6. CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT · major role in developing a Local Agenda 21 approach at ... CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT. 6 ... local distinctiveness and

Devon Structure Plan First Review - 1995 to 2011 6. Conservation (C Policies)Explanatory Memorandum (September 1999) (Policies and Proposals adopted February 1999)

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THE GLOBAL CONTEXT6.1 The environment of Devon makes a majorcontribution to the quality of life of its residents and is oneof its principal assets. The Review looks at all aspects ofthis environmental heritage. In the widest context, however,the Devon environment has to be seen as part of a widerpicture, and a number of global environmental issues haveimplications for planning policy.

6.2 Over recent years there has been growing concernabout the wider environment within which the formalplanning system functions. This concern has been reflectedat all levels of society from the Earth Summit in Rio tolocal amenity groups and individuals. Government advicerequires County Structure Plans to take account of theseglobal environmental issues.

Agenda 216.3 ‘Agenda 21’ is a statement that emerged from theRio Earth Summit setting out the action required toreconcile development with environmental concerns. Thedemocratic principles it highlighted have been referred to inthe Introduction, but 3 of its 4 main sections can be seen torelate more directly to the strategic planning process:

• Social and economic issues

• Conservation and resource management

• Implementation processes

6.4 Central Government has a key role in interpretingthe messages from Agenda 21 in terms of policydevelopment and advice, but those concerned with thefuture of Devon - such as local authorities and localcommunities, including parish councils - will also have amajor role in developing a Local Agenda 21 approach atthe community level. In doing so it will be important tohave regard to the advice emerging from CentralGovernment in respect of the ‘UK Strategy for SustainableDevelopment’.

6.5 Whatever the advice from Central Government,there is a clear need to set the land use policies of the Planin their widest context - both to show the role it has to playin addressing these issues and to make the relationship ofthe Plan to other strategies and initiatives more explicit.

Sustainability and the Environment6.6 As highlighted in Chapter 4 setting out the overallaims and objectives, the key concept arising from broaderglobal concerns is that of sustainability. This concept givesrise to a need to ensure that critical environmental and otherresources and assets are not diminished to an extent thatcould be prejudicial to future generations. Taken further italso implies a need to restore the environmental and otherresources and not simply to prevent further depletion.

6.7 The Review has considered the relationship to thewider global issues and assessed how the Plan could mosteffectively influence the factors affecting sustainability -both in general terms in formulating the overall strategystatement and more specifically in its land use policies. ThePlan embodies the general principles of sustainabledevelopment in so far as it relates to planning policy. Inimplementing the proposals set out in the Plan, there will bea need to test explicitly the impact of those proposalsagainst environmental criteria.

6.8 The Review is, therefore, seen as part of a widerframework within which Devon can evolve into a Countywhere change is able to take place in a fully sustainableway and where strategic policies and proposals areconsistent with this objective. As part of the Reviewprocess, the plan strategy, aims, policies and proposalswere subjected to an environmental appraisal which helpedto clarify their environmental implications in a widercontext.

THE CONSERVATION ANDENHANCEMENT OF THE DEVONENVIRONMENT6.9 The second strategic Aim identified in Chapter 4relating to the Devon environment is:

To conserve and enhance the quality ofDevon's environment and its localdistinctiveness - including the special beautyand characteristics of the countryside, coasts,buildings and historic heritage - together withthe diversity of its wildlife and habitats.

6. CONSERVING ANDENHANCING THEENVIRONMENT

6. Conservation (C Policies) Devon Structure Plan First Review - 1995 to 2011(Policies and Proposals adopted February 1999) Explanatory Memorandum (September 1999)

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6.10 The following sections set out the strategicpolicies that will help to pursue this Aim effectively. Thesesections examine the key conservation issues under separatetopic headings. This is convenient for the purposes ofdescribing the significance of Devon's environmentalresources and the pressures upon them. However, with thecurrent emphasis on sustainable development, it isimportant that the inter-relationships between the topicareas are fully appreciated. For example, the considerationof the historic environment together with physicalinterpretation of the landscape provides a clearerunderstanding of human influences on the landscape andhence a more complete assessment of the distinctiveelements of the landscape. Similarly, it is now clear thereare many factors that influence conservation, which areinextricably linked - such as landscape, flora and fauna, andrecreational and economic interests.

6.11 It is also important that we recognise that thechallenge of achieving sustainable development willinvolve not only the processes of preparing andimplementing strategic and local planning policies, but alsoa wide range of complementary activities (for example,countryside management) which will help shape the way inwhich development and change are handled in terms oftheir social, economic and environmental impacts.

Rural Areas and the Open Countryside6.12 Devon's countryside is a valued inheritance. Thecharacter and natural beauty of the landscape makes theCounty uniquely attractive as a place in which to live, workand holiday. The high quality environment helps to sustaina large tourism industry and is a major factor which attractsinvestment into the County. The conservation of the naturalbeauty of the countryside is recognised not simply for itsinherent contribution to the quality of life, but for itsrelationship to the rural economy which is having to adaptto changing circumstances, with a reduced emphasis onfood production and a search for alternative sources ofincome.

6.13 The County Council has published a landscapestrategy, ‘The Devon Landscape: A Draft Strategy forConsultation’, which supports a vision for the future of theDevon landscape where:

i. The value of the landscape in its widest sense isacknowledged - not just aesthetic beauty, butrecognising that it reflects the richness of our ecologyand historic heritage, and contributes to our quality oflife through providing a cultural association with thepast and an affinity with nature, as well as visualenjoyment and recreation.

ii. The character and quality of the Devon landscape isappreciated in its entirety - cherishing the typical andthe commonplace as well as the rare and the special;recognising and strengthening the subtle variations inlandscape character, and understanding the role oflocal distinctiveness in giving us a ‘sense of place’.

iii. The potentially conflicting forces of conservation andsocial/economic change have been integrated andharmonised to create a sustainable and livinglandscape, for the benefit of local communities,visitors and future generations.

The Beacon, Woodbury, Nr Exeter

Landscape Character and LocalDistinctiveness6.14 The conservation of Devon's special landscapecharacter is an objective that relates to the whole of thecountryside, and the protection of the rural environment isone of the main elements of the Structure Plan strategy.Devon's landscape is not uniform and different parts of theCounty have very different and distinct characteristics.This variety is a result of a number of factors, some naturaland some man-made, which together give each area itsunique character.

6.15 Landscapes are much more than simply acombination of landform and vegetation. They are placeswhere generations have sought food and shelter, set uphomes, and lived solitary or community lives. They embodythe history, land use, wildlife, human culture, and seasonalchanges of an area. The local geology, plant life, farmingand forestry practices, building styles, settlement form andinfrastructure combine to produce ‘local distinctiveness’.The juxtaposition of materials, forms, and uses contributestowards the special ‘sense of place’ of a


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locality. This can be partially described visually, but theemotional responses (tranquillity, grandeur, enclosure,exposure, et al) are crucial to a fuller appreciation of thelocal distinctiveness and sense of place of any individuallandscape.

6.16 The Draft Landscape Strategy referred to above,and further detailed studies undertaken by DistrictCouncils, provide guidance on the broad extent and featuresof the landscape character areas that are so important to theoverall quality and diversity of our natural environment.

Map 7: Devon Landscape Character Zones


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6.17 While all landscapes are necessarily affected bychange, in the past such changes have often been gradualand evolutionary, and the maintenance and enhancement ofDevon's landscape as a whole can only be effectivelyachieved if its distinct qualities and characteristics areconserved. Looking to the future, it will be importanttherefore to ensure that where change does take place, itshould contribute to the enhancement of landscape andtownscape and respect ‘local distinctiveness’.

6.18 Policy C2 seeks to ensure that the overall qualityof Devon's landscape, including its variety anddistinctiveness, is conserved for present and futuregenerations.

Policy C2

The quality of Devon’s landscape and its distinctivelocal characteristics should be maintained andenhanced. In providing for new development,particular care should be taken to conserve thosefeatures that contribute to local distinctivenessincluding :

1. the setting of settlements and buildings within thelandscape;

2. the patterns of woodland, fields, hedgerows, andtree features;

3. the special qualities of rivers, estuaries and otherwater features;

4. historic landscapes.

National Parks6.19 National Parks are designated by the CountrysideCommission and confirmed by the Secretary of State for theEnvironment and represent areas of the highest quality interms of landscape and potential for public enjoyment. Thisheritage needs to be adequately conserved and enhanced asit is of national significance.

Dartmoor National Park

6.20 There are two National Parks in Devon.Dartmoor lies wholly in the County and Exmoor liesabout one third in Devon and two thirds in Somerset.Dartmoor and Exmoor were designated under the NationalParks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, whichdefined the purposes of the National Parks as "preserving

and enhancing their natural beauty" and "promoting theirenjoyment by the public". The National Parks’ purposeshave recently been refined through the Environment Act1995 to reflect the shift from conserving natural beautyalone to the conservation of the whole environment andappropriate enjoyment and understanding of it. The revisedpurposes are:

• To conserve and enhance the natural beauty,wildlife and cultural heritage of the designatedareas

• To promote opportunities for the understandingand enjoyment of the special qualities of NationalParks by the public.

The Act requires that, where conflicts arise between the twoprimary purposes, then the conservation purpose should begiven greater weight.

6.21 The Environment Act 1995 makes it clear that inpursuing the statutory purposes, the National ParkAuthorities should seek to foster the economic and socialwell-being of the local communities in the Parks and thatthis is to be pursued through co-operative working with theappropriate agencies.

6.22 National Park Management Plans have beenadopted for both Dartmoor and Exmoor, seeking to co-ordinate proposals and programmes of action for themanagement and use of resources. Both National Parks arealso covered by Local Plans which set out the policies fordetermining the acceptability of land use proposals withinthese areas.

6.23 Policy C3 is the primary policy for considerationof all development proposals within the National Parks. Itseeks to protect the Parks from inappropriate developmentand reflects the statutory purposes of the National Parkdesignation in a strategic planning context. The Policyrecognises the importance of controlling developmentlocated outside the designated area which would beprejudicial to the achievement of National Park purposes.

6.24 In the context of the statutory purposes forNational Parks and the Governments advice, majordevelopments that would have an adverse impact on thenatural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage, on theirenjoyment by the public or on the local community must beseen as inappropriate. Government policy for majordevelopment is set out in national guidance.


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Policy C3

In designated National Parks, the conservation andenhancement of the natural beauty, wildlife andcultural heritage will be given priority over otherconsiderations in the determination of developmentproposals. Development will only be provided forwhere it would:

1. conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlifeand cultural heritage of the National Parks; or

2. promote the understanding and enjoyment of thespecial qualities of the National Parks; or

3. foster the social or economic well-being of thecommunities within the National Parks providedthat such development is compatible with thepursuit of National Park purposes.

Particular care will also be taken to ensure that nodevelopment is permitted outside the National Parkswhich would damage their natural beauty, characterand special qualities or otherwise prejudice theachievement of National Park purposes.

(Note: For the application of the Review to Exmoor NationalPark – see notice on page i)

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty6.25 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)are also nationally designated and cover parts of NorthDevon, South Devon, East Devon, parts of the TamarValley, and the Blackdown Hills. The primary aim of thedesignation is to conserve the natural beauty of the areawhich has a national importance. This aim can be pursuedalongside measures to improve public access but there arepressures from recreation, agriculture, forestry and otherdevelopment, such as mineral workings, which can be inconflict with this aim. The County Council, with otherpartners, is preparing management plans for each AONB toseek reconciliation of such pressures with conservationpolicy.

6.26 Policy C4 seeks to protect AONBs frominappropriate development and establishes the primaryobjective to preserve and enhance their natural beauty,including the landscape, and their natural features. As inthe case of National Parks, the importance to the landscapeof those areas outside but adjacent to the designated areas isrecognised. Special considerations apply to majordevelopment proposals as set out by Government policy innational guidance.

Policy C4

In designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,the conservation and enhancement of their naturalbeauty will be given priority over otherconsiderations. Within these areas, development willonly be provided for where it would support theirconservation or enhancement or would foster theirsocial and economic well-being provided that suchdevelopment is compatible with their conservation.Particular care will also be taken to ensure that anydevelopment proposed adjacent to such areas does notdamage their natural beauty.

Areas of Great Landscape Value6.27 Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLVs) areareas of considerable, if more localised, importance in thelandscape. These areas have a discernible local character,which to a large extent are reflected in County or DistrictLandscape strategies and are areas whose landscapecharacter and quality have a countywide significance. Thecurrent general extent of the AGLVs is shown on the KeyDiagram but it will be for the District-wide Local Plans todefine their precise boundaries and provide detail of thenature of the discernible local character in each area.

6.28 Policy C6 seeks to protect the special quality andcharacteristics of the Areas of Great Landscape Value.

Policy C6

In Areas of Great Landscape Value developmentshould not detract from the particular landscapequalities and characteristics that have led to thedesignation of that area.

The Coast6.29 The County of Devon and its cultural, social andeconomic development throughout history have alwaysbeen strongly influenced by the sea, and there can be nodoubt as to its continuing significance. Interest in coastaltourism and recreation is now complemented by an everincreasing public awareness and concern for thesafeguarding of the coastal environment. Devon is uniquein having two geographically separate coastlines.

6.30 Devon's coasts and estuaries are highly valued;providing livelihoods, and places to live and to enjoy, orsimply to provide quiet moments in a busy world.. Fewcounties can claim the range, extent (Devon coast is 465km at mean low water and extends to 781 km at mean highwater) and diversity of Devon's coastline, and climate andgeology have combined to create a variety of contrastinglandscapes.


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Exe Estuary

6.31 Most of the coastline is covered by some form ofstatutory or local designation, which includes six HeritageCoasts, defined by the Countryside Commission for thepurposes of managing the areas of nationally importantcoastal landscape. Many of the coastal designations areoverlain by important nature conservation designations,including Special Protection Areas on the Exe Estuary(which is also a Ramsar Site - a wetland of internationalimportance) and the Tamar Estuary complex, as well as fivecandidate Special Areas for Conservation, all defined underEuropean Union legislation or convention. The character ofthe coastal areas also owes much to the historic heritage asmanifested by numerous archaeological sites andmonuments and historic towns and villages.

6.32 Many coastal activities will continue to remainoutside the scope of planning control for the foreseeablefuture but where development proposals do fall within thescope of the planning system, there must be a strongemphasis on maintaining and enhancing the specialqualities of Devon's coastline.

6.33 The coastal zone is a dynamic human and naturalsystem which extends to seawards and landwards of thecoastline. Its limits are determined by the geographicalextent of the natural processes and human activities thattake place there. The County's coastline is subject todevelopment pressures and a range of commercial andrecreational uses, including activities which are of nationalimportance such as defence.

6.34 Development pressures also include mineralworking, offshore gas and oil exploration, and measures forsea defences for flood prevention and coast protection toprevent erosion by the sea. Proposals for new facilities andrelated development to deal with sewage disposal and theimprovement of sea water quality can also give rise toconcerns in relation to their possible impact on the visualquality of the coastline.

6.35 Coastal Preservation Areas (CPAs) were firstdesignated in Devon in 1966 in response to Governmentadvice which identified the need for effective action tosafeguard the unspoiled stretches of the coastline. Thegeneral extent of the CPAs is shown on the Key Diagrambut it will be for the District and Park wide Local Plans todefine their precise boundaries - consistent with the KeyDiagram and the criteria which originally defined the areas:

1. the area should be substantially unaffected bydevelopment, and

2. the area should be generally visible from cliff top,beach, sea or estuary, or form part of the view fromsignificant lengths of an access road, public footpathor bridleway leading to the coast or from the longdistance coastal footpath.

6.36 Significant stretches of Devon's coastline aredefined as Heritage Coasts and the control of developmentwithin the Coastal Preservation Areas directly supports theobjectives of that definition (see para. 6.32).

6.37 Devon is fortunate to possess such an extent ofundeveloped coastline, an important and finite resourceboth in County and national terms. Policy C7 protectsDevon’s undeveloped coastline from inappropriatedevelopment by strictly limiting the type of developmentthat should be permitted within the Coastal PreservationArea ( CPA ). Any development that could reasonably belocated outside the CPA, or which would detract from theunspoilt nature of the coast, will not be appropriate withinthe CPA.

Policy C7

Within the Coastal Preservation Area, development,other than that of a minor nature, will not bepermitted except where it is required: for the benefitof the community at large, in connection with publicaccess for informal recreation, or for the purposes ofagriculture or forestry and only when suchdevelopment cannot reasonably be accommodatedoutside the protected areas. Such development willonly be permitted when it would not detract from theunspoilt character and appearance of the coastal area.

(Note: For the application of the Review to Exmoor NationalPark – see notice on page i)


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Map 8: Landscape Policy Areas (July 1999) (Note: For the application of the Review to Exmoor National Park – see notice on page i)

ENHANCING THE BUILTENVIRONMENT

THE QUALITY OF NEW DEVELOPMENT

6.38 The Structure Plan is not only concerned about thescale and distribution of development but also has toconsider its effect on the environment generally. Inproviding for new development it will be important toachieve a high quality of design. Good design relates to thesetting of development within the landscape or townscapeand is particularly important when major new proposals arebeing put forward. These issues will need to be addressed

in detail at local plan and development control level, butthe Review includes a range of policies within the relevanttopic sections that seek to ensure that, where developmentdoes take place, sufficient weight is attached to each ofthese environmental issues.

6.39 The majority of Devon's residents live and / orwork in its cities and towns and the character of the urbanenvironment is therefore a key factor in determining thequality of life enjoyed by those residents. The enhancementof this environment involves a range of issues, some ofwhich were highlighted in a Discussion Documentpublished by the Department of the Environment, ‘Qualityin Town and Country’. This document considered six main


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topic areas - the concept of urban areas functioning moreeffectively as communities on a ‘village’ scale; theimportance of promoting the vitality and viability of towncentres; the quality of the built environment, includinghousing provision; noise and air pollution; communicationsand traffic management; and the conservation of historicheritage and the distinctive character of settlements. Theretention and provision of open space well related toresidential areas is an important factor in enhancing thequality of life in urban areas, and should include thepotential to establish open space corridors within the urbanareas linking to the open countryside.

Gandy Street, Exeter

6.40 Many of these aspects are addressed in theappropriate sections of the Review, but the Department ofthe Environment’s Discussion Document also stresses theneed to consider the issues of environmental quality ‘in theround’. Within the framework established by strategicpolicy, the Local Plan Authorities in Devon should seek tobring together these policy themes in a comprehensive wayfor each individual settlement within their area.

Tiverton Enhancement

6.41 Policy C9 recognises the need to conserve andenhance the urban environment of Devon, particularly whenmaking provision for or considering developmentproposals.

Policy C9

The identity, distinctive character and townscapefeatures of existing settlements and urban areas shouldbe conserved and enhanced. In planning for newdevelopment, the quality of Devon’s urbanenvironment should be maintained and improved byproviding for urban regeneration and conservation,townscape enhancement, traffic management and theretention and provision of open space.

6.42 The enhancement of the urban environment willhowever require more than the control of new developmentand a response to ad hoc proposals. Local PlanningAuthorities will also need to undertake positive measuresthat actively promote improvements to the quality of theurban environment, as well as establishing clear guidancefor those looking to invest in Devon's towns and cities.

6.43 In this context, there are certain settlements whichhave a particular need for regeneration and revitalisationif the overall quality of their environment is to be enhanced.Some parts of the main urban areas in the County havesuffered from a lack of investment over past years and,while the needs of each settlement vary, their regenerationneeds to be given a degree of priority. In the case ofPlymouth, this need has been recognised by centralGovernment through the establishment of a DevelopmentCorporation.

6.44 Elsewhere a number of smaller centres and resortshave been dependent upon the tourism industry for theireconomic prosperity. The relative decline experienced inthe traditional tourism sector has affected the vitality ofthese centres and, in turn, this has led to varying degrees ofenvironmental decline. There is a need to complementmeasures to diversify the economies of these centres, suchas Ilfracombe, by investing in environmental enhancementand regeneration.

6.45 Many other potential Area Centres will havedeveloped as market towns within the rural area and, insome cases, these have suffered as a result of a lack of newinvestment, partly as a consequence of some aspects ofcommercial and other activity becoming more centralisedwithin the larger towns. Within these settlements, thevitality and viability of the central area is of particularimportance to the overall environmental quality of thesettlement as a whole.

6.46 Proposals for the regeneration or revitalisation ofDevon's urban areas and particularly its seaside and markettowns, should recognise the importance of the heritagelinked with environmental enhancement. Policy C10establishes the priorities for urban regeneration andenhancement in a strategic context.


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Policy C10

In prioritising initiatives for urban regeneration andenhancement, particular emphasis should be placed onthe needs of:

1. the inner areas of the Regional and Sub-RegionalCentres;

2. Area Centres or resorts adversely affected by thedecline in the traditional tourism industry; and

3. Area Centres which have experienced a relativedecline in their general vitality and viability.

CONSERVING THE HISTORICENVIRONMENT6.47 The historic environment provides an importantpart of the cultural heritage in which we live and work. It isthe link between the past, and ourselves and helps to defineour sense of place and belonging. The physical remains ofpast human activity, the historic heritage, has always beenand will continue to be a significant influence in definingthe distinctive character of our countryside, buildings andsettlements.

6.48 This heritage is both familiar and all around us,ranging from the post-war period back into the distant past.The infinite variety of historic buildings, historic towns andvillages is a constant reminder of the past. Other sites lieburied, hidden under a more modern rural and urban fabric;under farms, villages and towns or beneath more recentfarm patterns. Many, however, are still visible, very muchpart of our landscape today, as monuments, buildings,settlements and patterns of fields. The County's heritage isa cultural resource of great value. It helps give us ouridentity.

6.49 The historic heritage is a finite cultural resource.Its conservation and enhancement require positive planningand management. The maintenance of expert advice andguidance and well-researched databases are essential inmaking decisions if such planning and management are tobe properly achieved.

Historic Settlements6.50 There are very many historic farmsteads, hamletsand villages in Devon and some 100 settlements withmedieval origins as market towns. Particular importance isattached to the conservation of the distinctive historiccharacter of these settlements.

6.51 If the strategic aims for the conservation ofDevon's Environment are to be pursued effectively,particular care will need to be taken when planning forchange within those settlements so that their special valueto the County's historic heritage is maintained.

6.52 There are over 300 designated ConservationAreas in Devon1 designated for their special architecturalor historic interest. These. Conservation Areas encompassa wide spectrum of settlement type from traditional villagesto city centres, and there are conservation areas in most ofthe County’s historic settlements. Conservation Areas are amajor component of the Devon’s built heritage and theirspecial character should be protected and enhanced.

Historic Buildings6.53 Devon has a particularly rich inheritance of finehistoric buildings. These range from churches to barns,from formal classical mansions to medieval farmhousesbuilt of cob and thatch. Over 20,000 of these are protectedby being listed as being of special architectural or historicinterest, although many other traditional buildings do notenjoy this formal protection but still make a vitalcontribution to the County's heritage2.

Broadhembury, a traditional East Devon villagedesignated as a Conservation Area

Historic Parks and Gardens6.54 There are 38 parks and gardens in Devon includedin English Heritage’s Register of Parks and Gardens ofSpecial Historic Interest3. While these do not enjoystatutory protection, (apart from statutory consultationprocedures), they are still very important in the County'shistoric environment, deserving special consideration.

1 Conservation Areas – Devon (excluding Plymouth, Torbay andDartmoor National Park) – 249, Plymouth City – 14, Torbay – 23,Dartmoor National Park – 21, Exmoor National Park - 4

2 Listed Buildings – Devon (excluding Plymouth, Torbay and DartmoorNational Park) – 16,571, Plymouth City – 660, Torbay – 862, DartmoorNational Park – 1,916, Exmoor National Park - 274

3 Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest – Devon (excludingPlymouth, Torbay and Dartmoor National Park) – 31, Plymouth City – 2,Torbay – 4, Dartmoor National Park - 1


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Endsleigh at Milton Abbot, West Devon, is a Grade 1Listed Building and a Grade 1 Historic Garden

6.55 National Policy Guidance on the historic builtenvironment emphasises the importance of its conservationand the vital role that local authorities have in itsstewardship. Preservation and enhancement of the historicbuilt environment should be a primary consideration withinthe development and planning system and Policy C11reflects its strategic importance.

Policy C11

The quality of Devon’s historic environment should beconserved and enhanced. In providing for newdevelopment particular care should be taken toconserve the special historic character of settlements,the character and appearance of conservation areas,listed or other buildings of historic or architecturalinterest and their settings and parks and gardens ofspecial historic interest and their settings.

Archaeology6.56 Devon's historic environment is made up ofthousands of sites and areas of archaeologicalsignificance, which contain irreplaceable evidence of ourpast. They range from the earliest sites of prehistoricactivity through to World War II fortifications, and includeshipwrecks and other maritime sites. Many sites arelocated in landscapes of historic interest.

6.57 Only a small proportion of archaeological sites inDevon are statutorily scheduled as Ancient Monuments ofNational Importance under the Ancient Monuments andArchaeological Areas Act 1979, and only a handful ofhistoric wrecks are designated under the Protection ofWrecks Act 1973. The future of the major part of Devon'sarchaeological heritage lies with the implementation ofappropriate local planning and management policies.

Barnstaple Castle, a Norman Motte and Bailey Castlescheduled as an Ancient Monument

6.58 Procedures for the proper consideration of thearchaeological impact of development proposals set out innational guidance emphasise the importance of earlyconsultation and establish a presumption in favour of thepreservation of archaeological sites. It sets out aframework of archaeological assessment and evaluation thatis to be followed by developers prior to the determinationof planning applications.

6.59 Policy C12 seeks to protect the archaeologicalheritage of the County – particularly when proposals fornew development are being considered or implemented.

Policy C12

Nationally important archaeological sites and theirsettings, whether Ancient Monuments or unscheduled,will be preserved. In considering proposals fordevelopment which would have an adverse impact onother archaeological sites or deposits, the importanceand value of the remains will be a determining factor.Where a lack of information precludes the properassessment of a site or area with archaeologicalpotential, developers will be required to arrangeappropriate prior evaluation in advance of anydecision to affect the site or area. Where the loss of anarchaeological site or area is acceptable, properprovision for archaeological excavation and recordingwill be required.

NATURE CONSERVATION6.60 Devon supports an outstandingly rich and variednatural environment, comprising both its wildlife resourceand its earth science features. The wildlife resourceembraces all species, communities, habitats and ecosystemsassociated with the terrestrial, aquatic and marineenvironments, which collectively constitute the biologicaldiversity - or ‘biodiversity’ - of the County. These featuresinclude those which might be considered to be natural aswell as those whose character has been influenced by theactivities of man and are referred to as ‘semi-natural’. Theearth science resource embraces all features of geologicaland geomorphological interest including rocks, fossils,landform and the natural processes, which create them.


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6.61 The maintenance of biodiversity and the earthscience resource is considered essential, not only in view oftheir scientific, economic and educational value, but alsobecause these features are fundamental components of thenatural beauty, quality and character of Devon. In this way,nature conservation is recognised as a vital component ofenvironmental sustainability. The policies of the StructurePlan recognise the value of both the rare and thecommonplace and seek to maintain these at least at currentlevels through site and species safeguard, the promotion ofsympathetic management and the restoration and re-creation of natural features.

6.62 Far from being a specialist topic remote from theeveryday lives of the residents of Devon, natureconservation is inextricably linked to the attraction,economy and general environmental health of the County.Indeed, biological and geological diversity are fundamentalelements of the natural environment and essential to thephysical and mental well-being of mankind, forming part ofthe life-support system on planet Earth.

6.63 National guidance on nature conservationemphasises the importance of the planning process inproviding protection for areas and features of natureconservation value. Given the lack of planning controlbelow mean low water, the Habitats Regulations introducea new system for the conservation of certain marine areas.

Nature Conservation and EnvironmentalSustainability

6.64 The importance of biodiversity and its critical linkwith sustainable development is recognised within theintroduction to Chapter 15 of Agenda 21 which states that:

Our planet's essential goods and servicesdepend on the variety and variability of genes,species, populations and ecosystems.... Thecurrent decline in biodiversity is largely theresult of human activity and represents aserious threat to human development.

6.65 In order to counter this current decline inbiodiversity and to prevent it from posing a threat to humandevelopment, but instead to contribute positively towards it,the conservation of biodiversity forms one of the integralelements of the Local Agenda 21 - Devon's own plan forsustainable development. This addresses the issue of theconservation of biodiversity in both a Devon context and inrelation to the global environment.

6.66 The aims of sustainable development as they relateto nature conservation can be simply defined as:

♦ conservation through not damaging or destroying theirreplaceable

♦ keeping the overall amount of wildlife and earth scienceinterest at least at present levels

♦ not consuming more of anything than the overallenvironment will stand.

6.67 Those aspects of biodiversity or natural resourceswhose loss would be very serious and which cannot readilybe recreated or replaced can be considered to be criticalnatural capital. Other aspects of biodiversity and naturalfeatures, which it is desirable to maintain, if necessarythrough compensatory action, are referred to as constantnatural assets; these should be maintained at least at presentlevels, although their precise distribution might change.

Conserving Biodiversity and Earth Science Diversity

6.68 The Devon Biodiversity Action Plan identifies avision for the future of the County's nature conservationresource and promotes a co-ordinated approach to itsachievement. The objectives and targets of the UKBiodiversity Action Plan have been translated andamplified into a Devon context through this document. Itfocuses particularly on the highest priority elements ofDevon’s natural environment and includes detailed actionplans relating to 37 key habitats and species. BiodiversityAction Plans have also been prepared at a more local levelby Dartmoor and Exmoor National Park Authorities and arecurrently in preparation in some Districts such as NorthDevon District Council.

6.69 The Devon Biodiversity Action Plan alsoemphasises the importance of conserving the naturalcharacter and diversity of the wider environment tocomplement the protection afforded to specially designatedareas. English Nature’s Natural Areas initiative providesan effective framework for the planning and achievement ofmeasures to conserve the distinctive character of differentparts of the County. The nine Natural Areas which liewholly or partly in Devon are illustrated inMap 9.


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Exe Estuary

6.70 Against this background, Policy C13 seeks toconserve and enhance the natural character, biodiversityand earth science resource of the County.

Policy C13

The biodiversity and earth science resource of Devon'snatural environment should be sustained and, wherepossible, enhanced. Its diversity and distinctivenessshould not be diminished.

The Conservation of Important Sites and Features

6.71 Many localities across Devon are given some formof statutory protection in recognition of their natureconservation importance. More than 200 sites aredesignated as part of the national series of Sites of SpecialScientific Interest (SSSI) which represent the best examplesof natural and semi-natural ecosystems and their essentialnatural processes. A few of these SSSIs are managed asNational Nature Reserves and the coastal waters aroundLundy comprise England’s only Marine Nature Reserve.

6.72 A number of these have been selected to form partof the Natura 2000 network which represents the bestnature conservation sites in Europe. These include SpecialProtection Areas (SPA) classified under the EC Directiveon the Conservation of Wild Birds and Special Areas ofConservation (SAC) to be designated under the ECDirective on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and ofWild Fauna and Flora. In addition, the Exe Estuary islisted as a wetland of international importance under the

terms of the Ramsar Convention. Map 10 shows thestatutory nature conservation designations in Devon.

6.73 A 1998 consultation paper on the better protectionand management of SSSI’s reaffirmed the Government’scommitment to the identification and safeguarding of thenational network of such sites, all of which individually areconsidered to be of national importance. Any developmentproposals within or likely to affect SSSI’s are required tobe subject to special scrutiny, with a strong presumptionagainst any development likely to harm their specialinterest. The Secretary of State will normally call in anddetermine applications which are significantly affect sitesof national and international importance

6.74 Development proposals affecting SSSI’s alsorecognised as being of international importance must besubject to the most rigorous examination. The HabitatsRegulation 1994 specifies that development not directlyconnected with or necessary to the management of a SPAor SAC and which, individually or in combination withother plans and projects, is likely to adversely affect theintegrity of the site will not be permitted unless:

(i) there is no alternative solution, and

(ii) there are imperative reasons of overriding publicinterests for the development.


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Map 9: Natural Areas (July 1999)


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Map 10: Statutory Nature Conservation Designations (July 1999)

Devon Structure Plan First Review - 1995 to 2011 6. Conservation (C Policies))Explanatory Memorandum (September 1999) (Policies and Proposals adopted February 1999)

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Where such sites host a priority habitat or species (aslisted in the E.C. Habitats Directive) development wouldonly proceed if required for reasons of human health orsafety or for other beneficial nature conservation reasons.As a matter of Government Policy, this same protectionis applied to Ramsar Sites, potential SPA’s and candidateSAC’s.

6.75 Policy C14 seeks to ensures that these statutorysites are protected from development that might provedetrimental to their special interest.

Policy C14

Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National NatureReserves and Marine Nature Reserves will beprotected from development which would harmtheir nature conservation interest. SpecialProtection Areas, Special Areas for Conservationand Ramsar sites, including potential SpecialProtection Areas and candidate Special Areas forConservation, will be protected from developmentthat would conflict with their conservationobjectives.

6.76 Devon's wildlife and earth science heritage isnot confined to the various statutory designated sites.Indeed, much of this nature conservation resource isfound within 'unprotected' sites spread across the County,in both rural and urban locations, which embrace notablehabitats, rare species and important features of geologicalor geomorphological interest. Such sites of local orcounty nature conservation significance should bedefined in detail within Local Plans. In many cases, suchlocalities are already recognised through the CountyWildlife Site and County Geological Site systems whichare co-ordinated respectively by the Devon BiodiversityRecord Centre and the Devon RIGS4 Group..

6.77 In accordance with Policy C13, inappropriatedevelopment which might be detrimental to the natureconservation interest of these areas should be resistedand their sympathetic management encouraged. Wherethe need for the development is clearly demonstrated tooutweigh the conservation value of the site the level ofdamage must be minimised through appropriatemitigation measures. In cases where suitable mitigationmeasures cannot be achieved then compensation will besought to re-create and manage in the longer term,equivalent habitat elsewhere. Such measures should beapplied in order to ensure that the overall natureconservation resource of the County is not diminished byfuture development. They might also serve to increasethe public awareness of, and access to, the naturalenvironment.

4 RIGS stands for ‘Regionally Important Geological Sites’

6.78 Another element of the Devon environmentwhich is of particular nature conservation significance isaddressed by Policy C15/16. This is the complexnetwork of landscape features that make up a web ofwildlife habitat around the County. These features arethose which, because of their linear or continuousstructure or their function as stepping stones, areessential for migration, dispersal and genetic exchangeand play a critical role in the conservation andenhancement of the biodiversity across Devon. Suchfeatures include rivers and their immediate corridors,traditional field boundaries - such as hedgerows andDevon banks, small woodlands and ponds.

6.79 The Natural Habitats Regulations (&C) requirelocal authorities to adopt policies encouraging thebeneficial management of features of the landscapewhich are of major importance for wild flora and fauna.Policy C15/16 indicates that such features should bedefined within Local Plans.

Policy C15/C16

In addition to sites included within the terms ofPolicy C14, Local Plans should define sites andfeatures of nature conservation importance,including landscape features which provide wildlifecorridors, links or stepping stones between habitats.

Conservation of Protected Species

6.80 A number of individual species are givenspecial protection by virtue of their inclusion within thevarious Schedules of the Natural Habitats (&C.)Regulations 1994 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act1981 (as amended) or through other legislation.

6.81 It will be important to promote the conservationof such species in the consideration of developmentproposals, even where they are located outside sitesotherwise recognised as being of nature conservationsignificance. Where necessary, planning conditions mightbe imposed or planning obligations sought to achievethis. Such measures should aim to:

1. facilitate the survival of individual members of thespecies

2. reduce disturbance to a minimum, and

3. where development is necessary provide adequatealternative habitats to sustain at least the currentlevels of population.

6.82 Policy C17 seeks to conserve those species,which have been, afforded special protection.

Policy C17

Development likely to have an adverse effect on aspecially protected species should only be permittedwhere appropriate measures are taken to secure itsprotection.


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THE CONSERVATION OF NATURALRESOURCES

The Implications of Sustainability6.83 One of the key aspects of sustainability is theneed to ensure that finite resources are conserved andthat, where they are used, they are used in an efficientway. This requires the conservation of Devon's ownnatural resources, such as land and minerals, as well asthose of wider significance, such as energy. Issuesrelating to the conservation of the County’s mineralresources are dealt with in Chapter 8. The third strategicAim set out in Chapter 4 is, therefore:

To seek to ensure that the County's natural resourcesare conserved.

6.84 The conservation of resources is also closelyrelated to the way we deal with issues of waste - reducingthe production of waste, ensuring that waste is re-usedwherever possible and disposing of waste in a way thatdoes not prejudice environmental objectives.

WASTE MANAGEMENT ANDDISPOSAL6.85 Waste is a fact of life; there is no way ofeliminating it entirely. The policies in this section of thePlan set out the overall strategy for waste planning, and,in particular, provide the framework for Waste LocalPlans. Waste Local Plans will give detailed expression tothese strategic policies.

6.86 Figure 1 shows the quantities of the differenttypes of controlled

5 waste generated in 1993/94. At

present, the majority of the waste generated in Devon isdisposed of by landfill. Household, commercial and someindustrial waste is disposed of in six major landfill sites.On a Countywide basis, the capacity of those sites isdiminishing and, at current rates of tipping, there is onlyabout eight years’ remaining capacity.

Figure 1: Total Quantity of Controlled Waste arisingin Devon 1997/98

5 Controlled waste is principally household, commercial andindustrial waste subject to controls under the EnvironmentalProtection Act 1990.

6.87 In 1997 approximately 17% of household wastewas recycled. This is likely to increase as DistrictCouncils convene their kerb-side collection schemes ofrecyclable and compostable materials.

6.88 The Landfill tax seeks to utilise market forces toprotect the environment by making the disposal of wastein landfill sites more expensive. Waste producers have afinancial incentive to produce less waste and recovermore value from waste,for example through recycling orcomposting.

6.89 The Government’s three key objectives forwaste management are:

♦ to reduce the amount of waste that society produces;

♦ to make the best use of the waste that is produced;and

♦ to chose waste management practices which minimisethe risks of immediate and future environmentalpollution and harm to human health.

6.90 “Less Waste : More Value” and NationalPlanning Guidance on the Planning and WasteManagement rank the options for managing waste intothe following hierarchy, which gives a broad indicationof their relative environmental benefits and disbenefits:

• Reduction

• Re-use

• Recovery (Recycling, compostingand energy recovery)

• Disposal6.91 This indicates that the first priority for moresustainable waste management should be to reduce theproduction of waste to the minimum consistent witheconomic sustainability. Waste reduction will be a keyelement of future waste strategies.

6.92 After reduction comes re-use - putting objectsback into use so that they do not enter the waste stream.The third level of the waste hierarchy is a broad wasterecovery category which incorporates materialsrecycling, composting and the recovery of energy fromwaste. Disposal is at the bottom of the hierarchy. Thefollowing six waste disposal methods are identified:landfill and incineration (with or without energyrecovery), permanent storage, specialised destruction,dumping at sea, and export. Of these, landfill is the onlymethod currently utilised in Devon.

6.93 Achieving more sustainable waste managementwill require a general movement from the bottom to thetop of the hierarchy. However, whilst this is the overallaim, the chosen option for individual waste streams willdepend on the environmental and economic costs andbenefits. All the options in the hierarchy should have arole in developing an integrated network of facilities

6.94 If waste is disposed of, or managed, close to thepoint at which it is generated, the pollution fromtransporting it can be limited and a more responsible andhence sustainable approach to the generation of wasteachieved.

Household 22%

Civic Amenity6%

Construction and Demolition

50%

Sewage Sludge11%

Commercial/Industrial

11%


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6.95 Where proposals for waste managementfacilities affect the protection of the natural and historicenvironment the suitability of the sites will requirespecial scrutiny. Policies C18 and C19 set out thestrategic approach to waste management within theCounty.

Policy C18

In making provision for waste management facilitiesregard should be had to the principles of the ‘bestpracticable environmental options' and also to thehierarchy of (1) Reduction, (2) Re-use, (3)Composting and Material Recycling (4) EnergyRecovery (5) Final Disposal.

Policy C19

Waste management facilities shall:

1. where appropriate, include provision for therecovery of value from the waste by recycling,composting or energy generation;

2. be located close to major centres of population;and

3. minimise transport of waste by road.

6.96 There will always be a significant quantity ofwaste from which value cannot be recovered in the formof materials or energy for which the best practicableenvironmental option is disposal by landfill. There istherefore a need to make provision for landfill capacityfor the disposal of this waste.

6.97 Policy C20 sets out the approach for themanagement of waste that cannot be recycled orcomposted.

Policy C20

Where appropriate, to provide for waste to energyincineration for the management of waste which isnot recycled/composted subject to consideration ofthe location and potential environmentalimplications of any such facility.

There will, however, be a continuing need fordisposal by landfill/landraising and provision shouldbe made for it to be carried out in a properlycontrolled and environmentally acceptable way.Criteria for the selection of landfill/landraising sitesshould be set out in appropriate Local Plans.

6.98 Many of the other policies in this Plan, inparticular those relating to nature conservation, theenhancement of Devon’s environment and the protectionof water resources will be relevant to the determinationof planning applications for waste management facilities,and will also be taken into account in the preparationofWaste Local Plans.

6.99 The construction of residential, commercial andindustrial developments may give rise to significantquantities of waste. Policy C21 reflects the need for thedisposal or management of this waste to be considered aspart of the planning application and, where practicable,for such waste to be re-used or recovered .

Policy C21

Where unavoidable waste would be generated bythe implementation of a major developmentproposal, provision should be made for that wasteto be utilised beneficially wherever possible.

Conserving Energy Resources

6.100 The energy implications of all new developmentneed to be taken into account. In the context of the landuse planning system, this can most effectively beaddressed when considering the design and layout of newdevelopment. New development offers the opportunity tointroduce energy saving design features, includingschemes such as Combined Heat and Power, but theredevelopment or conversion of existing buildings shouldalso play a part in this process. Policy C 22 seeks toensure that the issue of energy use is specificallyconsidered for all new development.

Policy C22

The direct and indirect energy consumption of newdevelopment should be minimised by requiring theincorporation of energy saving features into itsdesign and layout.

Renewable Energy Developments6.101 There are clear environmental benefits to begained from generating a greater proportion of energyneeds from renewable sources. This will reducedependence on fossil fuels with consequent reductions inthe production of ‘greenhouse gases’ and theconservation of finite fossil fuel resources.

6.102 In seeking to reduce dependence on fossil fuels,and with the aim that Devon should contribute to nationalgreenhouse gas reduction targets for the year 2010 (andbeyond), the development of renewable energy schemeswhich are environmentally acceptable, economicallyattractive and which contribute towards the community'senergy needs should therefore be supported.

6.103 Studies undertaken within Devon haveidentified the potential for the development of renewableenergy within the county. These studies suggest that asignificant proportion of future energy needs could be


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met from such sources, although the extent to whichpotential can be realised will be limited by two mainfactors. Firstly, the exploitation of new energy sources isoften dependent upon the application of new technologythat may not yet be available - or may not allow for costsof production to be competitive. Secondly, some formsof renewable energy exploitation could haveenvironmental disadvantages, for example in terms of itsimpact on the landscape, nature conservation orarchaeology interests.

6.104 Landscape impact is especially important whenassessing the potential for the development of windturbines and windfarms. It is recognised that the SouthWest, including Devon, has considerable potential forwind power generation but, while individual windturbines may be assimilated into the landscape subject tothe consideration of local planning issues, larger schemescan, by their nature, be intrusive in the local landscape.While there is a clear need to balance the widerenvironmental benefits of renewable energy against thelocal impact of such development, there is considered tobe significant scope within Devon for promotingrenewable energy generation through the development ofsites in locations that would not be potentially harmful tothe most valued and vulnerable landscapes. Inconsidering potential sites for windfarm development,therefore, priority should be given to locations outsidethe Landscape Policy Areas identified within this Plan.

Wind Turbine, Ilfacombe

6.105 Policy C23 recognises the potential role for thedevelopment of renewable energy within Devon.

Policy C23

Renewable energy developments will be supported,subject to the consideration of their impact upon thequalities and special features of the landscape andupon the conditions of those living or workingnearby .

‘Windfarm’ developments will not be appropriatewhere they would adversely affect the NationalParks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,Coastal Preservation Areas and Areas of GreatLandscape Value, and priority should be given tothe use of sites outside these designated areas.

Protecting Water Resources6.106 Water resources are important in terms ofmeeting the needs of residents and the businesscommunity, and the need to reduce pollution andenhance water quality for environmental reasons. Thereis also a need to protect those areas of the County wherenew development could be affected by a risk of flooding,or cause flooding elsewhere.

6.107 Policy C24 seeks to protect the quality of waterreserves and water areas within the County, includingcoastal waters, and the need to take account of flood riskwhen considering the location of new development.

Policy C24

Proposals for Development should not be providedfor where:

1. such development would lead to anunacceptable deterioration in the quality, quantity,or natural flow of underground, surface and coastalwaters;

2. adequate water resources do not alreadyexist, or where their provision is considered likely topose an unacceptable risk to existing abstractions,water quality, fisheries, nature conservation,amenity or inland navigation interests or any facetof the natural water environment;

3. there would be a direct unacceptable riskfrom flooding (including tidal inundation), or whereit would be likely to increase the risk of floodingelsewhere to an unacceptable level; or

4. it is likely to have an unacceptable adverseeffect on fisheries, nature conservation, landscapeand recreation in river corridors, coastal margins,other water areas or any facet of the natural waterenvironment.


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Burrator Reservoir, Dartmoor

Conserving Land Resources

Derelict Land

6.108 The Plan recognises the need to make the mosteffective use of Devon’s land resources and the waste ofthat resource represented by derelict land. Some ofDevon’s derelict land comprises former railway tracks,and the linear nature of this makes it most suitable for re-use as part of the transport network, either for the re-opening of rail lines or for cycling / footpaths.Consideration should therefore be given to such re-usewhen restoration or redevelopment is being undertaken.The Plan also recognises the environmental, recreational,and economic benefits which can be obtained fromrestoring derelict land, taking into account the natureconservation value of sites.

Policy C25

The extent of existing derelict land should bereduced by undertaking and promoting reclamationschemes, and in providing for new development,priority should be given to the reclamation of suchland where feasible and appropriate.

Contaminated Land

6.109 Land may also be contaminated as a result offormer industrial (including mining) activity. It isimportant that such contaminated land is treated as amatter of priority if it is likely to adversely affect healthand the environment. Furthermore it will be necessary, inthe event of development being proposed on such land,for it to be treated so as to bring it to a condition suitablefor the proposed use.

Policy C26

In providing for new development, considerationshould be given to the treatment of contaminatedland in order to enable its beneficial use. Treatmentshould remove any unacceptable risks to health orthe environment, and should not in itself endangerhealth or the environment. Such reclamation shouldas a minimum return the sites to a condition suitablefor its subsequent use.

Agricultural land and Soil

6.110 Land resources are finite and need to be put tothe most effective use. Other policies set out in the Planseek to ensure that green field sites are only used fordevelopment where the use of other sites - such as landsuitable for redevelopment - would not be appropriate.Certain areas of land, however, have a particular value interms of their potential for agricultural use and theseneed to be conserved wherever possible. Land in grades1, 2 and 3a should only be developed exceptionally, ifthere is an overriding need for the development, andeither sufficient land in lower grades in unavailable, oravailable lower grade has a significant environmentalvalue. Where there is a choice between the developmentof grades 1, 2 and 3a then development should bedirected towards the lowest grade.Policy C27 seeks toprotect those areas of the greatest value for agriculturalproduction, and it indicates that the best quality landshould only be used where there is a strong case fordoing so.

Map 11: Agricultural Land Classification


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Policy C27

The use of the best and most versatile agriculturalland (grades 1, 2 and 3a) for any form ofdevelopment not associated with agriculture orforestry should only be permitted where there is anover-riding need for development in that locationwhich outweighs the need to protect such land orwhere it meets the sustainable objectives andimplements other policies and proposals of theDevelopment Plan.

6.111 The importance of soil as a finite resource hasbeen highlighted by the work of the Royal Commissionon the Environment and Policy C28 seeks to ensure thatthe soil resources of the County are conserved and notunnecessarily affected by new development.

Policy C28

Soil resources should be conserved by encouragingthe re-use of disused urban land including derelictland and contaminated land consistent with PolicyC25 and C26. Where development does takes place,measures should be taken to prevent the erosion,contamination or loss of soil. Where appropriate soilshould be re-used to minimise loss.

MINIMISING POLLUTION6.112 Our quality of life is directly affected by levelsof pollution. Water pollution is addressed through PolicyC24, and light pollution can be minimised through theuse of good design and energy saving measures. Strategicpolicy guidance is however also considered appropriatein respect of air and noise pollution.

Air Pollution

6.113 Air quality can be affected by developmentboth directly and indirectly. While aspects of airpollution are addressed by specific legislation, the effectsof land use change on the quality of the environmentnecessarily include consideration of air quality -including the cumulative effects of development withinan area. Policy C29 makes this consideration explicitwhen assessing development proposals.

Policy C29

Development that would give rise to a significantdeterioration in air quality should not be locatedwhere that deterioration would adversely affectother land-uses and amenity in the vicinity.

Noise Pollution

6.114 The issue of noise pollution needs to beaddressed when considering the location of newdevelopment. New development that would by its naturegive rise to potentially significant levels of noisepollution should not be located where it could adverselyaffect other land uses in the area to an unacceptableextent. Similarly, where there is an existing land use thatgenerates significant levels of noise, it would beinappropriate to locate noise sensitive developmentswhere they could be adversely affected. Policy C30therefore sets out broad guidance on these issues.

Policy C30

Development should not be located where it wouldresult in a significant increase in the level of noisepollution in existing or proposed land uses in thevicinity, and noise sensitive land uses should not belocated in areas affected by significant existing noisepollution.

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6. CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT · major role in developing a Local Agenda 21 approach at ... CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT. 6 ... local distinctiveness and