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6: The Natural Environment

Introduction

6.01 Poole’s natural environment is one of its most distinctive, valuable and attractive features. The Borough possesses a unique character in which coast, town and countryside all play a part. Open countryside occupies the northern third of the Borough and the shores of Poole Harbour and Poole Bay define its southern boundary. Much of the town enjoys outstanding views of water, islands and distant hills. Natural features are also very much a part of the character of the town: in the wooded chines and low-density development of Branksome Park; in the linear open spaces which feature in many new developments; and in the Sites of Special Scientific Interest within the town.

6.02 Much of Poole’s natural environment is widely valued in terms of its landscape and habitat. A significant part of the Harbour landscape is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and contains extensive sections which are designated as Heritage Coast, while the habitats of the principal Sites of Special Scientific Interest, the heaths and the Harbour, are of international importance.

6.03 In an area of such mixed character it is inevitable that the treatment of the natural environment will appear in a number of different parts of the Local Plan and so references are made in this Chapter to relevant aspects contained elsewhere. This Chapter deals with land use implications which relate to principal elements of the natural environment: the Green Belt; nature conservation for habitats and species; the coast; management and improvement of the natural environment; trees and woodlands; the urban green environment; and water environment.

Strategic Framework

6.04 The Government sets out its overall aims for the national and global environment in the White Paper 'This Common Inheritance'. More specifically, Planning Policy Guidance Note 12: Development Plans and Regional Planning Guidance states that "a major responsibility is to ensure that development plans are drawn up in such a way as to take environmental considerations comprehensively and consistently into account".

6.05 The control of pollution, water quality, flooding and contaminated land are identified as issues for development plans in Planning Policy Guidance Note 12. Such issues may have implications for the natural environment. Chapter 9 contains policies relating to pollution control, including air and water contamination.

6.06 Planning Policy Guidance Note 20: Coastal Policy deals specifically with coastal zone planning and management. It identifies uses which are considered suitable for the coastal zone and suggests ways of reconciling the sometimes competing interests of recreation and nature conservation. Where there is irreconcilable conflict between these two, conservation should take precedence.

6.07 Planning Policy Guidance Note 7: The Countryside - Environmental Quality and Economic and Social Development reiterates the Government’s policies for the countryside, as set out in the White Paper Rural England: a Nation Committed to a Living Countryside, which are based on ensuring both rural prosperity and the protection and enhancement of the character of the countryside. There are six key principles underlying these objectives, which include the pursuit of sustainable development, distinctiveness of rural character, and economic and social diversity. PPG7 states that local planning authorities should take account of any statutory designation when considering appropriate development plan policies. Key issues that need to be considered also include protecting landscape, wildlife and historic features, and safeguarding the best and most versatile agricultural land, defined as land in grades 1, 2 and 3a).

6.08 The revised Planning Policy Guidance Note 2: Green Belts, emphasises that only appropriate development should take place in the Green Belt. This is supported by Planning Policy Guidance Note 17: Sport and Recreation. The revised Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 deletes "institutions in extensive grounds" from the list of appropriate uses and replaces "other uses appropriate to a rural area" with "essential facilities...for other uses of land which preserve the openness of the Green Belt and which do not conflict with the purposes of including land in it". It also recognises that new uses for existing buildings will not generally prejudice the openness of the Green Belt.

6.09 Planning Policy Guidance Note 3: Housing, recognises the need to balance the conservation of green space against the need for development. It states: "there can be no question of sacrificing the green spaces which all towns and cities need for recreation and amenity". Parks, playing fields, informal open spaces, allotments and private gardens can all be of great importance to the character of a neighbourhood and can provide valuable opportunities for recreation in heavily populated areas. This theme is further developed in Planning Policy Guidance Note 17, which sees the value of open space not only as an amenity, but also "as a contribution to the conservation of the natural and built heritage of the area".

6.10 Planning Policy Guidance Note 9: Nature Conservation, highlights the importance of achieving effective conservation of wildlife and natural features while making adequate provision for development and economic growth. Wildlife heritage is not confined to the various statutorily designated sites and so cannot be sustained solely by site protection.

6.11 In 1998 the Government welcomed Recommendation 67 of the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention which it saw as supporting its own efforts to conserve, maintain and enhance the value of heathlands. This related to the Spot Appraisal of the Dorset Heathlands and includes a policy framework to commit the UK Government to protect and improve existing Dorset Heathlands and create new heathland. For heathlands in the suburban eastern part of Dorset, the recommendation draws upon a wide range of agencies in order to achieve this undertaking in a co-ordinated, holistic manner. Measures include the avoidance of further development close to heathland, avoidance of new roads close to heathland, creation of buffer zones, the provision of suitable recreation/amenity space in new development to avert pressure away from heathland, the avoidance of mineral extraction, the presence of wardens, the imaginative use of fire breaks, the stimulation of school involvement, police involvement, the recording of uncontrolled fires and post fire heathland restoration. Whilst some of these measures are outside the land use planning system, those that are prevalent, are broadly reflected in the policies of this plan, whether it be through nature conservation designation or policies particular to heathland environs.

6.12 The Structure Plan emphasises the importance of accommodating development within the built up area of South East Dorset as contained by the Green Belt (Settlement Policy D). The Green Belt is "to protect the separate physical identity of individual settlements… and to maintain an area of open land around the conurbation" (Settlement Policy E). The Structure Plan also supports the protection of open spaces in urban areas, including a network of greenspaces in the Bournemouth-Poole conurbation (Environment Policy I).

6.13 The Structure Plan states that provision should be made for the expansion and replanting of forests and woodlands. This should be in sympathy with important natural habitats and the wider character of the local landscape (Environment Policy P).

6.14 The Structure Plan supports the provision for, and improvements to, facilities for marine recreation in coastal resorts (including Poole), provided that environmental and other interests are not prejudiced. It also recognises the role of the Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan as a document designed to manage competing interests.

Objectives

6.15 The objectives of Poole Local Plan are:

• to define the detailed boundary of the Green Belt and thereafter to ensure that its principal functions are maintained and protected;
• to ensure that the protection and management of valuable natural features, including trees, landscape features, heathland and wildlife conservation are taken fully into account in all planning actions and decisions;
• to protect and conserve the unique landscape qualities and wildlife value of Poole Harbour and the coastal zone;
• to protect greenspace in the urban and coastal areas, and conserve its character, landscape quality and wildlife value;
• to ensure, as far as possible, the satisfactory management of trees, open spaces and natural habitats, and to encourage and educate public interest in conservation; and
• to carry out an on-going programme of environmental improvements aimed at upgrading the natural environment of the Borough.

The Impact of Development on the Natural and Built Environment

6.16 Development can have an adverse impact upon both the natural and built environment. This can happen at the strategic and global level, examples being the effect of a major development on travel patterns, and the cumulative impact of all development on global warming. It can also occur in a direct sense, such as the effect of noise emissions or pollution on neighbours. These issues are all relevant to the responsibilities of the planning system in trying to promote a sustainable pattern of development. It is relevant, therefore, for the planning system to influence development in a way that protects the natural and built environment. Policy NE1 is aimed specifically at reducing the more tangible consequences of development where there is a risk that such development may be detrimental to people or the environment. In the main, such consequences will be most likely to arise from pollution or noise disturbance. Other environmental issues that relate to sustainable development, such as energy efficiency, reducing the need to travel, protection of natural assets and promoting a high quality built environment are covered elsewhere in the Plan.

6.17 The planning system has an important role to play in determining the location of development which may give rise to pollution as a result of harmful releases to water, land or air, or from dust, vibration, light or heat. It should also have regard to the suitability of development proposals which are in proximity to potential sources of pollution. The role of the planning system focuses on whether development which is proposed is an acceptable use of land rather than the control of the processes or substances themselves. Planning Policy Guidance Note 23: Planning and Pollution Control contains guidance on pollution matters, including the relationship between controls over development under planning law and under pollution control legislation. The planning system should not duplicate other controls and so guidance on liaison procedures between planning authorities and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Pollution (now the Environment Agency) is dealt with by Annex 8 of PPG23. (Note that Chapter 9 of the Local Plan also deals with pollution issues).

6.18 As with pollution, proposals for potentially noisy developments should be located in areas where noise is not such an important consideration or where its impact can be minimised. Equally, noise-sensitive development should be located away from existing sources of significant noise. Planning Policy Guidance Note 24: Planning and Noise, advises that housing, hospitals and schools should generally be regarded as noise-sensitive development. PPG24 goes on to introduce the concept of Noise Exposure Categories (NEC’s) which range from A-D. This guidance will be used to inform the determination of planning applications if it is considered that noise may be a material factor, having regard to the type and location of development proposed. Where there is an opportunity to mitigate the impact of noise through the use of planning conditions, this will be considered if it is appropriate to the nature and location of development.

NE1 POLLUTION AND NOISE

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE GRANTED FOR DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE NATURAL OR BUILT ENVIRONMENT BY VIRTUE OF NOISE, LIGHT, SMOKE, FUMES, DUST OR OTHER EMISSIONS UNLESS MEASURES ARE INCLUDED WHICH ALLEVIATE OR PREVENT THE POTENTIAL IMPACT.

Green Belt

6.19 The concept of Green Belt as a means of restricting the sprawl of urban areas and safeguarding areas of countryside around towns appeared in the form of a Government Circular in 1955. The South East Dorset Green Belt which surrounds Poole to the north and west was established in the South East Dorset Structure Plan, adopted in 1980. Its detailed definition is the responsibility of the Local Plan.

6.20 Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 identifies five purposes of including land within the Green Belt.

These are:

• to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built up areas;
• to prevent neighbouring towns from merging into one another;
• to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
• to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
• to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

6.21 In Poole the Green Belt serves to protect the separate physical identity of individual settlements in the area by maintaining wedges and corridors of open land between them. It additionally provides open land around the built up area which has leisure and amenity benefits for Poole’s residents. In securing this land, the Green Belt designation can play a positive role in the retention of attractive landscapes, securing nature conservation interests, the retention of land in agricultural uses, and encouraging efficient use of land within existing urban areas.

6.22 Open land of a rural character occupies most of the northern third of the Borough and is made up of a mixture of agricultural land along the Stour Valley, an extensive area of broken woodland, and large areas of heathland. All of this open land is designated as Green Belt. In addition, there is a significant area which forms a ‘strategic gap’ between Upton and Creekmoor and despite its location retains a rural character. It provides a link from Holes Bay to the open countryside of Upton Heath. Lastly, there are significant areas of Green Belt on the shores of Lytchett Bay and Holes Bay.

6.23 The Council considers that there is a need to enhance the quality and value of the Green Belt. This can be achieved through appropriate landscape and habitat improvement and management work, and by improving the opportunities for public access and quiet enjoyment.

6.24 The general extent of the Green Belt has been established in the Structure Plan, which states in Settlement Policy F that "The inner boundary of the Green Belt will generally follow the edge of the main urban area as extended by the development proposed in the Plan". The detailed inner boundary of the Green Belt has been drawn in this Local Plan having regard to:

i) Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions’ advice;

ii) the Structure Plan;

iii) the Green Belt boundaries defined in the adjacent Bournemouth, East Dorset and Purbeck Local Plans;

iv) the need to protect the separate physical identity of Wimborne, Merley, Broadstone, Bearwood and South Canford Heath, Upton, Creekmoor and Corfe Mullen;

v) the desirability of physically well defined and defensible boundaries which will guarantee permanence; and

vi) the protection of the character and openness of the Green Belt and its associated visual amenity which additionally benefits important adjacent areas such as Lytchett Bay.

6.25 Extensions to existing dwellings are considered to be appropriate development in the Green Belt provided that they do not result in disproportionate additions over and above the size of the original building (i.e. the original building prior to any extensions that have been built since 1947). Consequently, where an extension to a dwelling that has previously been extended is proposed, it will be considered having regard to the cumulative impact of all additions to the original dwelling.

6.26 Whether an extension constitutes a disproportionate addition will be assessed having regard to the scale and setting of the dwelling and the character of the surrounding area. In these respects extensions should be reasonable and proportionate additions in keeping with the character of the dwelling and should be appropriate to its particular Green Belt setting. Any proposed extensions should not increase significantly the visual bulk, massing or height of the existing building. In the case of a large, detached property in a prominent, open part of the Green Belt, for example, a significant extension would be likely to be highly visible and may impinge upon the open character of the Green Belt. On the other hand, an extension to a very small dwelling that is close to a number of larger dwellings may have only a negligible impact upon the open character of the Green Belt. Sensitive and discrete design will be important as this may serve to minimise potential impact upon the open character of the Green Belt.

NE2 NEW BUILDINGS IN THE GREEN BELT

WITHIN THE GREEN BELT, AS DEFINED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, APPROVAL WILL NOT BE GIVEN, EXCEPT IN VERY EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW BUILDINGS FOR PURPOSES OTHER THAN AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY, ESSENTIAL FACILITIES FOR OUTDOOR SPORT AND RECREATION, CEMETERIES, LIMITED EXTENSION, ALTERATION OR REPLACEMENT OF EXISTING DWELLINGS, LIMITED INFILLING OR REDEVELOPMENT OF MAJOR EXISTING DEVELOPED SITES IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, AND OTHER USES WHICH DO NOT COMPROMISE THE PURPOSES OF INCLUDING LAND WITHIN THE GREEN BELT.

6.27 If an application is made for any development in the Green Belt, it is vital that its scale, intensity of use and visual impact are compatible with the Green Belt setting. Essential facilities for sport and recreation are outlined in Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 and they should be of a size and scale appropriate to Green Belt land and there should be a genuine requirement for them. For instance, some uses may require a parking area and the way this is laid out, screened and surfaced can affect the character of the Green Belt. Hence, whether proposals are for new buildings in uses allowed under Policy NE2, or are for the alteration, change of use, diversification or otherwise of existing sites and buildings, it is important that the openness and character of the Green Belt is not harmed. At the same time proposals need to be acceptable in terms of normal planning criteria such as parking, access, amenity and landscaping.

NE3 OPEN CHARACTER OF THE GREEN BELT

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE GRANTED FOR PROPOSALS IN THE GREEN BELT WHICH, AS A RESULT OF SITING, DESIGN OR LANDSCAPING:

i) WOULD PREJUDICE THE OPENNESS OF THE GREEN BELT AND/OR COMPROMISE THE PURPOSES OF INCLUDING LAND WITHIN THE GREEN BELT; AND/OR

ii) FAIL TO RESPECT THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE.

6.28 Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 indicates that the extension, alteration and replacement of dwellings are not inappropriate developments in the Green Belt and they are allowed for in Policy NE2, above. The Guidance Note also indicates that there should not be disproportionate additions over and above the size of the original buildings. Similarly, a replacement dwelling should not be significantly larger than the dwelling that it replaces. In addition, in certain circumstances the re-use of buildings may avoid vandalism and dereliction and may promote the continuing stewardship of the countryside. The re-use of buildings can also help to diversify the rural economy by providing sites for suitable employment premises or tourist facilities.

6.29 In such cases the proposed development should not have a materially greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt, nor should the 6 activity and any associated use of land or any extensions conflict with the openness of the Green Belt and the purposes of including land within it. Re-used buildings should be capable of conversion without major or complete reconstruction and the form, bulk and general design of the buildings should be in keeping with their surroundings. Changes of use from agriculture to residential are most frequent but there may be occasions when changes to employment use will be acceptable, particularly where working from home is likely to encourage sustainable development. The acceptability of such changes will be judged on the criteria set out in Policy NE3 and Policy NE4.

6.30 The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 grants agricultural units the ability to construct buildings for agricultural purposes, up to certain limits, without the need for planning permission. Thus, if proposals are submitted for non-agricultural use of agricultural buildings, there may be a risk that subsequent farm buildings constructed under permitted development rights could have a detrimental impact upon the Green Belt. Consequently, when proposals for the re-use of farm buildings are made, regard will be had to the potential impact of any subsequent implementation of agricultural permitted development rights within that particular agricultural unit. If it is felt that this impact would be significantly increased as a result of the re-use of existing buildings, then a condition may be placed upon consents to remove permitted development rights where there is a possibility that the implementation of such rights could conflict with the aims of Policy NE3. If there is a need to remove permitted development rights from a larger part of the agricultural unit than is actually covered by the planning application boundary, then, in exceptional circumstances, it may be necessary to secure this through a Section 106 Legal Agreement.

NE4 EXISTING BUILDINGS IN THE GREEN BELT

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL BE GRANTED FOR THE CONVERSION, ALTERATION AND CHANGE OF USE OF BUILDINGS IN THE GREEN BELT PROVIDED THAT:

i) THE DEVELOPMENT IS NOT SIGNIFICANTLY LARGER THAN THE EXISTING BUILDING;

ii) THE DEVELOPMENT AND THE ACTIVITY ASSOCIATED WITH IT DOES NOT HAVE A MATERIALLY GREATER IMPACT ON THE OPENNESS OF THE GREEN BELT AND THE PURPOSES OF INCLUDING LAND WITHIN IT THAN THE EXISTING BUILDING;

iii) EXCEPT IN THE CASE OF REPLACEMENT DWELLINGS, THE NECESSARY CONVERSION OR ALTERATION CAN BE ACHIEVED WITHOUT MAJOR OR COMPLETE RECONSTRUCTION; AND

iv) THE FORM, BULK AND GENERAL DESIGN OF THE DEVELOPMENT IS IN KEEPING WITH THE SURROUNDING CHARACTER.

IN THE CASE OF AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS, THE REMOVAL OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS PERMITTED UNDER THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (GENERAL PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT) ORDER 1995 MAY BE CONSIDERED FOR PART OR ALL OF THE AGRICULTURAL UNIT TO WHICH THE APPLICATION RELATES IF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SUCH RIGHTS WOULD CONFLICT WITH THE CRITERIA SET OUT ABOVE.

6.31 Government advice (Planning Policy Guidance Note 2: Green Belts) indicates that where major developed sites already exist within the Green Belt it may be necessary to define an envelope within which limited infilling would be appropriate. This will enable these uses to continue to contribute to the local community and its economy. Two such uses exist within the Green Belt identified on the Proposals Map: Canford School and Corfe Hills School. It is essential that these schools are allowed to continue to satisfactorily meet educational needs provided that the Green Belt is not prejudiced.

NE5 MAJOR DEVELOPED SITES IN THE GREEN BELT

AT MAJOR DEVELOPED SITES WITHIN THE GREEN BELT, AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, LIMITED INFILLING WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT IT:

i) LIES WITHIN THE ENVELOPE IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP;

ii) IS ANCILLARY TO THE EXISTING USE;

iii) DOES NOT EXCEED THE HEIGHT OF THE MAIN SCHOOL BUILDING, IN THE CASE OF CORFE HILLS SCHOOL, AND DOES NOT AFFECT THE SETTING OF THE LISTED BUILDINGS, AND DISTANT VIEWS OF THEM, IN THE CASE OF CANFORD SCHOOL;

IV) HAS NO GREATER IMPACT ON THE PURPOSES OF INCLUDING LAND WITHIN THE GREEN BELT THAN THE EXISTING DEVELOPMENT; AND

v) DOES NOT LEAD TO A MAJOR INCREASE IN THE DEVELOPED PROPORTION OF THE SITE.

North Poole

6.32 Land at North Poole was previously safeguarded in the 1998 adopted Poole Local Plan for later comprehensive development for housing and employment uses. North Poole is identified at paragraph 6.36 of the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan, July 2000 as a potential housing site for 750 dwellings. The development of this area was dependent on the A31 to Poole Link Road which identified the western boundary of North Poole and the interim boundary to the Green Belt.

6.33 RPG10: Regional Planning Guidance for the South West was adopted in September 2001 and this is informing the current Structure Plan Review. Policy SS4 maintains a commitment to the role of Green Belts in the region, but states that, in preparing their development plans, local authorities should 'critically review the Green Belt to examine whether boundary alterations are needed to allow for long term sustainable development needs'. The policy goes on to state that this could include removing or adding land to the Green Belt. Such a review is taking place as part of the Structure Plan Review and safeguarding the land at North Poole for future development could serve to prejudge the outcome of this. The Structure Plan Review will, therefore, determine the future of North Poole and the Local Plan will cease to safeguard this site. Instead, only development which would normally be permitted in the Green Belt will be considered. This will ensure that development appropriate in the Green Belt will be allowed and that development which might prejudge the outcome of the Review will be resisted.

NE6 NORTH POOLE

PENDING THE OUTCOME OF THE STRUCTURE PLAN REVIEW (OR ITS REPLACEMENT) AND SUBSEQUENT LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK, DEVELOPMENT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED ON LAND AT NORTH POOLE, IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, UNLESS FOR PURPOSES APPROPRIATE IN THE GREEN BELT.

Green Belt Special Policy Area: Arrowsmith Road

6.34 Arrowsmith Road and its immediate environs has a low density settlement pattern which is made up primarily of residential properties on large plots. It was, for about twenty five years, the subject of a policy eventually included in the District Plan for Poole, Corfe Mullen and Upton (1979) which restricted development to one dwelling on not less than 5 acres of land. The sporadic nature of development and its largely open character contributes to the purpose of including it within the Green Belt. This area is bounded in the north by Canford Magna and in the south by the Canford Heath Site of Special Scientific Interest. This settlement pattern is well-defined in its character and physical extent and many activities which are normally deemed acceptable within the Green Belt are not represented here. Thus, in order to ensure that the character of Arrowsmith Road is retained, there is a need to resist some types of activity which have the potential to both alter this character and adversely affect the amenities of existing residents. Agricultural operations such as intensive livestock units, or some types of sporting pursuits, as well as some other commercial uses suited to the Green Belt, could lead to increased traffic, noise disturbance, visual impact, and a level of activity incompatible with the character of the area. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the subdivision of dwellings which might be permitted under policy NE13 does not result in plots of less than 2 hectares with the result that the established character of the area might be harmed.

NE7 ARROWSMITH ROAD

WITHIN THE AREA BOUNDED BY GRAVEL HILL, QUEEN ANNE DRIVE AND THE CANFORD HEATH SITE OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST, AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE GRANTED FOR DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS, INCLUDING THOSE ACTIVITIES IDENTIFIED IN POLICY NE2, WHICH ARE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL CHARACTER OF THE AREA AND/ OR RESULT IN ANY DWELLING HAVING A PLOT SIZE SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN 2 HECTARES.

Green Belt Special Policy Area: Land North of Broadstone Golf Course

6.35 A modified Green Belt policy will also apply in the area between Broadstone and Merley. This retains a predominantly rural character which does not share the types of use which may occur in the urban fringe. If, however, it was to encounter an influx of some types of recreational activities, the rural character may well be lost. In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to resist some activities, particularly outdoor recreation facilities, which are becoming common in many urban fringe areas. These include team games which generate noise, regularly attract traffic and a large number of people. Such activities usually require additional buildings for ancillary facilities such as changing rooms, floodlights, car parking and social events. Informal pursuits should not be affected by the following policy.

NE8 LAND NORTH OF BROADSTONE GOLF COURSE

WITHIN THE AREA BOUNDED BY THE RIVER STOUR, THE TRAILWAY, THE BOROUGH BOUNDARY AND THE EDGES OF BROADSTONE GOLF COURSE AND MERLEY AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE GRANTED FOR ANY FORMAL RECREATION ACTIVITY WHICH WOULD REQUIRE SIGNIFICANT ANCILLARY BUILDINGS OR CAR PARKING, AND WOULD CONFLICT WITH THE RURAL CHARACTER OF THE AREA.

Agriculture and the Character of the Countryside

6.36 The majority of agricultural land lies in the northern part of the Borough, most of which is classified as Grade 3 under the (former) Ministry of Agriculture’s Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) system. However, there are patches of Grade 1 and Grade 2 land in the north-western corner of the Borough. A high priority is placed upon the best and most versatile agricultural land. This is land falling within Grades 1, 2 and 3a of the ALC system. The Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) will be consulted in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) Order 1995 when development proposals would result in the loss of agricultural land.

6.37 The Green Belt within the Borough contains Poole’s urban fringe. This is the area on the edge of towns where a mix of uses sharing both urban and rural characteristics may exist. In such locations the scope and pressure for diversification of agricultural land is likely to be greater than in the more isolated rural locations, due to the ease of accessibility to a large urban population. Diversification of agriculture can have important benefits for the rural economy. However, it is important that this does not compromise the purposes of including land within the Green Belt, for instance as a result of inappropriate buildings, car parking, or means of enclosure, and that the best and most versatile land is retained for agricultural production.

6.38 Planning Policy Guidance Note 7 states that development of the best and most versatile agricultural land should not be permitted unless opportunities have been assessed for accommodating development needs on previously developed sites, on land within the boundaries of existing developed areas, and on poorer quality farmland. Development on grades 1, 2 and 3a agricultural land should only be permitted in exceptional circumstances. The Council will consult with DEFRA and other relevant bodies where all alternative locations for the development proposal have been exhausted. If land in grades 1, 2 or 3a does need to be developed, and there is a choice between sites of different grades, development should be directed towards land of the lowest grade, except where other sustainability considerations suggest otherwise.

NE9 AGRICULTURAL LAND

DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD RESULT IN THE LOSS OF THE BEST AND MOST VERSATILE AGRICULTURAL LAND (GRADES 1, 2 AND 3a) WILL NOT BE PERMITTED UNLESS:

i) THERE ARE NO OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE EXISTING URBAN AREA OR ON OTHER PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED SITES; AND

ii) IT TAKES PLACE ON THE LOWEST AVAILABLE GRADE OF AGRICULTURAL LAND, EXCEPT WHERE SUSTAINABILITY CONSIDERATIONS OUTWEIGH THE AGRICULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS.

6.39 The character of the countryside has a close relationship with agriculture. The Government’s policy is that the best and most versatile agricultural land should be protected and, in addition to this, that the countryside should be safeguarded for its own sake. Poole’s agricultural land falls within the Green Belt and so its use potentially has some bearing both on the character of the countryside and upon the openness of the Green Belt. It will be important, therefore, not only to protect the best and most versatile agricultural land, but also to ensure that the development or change of use of agricultural land and buildings does not harm the character of the countryside.

NE10 AGRICULTURE AND THE CHARACTER OF THE COUNTRYSIDE

PROPOSALS THAT CONCERN THE DEVELOPMENT, CONVERSION OR CHANGE OF USE OF AGRICULTURAL LAND AND BUILDINGS WILL BE EXPECTED TO MAINTAIN OR ENHANCE THE CONTRIBUTION THAT THE SITE MAKES TO THE CHARACTER OF THE COUNTRYSIDE.

6.40 In cases where the use of land for riding and stabling of horses is not for agricultural purposes, planning permission may be required. Such activities may, for instance, be associated with recreational or commercial use and it will be important that this form of diversification is resisted if not in keeping with the Green Belt setting. Where, however, it can be demonstrated that some diversification would not threaten the openness of the Green Belt then such proposals may be acceptable. In considering proposals, regard will be had to the issues covered by policies NE3 and NE9. For instance, the size and number of stable buildings will be an important consideration, as will the extent and type of fencing which is proposed. There will thus be advantages in making use of existing farm buildings.

NE11 EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL BE GRANTED FOR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES AND THE KEEPING OF HORSES FOR PURPOSES OTHER THAN AGRICULTURE PROVIDED THAT THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT MAINTAINS OR, WHERE POSSIBLE, IMPROVES THE OPEN CHARACTER OF THE GREEN BELT, AND DOES NOT HARM THE VIABILITY OF AN AGRICULTURAL UNIT OR RESULT IN THE LOSS OF BEST AND MOST VERSATILE AGRICULTURAL LAND.

Housing for Agricultural Workers in the Green Belt

6.41 Whilst recognising a possible need for some agricultural workers’ dwellings in the Green Belt, the Council is concerned to avoid the suburbanisation and intensified levels of use which may result, particularly when holdings are fragmented into smaller, independent units. The Council is anxious to ensure that dwellings should be no more intrusive and, therefore, no larger than is strictly necessary to house a worker and his or her immediate family. In addition, the Council will seek to ensure that existing or new agricultural workers' dwellings are not separated from the parent landholding.

NE12 HOUSING FOR AGRICULTURAL WORKERS IN THE GREEN BELT

NEW HOUSING FOR WORKERS IN AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY OR HORTICULTURE WILL ONLY BE PERMITTED IN THE GREEN BELT WHERE SUCH DEVELOPMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR OPERATIONAL REASONS.

The Subdivision and Replacement of Dwellings in the Green Belt

6.42 The residential settlement pattern within the Green Belt is generally of a low density, and this is consistent with the need to retain the openness of land within the Green Belt. Any intensification, by way of conversion of existing dwellings into a greater number of units or, in some circumstances, replacement dwellings may consequently have an impact upon this character. There may be a requirement for more parking, an increase in activity, fragmentation of the grounds to form fenced gardens, and alterations to the building such that it appears to be more intensively used. This will not be appropriate if it is proposed in a manner which compromises the purposes of including land within the Green Belt. Where, however, proposals would not have a materially greater impact than the present use on the openness of the Green Belt and the purposes of including land within it, and the form, bulk and general design of the buildings, as converted, would be in keeping with their surroundings, then planning permission will be granted.

NE13 SUBDIVISION OF DWELLINGS IN THE GREEN BELT

THE SUBDIVISION OF DWELLINGS IN THE GREEN BELT TO FORM SMALLER DWELLINGS WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT THE RESULTING BUILDINGS AND LEVEL OF ACTIVITY ARE IN KEEPING WITH THE SURROUNDINGS, AND THE OPEN CHARACTER OF THE AREA IS MAINTAINED. SIMILARLY, REPLACEMENT DWELLINGS WILL BE PERMITTED WHERE THE SCALE, SITING, MATERIALS AND DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT MAINTAIN OR, WHERE POSSIBLE, IMPROVE THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE SURROUNDINGS.

Upton Country Park and Upton Park Farm

6.43 Upton Country Park is an important visitor attraction within the Green Belt. The grounds of Upton House are quiet and secluded and give an impression of remoteness from the urban environment. The Council purchased the farm for the purposes of improving its facilities and promoting it as a non-intensive recreational attraction while also ensuring that the open and secluded character is maintained. These will continue to be guiding principles for the Council in dealing with Upton Country Park and the surrounding farm.

NE14 UPTON COUNTRY PARK AND FARM

PROPOSALS FOR APPROPRIATE DEVELOPMENT AT UPTON COUNTRY PARK AND THE SURROUNDING FARM, INCLUDING ANY EXTENSION TO THE COUNTRY PARK, WILL BE PERMITTED SUBJECT TO THE PURPOSE OF INCLUDING THE LAND WITHIN THE GREEN BELT BEING PROTECTED.

6.44 The agricultural land surrounding Upton Country Park is important in forming a barrier between the Park and the urban development to the west and south, maintaining the rural environment of the House and grounds and as part of the "strategic gap" between Creekmoor and Upton. A leisure/tourist attraction would be an appropriate alternative use to agriculture on the farmland to the west and south-west of the Park, on condition that it is compatible with the maintenance of the existing character of the Country Park. There is the possibility of an extension to the grounds of Upton Country Park which may include the farm buildings and adjacent land in Purbeck District.

6.45 It is likely that built facilities required for any interpretive/display, reception, staff or workshop/sales facilities ancillary to the use of the land, would utilise the existing farm buildings south of Upton Road and that these buildings would retain their existing agricultural character.
An appropriate commercial element will be considered if compatible with the leisure/tourist use and the Green Belt setting. Proposals will be expected to promote the Park’s accessibility to, and enjoyment by, the public.

Nature Conservation

6.46 Although much of Poole is urbanised it has an outstanding nature conservation resource which includes sites of national and international significance: the Harbour, Lytchett Bay, Holes Bay and areas of heathland, as well as other sites of importance. If sustainability is to be pursued as an objective, it is necessary to ensure that this resource is retained and protected.

6.47 Wildlife conservation involves the protection both of areas of wildlife habitat and of protected species. It also requires the effective management of sites so that their wildlife interest can be maintained. For example, invasive species can easily result in the loss of more sensitive flora and fauna if not controlled.

6.48 The Local Plan has a strong commitment to safeguarding areas of nature conservation value and protected species. The Council will manage its own land in a responsible manner and will seek agreements with private landowners that will ensure the retention and enhancement of wildlife habitats. The Landscape and Natural Environment Design Code (On Trees, Open Space, Wildlife and Landscape Design) provides advice to developers including issues relating to development that may affect heathland or protected species. The Council has also worked with local conservation bodies and there is a local commitment to produce a nature conservation strategy for Poole.

6.49 Planning Policy Guidance Note 9: Nature Conservation, states that local plans should identify relevant international, national and local nature conservation interests and ensure that the protection and enhancement of those interests is properly provided for in development and land-use policies. These should place particular emphasis on the strength of protection afforded to international designations. Local planning authorities are required to consult with English Nature over applications in consultation areas defined by English Nature around sites of national or international importance.

Ramsar Sites

6.50 The United Kingdom is party to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands which requires the conservation of wetlands in general and of designated sites in particular. Such environments are vital to resident and migratory sea and water birds. Within the Borough boundary the area of Poole Harbour which is above the mean low water mark and within local planning authority jurisdiction is already a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Part of it has also been listed as a Wetland of International Importance under the provisions of the Ramsar Convention. In addition, parts of the Dorset heathland areas within Poole have been confirmed as a designated Ramsar site. The Council will comply with the United Kingdom’s international obligation to protect wetlands in general and so will seek to ensure that proposals for development do not harm designated or listed Wetlands of International Importance. Policy NE15 states the Council’s stance concerning the implications of the Ramsar Convention for land use.

Special Protection Areas

6.51 The European Community Birds Directive requires that special measures be taken to conserve, and prevent the deterioration of, the habitats of particularly sensitive species. In particular, member states are required to classify the most suitable areas for these species as Special Protection Areas (SPAs). This designation is more stringent than the Site of Special Scientific Interest status. The Poole Basin heathlands and parts of Poole Harbour, which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, are also confirmed Special Protection Areas. Policy NE15 includes a reference to proposed Special Protection Areas.

Special Areas of Conservation

6.52 The European Community Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna (the Habitats Directive) came into force on 30 October 1994. The lowland heathland areas around Poole Harbour are sufficiently important and diverse to qualify under this Directive as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and currently are candidate SACs. Policy NE15 includes a reference to proposed Special Areas of Conservation.

NE15 SITES OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE

DEVELOPMENT WHICH IS NOT DIRECTLY CONNECTED WITH OR NECESSARY FOR NATURE CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT AND IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT UPON A DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED RAMSAR SITE, SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA OR SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION WILL NOT BE PERMITTED IF IT WOULD ADVERSELY AFFECT THE INTEGRITY OF THE DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED SITE UNLESS: i) THERE ARE IMPERATIVE REASONS OF PUBLIC INTEREST SUFFICIENT TO OVERRIDE THE ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF THE DESIGNATION; AND ii) THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION.

WHERE POTENTIALLY HARMFUL DEVELOP-MENT IS JUSTIFIABLE ON THE BASIS OF (i) AND (ii) ABOVE, SUCH DEVELOPMENT WILL BE REQUIRED TO INCLUDE MEASURES WHICH MITIGATE OR MINIMISE ANY ADVERSE IMPACT UPON THE INTEGRITY AND NATURE CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE OF THE DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED RAMSAR SITE, SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA OR SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest

6.53 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are areas of national or international importance, designated by English Nature, because of their flora, fauna, geological or physiological features. Virtually all of the area within Poole Harbour which is above the mean low water mark is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as are Canford Heath, Upton Heath, and Bourne Valley. The Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Poole, with the exception of the geologically valued Poole Bay Cliffs, are of international importance.

6.54 Policies NE15 and NE16 respectively apply to: designated or proposed Ramsar sites, Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation; and designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Both policies concern development in, adjacent to, or at a distance from the subject sites where that development would be likely to have a significant effect on such sites. If development proposals would be likely to significantly affect a designated or proposed SSSI, Ramsar site, SPA or SAC but are of sufficient importance, having regard to the economic and public significance of such proposals, to override the designation, then measures which mitigate or minimise any potential adverse impact on the nature conservation interests of the designated site will be sought. This may include, where possible and appropriate, enhancement measures on the site or the provision of replacement land which is capable of supporting or fostering a suitable habitat. It may also be appropriate to consider the possibility of meeting the developer’s needs in some other way, which may involve seeking an alternative location for the proposed development, if this would overcome the potential impact. In the case of designated or proposed Ramsar sites, Special Protection Areas or Special Areas of Conservation, measures will be sought to compensate for any harm to the integrity of the site, having regard to the site’s conservation objectives. The integrity of the site is defined in Annex C to Planning Policy Guidance Note 9 as being '... the coherence of its ecological structure and function, across its whole area, that enables it to sustain the habitat, complex of habitats and/or the levels of populations of the species for which it was classified'.

6.55 When considering development proposals within designated SSSI or the defined consultation areas for such sites, the Local Planning Authority will consult English Nature before granting planning permission. Similarly, English Nature will be consulted in cases involving development outside of a designated SSSI or its consultation area if the proposed development would be likely to affect a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Given that designated or proposed Ramsar sites, Special Protection Areas or Special Areas of Conservation are also designated SSSIs, this approach will apply equally to these sites as well. If development is likely to affect significantly a designated or proposed Ramsar site, SPA or SAC, an assessment of the impact of the proposal upon the site’s conservation objectives will be required, the scope and content of which will depend upon the scale and nature of the proposal and will be determined in consultation with English Nature.

6.56 Development proposals in or likely to affect Sites of Special Scientific Interest are subject to special scrutiny. In practice this means that development and land use policies should provide for the protection and enhancement of nature conservation in designated sites. Development which affects, or is likely to affect, a Site of Special Scientific Interest will be permitted only if there would be no adverse impact upon the site’s nature conservation interests, unless other material factors are sufficient to override such interests. Where there is a risk of damage to a designated site, the Local Planning Authority, in consultation with English Nature, will give consideration to whether measures can be taken to prevent damaging impacts on wildlife habitats or important physical features and, if so, whether this can be secured through the use of conditions or planning obligations.

NE16 SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE GRANTED FOR DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECT, OR BE LIKELY TO AFFECT, DESIGNATED SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST UNLESS:

i) MEASURES ARE INCLUDED TO PREVENT DAMAGE BEING CAUSED BY THE DEVELOPMENT TO THE NATURE CONSERVATION INTERESTS OF THE DESIGNATED SITE; OR

ii) OTHER RELEVANT MATERIAL FACTORS ARE OF SUFFICIENT IMPORTANCE TO OVERRIDE NATURE CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS.

6.57 The consultation areas for Sites of Special Scientific Interest are designated by English Nature. These generally incorporate all sites which immediately adjoin the SSSI but, in some cases, may extend further. (The Local Planning Authority keeps a mapped record of Poole’s SSSI consultation areas on its constraints maps and these are publicly available for reference purposes within normal office hours at the Civic Centre, Poole.)

Heathland

NE17 DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO HEATHLAND

DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ADJACENT TO HEATHLAND AREAS WILL BE PERMITTED WHERE:

i) THEY DO NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT THE HEATHLAND BY REASON OF DISTURBANCE TO ITS NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST; AND

ii) THEY INCORPORATE NON-INVASIVE BOUNDARY TREATMENT, AS A BUFFER BETWEEN THE PROPOSAL AND HEATHLAND, DESIGNED TO LIMIT INTRUSION.

6.62 It is essential that landowners, English Nature and other interested groups work together in the establishment of a permanent scheme of positive heathland management. This applies not only to North Canford Heath but also to other areas of heathland in the Borough.

6.63 This Council operates a countryside service which is involved in the management of Poole's heathlands, as well as other 'countryside' areas. The Warden Service is responsible for preparing management plans for heathlands and other 'natural' areas owned by the Council and is involved in the preparation of a Plan for Canford Heath through the Heathland Forum.

6.64 A heathland 'Reserve Centre' would assist in promoting the management and protection of heathland. This type of facility would benefit from being located on or adjacent to an important heathland area and could serve to discourage heathland visitors from venturing into more remote and sensitive areas. Character and setting will be vital considerations in determining the suitability of any potential site. Heathland forms a distinct landscape and, in Poole, much of this habitat is within the Green Belt where openness must be protected. A Reserve Centre should, therefore, be of a scale which is compatible with its function and which reflects the character of its setting. In addition to these requirements it must not cause unacceptable damage to the heathland environment or harm the amenities of nearby uses.

NE18 HEATHLAND RESERVE CENTRE

A HEATHLAND RESERVE CENTRE WILL BE PERMITTED ON OR ADJACENT TO HEATHLAND ON CONDITION THAT:

i) ITS SCALE AND DESIGN ARE COMPATIBLE WITH ITS FUNCTION AND REFLECT THE CHARACTER OF ITS SETTING;

ii) IT DOES NOT THREATEN OR DIMINISH THE NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST OF THE HEATHLAND BY REASON OF HABITAT LOSS OR DISTURBANCE ARISING FROM THE DEVELOPMENT; AND

iii) THE AMENITIES OF NEARBY USES WOULD
NOT BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED AS A RESULT OF ANY ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE RESERVE CENTRE.

Sites of Nature Conservation Interest

6.65 Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI’s) are a third tier of site designations, complementing at a local level first tier international and second tier national designations. They are designated by the County SNCI Panel, a body which collectively represents Dorset’s nature conservation interests. Identified sites, which should be the subject of consultation with landowners prior to designation, may be locally important either because they contain scarce types of habitat, or because they are host to rare or unusual species of plants or animals. The Dorset Wildlife Trust produces a document, entitled 'Catalogue of Sites of Nature Conservation Interest in Poole Borough', which is publicly available. This gives guidance on the criteria for the designation of SNCI's and identifies particular features which might lead to a site’s designation. (A reference copy of this document is available at the Civic Centre, Borough of Poole.)

6.66 Before development proposals affecting SNCI's can be determined, an initial ecological assessment may be required in support of the application so that the potential impact of such proposals can be taken into consideration. It may be possible to accommodate development while retaining the features of interest. However, where the protection of the SNCI cannot be accommodated satisfactorily, then development will only be permitted if the proposal is of sufficient importance, having regard to the availability of practical alternative sites and the relative importance of the SNCI, to justify overriding the nature conservation interest of the site concerned. Even in these circumstances, however, every effort should be made to retain as much of the nature conservation interest as possible. Where development is justified, suitable land may be sought, where practical and appropriate, as a means of mitigating the impact of the development.

6.67 The Sites of Nature Conservation Interest identified on the Proposals Map are based on information available at the time of the preparation of the Local Plan and it is possible that new SNCI's may be designated during the lifetime of the Plan. If development proposals are likely to affect significantly sites which have become designated SNCI's subsequent to the adoption of this Plan, then the nature conservation status of the affected SNCI will be a material consideration in the determination of such proposals. Under these circumstances regard will be had to relevant provisions in Poole Local Plan, together with any other material considerations, including guidance contained in Planning Policy Guidance Note 9: Nature Conservation.

NE19 SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST

DEVELOPMENT ON DESIGNATED SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST, AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT:

i) THERE IS A NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT WHICH OUTWEIGHS THE LIKELY IMPACT ON THE CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE OF THE SITE; AND

ii) MEASURES ARE TAKEN TO MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT AND PRESERVE THE IMPORTANT FEATURES OF THE SITE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE.

Local Nature Reserves

6.68 Local Nature Reserves are designated and managed by local authorities and are sites which offer an opportunity for people to see, learn about and enjoy wildlife in natural surroundings. English Nature recommends that one hectare of nature reserve is designated per thousand population. The Council has declared Ham Common, Alder Hills, Luscombe Valley, Corfe and Barrow Hills, Hatch Pond and Plantation Wood, Turlin Moor, Millfield Pond and Pinesprings as nature reserves and intends to examine other sites for nature reserve status, although not necessarily by means of formal declaration. The primary objective of Local Nature Reserves will be nature conservation. However, their function in terms of both nature conservation and attracting visitors in an educational capacity may be influenced by the visual quality of the sites as well as neighbouring areas. Hence, where opportunities arise, the Council may seek environmental improvements on adjacent land where this is both reasonable and of benefit to the adjoining Local Nature Reserve.

6.69 The Council will, in conjunction with English Nature and local interest groups, identify, designate and manage Local Nature Reserves including:

i) Ham Common (confirmed in 1991);

ii) Alder Hills Nature Reserve (confirmed in 1992);

iii) Luscombe Valley (confirmed in 1993);

iv) Corfe and Barrow Hills public open space (confirmed 2000);

vi) Hatch Pond/Plantation Wood (confirmed 2000);

vii) Turlin Moor (confirmed 2000);

viii) Millfield Pond 2002;

ix) Pinesprings, Broadstone (confirmed 2003);

x) Bourne Valley/Talbot Heath;

xi) Branksome Dene Chine; and

xii) Delph Woods.

Other Features of Nature Conservation Interest

6.70 The Habitats Directive provides that EC Member States shall endeavour, where they consider it necessary, in their development and land-use planning policies to encourage the management of features of nature conservation interest where they are important for wild flora and fauna by virtue of their linear and continuous structure, or their function as stepping stones. This can be assisted by development, for instance through sensitive landscaping and planting, site layout, and the creation, maintenance and management of landscape features important to wildlife. This Council has produced Supplementary Planning Guidance, entitled 'The Landscape and Natural Environment Design Code', which provides guidance on site layout and landscaping for sites which have significant wildlife interest. It also flags up types of features which often are worthy of protection.

NE20 OTHER FEATURES OF NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST

ON SITES WHICH ARE NOT IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP AS DESIGNATED OR PROPOSED SITES IN TERMS OF THEIR NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE, BUT WHICH CONTAIN FEATURES OF IMPORTANCE FOR WILD FLORA AND FAUNA BY VIRTUE OF THEIR LINEAR AND CONTINUOUS STRUCTURE, RARITY VALUE, OR THEIR LINKS BETWEEN OTHER HABITATS, DEVELOPMENT WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT PROPOSALS ARE OF A DESIGN AND LAYOUT WHICH RETAINS, WHERE POSSIBLE, THE SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE SITE.

6.71 In assessing the conservation value of locally important sites, the Dorset Wildlife Trust has established guidelines for site classification. This process is used for identifying Sites of Nature Conservation Interest, but also contains classifications below the SNCI tier of designated sites. The classification system which applies to sites below the SNCI category of designation ranges from Class C1 to Class C4: C1: playing fields with low diversity, improved grassland and intensive agriculture; C2: playing fields, parks and farmland with moderate diversity; C3: some semi-natural (or naturalised) habitat present, but not exceptional; and C4: some semi-natural (or naturalised) habitat, with good diversity or rare species present.

6.72 Policy NE20 will be applied to undesignated sites having regard to the significance of the nature conservation interest on the site. A site falling within any one of categories C1 to C4 may contain features which have importance for wild flora and fauna by virtue of their linear and continuous structure, rarity value, or their links between other habitats. Consequently, in keeping with Planning Policy Guidance Note 9, if a site demonstrates such characteristics, Policy NE20 will apply. The importance placed upon the retention of features will depend upon their classification as identified in C1 to C4 above.

Legally Protected Species

6.73 Certain species of flora and fauna are protected by the Habitats Directive, via the Conservation (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994, as well as various Acts of Parliament, principally the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. When considering a development proposal which, if carried out, would be likely to result in harm to a protected species, the Local Planning Authority will consult with English Nature before granting planning permission. Developments affecting European Protected Species throughout the Borough require a licence to derogate from the provisions of the Habitats Directive. Prior to March 2000 all license applications were considered by English Nature. Now licence applications arising from development proposals are considered by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Secretary of State who now act as the licensing authority in this respect. The issuing of a license is separate to the need for planning permission. The granting of planning permission does not, therefore, imply that a license is or will be granted.

6.74 Poole possesses a significant numbers of sand lizards and smooth snakes which are protected species. Sites of Special Scientific Interest protect significant areas of their habitats, but many may be found on smaller sites including those in or adjacent to urban areas. This may include sites allocated within the Local Plan for housing (Policy H1) and other uses including Employment.

NE21 LEGALLY PROTECTED SPECIES

DEVELOPMENT OF LAND SUPPORTING STATUTORILY PROTECTED FLORA AND FAUNA WILL NOT BE PERMITTED UNLESS PROVISION IS MADE FOR THE RETENTION OF SPECIES IN THEIR EXISTING HABITAT. EXCEPTIONALLY, THE RELOCATION OF SPECIES MAY BE ACCEPTABLE IF AN ALTERNATIVE SITE, WHICH IS A SUITABLE NATURAL HABITAT, CAN BE SECURED.

Regionally Important Geological Sites

6.75 There is one Regionally Important Geological Site within the Borough of Poole. This is located at Whitecliff in Parkstone Bay. The Council will work closely with other bodies to ensure that this land is properly managed to ensure this geological feature is not damaged.

NE22 REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL SITES

PLANNING PERMISSION WILL NOT BE PERMITTED FOR DEVELOPMENT THAT WOULD HAVE AN ADVERSE IMPACT ON THE WHITECLIFF REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL SITE

The Coast

6.76 The harbour, beaches and coastline in the Plan area are synonymous with Poole and are its most familiar features, with resident and visitor alike. The coast is a scenic feature but also provides an important tourist asset, a recreational resource, employment opportunities and extensive wildlife habitats. Its protection, enhancement and future management are vital to the well-being of the town of Poole. The coastline has a very varied character with a range of uses including Poole Quay, the commercial port, public open spaces, cliffs, industrial sites, boating facilities, housing, flats and hotels, and secluded areas of landscape and nature conservation value. The Harbour and coast, therefore, face sometimes competing demands for a variety of different uses.

6.77 In considering policies for the coast, it is necessary to distinguish between the coastal zone and the shoreline. The coastal zone will vary in width depending on topography and relationship to the sea. The shoreline, on the other hand, is the meeting point between the land and sea but is still part of the coastal zone.

Development in the Coastal Zone

6.78 The coastal zone extends seaward and landward of the coastline although for planning purposes the limit in the seaward direction will generally be the mean low water mark. Its limits are determined by the geographical extent of coastal natural processes and human activities related to the coast.

6.79 Planning Policy Guidance Note 20 states that local planning authorities need to consider how best to define the coastal zone for their areas. In the case of Poole the zone is defined as generally including: i) land within 100 metres of the mean low water mark as this mostly incorporates the sites which have a direct relationship with the coast; and ii) land included within the broader strategic interpretation of the coastal zone i.e. land which may be considerably inland but is visible from the coast. Development immediately on the shoreline, such as walls and ramps, can have direct implications for the coastal zone. However, substantial importance is also attached to views from Poole Bay and all parts of the Harbour and the topography of the Borough is such that some sites which are considerably inland may be visible from the coast and have an effect upon the character of the coastal zone. Some of the sites will also fall within the areas of ridges, slopes and high land marked on the Proposals Map. Consequently, when applications are received on these, the criteria of Policy BE3 will also apply.

6.80 Access to the coast is important, but can lead to problems such as erosion, littering and wildlife disturbance. Consequently, it should be stressed that this ought only to be promoted in less sensitive parts of the coastal zone. Policy NE23 deals with the coastal zone and shoreline character.

The Shoreline

6.81 Poole is host to extensive reaches of shoreline including those fronting Poole Bay and within the inner Harbour. Beyond Poole's boundary much of the Harbour is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the shoreline character, including that within the Borough, makes an important contribution to this landscape quality. Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled Shoreline Character Areas provides detailed descriptions for thirteen defined shoreline character areas along Poole’s coast and these are illustrated on Figure 6.1. They are:

1) The Cliffs and Chines;

2) Sandbanks Peninsula, Luscombe Valley and Evening Hill;

3) Parkstone Yacht Club, Pearce Avenue, the Blue Lagoon and Lilliput;

4) Baiter and Whitecliff (Harbourside Park);

5a) The Old Town;

5b) Ballast Quay, the wharves and West Quay Road;

6) The Ferry Terminal;

7) Hamworthy: the Harbour Coast;

8) Ham Common;

9) Rockley Point;

10) Lytchett Bay and Turlin Moor;

11) Holes Bay (west side);

12) Holes Bay (north/west side); and

13) Holes Bay (east side).

Figure 6.1 Shoreline Character Areas

NE23 COASTAL ZONE AND SHORELINE CHARACTER

DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE COASTAL ZONE, AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP, WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT IT:

i) RESPECTS THE ESSENTIAL FEATURES WHICH DEFINE THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE SHORELINE; AND

ii) DOES NOT HAVE A DETRIMENTAL IMPACT UPON THE WIDER LANDSCAPE OF POOLE HARBOUR, POOLE BAY OR THE CHARACTER OF THE COASTAL ZONE.

Development on the Beaches and in the Chines

6.82 Poole’s beaches have been recognised by the European Community as being amongst the cleanest in the United Kingdom. They occupy a sheltered position on the north-west side of Poole Bay and form a major attraction for both residents and visitors. Access to the beach is gained from the chines, from flights of steps running down the cliffs, and via a network of footpaths permeating the sand dunes and built areas of Sandbanks.

6.83 Development in the immediate vicinity of the beach predominantly comprises beach huts and chalets, together with refreshment facilities in the form of cafes and kiosks. The Council has for long sought to maintain the "low profile" character of beachside development in recognition of the suburban setting and visual prominence of the coastline and the ecological value of the cliffs. It was to this end that a policy on beach hut development was adopted by the Council in 1985. In furtherance of this strategy Policies NE24 and NE25 identify the criteria which will be applied to proposals for beach huts or beach chalets. It should be noted that there is no requirement for car parking facilities to be provided to serve individual beach hut and chalet developments.

NE24 BEACH HUTS AND CHALETS

PROPOSALS FOR BEACH HUTS OR BEACH CHALETS WILL BE PERMITTED ON CONDITION THAT THEY:

i) DO NOT STAND ON THE CLIFF, OR OTHERWISE REQUIRE AN EXCAVATION OR REGRADING OF THE CLIFF;

ii) DO NOT DETRACT FROM VIEWS OF OR BETWEEN THE CLIFFS, THE SEA AND SEASHORE, OR THE CHINES;

iii) DO NOT ENCROACH INTO THE CHINES;

iv) DO NOT DETRACT FROM THE NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE OF THE SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST OR SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION INTEREST;

v) DO NOT MATERIALLY REDUCE THE ABILITY OF THE BOROUGH COUNCIL TO MAINTAIN THE CLIFFS AND, WHEN NECESSARY, TO UNDERTAKE CLIFF STABILISATION OPERATIONS;

vi) DO NOT REDUCE PUBLIC ACCESS TO ANY AREA CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR THE USE AND ENJOYMENT OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC; AND

vii) ARE NOT OTHERWISE DETRIMENTAL TO LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL AMENITY.

NE25 BEACH HUTS AND CHALETS ON RAISED SITES

ANY DEVELOPMENT OR REDEVELOPMENT OF BEACH HUTS OR CHALETS ON EXISTING RAISED SITES BEHIND THE PROMENADE SHALL NOT EXCEED ONE STOREY IN HEIGHT.

6.84 In order to improve amenity and views from Hamworthy Park, the Council will reorganise the layout of beach huts. The Council will also seek the development of the vacant section of promenade between Canford Cliffs and Branksome Chine with single storey beach huts.

Poole Harbour Management

6.85 Poole Harbour serves as a nationally important centre for marine recreational activities, particularly boating and windsurfing. This is explicitly recognised in the 'Poole Harbour Management Policies', a strategy originally prepared jointly by Borough of Poole, Purbeck District Council, Dorset County Council and the Poole Harbour Commissioners and published in September 1988. This document has been reviewed and a revised version was published in April 1998. The Management Policies document encourages recreational uses whilst acknowledging that the Harbour may not be able to meet the unrestrained demands of all users. In the meantime, it seeks to reduce the number of swinging moorings in open water and recognises that the provision of sheltered moorings in boat havens could assist this process. All new boating facilities need to have regard to the importance of mudflat areas and should be located in less sensitive places, wherever possible. Where there is irreconcilable conflict between recreation and the nature conservation interests of designated sites (or proposed designations, in the case of Ramsar sites, Special Protection Areas or Special Areas of Conservation), nature conservation will take precedence, in accordance with the policies in this Plan.

6.86 The Poole Harbour Steering Group has produced the Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan. This proposes a management strategy which is based on different parts of the Harbour being zoned for appropriate uses.

6.87 When considering planning applications for sites within or adjoining the Harbour, the Council will apply the relevant policies of the Local Plan. Such policies have been informed by Poole Harbour Management Policies and Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan.

Fisheries

6.88 Traditional fisheries in Poole mainly comprise shell fishing at Holes Bay and the fishing boats based at Fisherman’s Quay. The quality of water in the Harbour and Poole Bay is relevant to the fishing industry and this is considered further in the Water Environment section of this Chapter. The Council will support proposals aimed at sustaining and developing traditional fisheries so long as they are in accord with other policies in the Plan.

Coast Protection: Beaches, Cliffs, Sand Dunes and Marshes

6.89 Individual owners are responsible for the protection of frontages under their ownership and the Council can invoke its powers under the Coast Protection Act 1949 only when the public good is at risk. The seaward beaches have historically been protected by groynes dating from the early 1900s. Some of these are now in an ineffective condition which could be allowing beach erosion. The seaward cliffs are protected by beaches and sea walls and therefore do not come under the terms of the Coast Protection Act. In areas of cliff erosion the responsibility for maintenance falls upon adjoining owners and, due to the extreme expense of such work, unstable cliffs often remain unattended until they threaten property.

NE26 UNSTABLE GROUND

DEVELOPMENT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED ON OR NEAR UNSTABLE GROUND UNLESS MEASURES CAN BE INCORPORATED TO ELIMINATE THE INSTABILITY IN A MANNER WHICH IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE CHARACTER AND AMENITY OF THE AREA.

6.90 This Council will, having regard to nature conservation interests, continue to undertake stabilisation of seaward cliffs where they are owners. A Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) to identify and analyse areas of concern has been produced and covers Poole and Christchurch Bays. The SMP details future coastal defence management within the context of Integrated Coastal Management. The Council will also assist in both the development of a structural management plan and the promotion of schemes of work for Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs grant.

6.91 Cliffs within the Harbour are less well protected and therefore can be considered under the Coast Protection Act. However, consideration must be given to allowing natural erosion in such areas to supply suitable natural material for beach nourishment, down drift and to the recommendations of English Nature.

6.92 Ham Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and, whilst coastal protection in the form of gabions has been introduced, the effect of natural erosion is still an important aspect of its nature conservation interest. Within Ham Common, the Council will work in co-operation with English Nature to allow natural erosion of the cliffs where this is practicable and appropriate.

Management and Improvement

6.93 Planning Policy Guidance Note 9: Nature Conservation, in response to Article 10 of the Habitats Directive, states in paragraph 23 that development plans should include policies encouraging the management of features of the landscape which are of major importance for wild flora and fauna. It goes on to say that suitable planning conditions and obligations may serve to promote such management. The policies in Chapter 6 create the framework for protecting and managing the natural environment by identifying valuable features, including habitats, species and landscapes. It is important to make sure that these features are protected and in some cases this may only be possible if provision is made for an appropriate level of management. Hence, when applying the policies in this chapter to development proposals, it will be important to consider whether it is necessary to secure some form of management to ensure that such proposals do not conflict with the relevant policies. Thus, in compliance with Planning Policy Guidance Note 9, there may be a need to attach appropriate conditions, or to seek a planning obligation, to secure a suitable level of management for the feature in question.

6.94 Further corporate support is provided by the Council in its promotion of the environment through improvement initiatives and continued management. The fact that the countryside contains functional, residential and recreational land uses as well as wildlife means that it is equally important to educate, involve and inform the public in the enjoyment and conservation of the natural world. The Council will seek to achieve these objectives through the provision of improved facilities, organised events and other environmental interpretation measures.

6.95 The improvement and management of the natural environment is a matter which falls partly within the scope of the planning system, but which also extends into other areas of the Council’s responsibilities. These include the improvement and management of land owned by the Council, the maintenance of highway land, and responsibilities for drainage and pollution control. Details of environmental improvement measures appear at paragraph 5.51.

6.96 This Council will, where possible, promote the enhancement of both the natural and built environment through its corporate responsibilities. It will additionally seek the cooperation of private landowners in the upgrading of the environment within Poole.

6.97 The Council has a significant land holding of parks, open spaces, woods and other areas, including areas of nature conservation value. Some areas are managed as traditional parks or public open spaces, while others have been designated as "countryside" to be managed more informally. Much of the necessary management work to "countryside" areas is carried out by the Borough’s Warden Service, which also carries out management work on Canford Heath and other areas.

6.98 The Council recognises the need for management of rural recreational land and will continue to support this service. In the case of areas which the Council owns and has designated "countryside" for the purposes of amenity, public enjoyment and nature conservation, it will continue their management and to assist this will produce management plans for such areas.

6.99 Section 39 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 allows the Council to enter into management agreements with landowners for conservation purposes. In some circumstances such agreements may be desirable in order to bring land which is of particular value, or is strategically located, within Council management. Occasionally, the purchase of such land may be justified. In appropriate cases the Council may, therefore, enter into management agreements or will consider the purchase of land, for the purposes of nature conservation, landscape conservation or access.

Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerows

6.100 Individual trees, coppices, hedgerows and larger areas of woodland are an intrinsic part of the natural and built environment. They offer scenic value and can soften the visual impact of buildings as well as absorbing noise and pollution. They may also provide windbreaks, field boundaries and wildlife habitats. It is, therefore, essential that trees and woodland are generally protected and enhanced throughout the Borough.

6.101 There is a large area of broken woodland between the Stour Valley and the north edge of Canford Heath, including Arrowsmith Road and Delph Woods, while tree belts and small woods are very important in the Upton-Creekmoor gap and down to the shores of Holes Bay, and in the chines of Poole Bay. The Borough has five Ancient Woodlands, which are identified by English Nature as being particularly valuable.

6.102 In view of the limited area of woodland existing in the Borough and its importance to the character of the landscape it is the Council’s view that all rural land currently in woodland use should remain so. An exception may be made in the case of individual trees which are diseased or damaged or for general management initiatives which benefit the woodland or nature conservation as a whole.

6.103 In responding to consultations with the Forest Authority on Felling Licence Applications or grant schemes the Council will seek to ensure that existing woods remain in being. It is also important to ensure that the woods are properly managed for landscape and wildlife value as well as for timber production.

6.104 Individual trees, tree groups and small woodlands break up developed areas and form highly important townscape and landscape features and contribute to the visual character of the locality. One of the most valuable assets of the Borough is the stock of trees in private gardens. Branksome Park is perhaps the obvious example, but other significant areas are found at Lower Golf Links Road in Broadstone, at Lake Road, Hamworthy and off Alder Road in North Branksome. Such trees are important both in the local neighbourhood and the wider environment. Trees offer the added benefit of providing a buffer or screen between neighbouring uses. This may take the form of a buffer against the visual impact of some activities, such as light pollution from illuminated forecourts, or may help to reduce other types of pollution such as noise or vehicular emissions. At the same time, trees are essential to a range of wildlife both in the countryside and in urban areas. Although the removal of individual trees may be acceptable if they are diseased or damaged, or if such actions would benefit the woodland or copse as a whole, significant encroachment by development would undermine their contribution.

6.105 Policy NE27 applies to trees not covered by a tree preservation order but which are considered to be significant because they make an important contribution to the setting or character of a site, or they have amenity value either as local landscape features or in terms of screening and privacy. If development is proposed for a site where such trees may be affected by the proposal, a site survey will be required which identifies the significant trees. If ground levels vary to an extent where disturbance to those levels is proposed and would be likely to affect significant trees, then the site survey should also illustrate those ground levels. Additionally, the survey will be required to show any measures which are proposed for the protection of significant trees.

6.106 It may be possible for replacement planting to be carried out which mitigates, or compensates for, the loss of significant trees and where this is the case, development will be permitted on condition that such replanting takes place and measures are included in the development to protect those significant trees which are to be retained, both during construction work and after. In determining the necessity for replacement planting, regard will be had to the contribution which the existing threatened tree makes to the setting, character, landscape and amenity of the site and surrounding area.

NE27 INDIVIDUAL OR GROUPED TREES

PROPOSALS FOR SITES WHICH CONTAIN INDIVIDUAL OR GROUPED TREES WHICH ARE NOT COVERED BY TREE PRESERVATION ORDERS, INCLUDING WOODLAND, COPSES AND HEDGEROW TREES, WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT:

i) APPROPRIATE MEASURES ARE TAKEN, WHEREVER POSSIBLE, TO PROVIDE REPLACEMENT PLANTING ON THE SITE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE LOSS OF ANY TREES WHICH MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE SETTING OR CHARACTER OF A SITE, OR WHICH HAVE AMENITY VALUE EITHER AS LOCAL LANDSCAPE FEATURES OR IN TERMS OF SCREENING AND PRIVACY; AND

ii) MEASURES ARE TAKEN TO PROTECT THOSE SIGNIFICANT TREES WHICH ARE TO BE RETAINED ON THE SITE, BOTH DURING CONSTRUCTION WORK AND AFTER.

Trees in Streets

6.107 Street trees make a major contribution to the character and appearance of many parts of the Borough. Opportunities exist to plant trees in many parts of the Borough including the major road corridors into the town, within housing areas and in smaller residential streets. This should be done in a manner which does not cause a reduction in the width of pavements to the extent that pedestrian movement, and particularly that of the partially sighted or mobility-impaired, is unacceptably hampered. Having regard to these considerations the Council will carry out a programme of street tree planting in appropriate areas that would benefit from their introduction and will seek to create "Tree Corridors" through landscape schemes, planning obligations and planting on suitable land which it owns or controls.

6.108 The Council will prepare a Tree Strategy in order to address the wide range of tree issues in the Borough. This will also identify opportunities for the enhancement of particular areas through planting programmes.

Tree Preservation Orders

6.109 Section 198 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 empowers a local planning authority to protect trees in the interests of amenity by making tree preservation orders (TPO), which bring under the control of the authority the felling, lopping or topping of trees or woodlands covered by a TPO. Many trees and woodlands in the Borough are covered by TPOs. Orders