against 2 social objectives relating to access to a decent home for

everyone and building strong communities. This is on the grounds that they will both ensure

affordable housing stock and allow a wide range of people to live in the District. Option A

displayed a greater number of significantly positive scores. No negative relationships were

identified.

Issue 12 – Should a policy that seeks an affordable housing obligation from developers;

Option A – Offer developers of small sites (below 5 dwellings) the option of making a financial

contribution to affordable housing provision in the area rather than having to provide a quota on

site?

Option B – Insist that affordable housing is provided on site as part of the development

regardless of size?

Preferred Option/s – A

Option A scores well as the Council will have greater control over timing, location and

management of affordable units ensuring supply and demand within areas are duly catered for.

Implementation of Option B scores slightly worse as it will remove the ability to control the

timing and location of affordable units.

Issue 13 – Given that the Council is required to identify locations for gypsy / traveller sites where should these be located?

Option A – In or near the key service centres?

Option B – In or near the key and local service centres?

Option C – Where there is a demand?

Preferred Option/s – A and B

Option A and B score well against social, economic and environmental objectives relating to

access as sites will be located in proximity to existing settlements which support services and

jobs. This will therefore limit the communities requirement to travel for employment and

goods.

Issue 14 – Should the council take a more proactive approach to increasing

biodiversity / nature conservation through the development control system?;

Option A – Yes, there should be a more proactive approach

Option B – No, leave the system as it is

Page 48: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

28

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Preferred Option/s – A (Yes)

Option A scored a number of positive scoring against objectives concerned with protecting the

environment and social awareness. In particular, the Option scored significantly well against

protecting the protection of biodiversity and landscape character.

Option B produced a number of neutral score because it was the ‘business as usual’ scenario.

To appraise this option the existing Local Plan (1996) Chapter 2 ‘The Natural Environment’

was examined and taken as the baseline on which to assess the objectives. The neutral scores

were agreed upon given that the continuation of the existing approach will not significantly alter

this baseline.

Issue 15 – Are there any areas of the district you think should be considered for designation of offered special protection for their biodiversity / nature conservation value?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Issue 16 – Should the council designate more sites of amenity value and protected frontages in settlements?

Option A – Yes, there should be more designated sites of amenity value and protected frontages

Option B – No, leave the existing designations as they are and do not allocate any more

Preferred Option/s – A (Yes)

Both options score well overall against both social and environmental objectives. In particular,

Option A score significantly well given because of its proactive approach to further increase the

protection of other areas of open space and unbuilt frontages in the District. No negative

relationships with objectives were identified.

Issue 17 – Conservation areas – should the council:-

Option A – Concentrate on designating new Conservation Areas

Option B – Undertake a review of the boundaries and character appraisals of existing

Conservation Areas

Option C – Both of the above

Preferred Option/s – C

Option A and B positively contribute towards a number of the sustainable development

objectives by either designating more CA’s or ensuring that the existing ones are adequately

defined.

Option C amalgamates both A and B producing a significantly positive score.

It is noted that the Council do not currently have resources to carry out both exercises so Option

C is purely aspirational.

Page 49: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

29

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Issue 18 – Do you think the Council should apply article 4 directions to existing conservation areas?

Option A – Yes, the Council should apply Article 4 directions to existing conservation areas

Option B – No, leave the existing system as it is

Preferred Option/s – A

Both options score well overall against both social and environmental objectives. In particular,

Option A score significantly well given its proactive approach to further increase the protection

of Conservation Areas by reducing Permitted Development rights.

Issue 19 – should the council seek to protect all areas of the district equally by ensuring that all development or redevelopment is of a suitable high STANDARD of design?

Option A – Yes, the Council should seek to protect all areas of the District

Option B – No, do not pursue any design standards

Preferred Option/s – A

Option A scored well against a number of social and environmental objectives relating to access

and community cohesion. It also performed significantly well against enhancing the built

environment given that it is explicitly concerned with meeting the requirements of that specific

objective. It is noted that the Council has already laid solid foundations to implement Option A

through Policy BE19 in the existing Local Plan (1996).

Option B performed poorly against the sustainability objectives and scored negative or

significantly negative relationships throughout.

Issue 20 – what are the key design principles that the core strategy should set?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Issue 21 – How should the council encourage good design?

Option A – Applications for significant developments should include a detailed design

statement explaining and justifying the design

Option B – The Council should have specific policies relating to design for specific locations in

the District. i.e. the major approach roads into town

Option C – Both of the above

Preferred Option/s – C

Option A and B positively contribute towards a number of social and environmental sustainable

development objectives by either requiring the inclusion of a design statement or design led

policies.

Option C amalgamates both A and B producing a significantly positive score.

Page 50: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

30

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Issue 22 – What do you consider would be the issues in introducing a new system of planning gain whereby standard charges on developments are applied so as to ensure a more consistent and robust approach to securing development contributions towards the provision of strategic infrastructure?;

Option A – Business as Usual (Retain Current Local Plan similar to Policy BE20)

Option B – Implement Standard Charges

Preferred Option/s –

Inconclusive, new system would require outstanding baseline information set.

The current Local Plan business as usual approach, Option A, has been apprised to have no

relationship with any indicators on the grounds that there is no policy that currently relates to

strategic infrastructure.

In terms of implementing option B it must be noted that planning gain of a scale generated by

the development only can be sought. A standard charge or levy may fall foul of this

requirement if the baseline used is not extremely thorough. EG a services and facilities

demand study must be available and kept up to date. This study would have to contain very

specific sub-area information, and any ‘standard’ charges would have to be set on the sub-area

basis. If all of this could be achieved then there is the potential for the option to significantly

move towards the objectives, although this may be reduced if the levies are of such a cost as to

prohibit or discourage development.

Issue 23 – Would you support large / medium scale RENEWABLE energy production in the District?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Issue 24 – Which of the following do you think would be most appropriate in Eden District?:-

Option A – wind power

Option B – biomass (energy from wood and agricultural waste)

Option C – small scale hydro

Preferred Option/s – Combination of A, B and C

All 3 options scored well against a variety of environmental and economic objectives. It is

noted that a number of the positive impacts accredited will operate at a transboundary level

given there are no fossil fuel burning operations in the District. There are also a number of

‘uncertain’ scores afforded due to ambiguity over where facilities will be located within the

District.

It was agreed that cumulatively, the three options if implemented together, could form part of an

overall sustainable strategy. Over concentration on one type however, could have adverse

impacts. For example, if all renewable energy generation were to be sourced from wind, then

pressures on the landscape in particular would likely emerge. Similarly Over-reliance on

Page 51: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

31

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

biomass alone would result in significant land take and over-reliance on hydro could threaten

the marine environment.

Issue 25 – Do you agree that new development should be required to generate a proportion of energy from renewable energy sources? If yes, should it be for?:-

Option A – commercial development (subject to the setting of a threshold)

Option B – residential development (subject to the setting of a threshold)

Option C – all major development (subject to the setting of a threshold)

Preferred Option/s – C

All 3 options scored well against a variety of environmental and economic objectives. It is

noted that a number of the positive impacts accredited will operate at a transboundary level

given there are no fossil fuel burning operations in the District. There are also a number of

‘uncertain’ scores afforded due to ambiguity over where facilities will be located within the

District. Care should be taken in agreeing the threshold limits as not to dissuade / impede

potential investment in the area. Option C scored marginally better than A and B with a

significantly positive relationship with Objective 13 concerned with managing mineral

resources and waste.

Issue 26 – What should be the minimum percentage of renewable energy requirement as a proportion of new development?:-

Option A – 5%

Option B – 10%

Option C – 15%

Option D – more than 15%

Preferred Option/s – C

All of the options scored well against environmental and economic objectives. It is noted that a

number of the positive impacts accredited will operate at a transboundary level given there are

no fossil fuel burning operations in the District and power generated through these options will

only relate to new developments. There are also a number of ‘uncertain’ scores afforded due to

ambiguity over where facilities will be located within the District. The higher the percentage

threshold the more positive it will be towards meeting environmental objectives.

Notwithstanding this, it is also noted that the percentage must be of a level that will not deter

investment in the area. To this extent, Option C has scored most favourably.

Issue 27 – What should be the threshold for renewable energy in residential development?

Option A –All new Dwellings

Option B – 5 Dwellings

Option C – 10 Dwellings

Page 52: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

32

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Option D - 15 Dwellings

Option E - 20 Dwellings

Preferred Option/s – C

All options scored well against a number of environmental, prudent use of natural resources and

economic objectives. It is noted that Option A, B and C scored a high number of positive scores

overall and in summary have been shown to perform better than Option D and E. However, it is

noted that only Option A and B scored negative relationships with Objective 8 which relates to

the protection and enhancement of landscape on the grounds of visual intrusion. These

concerns may be alleviated by the Development Control process.

Issue 28 – What should be the threshold for renewable energy in COMMERCIAL

development?

Option A –All new build

Option B – 1000 sqm

Option C – 1200 sqm

Option D – 1400 sqm

Option E -1500 sqm

Preferred Option/s – C

All 5 options scored well against a number of environmental, prudent use of natural resources

and economic objectives with a number of significantly positive scores being noted. It is noted

that Option A, B and C scored a high number of positive scores overall and in summary have

been shown to perform better than Option D and E. However, it is noted that only Option A and

B scored negative relationships with Objective 8 which relates to the protection and

enhancement of landscape on the grounds of visual intrusion. These concerns may be alleviated

by the Development Control process.

Issue 29 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY – should the council:-

Option A – Place no requirement on developers to contribute towards energy efficiency in new

development

Option B – Take a more proactive approach. i.e. establish a policy framework

ENCOURAGING developers to consider design, location, layout and materials of new

development in relation to energy efficiency.

Option C – Establish a policy framework REQUIRING developers to consider design, location,

layout and materials of the proposed development in relation to energy efficiency.

Preferred Option/s – C

Due to the specific nature of the issue and options only 1 relationship with Objective 10 ‘To

improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions’ was identified.

Page 53: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

33

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

It is clear in reference to the Sustainability Appraisal Framework that Option A, ‘do nothing

approach’, will significantly move away from this objective because it places no requirement on

developers to ensure that their projects reduce or limit energy use or emissions.

Option B goes some way towards ENCOURAGING developers to take note of energy

efficiency standards and thus merits a positive score. Option C, REQUIRING developers take

action over the findings of the policy framework taking into account design, layout and material

considerations will significantly move towards the objective.

It is noted that caution should be taken over the extent of standards to be met and formulation of

the policy framework as too onerous obligations may impede / restrict certain forms of

development.

Issue 30 – BREEAM STANDARDS – should the council:-

Option A – Encourage the achievement of BREEAM good / excellent standards in all new

development

Option B – Require the achievement of BREEAM good / excellent standards in all new

development

Option C – Do nothing

Preferred Option/s – B

Due to the specific nature of the issue and options only 1 relationship with Objective 10 ‘To

improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions’ was identified.

The headline indicator assigned to this objective is ‘climate change’ with baseline indicator’s

being identified as ‘Energy use per household’, ‘CO2 Emissions’ and NO

2 Emissions’.

It is clear in reference to the Sustainability Appraisal Framework that Option C, ‘do nothing

approach’, will significantly move away from this objective because it places no requirement on

developers to ensure that their projects reduce or limit energy use or emissions.

Option A goes some way towards ENCOURAGING developers to take note of energy

efficiency standards and implementing BREEAM Standards thus meriting a positive score.

Option B, REQUIRING developers take action over the findings of a BREEAM assessment to

ensure good / excellent standards will significantly move towards the objective.

Issue 31 – If achievements of these standards are encouraged or required, should a development size THRESHOLD be set over which the standard would apply?

Option A – Yes (using those in Q27 and Q28)

Option B – Yes – using different thresholds

Option C – No threshold should apply. All development should be subject to the standard

requirement

Page 54: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

34

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Preferred Option/s – C

Due to the specific nature of the issue and options only 1 relationship with Objective 10 ‘To

improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions’ was identified.

Option A and B cannot be fully appraised given that neither has an explicit value. For example

if low thresholds are justified at Q27 and Q28 then there is potential to significantly contribute

towards this objective and scoring well. Notwithstanding this, if high thresholds are sought at

A or B then scoring against this objective will be negative because not many developments will

be required to implement the BREEAM standards.

Option C scores significantly well on the grounds that all new developments will be subject to

BREEAM assessment regardless of threshold size. This will ensure energy efficient and low

emission new building in the District.

Issue 32 – Where do you think new employment development should generally be located?

Option A – Around Junction 38 of the M6

Option B – Around Junction 39 of the M6

Option C – Around Junction 40 of the M6

Option D – Around Junction 41 of the M6

Preferred Option/s – D

All options scored well against a variety of economic and social objectives. Developing

economic uses besides existing motorway junctions was seen to be one of the most accessible

locations for such development.

Option D scored particularly well given its location in proximity to the existing Gilwilly

Industrial Estate. This provides opportunities to cluster and link economic growth in this

accessible location.

All options scored negative relationships against environmental and landscape objectives given

the emphasis on greenfield development.

Mitigation – Although the Option D generally scored highly there was a marginal conflict

against the objective 7, 8 and 12 concerned with protection of biodiversity, landscape and soils

respectively. Consideration should be given, in preparing a policy, to adopt a strong sequential

approach for Greenfield development and high quality design to minimise negative impacts on

the Districts environmental assets.

Issue 33 – the district will need to allow some greenfield employment development on the edge of Penrith. Which location do you think would be the most appropriate?

Option A – To the west of Penrith

Option B – To the east of Penrith

Option C – To the south of Penrith

Page 55: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

35

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Option D – To the north of Penrith

Option E – Let the market decide where necessary

Preferred Option/s – A

Given the lack of detail on specific sites, all sites performed similarly against this appraisal, and

more detailed site specific information is required to achieve a more robust assessment. Given

the inherent greenfield characteristics of each of the sites, all performed equally poorly against

environmental objectives.

The appraisal concludes that Option A performs slightly better than B, C and E, with Option D

performing the poorest.

It is noted that Option A scores a significantly positive score given the national importance of

the M6 and proximity of the Gilwilly Industrial Estate.

Mitigation – Although the Option D generally scored highly there was a marginal conflict

against the objective 7 and 8 concerned with protection of biodiversity and landscape

respectively. Consideration should be given, in preparing a policy, to adopt a strong sequential

approach for Greenfield development and high quality design to minimise negative impacts on

the Districts environmental assets.

Issue 34 – What policy approach should the council take in relation to employment development in the countryside?

Option A – Allow the re-use and modest extension of buildings in line with general guidance

Option B – Continue to allow small scale new build employment development in the

countryside as part of farm diversification or development of existing sites

Preferred Option/s – B

Both options score well against economic and social objectives. In particular, Option B score

significantly well against objective 16 because of its explicit concept to diversify the

countryside economy.

Discussion revolved around concern that new employment uses in the countryside has potential

to negatively impact on the rural landscape. However, the pre text and options themselves

clearly state ‘small scale’ and ‘modest’ development indicating impacts would be negligible.

Accordingly, a neutral impact was accredited to this environmental objective.

Issue 35 – what level of tourism is appropriate to plan for in Eden district

Option A – Tourism should not be encouraged

Option B – Medium level of tourism concentrated in the key service centres

Option C – High level of tourism

Preferred Option/s – B

Option B has been appraised to score well overall and had no negative relationships. Option A

and C both scored a number of negative scores based on their extreme concepts on this sensitive

Page 56: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

36

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

and important issue. Option A scored poorly on economic and employment objectives but did

pick up on social aspects especially relating to housing.

Option B scored steadily throughout the assessment and was appraised to score better than C in

economic terms given the latter is likely to result in an over reliance in tourism and will not

diversify economic growth.

Issue 36 – Should we be encouraging major large scale tourist attractions?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

The assessment of Issue 33 will provide an almost identical scoring if a yes or no answer are

afforded to this question.

Issue 37 – How can the core strategy ensure tourism developments benefit the

local community abd protect the environment?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Issue 38 – Should the council be setting thresholds for tourist developments?

Option A – Yes – thresholds should be set

Option B – No – market forces should decide

Preferred Option/s – A or B

Both options scored 1 positive and 1 negative relationship with social and economic objectives.

A number of no relationship scores were also afforded due to the lack of information given to

the thresholds that may be applied. Thresholds which are applied should take into account the

importance of social identity within the existing communities and the economic benefit of

tourism growth, especially in rural / countryside areas.

Issue 39 – How do you think accessibility can be improved?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Issue 40 – How can the Council reduce the need to travel?

It is considered that this open ended question will provide valuable information during the

assessment of public consultation. However, no explicit or implicit options can be drawn from

the question. To this extent, an appraisal can not be carried out as no options are identified.

Page 57: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

37

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

5. Responding to Consultation

Consultation with statutory consultees and other stakeholders has been performed throughout

the SA process. Each of the statutory consultees were invited to attend meetings and workshops

held in the appraisal of the Core Strategy.

Formal consultation on the Scoping Report was carried out between 30th September 2005 – 4th

November 2005 (5 weeks). A summary of the submissions received and the proposed responses

is detailed in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1 Consultee Comments regarding Sustainability Appraisal

Consultation Responses Implications to Core Strategy

Implications for Sustainability Appraisal (SA)

The National Trust

On Sustainable Development pg5; Inclusion of the source of the key requirements. Inclusion of several key features in the key requirements from UK Sustainable Development Strategy 2005, notably the protection and enhancement of the built and natural environment; the concept of environmental limits and the need to address the causes of climate change and to adapt to those impacts that are unavoidable.

This comment relating to the Issues and Options Report is duly noted and will be addressed if relevant during preparation of the Draft Core Strategy

-

The NT recommends in the SA pursuing sustainable development in an integrated way in meeting sustainable development, as set out within the new planning act and PPS1, which seeks the achievement of progress in all aspects of sustainable development rather than trading off benefits in one area at the cost of another.

- Agree

Environment Agency

The EA considers that Flood Risk is a key environmental issue in Eden District. There should be a much stronger emphasis to the flood risk within the Core Strategy preferred options.

Eden DC should consider inclusion of a stronger flood emphasis within

preferred options.

Implications on flood risk have been considered throughout the assessment process at objective 9.

Any policy approach to flood risk should apply the sequential approach to development in flood risk areas as described in PPG25.

Eden DC should consider inclusion of a PPG25 compliant sequential

approach within preferred options.

-

The LDF should provide protection for both groundwater and surface waters.

-

The protection of such elements has been considered throughout the assessment process under objective 11

Page 58: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

38

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Consultation Responses Implications to Core Strategy

Implications for Sustainability Appraisal (SA)

Highways Agency

The HA considered that the draft Scoping Report provides a comprehensive list of indicators and also welcomes some of the objectives within the Core Strategy. The HA stresses the need to ensure that where development is identified, the implications on transport infrastructure is considered.

-

Implications on infrastructure has been considered throughout the assessment process

The HA requests to see how assessments are made on ‘how plans will affect the HA network’ and can offer advice on their content.

-

The assessment of policy was undertaken thorough a number of workshop and group sessions. Jonathan Smith from the County Highways Dept attended and was keenly involved in one of the workshops on the 10

th May 2006 where

highways issues were specifically discussed.

Cumbria County Council

With regards to the Scoping Report policies/plans etc review there should be inclusion of the Cumbria and Lake District Joint Structure Plan to Appendix B. Reference should be made to Cumbria’s sub-regional spatial strategy.

-

Eden DC should consider inclusion of the recommended documents within the PPPSI review.

Cumbria Transport Plan should be referred to as Cumbria Local Transport Plan. The anticipated accessibility strategy should be mentioned.

-

The final SA report will be amended in light of the recommended wording. The anticipated accessibility strategy will be reviewed and included in the final SA report.

CCC agrees that the sustainability issues identified for Eden District present an accurate picture of the district. The Council considers the SA objectives to be full and comprehensive.

- -

Objective 3 of Appendix E paragraph 3.11 should read Registered Social Landlords rather than Local Housing Authority. Within Paragraph 3.4 tenure information can be found in the county wide housing market assessment, providing information at district level.

-

Objective 3 will be amended to reflect the recommended wording. The county wide housing market assessment will be reviewed in relation to paragraph 3.4.

Inclusion of indicator concerned with buildings at risk within section 9.

-

Duly noted and will be addressed in the preparation of the Final SA Report monitoring provisions

CCC notes that within some sections there is an unnecessary high number of indicators e.g. Objectives 5 and 13 has 16 and 13 indicators respectively.

-

Certain indicators may be filtered out due to lack of reliable and up to date data. A review of the monitoring framework will take place.

Page 59: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

39

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Consultation Responses Implications to Core Strategy

Implications for Sustainability Appraisal (SA)

The Countryside Agency

Inclusion of Incorporating Rural Planning Issues in LDFs; Planning for Sustainable Transport in the Countryside; Planning for Countryside in and around towns; Planning for Sustainable Design and Construction in the Countryside; Planning for Sustainable Economic Development; and Planning for Key Rural Services, available at www.countryside.gov.uk within the Issues and Options Report.

-

Eden DC should consider inclusion of the recommended documents within the PPPSI review.

With regards to 3: Sustainability Framework and Appendix D the CA supports objectives 2 and 8. Reference should be given to the following environmental problems, which should be taken account of in the SEA/SA;- Areas of significantly degraded landscape or areas where there is likely to be a further significant loss of landscape character or quality; Areas where development has had or is likely to have a significant impact on the landscape or people’s enjoyment of it; Part of an AONB where landscape character or quality is being eroded because of changing farming or other land management practices; Problems affecting National Trails or other long distance recreation routes and major countryside recreation sites or rural tourism locations; Traffic congestion, air quality, landscape erosion and other problems in and around sites under significant visitor pressure; and where quality of life, including economic and social well being is significantly affected by the environmental problems.

-

Consideration has been given to these issues during the assessment process under Objective 7 and 8. For functional purposes objectives and indicator questions have been kept short, succinct and general. However, significant discussions around issues that the CA has raised have taken place and the scoring of options / policies reflects this.

With regards to ‘4. Baseline Information’ the CA refers to information and indicators that are available. This includes ‘Protected landscapes – boundaries of National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the location of Heritage Coasts; ‘State of the Countryside’ and ‘Countryside Quality Counts’.

-

A review of the monitoring framework will take place at which point these indicators will be examined for suitability.

With regards to protected landscapes, information sources can be found at www.countryside.gov.uk and www.magic.org.uk and the AONB management plans.

- Acknowledged.

Reference should be made to the state of the countryside report for England (2005) supported by regional data sets, accessed at www.countryside.gov.uk, particularly the environmental and recreation indicators made reference to within the report.

-

Eden DC should consider inclusion of the recommended documents within the PPPSI review.

Reference should be made to Character Area Profiles of Countryside Quality Counts (CQC) available at www.countryside-quality-counts.org.uk with regards to SA objectives SP2 and EN2.

-

Eden DC should consider inclusion of the recommended document within the PPPSI review.

Page 60: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

40

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Consultation Responses Implications to Core Strategy

Implications for Sustainability Appraisal (SA)

English Nature

On the Sustainability Appraisal:

Inclusion of North Pennines AONB management Plan (2004) under policies, plans etc reviewed.

-

Eden DC should consider inclusion of the recommended document within the PPPSI review.

SA Objectives: EN recommends the inclusion of the 6 Nature Conservation Indicators and Targets that have been agreed in the regional sustainability framework.

-

A review of the monitoring framework will take place at which point these indicators will be examined for suitability.

EN recommends the baseline indicators to include the targets for SSSIs to relate to the area and condition of the SSSIs. Appropriate wording is given in the regional target for designated sites.

-

A review of the monitoring framework will take place at which point these indicators will be examined for suitability.

EN notes the management, as well as the number, of sites of local conservation is important. Wording in the regional target for non-statutory sites provides useful guidance.

- -

EN is unclear about what is being proposed for the habitat and species indicator under the biodiversity sub-objective. Recommends inclusion of BAP habitats and species important within the district and population of wild birds as indicators.

-

BAP habitats and species and population of wild birds will be reviewed as part of a wider examination of future monitoring / indicators.

Government Office for the North West

Q9. GONW recommends following the Structure Plan prescription and any policy replacing it. ‘Key worker’ provision added to or alongside the definition of ‘local connection’.

Eden District Council to take this into consideration during the development of

the preferred options.

-

Q11. It is unnecessary to state 50% affordable housing for each development. A maximum should not be applied as it implies the future refusal of affordable housing once the target is reached. ‘Do nothing’ is not an option.

Eden District Council should consider the wording of affordable housing requirement in the draft core strategy or preferred options report.

-

Q12. GONW recommends rather than insisting affordable housing in all new developments, occasionally request commuted sums.

This is an option highlighted under Q12 and will be duly assessed by the SA

-

Q19-Q21. The Council should have a more formal design guide with the inclusion of DTLR/ODPM/CABE publications, particularly ‘By Design’, ‘Better Places to Live’ and ‘Building in Context’ and RTPI ‘s ‘From Design Policy to Design Quality’.

Consider the inclusion of the recommended design documents.

-

Q23-Q25. Evaluate options in the light of PPS22, regional and sub-regional policy. GONW notes Q25 may overlap with the Building Regulations. -

Reviewers are aware of the implications of PPS22.

Page 61: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

41

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Consultation Responses Implications to Core Strategy

Implications for Sustainability Appraisal (SA)

Q32-Q33. GONW is unhappy with the wording of these questions, with consideration given to other wider issues and taking a holistic look at settlement patterns and the planning/transport relationship.

-

Options identified at Q32 and Q33 are seen to be ‘reasonable’ alternatives which will be assessed by professional opinion and using local knowledge offered by Council Staff. During the development of options no other ‘holistic settlement patterns were identified’ that were deemed reasonable or realistic in terms of the spatial distribution of employment land.

Q35-Q38. Reference should be made to facilitating alternatives to car use. GONW questions the scope for developing resources to this end, for instance via the Local Transport Plan.

- -

Q39-Q40. GONW feels the questions are open, and that the themes should be developed with reference to other themes relating to the distribution of development.

- -

GONW states to ensure that Regulation 25 on community Involvement is compiled before proceeding further.

A statement of community involvement has been completed

-

Page 62: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

42

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 63: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

43

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6. Core Strategy Policies

6.1 How social, environmental and economic problems were considered in developing policies

Planning decisions have traditionally been based on the idea of ‘balance’. The economic and

social advantages of a proposal, for example, might be judged to be more important than the

local environment, so the development is approved. The concept of sustainable development

seeks solutions where there is a net gain (or at least neutral effect) for the social, environmental

and economic interests of the area. Integrated policies which have been subject to sustainability

appraisal can help achieve this. The aim should also be to provide policies that avoid tensions

with other policies. Testing the preferred options (policies) against the appraisal objectives

helps identify such tensions.

6.2 Significant social, environmental and economic effects of the preferred policies

The Core Strategy is evolving and the sustainability appraisal was undertaken on the version as

available at 22nd

June 2006 (Appendix C). Proposed mitigation where necessary for each

policy is identified in the relevant policy table. To avoid confusion and dovetail with the most

recent version of the Consultation Draft Core Strategy the policy numbers have been updated to

display the most recent ‘CS..’ numbering system.

The Core Policies appraised include:

• CS1 PRINCIPLES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

• CS2 DEFINITION OF LOCAL SERVICE CENTRES

• CS3 LOCATIONAL STRATEGY

• CS4 RURAL SETTLEMENTS & THE RURAL AREAS

• CS5 FLOOD RISK

• CS6 TRANSPORT & ACCESSIBILITY

• CS7 DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS

• CS8 PRINCIPLES FOR HOUSING

• CS9 MEETING HOUSING REQUIREMENTS

• CS10 LOCATION OF NEW HOUSING

• CS11 MAKING EFFICIENT USE OF LAND

• CS12 HOUSING ON GREENFIELD SITES

Page 64: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

44

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

• CS13 AFFORDABLE HOUSING

• CS14 PROVISION FOR GYPSIES & TRAVELLERS

• CS15 PRINCIPLES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM

• CS16 EMPLOYMENT LAND PROVISION

• CS17 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL AREAS

• CS18 TOURISM & THE VISITOR ECONOMY

• CS19 PRINCIPLES FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

• CS20 PRINCIPLES FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

• CS21 DESIGN OF NEW DEVELOPMENT

• CS22 ENERGY EFFICIENCY & CONSERVATION

• CS23 RENEWABLE ENERGY

• CS24 PRINCIPLES FOR SERVICES & FACILITIES

• CS25 PROTECTION OF VILLAGE SERVICES & FACILITIES

• CS26 RETAIL HIERARCHY

• CS27 OPEN SPACE & RECREATIONAL LAND

The full appraisal tables are contained at Appendix H. Please note that the table numbers relate

to a superseded version, which was most up to date at time of appraisal, of the Core Strategy

Draft as shown in Appendix C.

6.2.1 Policy CS1 – Sustainable Development Principles

CS1 scores well overall with a number of positive relationships identified with social,

environmental and economic objectives. A number of significantly positive score’s were also

attributed to objectives specifically relating to accessibility, creating strong communities,

preserving cultural identity and making prudent use of natural resources. It was noted that the

policy is very strategic and its very nature is to meet the objectives of the sustainability

framework.

The appraisal has shown that there a two points where the policy could be strengthened thereby

creating significantly positive relationships as shown in table 6.1.

Table 6.1 Appraisal of CS1

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

11 It was noted that the policy does not explicitly relate to the sustainable use of water.

A positive score would be afforded by inserting ‘and prudent use of water’ at the end of bullet point 4.

All objectives Discussions noted that the term ‘appropriate provision’ may be subject to scrutiny or mis-interpretation. However, it was

Insert wording similar to that of bullet point 5 to bullet point 3 would firm up

Page 65: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

45

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

considered that ‘appropriate’ relates to the location of the services dependant on the settlement size. To this extent, the policy should be read in conjunction with Policy CS2, CS3 and CS6.

this emphasis. For example, bullet point 3 would read ‘Make appropriate provision of services, facilities and infrastructure to meet its own needs consistent with policy CS2, CS3 and CS6’.

6.2.2 Policy CS2, CS3 and CS4– Locational Strategy

CS2, CS3 and CS4 were grouped and appraised together given that they should be read in

conjunction and overall concept is to ensure the appropriate scale of development in the

settlement hierarchy.

The policy’s scored well with a number of positive relationships identified with social,

environmental and economic objectives. Significantly positive relationships were identified

with objectives relating to the protection of cultural identity and suitable location of homes /

services. There were a number of significantly positive scores attributed on a rural scale given

the specific and comprehensive protection afforded to ‘rural settlements’ under policy CS4 as

shown in table 6.2.

Table 6.2 Appraisal of CS2, CS3 and CS4

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

10 and 15 Accessibility is not explicitly noted as a key consideration of the location strategy. To this extent the following wording has been suggested:-

First bullet point of CS2 is reworded to include accessibility concept: - ‘sustained development at accessible locations within defined settlement limits appropriate to that of a large town.’

6.2.3 Policy CS5 – Flood Risk

CS5 relating to flood risk has been appraised to score a significant number of no relationship

scores given the specific nature of the policy. It scored a significantly positive relationship with

objective 9 which specifically relates to flood risk. No negative scores were assessed.

6.2.4 Policy CS6 – Transport and Accessibility

CS6 relating to transport and accessibility has been appraised to score significantly well. The

policy is assessed to be comprehensive and takes cognisance of wider social, environmental and

economic issues that can be affected by transport. Significantly positive relationships were

identified with objectives relating to accessibility to employment / services, reduction of air

pollution / congestion and improvement to public health.

6.2.5 Policy CS7 – Developer Contributions

CS7 is concerned with establishing a policy framework for developer contributions. Overall the

policy was viewed favourably for clearly setting out strategic parameters for negotiating

development contributions. The appraisal matrix scored a number of ‘uncertain’ relationships

given that planning obligations may result in a number of different outcomes depending on size

and nature of the development. Notwithstanding this, the policy is seen as effective in

Page 66: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

46

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

providing a basis to achieve many benefits and also scored positively on democratic /

accountability grounds.

6.2.6 Policy CS8 – Principles for Housing

Policy CS8 is appraised to score positively with a number of social and environmental

objectives. The policy is concerned with defining a general strategy for the provision of new

housing in the district and emphasises the need to ‘balance’ the property market through

allocations and support to meet ‘community needs’ (i.e. affordable and accessible units).

Positive scoring in environmental terms was attributed to the focus on the ‘re-use of previously

developed land’ and use of ‘sustainable materials’.

The majority of economic objectives were seen to have ‘no relationship’ with the policy given

that the scale of new house building in the District is not going to produce significant numbers

of jobs.

Although no negative relationships were readily identified a number of measures were

recommended to improve scoring which are detailed in table 6.3.

Table 6.3 Appraisal of CS8

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

6 Elements of ‘designing out crime’ could be emphasised The policy may be strengthened by inserting the phrase ‘and security’ to the end of bullet point 3.

7 and 8 The policy encourages the redevelopment of PDL and locates development within existing settlements. This does not necessarily imply that biodiversity will not be harmed. For example, some Brownfield sites support a wider range of biodiversity than some greenfield locations.

To this extent, it is considered that a positive score would be afforded if the final bullet point was amended to include: - ‘that will not adversely affect biodiversity’’ at the end of the bullet.

10 ‘Good design’ and use of ‘sustainable materials’ may imply that design would be energy efficient however this is not explicit within the policy. Reference to Policy CS23 ‘Energy Efficiency and Conservation’ would result in a significantly positive relationship.

Final bullet point should be reworded to: -‘Promote good design, consistent with Policy CS23, using sustainable local materials that will not adversely affect biodiversity’.

6.2.7 Policy CS9 – Meeting Housing Requirements

CS9 relies on the outcomes of the Final Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). To this extent, the

policy cannot be fully assessed at this time. The figure of dwelling provision between 2003 –

2021 will have significant impacts on aspirations to ‘balance’ housing markets, allocate

sufficient affordable housing and spatial strategy of the whole District. The impacts of a higher

and lower dwelling provision have already been examined within the ‘Issues and Options

Sustainability Appraisal Report’ (May 2006) at Section 5.4 and Page 23 of this report.

It is recommended that a full appraisal is undertaken once the RSS is adopted.

Page 67: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

47

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6.2.8 Policy CS10 – Location of New Housing

Policy CS10 has been appraised to score well again a number of social, economic and

environmental objectives. The policy is high level and strategic concerned with the location of

new housing that seeks to focus provisions in Key and Local Service Centres. The policy

scored positive relationships with objectives relating to accessibility, settlement vibrancy and

use of natural resources. This is on the grounds that the existing settlements are seen to support

the majority of existing employment and services and travel outside of them will be limited on a

day to day basis.

6.2.9 Policy CS11 – Making Efficient use of Land

Policy CS11 seeks to focus 50% of new housing on previously developed land and to increase

dwelling densities in the most accessible locations. To this extent the policy has been appraised

to score positively with accessibility, greenhouse gas emissions, community vibrancy and built /

natural environment objectives. However, relationships with objective 7 (biodiversity) did note

that biodiversity on brownfield sites is often overlooked. For example, some previously

developed land that has been vacant for a number of years may support a wider variety and

significance of biodiversity than a mono culture of greenfield site. However, it is considered

that the supporting text of the policy sufficiently picks this issue up in providing ‘… other

factors will be taken into account as not all previously developed sites are necessarily suitable

for housing development or constitute the most sustainable option”.

6.2.10 Policy CS12 – Housing on Green Field Sites

Policy CS12 sparked significant discussion and noted that further investigation to the impacts of

this policy will be dependant on the appraisal of the forthcoming Housing Sites Allocation

DPD. The policy scored a handful of positive relationships with accessibility and housing

provision objectives but scored poorly in relation to environmental ones (objectives 7, 8 and 9).

Bullet point two will allow greenfield development if ”need” and “lack of potential brownfield

sites” is established. There is currently no caveat to ensure that biodiversity or the historic

environment is protected or should be taken into consideration in the policy or the pretext. To

this extent a negative score must be awarded.

Table 6.4 Appraisal of CS12

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

7, 8 and 9 There is currently no caveat to ensure that biodiversity or the historic environment is protected or should be taken into consideration in the policy or the pretext.

Reword bullet point two to read:-

‘All of the dwellings are affordable, they would meet a local need for such housing, there is a lack of alternative previously developed sites and their provision would not significantly impact on the natural / historic environment.’

Alternatively if it is not considered that the policy itself is reworded a similar caveat must be inserted into pretext.

Page 68: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

48

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6.2.11 Policy CS13 – Affordable Housing

Policy CS13 scored well against social objectives as the policy seeks to address community /

local issues relating to affordable housing. A high proportion of no relationship scores were

afforded given that location of the new developments will be dictated by the market. Impacts

therefore must be assessed on a project by project basis.

6.2.12 Policy CS14 – Provision for Gypsies and Travellers

Policy CS14 scored well against social objectives as the policy seeks to address the ‘needs’ of

the travelling / gypsy community in balance with being sensitive to adjacent land uses. A high

proportion of no relationship scores were afforded given that location of sites have not yet been

identified and the County Council will also have significant input into the issue. It was noted

that using a criteria based policy that recognises aspects of the sustainability appraisal matrix

would contribute to a positively towards achieving a sustainable locations.

6.2.13 Policy CS15 – Principles for Economic Development and Tourism

Policy CS15 scores well overall with a number of positive and significantly positive

relationships identified. The policy scored well not just against economic objectives but also

environmental and social ones. The policy has an environmental caveat under bullet point 4,

‘Promote high environmental standards on existing and new employment sites’. The

assumption was made that this will include energy efficiency schemes, CHP and grey water /

SUDS scheme and scored well against the associated objectives. Furthermore, it was

considered that this bullet point affords a high degree of environmental / biodiversity protection.

The policy also scored significantly well against accessibility objectives as emphasis is placed

on locating development in easy to reach locations and designing them to cater for all members

of the public. CS15 also places importance on strengthening and diversifying rural communities

thereby scoring well on a rural scale. No negative relationships were identified.

6.2.14 Policy CS16 – Employment Land Provision

Policy WC2 scores a number of positive relationships with economic and social sustainability

objectives. It was noted that the policy takes cognisance of the Adopted Structure Plans

definition of ‘economic land needs’ and provides no locational strategy other than that already

identified in policy CS2. To this extent, a number of objectives, especially environmental ones,

scored identically to those of CS2.

Table 6.5 Appraisal of CS16

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

10, 12 and 13 There is currently no reference to the protection of the natural environment.

Amend final line of Policy to read ‘…..in line with the locational strategy as set out in Policy CS2 and principles of EN1’.

Page 69: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

49

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6.2.15 Policy CS17 – Employment Development in Rural Areas

Policy CS17 scored well against a number of social and economic objectives. Given the

specifically rural nature of the policy a number of relationships on an urban scale were deemed

to be neutral. Impacts against environmental objectives were largely seen to have no

relationship with the policy given the caveat afforded under bullet point 5 requiring

development to be of a scale and type sympathetic to the area.

Two uncertain relationships were identified with objectives 7 and 12. This is on the grounds

that agricultural diversification is likely to have impacts on soils and biodiversity whatever the

nature of development. These impacts must be examined before consent is granted. During

discussions of these objectives it was noted that the final bullet point relating to appropriate

‘scale’ and ‘type’ is likely to alleviate any negative concerns in regards to biodiversity / soils.

6.2.16 Policy CS18 – Tourism and the Visitor Economy

Policy CS18 scored well against a number of social objectives and significantly positive against

economic ones. Given the importance of the tourism and visitor sector, supporting a quarter of

all full time jobs in Eden, the policy is seen to strike a good balance between economic

aspirations and environmental / social protection.

Table 6.6 Appraisal of CS18

Objective Issues Arising Action to be Taken

7, 8 and 9 Although no negative relationships were identified it was considered that Objectives 7, 8 and 9 would score positively if bullet point 3 was amended to be more proactive against the enhancement of the natural / built environment.

Reword Bullet point 3 to read:-

‘Development is at a scale which maintains and enhances the quality of the natural and built environment’

6.2.17 Policy CS19 – Principles for the Natural Environment

CS19 relating to the proactive protection of one of Eden District’s most significant and iconic

assets, the natural environment, score significantly well. The policy is assessed to be

comprehensive and scored well against social and economic objectives. Significantly positive

relationships were identified with objectives relating to the environment including protection of

biodiversity, soils and landscape character. Discussions during appraisal of social and economic

objectives noted the importance of the natural environment to the tourist industry as well as

local communities who enjoy quality of life aspects from the natural environment.

6.2.18 Policy CS20 – Principles for the Built Environment

CS20 has been appraised to score well against of a variety of social, economic and

environmental issues. The policy includes provisions to increase physical accessibility for all

and also encourage the use of ‘high quality design and sustainable materials’ whilst being

sympathetic to built cultural heritage.

Biodiversity and natural environment objectives also scored well on the grounds that the policy

specifically protects ‘historic parks and gardens’. The assumption was made that bullet point 2

Page 70: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

50

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

relating to the use of ‘sustainable materials and high quality design’ will lead to the prudent use

of natural resources including reducing emissions, water usage and heat consumption.

Furthermore, social objectives score well given the strong links to achieving a high level of

accessibility for everyone regardless of age, gender or disability. Economic relationships also

faired well given that a high quality and accessible environment will attract tourists, inward

investment and residents into the District.

6.2.19 Policy CS21 – The Design of New Development

CS21 covers a wide spectrum of issues that will affect all new development in the District. The

Policy has been appraised to be comprehensive and scored positively with a number of social,

environmental and economic objectives. The Policy encourages design to take cognisance of

the existing natural and built environment and where possible enhance it whilst remaining to

ensure high levels of accessibility and energy / resource efficiency. Discussions also noted the

importance the CS22 places on the use of locally sourced materials and maximising the

potential use of sites. These were seen to be good practice considerations that scored well

against almost every sustainability objective. Furthermore, it was agreed that encouraging

choice of transport mode will cumulatively encourage a healthier lifestyle through safe and

accessible paths/ cycle ways.

6.2.20 Policy CS22 – Energy Efficiency and Conservation

CS22 has been assessed to score positively against a handful of environmental and social

objectives. A high number of no relationship scores were also afforded given the specific nature

of the policy. It has been noted that Eden District may wish to become a leader in sustainable /

energy efficient leading rural Council in the future. It is deemed that the parameters / thresholds

of CS22 go someway towards achieving this aspiration.

6.2.21 Policy CS23 – Renewable Energy

CS23 has been assessed to score positively against a handful of environmental and social

objectives. A high number of no relationship scores were also afforded given the specific nature

of the policy.

6.2.22 Policy CS24 – Principles for Services and Facilities

CS24 scores well against a variety of social, environmental and economic objectives. The

policy strikes a good balance with seeking to retain Penrith at the top of the service / facility

hierarchy whist supporting important village amenities. Furthermore, it is noted that significant

emphasis is placed on the provision and maintenance of open space and recreational facilities.

This has led to CS24 scoring well against environmental and health objectives.

6.2.23 Policy CS25 – Protection of Village Services and Facilities

CS25 scores well against a variety of social, environmental and economic objectives on a rural

scale. The policy affords protection to village services and facilities thereby protecting rural

jobs, community health facilities, community gathering points and will reduce the need for the

rural population to leave settlements for essential items.

Page 71: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

51

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

6.2.24 Policy CS26 – Hierarchy of Retail Centres

CS26 relating to the retention of the District existing retail hierarchy has been appraised to score

well against a number of social and economic objectives. Environmental objectives were found

to score neutral given the protection afforded by the final sentence of the policy which states

”development must respect the character of the environment…architecture and historic

interest”. Social and economic objectives scored positively on the grounds that the hierarchy

will ensure development is concentrated in the most accessible locations for all that are served

by the highest degree of public transport.

6.2.25 Policy CS27 – Open Space and Recreational Land

CS27 which seeks to protect Open Space and Recreational Land has been apprised to score

positively against a handful of social and environmental objectives. Social relationships that

were discussed included the encouragement of ‘opportunity’ to access sports / recreational land

and the iconic nature that open space can create.

6.3 Effects of plan policies on overall objectives

The following table summarises the impacts of all of the plan policies against the issues of

concern.

Table 6.7 Summary of the impacts of the Core Strategy policies

Air The core strategy in its entirety has been appraised to impact positively against air quality.

Traditional policies relating to economic development and expansion of transport infrastructure usually negatively impact on air quality however this is not always the case in Eden’s Core Strategy. Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) does seek to stimulate the development of appropriate infrastructure, however the emphasis is firmly placed on accessibility, limiting environmental impacts and reducing the need to travel by private modes. To this extent, CS6 scores well against air objectives.

Furthermore, CS15 and CS17 (Principles for Economic Development) also emphasis accessibility and even ‘promoting high environmental standards on existing and new employment sites’. This is a clear indication that impacts of air have been carefully considered in the production of this preferred option.

CS2&CS3 (Locational Strategy), CS4 (The Sequential Approach), CS10 (Location of New Housing) and CS24 (Principles for Services and Facilities) also scored well in terms of increasing accessibility and reducing the need to travel thereby minimising air pollution.

Policy CS22 (Energy Efficiency and Conservation) and CS23 (Renewable Energy) also impact positively on air quality given they seek to minimise emissions, use sustainable materials and maximise the potential of ‘green energy’.

Landscape and Soil The majority of the development polices focus development in and around the Key and Local Service Centres and where possible Previously Developed Land (PDL) (CS3 (Locational Strategy), CS11 (Making efficient use of Land) and CS17 (Employment Development in rural areas). The development on such sites will therefore require remediation and contribute to the improvement of the Borough’s soils and landscape. This is bolstered by the more strategic policies which encourage environmental protection such as CS19 (Principles for the Natural Environment) and CS20 (Principles for the Built Environment).

Polices which protect or enhance natural features of Eden District also score well against Landscaping objectives. These include CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) and CS15 (Principles for Economic Development and Tourism) which both explicitly seek to protect and enhance aspects of the natural and built environment and

Page 72: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

52

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

seek ‘high environmental standards’.

Biodiversity (Fauna and Flora)

It was assessed that policies encouraging development and remediation on PDL would positively impact on biodiversity, subject to appropriate mitigation to ensure that proposals on brownfield sites have due regard to biodiversity considerations. Policies CS16 and CS17 (Employment Development) focus major developments on PDL which eases pressure on greenfield sites.

Policy, CS19 (Principles for the Natural Environment) also scores significantly well against this objective given that it aims to protect and enhance the Natural Environmental Assets of Eden District which will include fauna and flora.

Impacts on biodiversity were appraised to be uncertain for Policy CS3 (Locational Strategy and CS16 (Employment Land Provision) on the grounds that detailed ecological surveys would have to be carried out to establish clear impacts at specific sites prior to development taking place. It is noted that future allocations DPD’s and the development control process may alleviate concern and produce a positive impact however at this present time no certain impact can be afforded. It was also noted that CS2 uses phrases such as ‘appropriate scale’ and ‘encouraging development on brownfield sites’ which suggest a steer away from negatively affecting biodiversity. Sufficient Phase 1 habitat investigations must taker place prior to the allocation of sites.

Climatic factors Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility), CS15 (Principles for Economic Development and Tourism) and CS3 (Locational Strategy) have been appraised to score positively against climatic factors on the grounds it emphasises accessibility and reducing the need to travel. Both aspects will have the knock on effect of reducing CO

2 emissions

from private car usage thereby having a positive impact on climate change.

Policies such as CS10 (Location of new housing) and other which emphasis locating development in Key and Local Service Centres also score well against climatic objectives given that these areas are the most accessible in the District by public transport modes.

Policy CS22 (Energy Efficiency and Conservation) and CS23 (Renewable Energy) also impact positively on air quality given they seek to minimise emissions, use sustainable materials and maximise the potential of sustainable energy sources.

Cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage

The Core Strategy notes the importance of the Districts cultural environment, especially its historic market towns, for tourists and locals alike. Many policies encourages the sensitive protection / enhancement of the built environment whilst addressing complementary issues. For example, CS17 (Employment Development in Rural Areas) is primarily concerned with the development of the rural economy however it also affords that development is ‘of a scale and type sympathetic to the area’ implying the protection of aesthetics and ‘sense of place’.

Policies which seek to encourage recreation or tourism through the enjoyment of open spaces or traditional rural services, such as town halls and village pubs, also score well against this objective and include CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) and CS25 (Protection of Village Services and Facilities).

Policy CS20 (Principles for the Built Environment) and CS21 (The design of new Development) all explicitly seek to protect and enhance elements of the built environment including the Districts cultural heritage.

Human health Policies CS24 (Principles for Services and Facilities) and CS25 (Protection of Village Services and Facilities) actively seek to protect important services likely to include local GP’s, pharmacy’s and informal community care groups. This in its very nature will protect access and provision of health care facilities.

Human health may also be supported by policies encouraging walking and cycling, provided by Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) which focuses on improving accessibility and ‘promoting a healthier lifestyle through travel choice’.

Policy CS27 (Open Space and Recreational Land) was also appraised to have significantly positive impacts on human health given it seeks to protect and enhance areas used for recreation and leisure which is important for mental and physical well

Page 73: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

53

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

being.

Material assets Material assets cover a wide range of provisions including natural resources and also features of the built environment. Notwithstanding this, impacts on the built environment have already been assessed against the above ‘architectural’ heritage objective which shows that the majority of policies score well and embrace Eden District’s existing assets.

Policy CS21 (The Design of New Development) scores significantly well against ‘Material Assets’ given its primary function is to protect and complement existing aesthetics of the built environment whilst improving accessibility, energy efficiency and maximises the use of land.

Policy CS5 (Flood Risk) also scored well given that it protects the Districts material assets against flood events.

Population Population covers a wide range of impacts on people, and as such, the Core Strategy policies are associated with population in a variety of ways. This includes impacts on the natural and built environment, which may encourage outdoor recreation and health, or may increase spending in the area by attracting tourists or improving retail facilities for example. Issues of health and the natural and built environment are summarised above and not considered again here.

CS10 (Location of New Housing) and CS13 (affordable Housing) will affect social, environmental and economic vitality through influencing the nature and location of housing. CS13 in particular will have major population impacts for a wide variety of people who seek affordable accommodation in the District. The term ‘local need’ is used within this policy to display the importance of identifying communities with the greatest requirements.

CS14 (Provision for Gypsies and Travellers) also is deemed to impact on population, especially for the Gypsy/ travelling community. The policy seeks to positively influence the location of sites which are accessible and are in proximity to facilities and public transport.

Policy CS6 (Transport and Accessibility) and CS3 (Locational Strategy) relating to improving accessibility and spatial development contributes to establishing a positive impact on the District’ population as development will be strategically located and destinations will be permeable.

6.4 How has the appraisal improved the plan?

As an iterative process, the SA has and will continue to improve the sustainability of the Core

Strategy and thereafter the additional documents to be included in the LDF. Aside from the

expected improvements to the Core Strategy arising out of the appraisal of options and policies,

the SA process has provided additional opportunities for engaging statutory consultees and

stakeholders. The SA process has also contributed to supporting the quality of the Council’s

LDF evidence base, as well as documenting gaps in the baseline information that will need to be

addressed.

The Sustainability Appraisal of the options and the preferred options has streamlined the

Council’s focus in developing appropriate spatial policies. The improvements to the plan as a

direct result of the SA process are self evident in the latest version of the Core Strategy on

which you are now being consulted.

Page 74: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

54

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 75: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

55

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

7. Implementation

7.1 Links to other tiers of plans and programmes and the project level

Figure 7.1 Hierarchy of plans and programmes feeding into LDF

7.2 Proposals for monitoring implementation

All local authorities are required to produce Annual Monitoring Reports (AMR) as part of

requirements laid down in the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Local

Development Documents are not finite and will be kept under review via the AMR which will

identify where; a proposed LDD is no longer required; where previously adopted, has become

need of updating or replacement; or that new LDD not specified on the current schedule will

need to be brought forward.

EDEN COMMUNITY STRATEGY

OTHER KEY STRATEGIC LOCAL

DOCUMENTS

NATIONAL FRAMEWORKS, STRATEGIES AND GUIDANCE

INTEGRATED REGIONAL FRAMEWORK

OTHER REGIONAL

DOCUMENTS

EMERGING RSS

(REGIONAL SPATIAL

STRATEGY) REGIONAL

STRATEGIES

INTEGRATED SA/SEA AND EMERGING

LDF

Page 76: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

56

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

The Consultation Paper on Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local

Development Frameworks identifies ways in which monitoring the plan for sustainability

effects can help to answer questions such as:

• Were the assessment’s predictions of sustainability effects accurate?

• Is the plan contributing to the achievement of desired SA objectives and targets

• Are mitigation measures performing as well as expected?

• Are there any adverse effects? Are these within acceptable limits, or is remedial

action desirable?

It is not necessary to monitor everything or monitor an effect indefinitely. Instead monitoring

should be focussed on:

• Significant sustainability effects that may give rise to irreversible damage, with

a view to identifying trends before such damage is caused.

• Significant effects where there was uncertainty in the SA and where monitoring

would enable preventative or mitigation measures to be undertaken.

The AMR monitors a number of indicators under the 16 objectives that have been formulated to

appraise the LDF. Under each of these objectives there are one or more targets. These

objectives and indicators are presented in Table 7.1. Please note that these indicators have been

subject to an internal review in August 2006 and are now deemed the more appropriate than

those contained on the appraisal tables themselves and versions of the Scoping Report.

Indicators have been chosen that are relevant, available and have a reliable source.

Table 7.1 Objectives and Indicators Monitored in the AMR

Objective Indicators

Aim 1: Social Progress which recognises the needs of everyone

Objective 1- To increase the level of participation in the democratic process

A. Voting turnout

Objective 2- To improve access to services and facilities

A. % residents within 2km of post office

B. % residents within 4km of supermarket

C. No. playgrounds/play areas per 1000 children under 12

D. % disabled access to Public buildings

E. Number of leisure centre visits

F. No. sporting or leisure clubs

Objective 3 – To provide everyone with a decent home

A. % New homes classified as affordable housing

B. % New homes approved by the Council that are affordable

C. Housing completion figures

D. % Tenure housing

Page 77: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

57

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Objective Indicators

E. Housing density per dwelling

F. Vacant dwellings

G. Average dwelling price

H. Number of second homes

I. Number of people on Housing Association waiting lists

Objective 4 – To improve the level of skills, education and training

A. 16-74 yr olds with no qualifications

B. % pupils within 2km of primary school

C. % population with level 2 or = qualification

D. Pupil/teacher ratio

E. Early years education participation rate

Objective 5 – To improve the health and sense of wellbeing of people

A. % population of pensionable age

B. Life expectancy

C. Disabled Living Allowance claimants

D. Working days lost through illness

E. Number of NHS GP surgeries

F. % residents within 4km of GP

G. % patients seen by appointment within 6 months at NHS hospital

H. Average household expenditure on leisure goods & services (£s per week)

I. % residents either fairly or very satisfied with parks and open space

J. % residents who feel that the provision parks and open space have improved

K. % claiming incapacity benefit

Objective 6 – To create vibrant, active, inclusive and open-minded communities with a strong sense of local history

A. Settlement size and proportion

B. Participation in cultural and arts activities

C. Vehicle crimes per 1000 population

D. Total violent offences committed per 1000 population

E. Domestic burglaries per 1000 population

F. No. road accident casualties

G. Net migration of people

Aim 2: Effective protection of the environment.

Objective 7 – To protect and enhance biodiversity

A. Number of local nature sites

B. Number of SSSIs

C. % Land designation (P=National Park; B= AONB)

Page 78: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

58

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Objective Indicators

Objective 8 – To preserve and enhance landscape quality and character

A. % new housing on predeveloped land

B. Total number of Tree Preservation Orders

Objective 9 – To improve the quality of the built environment

A. No. conservation areas

B. No. listed building entries

C. No. of applications using Sustainable Drainage Systems

D. Properties at risk from flooding

E. No. of Scheduled Monuments

F. No. planning applications supplemented with access/design statements

Aim 3: Prudent use of natural resources

Objective 10 – To improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

A. % dwellings with a SAP rating below 30

B. NO2 monitoring

Objective 11 – To improve water quality and water resources

A. % total river lengths of good or fair quality

Objective 12 – To restore and protect land and soil

A. No. of people per hectare

B. Contaminated land

Objective 13 – To manage mineral resources sustainably and minimise waste

A. Cost household waste

B. Total Household waste

C. Recycling of household waste

D. % population served by kerbside collection or within1km of recycling

E. Electricity Consumed

F. Gas Consumed

G. Number of sites generating electricity from renewable sources

Aim 4: To maintain high and stable levels of economic growth

Objective 14 – To retain existing jobs and create new employment opportunities

A. Unemployment rate

B. Employment rate

C. Average weekly income

D. % types of jobs (Manufacturing; Construction; Services; Tourism)

E. Job density

F. Available employment land

Objective 15 – To improve access to jobs A. Households without a car

B. Bus Availability Indicator

C. % Cycle paths

Page 79: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

59

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Objective Indicators

Objective 16 – To diversify and strengthen the local economy

A. Visitor numbers (millions)

B. Direct / Indirect total visitor expenditure (£s)

C. Average stay in B&Bs (nights)

D. % VAT business registration

E. % VAT business deregistration

F. Business survival rates 12 months after opening

G. % Class of business

The indicators identified in Table 7.1 above provide a very useful starting point for developing

proposals for monitoring the sustainability effects of the plan. These indicators were identified

as part of developing the SA framework and it may be appropriate to select a number of these to

supplement the monitoring information. Measuring these indicators will enable Eden District

Council to establish a link between implementation of the LDF and the likely significant effect

being monitored. However, it is important that adequate emphasis is placed on interpreting the

data and analysing the results, rather than simply collecting information on large numbers of

indicators. It may also become apparent that other alternative indicators will be better

monitoring tools and so should be added to the monitoring framework as required or that some

do not assist in the process and might be deleted or replaced.

Page 80: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

60

f:\gwm\data\project\ea-210\18282 eden sa\final environmental reports\core strategy final\final environmental report cs.doc

August 2006

15064-01

Page 81: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix A Issues and Options Paper

Page 82: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 83: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix B List of consultees invited to comment

• English Nature

• Environment Agency

• English Heritage

• Countryside Agency

• Strategic Partnership

• Cumbria Bio-Diversity Forum

• Cumbria County Highways

• Economic Development Officer

• Tourism Officer

• Access Officer

• Local Plans Officer

• Conservation Officer

• Director of Policy and Performance

• Asst. Director Planning Services

Page 84: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 85: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix C Core Strategy (draft appraised at 22nd June 2006)

Page 86: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 87: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix D Plans, Programmes and Strategies Review

Page 88: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 89: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix E Baseline information and trends

Page 90: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 91: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix F Objective compatibility assessment

Page 92: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 93: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix G Appraisal of options

Page 94: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal
Page 95: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal

Appendix H Appraisal of core strategy policies

Page 96: Sustainability Appraisal Report - Eden District · PDF fileFinal Sustainability Appraisal Report for ... A widely used definition of sustainable development is ... Sustainability Appraisal