• Promote larger-scale developments around highway and public transport nodes;
• Promote the best economic use of existing and future employment and community uses;
• Reduce the need to travel particularly for employment and shopping journeys.

• Regular Frequency Bus Routes - encouragement will be given to operators to establish a bus network which provides;

• Regular frequency services linking the towns in the District with Railtrack stations at Gillingham, Templecombe and Poole.

• A service which will be attractive to both business and shopping commuters.

• Cycleway Network - part of the national network between Bournemouth and Bath passes through the District. There are also proposals to develop local links to this network as well as initiatives under the safe routes to school umbrella.

1.33 The above network will be implemented through the development policies and proposals of not only the Structure Plan and the Local Plan but also the County Council’s Local Transport Plan. On the public transport side there will need to be detailed co-ordination between the Local Authorities (notably the County Council as Public Transport Authority) and the train and bus operators. There will also be the opportunity for developers to contribute towards facilities and improved services in partnership with the public sector through the implementation of major development schemes.

Development in the Towns

Blandford, Gillingham & Shaftesbury

1.34 All three towns are in locations which will attract economic development and have potential development land for the plan period where there are comparatively few constraints. There may be however in the long term, environmental constraints to their eventual spread of development.

1.35 These constraints are closely linked to the aim of promoting sustainable development and are sometimes described as being the "environmental capacity" of the development of a settlement. Each settlement may have a defined physical limit beyond which major environmental harm may be caused. This is not to say that these constraints should be seen as absolute for long term planning. However they should be seen as a monitoring device, so that if there is a requirement to expand a settlement significantly in the future, it may be done in a way which will minimise environmental impact, reduce the reliance on the motor car and bring social and economic benefits, particularly to town centre, community and retail facilities.

1.36 The latter issue is an important consideration to be assessed when defining the limits of the spread of development of the District’s three main towns. At present the layout of town centre retailing and community facilities is often constrained by a development pattern based on an historic medieval structure. This is usually a substantial barrier to finding sufficient space for expansion of town centre facilities which are commensurate with the needs of a large increase in population. Looking forward to the end of the Plan period, it is felt that Blandford, Gillingham and Shaftesbury should be analysed carefully to consider what scope there may be for continued major expansion. The indications are at present that continued major expansion may not be a realistic option beyond 2011, particularly in Blandford and Shaftesbury.

1.37 The proposals for the expansion of the three main towns and their spread of development have been assessed using the following factors;

• The availability of sufficient land in or close to town centres which will allow for expansion of retailing and community facilities to serve an increase in population.

• A distance beyond which people are not likely to walk or cycle into the town centre (assessed to be approximately 1.6km (1 mile), equivalent to a 20/30 minute walk). Thus the use of the motor car is likely to be increased when housing developments are situated beyond this distance. Similarly new employment areas need to be situated within a 20/30 minute walk of the major housing areas in the town.

• The ability of the local road network to prove attractive for the operation of a regular frequency bus link to the town centre.

• The topographical constraints which exist (e.g. areas of outstanding natural beauty, small gaps between the town and outlying settlements, hill slopes, bypasses etc.) which tend to signify a natural limit to development.

Policy 1.2

1.38 The growth levels, development rates, land allocations and eventual environmental capacity are defined in the Settlement Policies for the individual towns.

Stalbridge and Sturminster Newton

1.39 The towns of Stalbridge and Sturminster Newton are less well placed for major development and have the major constraint of being on the A357, which is a highway of inadequate standard to receive much in the way of traffic increase. Nevertheless, the towns have a role to play as service centres for their catchment area and limited growth should take place to promote this role.

1.40 Although Sturminster Newton is of relative modest size, there has been a committed history of permitting larger developments in the town as part of previous planning strategies aimed at promoting the role of the town as a service centre. This Plan continues with that strategy and some "major" developments will be permitted there during this Plan period. However, in the the longer term, the strategy for the town is to limit further large scale development.

1.41 In the case of Stalbridge, growth is to be limited to existing committed sites within the built up area and to key local community facilities. The development of major additional community facilities for the area will in the main take place at Sturminster Newton, which already acts as the predominant centre in this respect.

1.42 Although both towns are limited by the above locational factor for major expansion, the spread of development has been assessed using the factors contained in para. 1.38.

Policy 1.3

1.43 The growth levels, development rates and land allocations will be defined in the Settlement Policies for the individual towns. "Moderate and Limited Growth" will generally mean the development of sites and buildings which are below the threshold of "Major Development."

Development in the Villages

Villages with Settlement Boundaries

1.44 As already stated a key feature of this strategy will be to divert pressures for development away from the more remote countryside areas towards the towns. Village development therefore will, in the main, be contained within those larger villages with defined settlement boundaries and will also be directed towards those villages with services and facilities. In contrast however is the essential consideration that villages must not be allowed to "die on their feet" or become predominantly dormitories. As far as possible they should be self-contained and provide local employment as well as maintaining local facilities such as schools, shops and public houses. There are opportunities in most of the following villages for modest developments which support the rural economy and for small housing schemes, particularly where they involve genuine affordable housing to meet local needs.

Policy 1.4

Small Villages and Hamlets

1.45 There are approximately 50 small villages and hamlets which do not have designated settlement limits. Many of these have a very loose-knit and fragmented settlement pattern which contain numerous potential development sites. The essential character of many of these villages would be destroyed if infilling were to continue. To allow uncontrolled development within these settlements would be contrary to the overall aims of sustainable development in that a dispersed form of development would result, away from the transport network and other services. There are also few services within or close to these villages and hamlets and it would be difficult to support much in the way of new development.

1.46 Under this strategy therefore, all small villages and hamlets will be treated as being within the countryside and subject to a general policy of restraint. There may however be possibilities granted under the Development in the Countryside Policy (Policy 1.6) particularly in respect of sensitive re-use and adaptation of existing buildings within the confines of the village. Affordable housing for local needs and small employment initiatives may also be approved as exceptions to normal policy. These are dealt with in the respective chapters.

Policy 1.5

Protecting the Countryside

1.47 The character of the North Dorset countryside is a key resource which attracts tourists and those enjoying quiet countryside pursuits throughout the seasons. It is an important part of the local economy, particularly for tourism and the countryside leisure industry.

1.48 One of the most important key components of the Local Plan Strategy is the protection of the countryside. The countryside of North Dorset, in particular the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Sites of Special Scientific Interest must be protected for their own sake and for the sake of restricting further sporadic development which goes against the aspirations of sustainable development.

1.49 Development activity will generally be directed away from those areas and only those developments which can be accommodated without detriment to the environment will be allowed.

Policy 1.6

Settlement Boundaries

1.50 The Settlement Boundaries shown on the proposals Map define the predominant "edge" between built development and the countryside. Greenfield sites which are allocated for development, in the period up to 2011 are included within the settlement boundaries. Settlement Boundaries will be reviewed at each Plan revision and may be enlarged or reduced to allow for new allocations for development in the "roll forward" period of the Plan.

Policy 1.7

(b) Protecting the Environment

Standard Assessment Criteria

1.51 The following policy will act as a comprehensive checklist for development control purposes so that all applications can be assessed within an overall framework. The use of this standard assessment criteria also avoids needless repetition of criteria in other individual policies.

1.52 All the following criteria are of acknowledged importance for the environment of North Dorset and all proposals for development should comply with them as far as possible. In cases where an Environmental Statement is required under the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, these policies will be used as a preliminary basis for assessment purposes.

Policy 1.8

Important Open/Wooded Areas (I.O.W.A's) within Settlements

1.53 The character of many settlements is derived from the relationship between built form and open spaces. It is important that open and wooded areas within settlement boundaries are protected from development, especially as there is generally a stronger presumption in favour of granting planning permission for development within a settlement boundary.

1.54 All settlements have been surveyed and where it is considered that an open or wooded area contributes significantly to the amenity and character of a settlement, it has been designated as an "Important Open or Wooded Area" (IOWA) on the Proposals Map. Both public and privately owned areas of land have been included. The most important criterion used for selection is the overall contribution that the IOWA gives in visual or amenity terms to public areas within the town or village.

1.55 The Inspector at the Public Inquiry recommended a review of these areas and deletion of those areas which do not need to be completely protected from development, or alternatively, could be placed into the countryside area beyond the Settlement Boundaries. Furthermore, he recommended that the policy be strengthened to completely rule out development on any part of IOWA.

1.56 A review of all the IOWAs, (and there are over 350 of them) prior to modification, will take time and delay the process of plan adoption. To delete sites, which were not subject to original objection, may then give rise to the need to reopen the Inquiry, to hear individual objections from landowners and Parish Councils. In view of this, there will be a review of IOWAs as soon as possible after adoption. However in the intervening period, the new IOWA policy as recommended by the inspector has been adopted.

1.57 School Playing Fields and Recreation Grounds have been included within Settlement Boundaries and designated as IOWAs in view of their amenity value in both visual and recreational terms.

Policy 1.9

Re-use and Adaptation of Buildings (including Modern Buildings) in the Countryside

1.58 The re-use and adaptation of existing rural buildings may be acceptable, subject to the nature and extent of the proposed new use being acceptable in planning terms. For instance, the change of use to a small commercial use may bring benefit to the local rural economy as may conversion to holiday accommodation or a countryside recreational use. It is important however that the scale of such changes are kept to a modest level so as to keep traffic impacts to a minimum and to avoid any adverse impacts upon the economic vitality of existing town and village centres. The floor area of proposed conversions should generally be below that stipulated in the definition of "Major" Development.

1.59 Conversion to residential use must be carefully considered in view of the overall strategy of sustainable development and protection of the countryside. To allow widespread conversion, particularly in isolated areas, will undermine this strategy by encouraging additional journeys by car and by adversely affecting the character of the countryside. Planning permission therefore will not usually be granted for change of use to residential unless the circumstances in the criteria of Policy 1.10 can be met.

1.60 Other important considerations to be borne in mind are the age and quality of buildings and the reasons behind the need to convert to a new use. Modern buildings constructed since 1945 may often be of a non-traditional appearance and retention and re-use may not be of benefit to the character of an area. Similarly traditional buildings in the local vernacular must be carefully converted so as to not lose their original quality and distinctive features.

Policy 1.10

Farmyards within Village Settlement Boundaries

1.61 Farmyards form an essential part of the historic development and character of the villages in North Dorset. They continue to be an important source of employment and business activity in the rural economy. The aim of this policy, therefore, is to seek to protect this important feature of village life.

1.62 Where farmyards are within village settlement boundaries there is a danger that an assumption may be made that permission will be granted automatically for residential redevelopment. This should not be the case and applications for redevelopment should be carefully judged against the criteria of the policy. If it is accepted that a working village farm has come to the end of its useful life then, in the first instance, change of use to a development that will aid the local economy will be encouraged (e.g. business or tourism use). Residential conversion will only be considered if that particular route to redevelopment is not practicable.

1.63 In most cases where a farmyard is on the edge of a village it has been included within the settlement boundary, particularly if it is part of the historic development pattern of the village and is physically linked to other buildings within the village. Post-war modern buildings of non-traditional nature on the edge of a village have generally been excluded from the village settlement boundaries. The proposed redevelopment and change of use of such areas of modern agricultural buildings represents, in the majority of cases, an unwarranted incursion of permanent non-essential development into the countryside.

1.64 The inspector in his report on the Local Plan Inquiry recommended that this policy and justification be removed from the plan. He felt that the inclusion of this policy actually had the opposite effect to that which it was trying to achieve; ie it actually encouraged unsuitable redevelopment proposals to come forward. He also recommended a review of farmyards where they adjoined open countryside and possibly removing them from within the Settlement Boundary. However the Council has decided to retain the policy and farmyards as put forward in the Deposit Plan. To make alterations now to Settlement Boundaries would inevitably lead to fresh objections being raised which would lead to a second Public Inquiry and thus delay the adoption of the Plan. The Council nevertheless will carry out a full re-survey of farmyards and a re-evaluation of this policy as a priority, at the first review of this Plan, post-adoption.

Policy 1.11

Rivers, Water & Drainage Services River Valleys

1.65 River valleys are an important landscape feature in North Dorset; the Stour and its tributaries, Winterborne and Tarrant river valleys being the most significant. In order to protect the regime of the major rivers and water courses, the following River Valley Policy has been developed which seeks to; · ensure that river water quality is not adversely affected by possible pollution from development · protect the wildlife, vegetation and landscape associated with the rivers · ensure that proposals for countryside recreation along the river valleys are carried out in a sensitive and co-ordinated manner.

1.66 The River Valley Policy areas have been drawn up to include the whole valley floor which can be associated with the geography of the river. In the upper reaches of the Stour, Shreen Water, Lodden, Cale, and Lydden and along other smaller rivers, it has not been possible to provide detailed information on historical flood patterns. The absence of such information however is not indicative that there may not be any risk of flooding and the Technical Services Section of the District Council and Environment Agency will be consulted in all instances where proposed development is close to or will affect any watercourse so that an assessment can be made of the likely flood risk consequences of the proposal.

1.67 The Stour River valley is now subject to a joint initiative between the County and the District Councils. "The Stour Valley Project" aims to;

• conserve the special character of the valley’s landscape and wildlife
• encourage public enjoyment and understanding of the area
• involve local communities in conservation projects.

1.68 It is also proposed to establish a continuation of the Stour Valley Way (long distance path) through the District to Blandford and then eventually northwards to Sturminster Newton, Gillingham and Stourhead.

Policy 1.12

Areas Liable to Flood

1.69 Known areas which are "liable to flood" are also shown on the Proposals Map. This information has been taken from the most up to date Environment Agency "section 105" map at the time of adopting the Local Plan. ‘Areas Liable to Flood’ are only generally defined on the Stour, Shreen Water, Lodden and the lower reaches of the Cale and Lydden. Except for certain appropriate uses, for example, for essential transport and infrastructure uses, development on ‘green-field’ land within an ‘Area Liable to Flood’ will not be permitted.

1.70 Development on "brownfield" land within an ‘Area Liable to Flood’ will only be permitted if (i) it is not within ‘functional’ flood plain where flood water frequently flows (ii) there are no other suitable sites outside of an ‘Area Liable to Flood’ (iii) measures can be incorporated into the scheme so that it will not result in life being endangered or there being an unacceptable likelihood of damage to property. ‘Areas Defended by Flood Defence Scheme’ are also shown on the Proposals Map. Most development will be acceptable in flood risk terms, provided that it does not compromise the effectiveness of the defence itself.

Policy 1.13

Drainage Requirements

1.71 Development should not proceed without adequate surface water drainage arrangements. To minimise flooding, surface water run-off from new development should be attenuated, as near to the source as possible, to that which would occur on the equivalent greenfield site. To achieve this, "sustainable" drainage systems, which are appropriate to the underlying ground conditions, should be incorporated into the design of a development at the earliest opportunity. Sustainable drainage systems include:

1.72 As well as reducing total and peak flows of run-off, "sustainable" drainage systems can enhance the amenity and wildlife interest of developments and can facilitate natural groundwater recharge.

Policy 1.14

1.73 In addition, development should not proceed without adequate foul drainage arrangements. This is particularly important in the heavy clay areas of the Blackmore Vale where the soil conditions often make septic tank drainage and/or soakaways difficult to operate. In areas where there are existing sewers, all development will connect to the main foul sewer network.

Policy 1.15

Groundwater Source Protection

1.74 The chalk downlands of the District are a valuable source of groundwater which feeds aquifers and then supplies drinking water reservoirs. Effluent disposal from development must be carefully treated to avoid possible pollution of this resource. Some developments, which are a likely source of pollution may not be suitable within such areas of groundwater source protection.

1.75 The "Groundwater Source Protection Areas" shown on the Proposals Map, indicate as a guide, the major sources of public drinking water supplies in the Chalk downland areas. There are however a considerable number of relatively small licensed sources in other areas which have not yet been zoned by the Environment Agency. The following policy is therefore applicable throughout the District but will have particular relevance in the Source Protection Areas.

Policy 1.16

Sewage Treatment Works Protection Areas

1.76 Sewage Treatment Works are often a source of odour pollution and it is necessary to keep development of regularly occupied premises away from such works particularly where development occurs downwind of the prevailing wind direction.

1.77 Each Sewage Treatment Works therefore has a protection area drawn around it which is defined on the Proposals Maps. The protection area has been drawn up by Wessex Water, in relation to the size and potential odour hazard from their Works.

1.78 Where these areas impinge on land which may have potential for infill development or redevelopment and it is decided to grant permission, despite the risk of odour pollution, the Local Planning Authority will take steps to ensure that developers are made aware of the possibility of odour nuisance.

Policy 1.17

Waste Recycling

1.79 The collection of waste is a District Authority function, while waste disposal and planning is regulated by the County Authority. The Government has indicated that at least 25% of domestic waste should be recycled by the year 2005. The District Council is committed to recycling and as part of this drive a series of recycling centres have now been established, where household waste can be transferred to individual banks/containers. The large centres are concentrated in the five towns and also at Stourpaine Household Recycling Site. Smaller centres with more limited facilities are now being provided in the villages as and when sites become available. New housing developments in excess of 10 dwellings should have communal recycling facilities provided as part of the development unless there is already a centre close by. This will reduce the need to travel and also ease the burden placed on the kerbside collection of waste for recycling. In cases where there is a recycling facility close by, an equivalent financial contribution towards the improvement of that facility may be sought if necessary.

Policy 1.18

Lighting Standards

1.80 The external lighting of new development areas has been the subject of increasing concern for the following reasons;

• the detrimental affect on previously unlit rural areas (i.e. "light pollution")
• the visual effect of tall lighting columns
• possible glare for highway users
• the effect on wildlife habitats
• high energy use

There is a clear case for introducing the following policy to effectively control lighting schemes proposed as part of new development applications.

Policy 1.19

Contaminated Land

1.81 Land contamination, or the possibility of it, is a material consideration for the purposes of determining planning applications and when developing structure or local plans.

1.82 Previously developed land (brownfield sites) may have been contaminated by a variety of land uses, such as fuel filling stations, gas works, industrial sites etc. Such contamination may pose risks to current or future site occupiers, buildings on the site and to the environment.

1.83 The risks must be identified early in the development process to ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are taken. This should take the form of a "source-pathway-receptor" assessment, whereby the sources of the hazard (e.g. heavy metal contamination), the receptor (e.g. public water supply borehole) and the pathway connecting the two (e.g. contaminated groundwater plume) are considered.

1.84 In this way the risks posed can be assessed and suitable mitigation put in place to reduce the risks to an acceptable level. This investigation should be carried out by the developer either before planning permission has been granted or by means of planning condition.

1.85 The planning authority must satisfy itself that the potential for contamination is properly assessed, and the development incorporates any necessary remediation. Where necessary, any planning permission should include appropriate site investigation and remediation conditions. Under the "suitable for use" approach, risks should be assessed, and remediation requirements set, on the basis of both the current use and circumstances of the land and its proposed new use. (This is in contrast to the approach under Part llA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which has been implemented as a means of dealing with the legacy of contaminated land which has arisen from the historical use of land and where only the current use and circumstances are considered.)

1.86 The principles of risk assessment and management and the arrangements for carrying out detailed inspection of potentially contaminated sites are discussed in detail in the authority’s "Contaminated Land Inspection Strategy" and intending developers of contaminated land should also inspect this document.

1.87 Guidance to planning authorities is set out in Planning Policy Guidance: Planning and Pollution Control PPG 23), published in 1994, and DOE Circular 11/95 The Use of Conditions in Planning Permissions. The Government is currently preparing further planning guidance on land contamination, which will amplify the guidance in PPG 23, explain the interface with the "Part llA regime" from a planning perspective, and provide planning authorities with technical and practical advice on land contamination issues. In the meantime, the guidance contained in PPG 23 remains valid, references to the term "contaminated land" in that document should be interpreted in the general sense rather than according to the particular definition used for the purposes of the Part llA regime.

1.88 In some cases, the carrying out of remediation activities under Part llA may itself constitute "development" within the meaning given at section 55 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, and therefore require planning permission.

1.89 Where it is anticipated that contamination may be present on or near a proposed development area, a site assessment by the developer, will be required to characterise the contamination and establish the likely risks posed.

1.90 This assessment will be required either prior to the grant of planning permission or by condition, depending on the severity of the contamination and magnitude of risks posed, on a site specific basis.

1.91 In any case where new development is taking place, the onus is on the developer to provide and disclose all relevant information and it will be the responsibility of the developer to carry out the necessary remediation.

1.92 In most cases, the enforcement of any remediation requirements will be through planning conditions and building control, rather than through a remediation notice issued under part llA.

Policy 1.20

(c) Conservation of the Historic Environment

Introduction

1.93 The District has a rich heritage of historic buildings, townscapes and landscapes with a wide variety of rare and interesting flora and fauna. These are important assets, some of national repute, which should not be forgotten or underestimated.

1.94 The Government's Planning Policy Guidance Note No. 15 "Planning and the Historic Environment" issued in September 1994 reaffirms that it is fundamental to its policies for environmental protection for there to be effective protection of all aspects of the historic environment.

1.95 The historic environment is :-

• an essential part of our cultural heritage
• vital to our education and understanding of both past and present
• an asset in the quality of life, providing attractive environments for work and leisure
• an essential element of local distinctiveness and character.

1.96 The environment is under constant change and pressure for change. The policies of this plan will not necessarily seek to halt or obstruct such evolution but are designed to ensure that any change is controlled and positively managed. The emphasis will be on control rather than prevention.

1.97 North Dorset District Council is committed to the protection and enhancement of the environment and intends to ensure the proper care and stewardship of the historic environment by all those involved in a number of ways :-

• promotion of high standards of design;
• financial commitment and investment from public sources;
• encouraging through education a better understanding of the principles of conservation;
• working with other agencies to facilitate achievement of objectives;
• encouraging and working with community and volunteer groups.

Listed Buildings

1.98 There are approximately 2500 listed buildings in the District. Buildings are chosen to be included in the statutory list because of their architectural or historic interest. Listed buildings are irreplaceable assets which provide invaluable insights into our social, religious and economic past, as well as being an invaluable part of the character of our towns, villages and countryside.

1.99 Many of the buildings will face some direct change or threat during the plan period, such as change in ownership, alteration, extension, demolition or neglect. Others will face indirect change through developments which affect their setting.

1.100 Government advice makes it clear that the District Council has a key responsibility to protect and preserve listed buildings - their interest, character and setting. The Council takes this responsibility seriously and in considering proposals to alter, extend or demolish a listed building it will have regard to the following matters;

• the importance of the building
• physical features of the building
• setting of the building
• benefits to the community that would result from demolition.

1.101 Fuller detail on these assessment criteria is contained in Planning Policy Guidance Note No. 15 "Planning and the Historic Environment" and further advice will be provided in the Council's own supplementary planning guidance, both of which should be fully consulted when considering the merits of any proposal within the context of these local plan policies. It should be remembered that any proposal to alter or extend an historic building, no matter how insignificant it may appear, will have an effect on the building's character, such that cumulatively the effect of a succession of minor works can be quite damaging to a building's historic integrity and character.

1.102 Nearly a quarter of all the listed buildings in the District are thatched. The District also has the highest survival rate of medieval smoke blackened thatch in the County. The loss of this thatch and the County’s thatch traditions by the use of imported materials and thatching techniques is a real threat to our heritage that needs to be tackled. The Dorset Thatching report, published in 1997 by the County Council, sets out criteria for assessing proposals affecting historic thatched properties and will be used as supplementary planning guidance, by this Council, when determining planning applications. In addition PPG 15, paragraph C29 provides further advice on thatching work.

1.103 When submitting a planning application that relates to a listed building the District council will expect applicants to be able to justify their proposals showing how the works will affect the special interest of the building and why they are desirable or necessary.

Policy 1.21

Policy 1.22

1.104 New development can have an adverse effect on the setting of a listed building not just in relation to the setting within its own grounds but also in its position and role in the street or landscape.

Policy 1.23

1.105 Supplementary planning guidance on these issues on listed buildings and other historic buildings covering the following topics will be made available during the plan period:

• Repair techniques and traditions
• Alterations
• Listed Building law
• The architectural detailing of historic buildings
• Building materials

Conservation Areas

1.106 Section 69 of the Planning (Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 imposes a duty on the District Council to consider the designation of "Areas of Special Architectural or Historic Interest", known as "Conservation Areas". The quality and interest of an area will be assessed by examining the following matters:-

• Historic layout of boundaries and routes
• Characteristic materials and forms
• Mix of uses
• Contribution of recent developments
• Hard and soft surfaces.

1.107 Conservation Area designation will recognise the individual importance and interrelationship of all these factors. The government has made it clear that designation is worthless without adequate policies of enhancement and protection. The policies of this local plan will ensure that the quality of the townscape or landscape and the extent to which individual elements contribute to it are adequately considered in the development control process.

1.108 It is very easy to upset the delicate balance and sometimes sensitive character of Conservation Areas or part of a Conservation Area by the loss of individual or groups of features or buildings and the introduction of ill conceived, poorly designed or sited new development. In particular the Council will wish to consider the effect of development on views into, out of and within the Conservation Area and not just the effect on the immediate surroundings. Also the Council will wish to consider the consequential and potentially harmful effects of development, e.g. excessive traffic generation on the character or appearance of the Conservation Area. The Council will pay special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of a Conservation Area and it is incumbent on all those involved to ensure that changes will be for the better.

Policy 1.24

1.109 At the date of publication of the Plan there were 45 Conservation Areas in North Dorset;

1.110 Government advice now states clearly that there is a general presumption in favour of retaining buildings which make a positive contribution to the character or appearance of the Conservation Area. Thus it is expected that proposals to demolish such buildings will be considered against the same criteria as proposals to demolish listed buildings. For cases where a building makes little or no such contribution the District Council will have to be given clear information about what is proposed for the site after demolition. In such instances and for new development sites consent will not be given unless acceptable and detailed plans are submitted.

Policy 1.25

1.111 Demolition of a building will not always be followed immediately by new development. To avoid the appearance of unsightly gaps in Conservation Areas resulting from premature demolition the Council will need to ensure that redevelopment of a satisfactory standard will follow immediately.

1.112 To be able to assess the impact of a development on the character and appearance of a Conservation Area the District Council will need to be provided with detail of the proposal. It is expected that planning applications will be submitted with sufficient detail on the siting, layout, design, use of materials, landscaping and any other details necessary to allow a full understanding of the proposals and the likely effect on the area.

1.113 The quality of new development has been the subject of fierce and long debate. It is clear from the experiences of the past 30 years that in many cases there is considerable scope for improvement, not just in the detailed design but in the form and layout of buildings and the use of materials. To assist in the process of improvement and to provide some principles for assessment of planning applications this Council will produce supplementary planning guidance on the following matters:-

• Design and layout of new buildings
• Alterations and extensions.

1.114 It is the District Council's duty to consider proposals for the enhancement of Conservation Areas. As a part of its role in reviewing the boundaries of existing Conservation Areas and proposing new areas the District Council will ensure that the quality and character of these areas is fully understood by adopting the guidance provided by English Heritage in its publication "Conservation Area Practice" and the advice contained in Planning Policy Guidance Note No. 15 "Planning and the Historic Environment."

1.115 Within Conservation Areas there may be a wide variety of architectural styles or different ways in which the roads are laid out, for example, between a town centre and its suburbs. It is the District Council's intention to identify sub areas indicating boundaries where there is a distinct change in environment, for example in the architectural style or layout of buildings. Understanding and identifying the way in which a town or village has developed will help to ensure that new development and change is appropriate to a particular area maintaining local identity and character.

1.116 The personalising or improving of houses through replacement windows and doors, rendering and stone cladding can have a dramatic and adverse effect on the character and appearance of a Conservation Area. Many such alterations do not normally require planning permission. Serving a Direction under Article 4 of the General Development Order 1988 can bring them under the control of the District Council to ensure that such changes are controlled and managed to the advantage of the area. To maintain local identity and preserve the character and appearance of Conservation Areas or parts of Conservation Areas the District Council will consider the restriction of permitted development rights by the use of Article 4 Directions.

Advertisement Control and Shop Fronts in Conservation Areas

1.117 A number of the District's Conservation Areas incorporate commercial high streets. While it is important to retain the vibrancy and vitality of such centres it is also important and necessary to control the use of advertisements to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of an area or individual buildings.

1.118 Shopfronts and advertisements can make a significant contribution to the character of commercial centres. Traditional shopfronts and advertisements are highly valued elements within town centres and their removal will be resisted. Generally in most historic town centres new shopfronts and advertisements should conform to the same principles of design as the traditional ones. Modern materials, internal illumination and highly stylised lettering will seldom be acceptable. Similarly external security shutters and grilles will seldom be acceptable. The District Council will be producing supplementary planning guidance to establish basic principles and establish criteria for the assessment of planning applications.

Policy 1.26

Policy 1.27

Archaeology

1.119 The District is very rich in archaeological remains from Prehistoric and Roman times, with a continuing wealth of remains in the medieval period. Archaeological remains are a finite and non-renewable resource, and in many cases highly fragile and vulnerable to damage and destruction.

1.120 There are 155 Scheduled Ancient Monuments and many other sites of archaeological interest throughout the District. The County Council holds a site and monuments register which identifies all these sites. Those sites which have been identified are shown on the Proposals Map. The retention and evaluation of these sites is important for the better understanding of the country's social, cultural, economic and architectural history. Consent is required from the Secretary of State for any works which would affect a Scheduled Ancient Monument. In considering any proposals that may affect archaeological remains the District Council will follow the advice contained in PPG 16 Archaeology and Planning.

Policy 1.28

Policy 1.29

1.121 "The following policies apply to those sites defined on the Proposals Maps as Ancient Monuments or Sites of Archaeological Importance".

Policy 1.30

Historic Parks and Gardens

1.122 No statutory control exists for the protection of parks and gardens, but there is a national register compiled by English Heritage which identifies historic parks and gardens of special historic interest.

1.123 There are 5 areas within the District included in the register, two of which are of national interest. There are many other areas, which although not of sufficient interest to be included in the register are of sufficient local interest to merit consideration in the development control process.

1.124 These parks and gardens are key elements in form and character of the landscape as well as being of interest in the history of landscape design. Safeguarding their setting, historic interest and character is essential to the overall conservation objectives of the local authority.

Policy 1.31

(d) Landscape Protection and Ecology

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

1.125 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are designated by the Countryside Commission.
They cover approximately 13% of the total land area of England and Wales. The primary objective of designation is the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape.

1.126 A Countryside Commission policy statement published in 1991 has given greater emphasis to the designation of AONBs and seeks to raise awareness of the designation to ensure that it is given due consideration in the planning process. The statement emphasised that, in landscape terms, AONBs should enjoy equal status with National Parks.

1.127 Around 30% of the North Dorset area is designated under two AONBs (see figure 2); the Dorset AONB and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB; reflecting the national importance of the local landscape. Within the AONBs particular attention will be paid to conserving the local character and scenic quality of the landscape and development will generally be restricted to that essential to maintain the rural economy or desirable for the enjoyment of its amenities. Most forms of major commercial and industrial development (apart from some tourism uses) are likely to have a negative impact upon the special landscape qualities of the AONBs. Where there is an overriding need to introduce development into the AONBs, and the development is acceptable in principle, special emphasis will be placed on scale, location and siting, and a particularly high standard of design and landscaping will be required.

Policy 1.32

Landscape Character Areas

1.128 The conservation of the natural beauty of North Dorset can best be achieved through an appreciation of the distinctive character of different parts of the area. This arises from the geology, landform, drainage, soils and vegetation and the activities of man over the centuries. Based on these factors, broad landscape areas have been identified (outlined in the recent Countryside Commission Landscape Evaluation Study for Dorset). The ability of these areas to accommodate development forms the basis of the following countryside policy. Additional guidance is available in "A New View Of Dorset" (Dorset County Council, 1996). The Landscape Character Areas, which are shown on Figure 3, are;

North Dorset Limestone Ridges

• Low rounded limestone ridges
• Diverse scenery with mixed farming, dense hedgerows, some steep wooded slopes
• Expansive fairly open landscape, but with some enclosed valleys
• Numerous scattered villages and farms

Blackmore Vale

• Very broad, gently undulating clay vale, drained by the R. Stour & its dense network of tributaries
• Fine-grained mosaic of pastures, scattered villages and small woodlands

• Woodlands and fields form an irregular patchwork defined by dense hedgerows, dotted with distinctive mature oak trees

• Domestic, farmland landscape with a dense network of narrow, twisting lanes

Northern Scarp Hills

• Undulating foothills of the north chalk escarpment
• Varied, irregular patchwork of pasture, woodland and dense hedgerows
• Small villages are typically concentrated along the foot of the chalk escarpment
• Enclosed, secluded landscape with no abrupt edges

Chalk Uplands (The Dorset Downs & The Cranborne Chase) and The Chalk Escarpment

• Broad rolling landform with gently curving convex profiles
• Homogenous open landscape with expansive views
• Patchwork of large arable fields, defined by straight, narrow hedges
• Isolated small blocks of woodland with sharp geometric hedges
• Sparsely populated, with a widely spaced network of straight roads
• Marked variations in landscape character and landform along the scarp
• Steep, distinctive chalk margin, affording panoramic views over the surrounding countryside

• Open grassland and extensive blocks of woodland often form distinctive patterns and highly visible landmarks

• Settlements concentrated at the foot of escarpment slopes

Chalk River Valleys

• Chalk valley landform emphasised by agricultural patterns, with arable cultivation on gentle slopes, rough grazing on steep valley sides and pasture on the flat valley floors.

• Secluded and sheltered in character, chalk valleys have more trees than chalk uplands, with patches of woodland and winding ribbons of trees along the stream corridors

• Settlements and roads concentrated on valley floors

• Stour valley characterised by fairly large, open fields, but with a smaller mosaic of fields and copses along the river channels

• Predominantly pasture, but with some arable fields on marginal river terraces
• Settlements and roads concentrated along the outer margins of the valley floor, away from the floodplain.

1.129 The District Council will also take into account the effect of the designation of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Environmentally Sensitive Area when assessing development proposals under the following policy.

Policy 1.33

Protected Areas of Nature Conservation Interest

1.130 The plan area contains a wide range of habitats of nature conservation interest, including a number of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and National Nature Reserves (NNRs). With the continuing pressure on the countryside, it is increasingly important to protect the surviving sites of recognised importance.

International Sites

1.131 Sites of international importance are designated under European Community (EC) Directives. Three sites in North Dorset (Rooksmoor Copse, near Kings Stag,

Melbury and Fontmell Down and Lydlinch Common) are currently proposed for designation as Special Areas of Conservation (SACS) under the EC Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (The Habitats Directive).

1.132 Where a site is considered to be of international importance, economic and recreational requirements must be considered only after ecological, scientific and cultural requirements.

Policy 1.34

National Sites

1.133 Sites such as those designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest are considered to be of national importance. They are notified by English Nature under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and have the purpose of affording protection to some of the most important wildlife areas. There are 13 SSSIs, covering nearly 1000 ha. in the North Dorset District. One of these, Hambledon Hill, is also a National Nature Reserve.

Policy 1.35

Other Sites of Nature Conservation Importance

1.134 There are many areas within the District which, though not statutorily designated, have been identified by local conservation organisations for their substantive nature conservation value. These sites (identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs) in this Local Plan), are important habitats and will be protected from development which would have an adverse impact upon their nature conservation value.

1.135 In addition to the statutory and non-statutory sites, government guidance acknowledges that the wider landscape plays a role in the maintenance of the current range and diversity of our flora, fauna, geological and landform features and the survival of important species. The European "Habitats" Directive encourages the management of these features of the landscape which are of major importance for wild flora and fauna. Examples of such features are rivers with their banks, traditional field boundary systems (such as hedgerows), ponds and small woods.

Policy 1.36

Policy 1.37

Protected Species and their Habitats

1.136 Proposals for development may affect the habitats of species protected by Acts of Parliament such as bats, barn owls, badgers and certain plants. It is considered important to protect these species by additional controls on development. For example, in considering proposals for the re-use of redundant buildings, a survey should be undertaken by or on behalf of the applicant to establish whether bats or barn owls are using this favoured habitat. Developers will be responsible for undertaking and submitting habitat surveys by reputable organisations.

1.137 When considering relevant development proposals the Council will seek and act on the advice of wildlife conservation bodies, in order to safeguard the habitats of protected species or determine appropriate mitigatory works such as the provision of alternative nesting and roosting boxes.

1.138 Increasingly, ‘Biodiversity Action Plans’ (BAP) are being used to help promote nature conservation aims under the aegis of Local Agenda 21. A Draft Biodiversity Action Plan for Dorset has been published, but has not yet been formally adopted. In the absence of a County-wide or District BAP, the Authority will have regard to the UK’s and the Regional BAPs.

Policy 1.38

Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA)

1.139 These areas are designated by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, in order to promote conservation practices in the farming industry in areas of high landscape, ecological and archaeological value. The South Wessex Downs ESA was designated in 1993 and covers the high downland plateau and scarp slopes of the Dorset Downs and the Cranborne Chase. Their designation does not introduce additional planning controls. The extent of the designated area is shown on Figure 2. Within the South Wessex Downs ESA, the conservation of those landscape, wildlife and historic features which contributed to the designation of the area as an ESA should be respected by development proposals. (See Policy 1.33).

Tree Preservation

1.140 Statutory powers are available to protect trees. Most trees within Conservation Areas already have some protection under this designation but these and other trees may be given the extra protection afforded by Tree Preservation Orders. Anyone wishing to lop, top or fell a protected tree requires consent from the Council.

1.141 Tree Preservation Orders may be made in respect of individual trees, groups of trees or whole woodlands (also as areas, especially where development may pose an imminent threat) in the interest of preserving public amenity. Individual trees in towns and villages make a significant contribution to the character and appearance of an area and their loss is often very noticeable. In open countryside in areas which are generally more wooded, the loss of individual trees can be more easily accommodated without harming the amenity or character of the area.

1.142 Priority will be given to the protection of trees in the more vulnerable locations within towns and villages. The making of a Tree Preservation Order on individual trees in the countryside will be considered where the tree is clearly visible from public viewpoints, makes a significant contribution to the character of the area and is under threat of felling. The Authority will also have regard to the need to conserve local biodiversity particularly for wildlife interests in operating this policy.

Policy 1.39

Landscaping of New Development

1.143 Trees are an important and integral part of the urban and rural scene providing colour and shape to the spaces between buildings, enhancing the qualities of new development and helping to secure a successful relationship between buildings and the open countryside.

1.144 Planting of suitable species of trees and other landscaping in association with new development sites can make a worthwhile contribution to environmental improvement and nature conservation.
All significant new development (over 0.1 ha.) will require the implementation of a comprehensive landscaping scheme.

1.145 Where existing trees are a significant landscape feature on any development site, the District Council will expect a full tree survey to form part of a submitted planning application.

Policy 1.40

Amenity Tree Planting

1.146 Protection of existing trees is not enough to ensure the long term survival of our tree population so positive action is required to ensure that new trees are planted. Grant aid for this is available from various sources, and the District Council will continue to give advice as to the most appropriate source of funding for a particular scheme.

1.147 In accordance with the Conservation Strategy, the District Council's own fund for amenity trees will continue to subsidise tree planting of indigenous or naturalised species by members of the public or other interested bodies such as schools and civic societies.

1.148 As part of its tree management strategy, the District Council is co-ordinating the long term re-establishment of the former Royal Forest of Gillingham. As a Community Woodland the project aims to combine private, voluntary and public interests in the Gillingham Forest area to conserve and enhance the environment while providing the impetus to appropriate economic and recreation developments.

1.149 Proposals for the planting of native woodland species and the planting of specimen trees within towns and villages will be generally encouraged except where there would be a net loss in nature conservation interest.

Policy 1.41

Forestry Planting

1.150 The forests within the District have a considerable recreational and landscape value, as well as silvicultural value. While it is accepted that timber production should remain a priority, it is important that forestry proposals conserve and where appropriate enhance their historic, wildlife and landscape value. Recently the Government has endorsed the publication of the Forestry Commission’s UK Forestry Standard which strives to increase the profile that forestry can make towards sustainable development.

1.151 Within the Plan area, the District Council is consulted on all forestry applications, including clear felling and planting design, except those that are covered by felling license exemptions. Forestry proposals which involve either felling or afforestation will be opposed if they would;

• have a detrimental effect on landscape character particularly within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• adversely affect the nature conservation or archaeological value of a site
• adversely affect an existing ancient semi-natural woodland
• remove existing public access to a site.

Footnotes:

1 District Wide Local Plan – Environmental and Sustainability Appraisal May 1998

2 See Appendix "Residential Design Guideline Summary"

* Special planning guidance on design and form of shopfronts and advertisements will be prepared by the local authority