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PARISH Barlborough
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SITE
A two part site either side of Chesterfield Road to the south west of Barlborough.
Land to south east of Chesterfield Road was previously a railway cutting and brick yard
subsequently filled with waste and grassed over, more recently used for car boot sales. This
area adjoins Barlborough Links Business Park with office/warehouse/workshop units to the
north eastern side and larger industrial/warehouse units to the south eastern side. The land
is more elevated in the landscape than Barlborough Links. There are two houses and
agricultural land to the south western side.
The land to north west of Chesterfield Road behind the existing Chesterfield Road residential
properties is generally overgrown and underused agricultural land with some horse grazing.
This includes an area of allotments which are overgrown and long abandoned. Land at
western end formerly part of railway cutting, filled with waste and subsequently made
available for agricultural uses; this area is within the green belt. Behind 124 Chesterfield
Road (also known as Hawthorns Farm and recently as Wishfield house) is an area of land up
to the motorway boundary used as a material and scaffolding store for various businesses
being carried out from the related premises fronting Chesterfield Road. Following
enforcement action this area has recently been substantially cleared. This north-western
area of the application site adjoins the M1 motorway along the north western boundary with
open views of the countryside beyond. The A616 dual carriageway link road between the
Chesterfield Road roundabout and the M1 junction 30 adjoins to the north east boundary with
the main part of the village of Barlborough beyond.
There is a landfill gas extraction system in place on both parts of the site which have been
subject to waste filling, with a gas flare stack adjacent a site entrance off Slayley Lane.
PROPOSAL
Outline planning application on 12.01ha of land with all matters except access reserved for
future approval.
Ecological Appraisal
This report provides details of a Phase 1 habitat assessment used to inform the Design and
Access Statement. Majority of the site is poor semi-improved grassland; south eastern side is
mown and heavily rabbit grazed; north western side has been left to grow rank with a slightly
lower species diversity. There are some species poor hedgerows and scrub, a few trees and
a pond. The pond was surveyed for great crested newts, none were found; it is considered a
sub-optimal habitat for them. No amphibians were recorded. Bee orchids are present on
both parts of the site, if necessary those in the south eastern part could be translocated to the
north eastern site to the area of proposed public open space. Mature trees and Hawthorne
Farm buildings provide potential bat roosts. No SSSI’s or other designated wildlife sites are
likely to be affected because of distance and severance by major roads and other
development. Two areas of Japanese knotweed in the south west corner of the northern site
need to be dealt with as under S14, schedule 9 of the Wildlife And Countryside Act 1981 it is
an offence to cause it to grow in the wild and under the Environmental Protection legislation it
is classed as a ‘controlled waste’. New planting should be of native species and hedgerows,
trees and areas of grassland should wherever feasible be retained and enhanced.
Transport Assessment
Access to the development will be from a new roundabout on Chesterfield Road into both
parts of the site. A Travel Plan will be needed to manage trips to and from the development
in the most sustainable manner. A framework Travel Plan is included with the application
documents. Mitigation may be required at the A616/A619 roundabout and J30 of the M1.
The TA identifies a scheme involving signalisation of the entry from Chesterfield; this has not
been agreed with the local highway authority Derbyshire County Council (DCC). Also
mitigation proposed for J30 has not been agreed with the Highways Agency (HA) due to
disagreements over the form of modelling used. A mitigation package for this development
and for the Steetley Regeneration scheme using a different modelling approach has been
identified involving:
• Signalisation of 2 arms of the A616/A619 roundabout (arm from Chesterfield and that
from J30);
• signalisation of the southbound off-slip at J30; and
• revision of road markings at J30.
Sustainablility Assessment
This is summarised in the Design and Access statement.
Noise Report
This considers noise exposure for the residential element of the development particularly from
motorway traffic noise. The results place the site in noise exposure category ‘C’ for both the
day time and night time periods. Mitigation proposed of an acoustic barrier (typically an earth
bund or a combination of earth bund and solid fence), between the motorway and the
development, which could be within the 20m protection zone along the site/motorway
boundary, typically constructed to a height of 5m above existing ground levels, would reduce
noise exposure at night to NEC ’B’. A second mitigation measure suggested is to ensure
suitable glazing systems with a powered forced ventilation system.
AMENDMENTS
Residential element to accord with level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. 11.08.09
Revised outline drainage strategy which relocated the surface water detention basin to avoid
the children’s play area as shown on the masterplan for the development. 07.01.10
Updated gas risk assessment including additional gas monitoring up to 10th September 2009.
No change to the findings in the original report. Includes precautionary gas protection
measures to be included in the construction of the buildings. Notes that the owner is re-
instating the active gas extraction system to resume extraction of the landfill gas; further
monitoring will be required. 17.09.09
Additional air quality assessment information. Considers impact on Orchard Close AQMA
and other sensitive receptors along the A616 and motorway. The imperceptible nature of the
predicted increase in air pollutant concentrations would result in an impact of negligible
significance on these receptors. 06.10.09 Additional air quality data and assessment.
08.02.10, 26.05.10.
Breeding Bird Survey Report (submitted 19.07.10). 38 recorded species 7 of which are
breeding on site. Proposal is expected to have a minor negative impact on the grey partridge
(red listed/UKBAP species) and negligible impact on the local populations of 4 open farmland
species (linnet, skylark, yellow hammer and reed bunting). Beyond the construction phase
positive residual impact on 4 notable species (house sparrow, starling, song thrush, - red
listed - and dunnock – amber listed). Proposed green infrastructure with the retention of
existing vegetation and provision of new areas (hedgerows, grassland and pond habitats)
along with the new resource of residential gardens will provide some compensation for the
loss of suitable breeding and foraging habitats.
Reptile Survey Report (submitted 19.07.10). No reptiles recorded over 7 surveys during
April – July. No mitigation necessary.
HISTORY
Relating to Hawthorne Farm/Wishfield House/124 Chesterfield Road and related land:
04/00615/FUL: Change of use of land and buildings to a garden centre including
manufacture of garden related products, coffee shop and storage of scaffolding. Approved
24.11.04
03/00105/FUL: Change of use of land and buildings to garden centre and manufacture
and sale of garden related products, coffee shop, auction room and storage of portacabins
and scaffolding. Refused. 11.11.03.
01/00155/FUL: Change of use to light industrial (B1). Approved 18.12.03.
00/00241/FUL: Conversion of farm buildings to 4 dwellings. Approved 25.6.01.
BOL490/224: Change of use of house and barns to Business use (B1). Approved
20.11.90
BOL9510/0329: Retention of use of land for siting of mobile snack bar on layby on
westbound carriageway of A616. Approved 15.01.98.
CONSULTATIONS
Leisure Services: Main area of public open space is bisected by the main access road into
the site, not ideal as the POS is peripheral to the development with limited surveillance.
Design & Access statement shows the proposed children’s play area where surveillance is
possible. Play area should at least be LEAP standard ideally NEAP standard. Development
will see the loss of 0.64ha of allotments but in private ownership and little evidence of active
gardening. It is the only allotment site in Barlborough. Barlborough population plus that of
the development should generate demand for 1.17ha of allotments (based on 15 plots per
thousand residents). Requests commuted sum for formal sports and recreation provision
(£112,050 for 150 dwellings at 2009 prices). 10 years maintenance costs for on-site
provision. Requests per cent for art. Proposal does little to address the lack of pedestrian
and cycle connectivity through Barlborough. Proposals should include pedestrian/cycle path
across the proposed open space between the residential area and the roundabout, a link
through the employment area and into Midland Court and use of the proposed emergency
access at the northern end of the residential area to provide links to the village. 06.08.09
Environmental Health Officer: No objections in relation to Health & Safety and Food
Hygiene issues. 11.08.09
Highways Agency: Concerned with 3 aspects; traffic impact, drainage and air quality issues.
Until these issues are addressed unable to provide a substantive response. 27.08.09
Further response: Confirm that the principle of the development is acceptable; however there
is the potential to generate unacceptable negative impacts on the nearby trunk road network,
specifically J30 of the M1. The impact of the development requires works to be carried out to
both the motorway junction and the ‘Treble Bob’ roundabout. Directs conditions: No
occupation until works broadly shown on drawings WC/EW/00/06/0004/A05 and
WC/EW/00/06/0002/A06 completed (Junction 30 roundabout and ‘Treble Bob’ roundabout);
development to take place in accordance with Framework Travel Plan. 30.11.09
East Midlands Regional Assembly: Location, scale and nature of this proposal would not
prejudice the implementation of the relevant policies and would be in general conformity with
the RSS. [However these comments appear to be based on a misinterpretation of the
location of the site believing it to be within the settlement framework of Barlborough as
defined in the Local Plan.] 27.08.09
Environment Agency: requires conditions: scheme to improve the existing surface water
disposal system; contaminated land condition with verification plan and report; monitoring
maintenance and contingency action reports in accordance with a long term monitoring and
maintenance plan; unexpected contamination; piling or other foundation designs using
penetrative methods not permitted other than with express consent of the local planning
authority; scheme for foul drainage; use of petrol and oil interceptors; bunding for all
chemical and oil storage. Notes that landfill site accepted domestic and commercial waste,
non-hazardous industrial waste, waste from the construction industry and sewage press cake
material, with known potential for landfill gas. 24.08.09
Local Education Authority (DCC): Within the normal catchment area of Barlborough Primary
School and Heritage School. Proposed 150 dwellings expected to generate approximately 30
primary pupils and 22 secondary pupils. Heritage School currently has surplus places,
however Barlborough Primary School is currently oversubscribed by 18 pupils and is
projected to remain over subscribed. Additional 30 pupils would have a significant impact,
contribution of £338,293.20 required to address issues of accommodation. 19.08.09
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust: Not aware of any nature conservation interest, although records of
grass snakes in the vicinity. Survey submitted carried out at a sub-optimal time, does not
provide an accurate and reliable overview of the ecological status of the site. Survey notes:
that mature trees and farm buildings could be used for roosting bats; no great crested newts;
no breeding bird information; no specific survey work for reptiles; Bee orchids recorded;
allotment site not surveyed as too overgrown; two stands of Japanese knotweed noted. Not
possible to fully assess the potential impact of the proposed development on any nature
conservation interest.
Advise that the ecological information submitted is deficient and needs to be addressed
before an accurate assessment of the impact of the proposed development upon any nature
interest can be reached. Request clarification of timing of the botanical recording and exact
distribution details of the bee orchid population to inform retention or translocation options. In
relation to bats, confirmation of trees to be removed required, supports recommendation for a
full inspection of trees to be removed with an emergence survey prior to determination. Need
information of the presence of breeding birds. Surveys to determine the presence or absence
of reptiles needed. Support flood alleviation pond to link to the existing pond to create
additional wetland habitat. Supports the retention of hedgerows, trees and grassland.
Recommend the production of a habitat management plan. welcome the use of native
species. A Japanese knotweed eradication methodology is essential. 08.09.09
Derbyshire County Council (Strategic Planning): The Northern Sub Regional Employment
Land Review identifies employment land to the south of Barlborough, application site will
contribute to the employment needs of Bolsover District. Also accords with East Midlands
Regional Plan policies. Housing will add to supply, but in the terms of East Midlands
Regional Plan is not in an area identified for housing growth unless it is of a scale appropriate
for this location and aids the regeneration of Barlborough and meets local needs. 09.09.09
Local Highway Authority (DCC): Submitted transport assessment considers the effect of
committed development including Steetley Phase 1, Van Dyk Hotel and Garden Centre and
unoccupied Barlborough Links plots; it does not include the cumulative impact of the Steetley
Masterplan proposals. Significant capacity problem at the ‘Treble Bob’ roundabout. The
base model information within the TA is not accepted due to the complex lining in the
roundabout and the imbalanced entry flows. Proposed single signalisation of Chesterfield
Road arm is not acceptable. However in the conclusion to the TA reference is made to the
micro-simulation model being considered as part of the Steetley application. Suggests a
condition requiring full implementation of improvements to the ‘Treble Bob’ roundabout as
proposed in the micro-simulation model prior to occupation on any part of the site (residential
or commercial).
Proposed roundabout serving both areas of development accepted in principle subject to
detailed design and safety audit. Footways should link to existing Chesterfield Road
footways. Existing bus stops some distance from the extremes of the development,
consideration should be given to provision of closer stops. No turning area shown on
commercial Access Road, essential there is such provision. Would benefit from
pedestrian/cycle links to rest of Barlborough Links and onto Slayley Lane. With respect to
Report 09-370 Barlborough Developments (2).doc 23
residential area, emergency access no longer essential provided internal layout has
appropriate permeability. Emergency access shown would provide appropriate
pedestrian/cycle access which could link up to the signalised roundabout giving the
opportunity for a formal pedestrian crossing. Suggests pedestrian link shown between
terraced properties on Chesterfield Road could be closed to vehicles and made available only
for pedestrians and cyclists with alternative residents vehicular access through the new
development, which would close an existing undesirable vehicular access onto Chesterfield
Road. Level of parking on the Commercial area is considered to be low.
Subject to these issues, proposal is acceptable in principle subject to conditions: New access
before any other development; no occupation unless an approved signalisation scheme for
‘Treble Bob’ roundabout implemented; no occupation until an approved package of measures
to improve pedestrian links to Barlborough implemented; no occupation of a dwelling unless
new street constructed to base course, lit and drained; Commercial units not occupied unless
parking, servicing areas, etc constructed; site compound details; facilities to stop deposit of
extraneous material on the public highway; Travel plan for commercial premises. 08.10.09
Urban Design Officer: Overall the layout shown on the Illustrative Masterplan results in an
interesting residential layout which has the potential to create a development with a sense of
place.
• The layout should be conditioned to be in accordance with principles and Illustrative
Masterplan set out within the Design and access Statement, unless variations are
otherwise first agreed in writing by the LPA.
Report 09-370 Barlborough Developments (2).doc 24
• A condition requiring more detailed information regarding the street type designs, including
indicative sections, and hard and soft landscape treatment should form part of any
planning permission.
The proposed range of residential building heights and their locations within the scheme are
considered to be appropriate.
Employment buildings are to be up to 12m in height, although their bulk and scale is more
substantial. These would occupy the higher parts of the site and are potentially more visible
in the wider landscape.
• Building Scale parameters should be conditioned in accordance with those provided within
the DAS unless variations are otherwise first agreed in writing by the LPA.
Landscaping is a reserved matter and no specific details are provided. However, a green
infrastructure network is identified and described. Given the peripheral nature of this site on
the edge of Barlborough, the retention of existing trees and hedges is an appropriate principle
that will assist in assimilating the development into the landscape. The landscape margin to
the M1 is also an important element to soften the visual appearance of any buildings. Tree
planting would also assist with the longer term mitigation of the visual impact of the
development.
• In the event planning permission is granted landscaping should be conditioned to be in
accordance with the proposals identified as part of the Green Infrastructure Network.
• Landscaping conditions should also be included requiring details of all landscaping
proposals (including trees and hedges to be retained) and their implementation and
maintenance should be attached to any such consent.
• Street trees would require financial contributions to ensure their establishment and future
maintenance (assuming these are intended to be adopted as part of the highway). This
would need to form part of a legal agreement.
The proposed appearance of the scheme remains somewhat unclear, as the appearance is
described through largely general statements. No evidence has been supplied to
demonstrate an appreciation of locally distinctive materials, forms or details. As the
development of this site would be an exception to normal planning policy, design and
materials should be of a good quality.
• Further consideration of local character, materials and distinctiveness should be provided
by means of a suitably worded condition to give a clearer indication of an appreciation of
local character and how this has been considered in the design of the buildings for the
residential component of the site.
• In the event planning permission is granted, a condition requiring details of all materials
proposed should be attached to any such consent, including samples if requested by the
LPA
In addition to the main vehicle access point a pedestrian connection is identified on the
northern edge of the site through to the edge of the dual carriageway leading to J30 of the
M1. This access does not connect to any pedestrian footway. In addition, pedestrian
connections to village facilities e.g. primary school, are currently poor and considered likely to
discourage journeys by foot and bicycle, being obstructed by the presence of the dual
carriageway and a major roundabout. The employment element of the development shows
an isolated cul-de-sac access arrangement that only provides access from Chesterfield Road
and the proposed new roundabout.
• The northern footpath should be extended to connect to the existing footway;
• Measures for enhancing pedestrian and cycle access across the dual
carriageway/roundabout should be explored in order to encourage safer connections
between the site and village;
Pollution Control Officer (Noise): Residential area within exposure category C where
permission should not normally be given unless there are no alternative quieter sites. If no
alternative site noise mitigation scheme required to include noise barrier, building orientation,
room layouts and design criteria for glazing and vents. BS8233:1999 good design criteria of
LAeq30dB for reasonable sleeping/resting conditions should be attained. Outdoor living areas
should not exceed World Health Organisation guidelines of LAeq50dB. In respect of the
Business, Industrial and Warehousing area, concerns over allowing B2 use due to potential
noise nuisance. Noise survey using BS4142:1997 should be carried out to assess the impact
of the proposed commercial/industrial use on adjacent premises. 04.09.09
Pollution Control Officer (Air): An air quality assessment has been undertaken for off-site
receptors including the 2 existing AQMA’s at Orchard Close and Chesterfield Road. This
requires further clarification. An air quality assessment has also been undertaken for on-site
receptors. An area of land adjacent to the southbound carriageway of the M1 has been
identified as being likely to exceed the annual mean air quality objective for nitrogen dioxide.
Further clarification of the results is required. 02.11.09. Various discussions with applicants
Pollution Control Officer (Contamination): Former landfill site, continues to produce landfill
gas, operational gas abstraction system. Number of boreholes used for gas monitoring
extremely limited considering the level of risk, only 2 monitoring visits reported. Not adequate
to formulate any conclusions regarding the site, but results so far give significant cause for
concern. Insufficient monitoring to support the conclusion of the report that none of the
residential areas will require gas protection. Due to the high level of uncertainty with respect
to the gas regime and the high sensitivity of the proposal recommend refusal at this stage.
Strongly recommend that further gas monitoring including additional boreholes be carried out
over a period of at least 12 months and results assessed prior to reconsideration of the
application. 26.08.09
Further gas monitoring results considered. Still indicates that there is a significant issue with
gas production at several boreholes. Insufficient boreholes within the proposed residential
area to demonstrate that there is no potential for gas migration to the intended houses. While
consultant has indicated a willingness to install basic gas protection measures into the
residential properties do not feel able to withdraw objection due to the extremely high levels
of gas that have been recorded in relatively close proximity to the residential area.
Subsequently advised by developer that the high gas levels are because of problems with the
active gas abstraction system. Therefore felt that further monitoring over a reasonable period
is required once problem resolved. 25.09.09.
Reviewed further information submitted. As explained previously, need suitable gas
monitoring data to establish the current gas regime. Need to be sure that gas levels are as
hoped for, i.e. lower than originally measured. Welcomes proposal for 4 monitoring wells
along the landfill boundary, but monitoring frequency should reflect that originally discussed.
Monitoring on commercial site should also continue though frequency of monitoring need not
be as extensive. As an engineered response is now proposed in the event that gas
monitoring indicates a potential issue, prepared to remove objection subject to suitable
conditions to reflect this. Some concerns with the design of the proposed venting trench,
appears quite shallow when considering the depth of fill should the fractured mudstone layer
prove to be a pathway. Careful consideration of the design of any venting trench will be
required as it will be difficult to exclude the public being located within the public open space
area on the edge of a proposed residential area. Fencing may not be a sufficient deterrent to
prevent individuals from entering the area. Also concerned about within the landfill area and
precautions which could be taken against potential anti-social behaviour/recreational fires.
Irrespective of comments the developer remains responsible for the safety of the proposed
development. If planning permission is granted subject to conditions relating to contamination
issues, a worst case scenario may result in parts of the development becoming uneconomic.
Recommended conditions if planning permission is to be granted: No development other
than remediation works until additional investigation and risk assessment into the nature and
extent of any contamination including gas regime; detailed remediation scheme to make the
site suitable for the intended use agreed; approved remediation scheme implemented and
verified; work to stop if unexpected contamination found and appropriate measures taken; any
imported soil to be tested before use. 21.04.10
Strategic Housing Officer: Affordable housing offer is in line with draft LDF Core Strategy.
Build standard at level 4 complies with Homes and Communities requirements. Barlborough
has one of the lowest levels of affordable housing provision at only 11.88%. Shared
ownership unit must be affordable to households on median income. Nominations to all
social rented properties to remain with the Local Authority in perpetuity. 30.07.10
PUBLICITY
Advertised in press. 5 Site notices posted. 101 neighbours notified.
10 letters of objection:
1. Pedestrian link between terrace blocks will introduce people into a currently quiet, safe
and secure environment; will become more vulnerable to vandalism, theft and
accidents; also additional noise all affecting current lifestyle.
Concerned about back yards becoming building sites with noise and inconvenience.
2. Disagree with building on Greenfield sites, many brownfield sites that could sustain this
type of development.
Many industrial units remain empty.
Infrastructure of the village cannot sustain the population as it stands, school turning
pupils away.
Road system struggling to cope already, Barlborough a car park for most of the day.
5. Residential development will put even more strain on the village school.
New roundabout will further increase risk of road accidents and public safety.
Chesterfield Road already very dangerous existing roundabout has too many exits and
too close to McDonalds access.
Commercial area is contaminated with methane gas and sludge leakage, cannot
understand why anyone would develop this land which is full of general waste.
It is important with an application like this to prove a need for such proposals, with an
industrial estate with empty units and spare land and other industrial land in the area
which have ample capacity for new businesses can the applicant prove a need for
further commercial development in this area.
6. Three storey properties out of character with the area and should be declined.
Concerns about drainage and existing ditch at back of existing properties on
Chesterfield Road.
Light pollution in residential area, unobtrusive lighting required.
Dual carriageway from Chesterfield Road to the motorway is exceptionally busy and
difficult to cross, high speeds, difficult visibility, can take 15 minutes at peak times.
Whilst we can see a need for housing, it will further cut off this part of the village, the
9. Live off Slayley Lane with 2 businesses which could be affected because they need
reasonable access to the A619, difficult at the best of times, the development will put
more traffic onto this busy road. Also concerned about the old infill site, has the gas
problem gone there may be other problems.
10. Green corridor between M1 and Chesterfield Road greatly enhances this over
developed area. Further development means more traffic, noise and pollution. No
need for commercial development, empty units and land on Barlborough Links. Social
Housing will greatly affect the outlook and quality of life.
3 letters of representation:
Suggest a pedestrian crossing in the vicinity of the bus stop (72/74 Chesterfield Road), traffic
is already bad and this will make it worse, particularly for children to get to and from school.
Concern about the increase in traffic making it more difficult for pedestrians, i.e. mothers and
young children and buggies, and senior citizens crossing the dual carriageway to the village
PO school and medical centre.
Concerns from developer promoting Clowne North site; this site should be promoted through
the LDF process. A joint solution to the Chesterfield roundabout could be devised as part of
the LDF process which would be more cost effective and less disruptive.
POLICY
Bolsover District Local Plan (BDLP)
Outside the settlement framework and partially within the Green Belt as defined on the
Proposals Map where general open countryside control policies apply, in particular policies
GEN1 (Minimum Requirements for Development), GEN2 (Impact of Development on the
Environment), GEN4 (Development on Contaminated Land), GEN9 (Development in the
Green Belt), ENV3 (Development in the Countryside) and CLT9 (Protection of Existing
Allotments).
Other
Since the election of a new Coalition Government in May 2010 the regional housing targets
have been removed and on 6th July the Regional Spatial Strategies were revoked. The RSS
(East Midlands Regional Plan) is no longer part of the development plan
Whilst the five year housing supply specified by the Region is also no longer applicable the
Council still has a requirement to provide a 5 year supply in accordance with Planning Policy
Statement 3 (PPS3) Housing as amended (June 2010). The East Midlands Regional Plan
figure for a five year housing supply is the last available and justified housing supply figure,
until the housing supply is re-assessed it is considered taking this into account and recent
completion rates that the Council does not have a 5 year supply.
ASSESSMENT
The proposal involves residential development to the north western side of Chesterfield Road,
behind existing properties, and commercial development to the south eastern side of
Chesterfield Road, adjoining Barlborough Links employment area on its north-western and
southern sides. Access to both sites is off a new roundabout to be constructed on
Chesterfield Road between Wishfield House (124 Chesterfield Road) and Brick Yard Farm.
This access to the residential area and some of the roundabout will be in the North East
Derbyshire Green Belt which covers the western extremity of the site. The triangular area of
land to the south west of Wishfield House and bounded by Chesterfield Road and the M1
motorway, through which the residential access runs, is green belt. No other parts of the site
are within the green belt, but all the site is in the countryside, being beyond the settlement
framework as defined on the Proposals Map of the Bolsover District Local Plan. The
settlement framework boundary is drawn tightly around the limits of the existing development
of Barlborough and around Barlborough Links. The Green Belt boundary is similarly tightly
drawn around the edge of the built up area of Barlborough, extending as far as the playing
fields (Barlborough Sports Ground) and Barlborough Links Golf Course.
Residential Development
The area of land proposed for residential development (4ha) was excluded from the
settlement framework and from the Green Belt when the Bolsover District Local Plan was
prepared and subsequently adopted in 2000. However access is through the Green Belt and
the Green Belt area is to be used to provide public open space associated with the
development. This is to include a children’s play area in a position at the entrance to the
residential area where it is overlooked by the first dwellings. In accordance with the Design &
Access Statement and Masterplan, the remaining area is to landscaped to provide an area for
informal recreation which will also include a flood attenuation/balancing pond with wetland
habitat.
As can be seen in the History section above part of the residential site has in the past had
permission for a motorists service station with petrol station, restaurant, toilets, hotel, lorry
and car park, In addition areas at the rear of 124 Chesterfield Road have been the subject of
recent enforcement action for unauthorised uses.
The development involves an area of land shown as allotments on the Proposals Map of the
Bolsover District Local Plan and is therefore subject to policy CLT9 (Protection of Existing
Allotments). Development of such land is allowed only if it is demonstrated that the
allotments are no longer required or appropriate alternative provision is made. These appear
to be the only allotments in Barlborough village, they are privately owned, predominantly
unused and overgrown; areas that are in use are not used for allotment purposes.
The applicant states that alternative provision could be made in the green belt area if
necessary. The District Council has no evidence of any demand.
Part of the green belt area of the site involves a former railway cutting which has been infilled
with various waste materials and capped. The tipped area has given rise to landfill gas
problems and an active gas extraction system is in place which is connected to a flare stack
on the proposed commercial development area adjacent to Slayley Lane. The main concern
of the Council’s Pollution Control Officer (Contamination) is the potential for landfill gas to
migrate into the proposed residential area. The applicant is confident having taken detailed
advice from his consultants that this will not be a problem, but proposes further gas
monitoring from 4 monitoring wells along the landfill boundary prior to any submission of
Reserved Matters. While it would be preferable for this monitoring to take place before the
grant of any planning permission, the applicant does not wish to commit to additional expense
without the benefit and certainty of an outline planning permission. They have also put
forward engineering measures which could be put in place should the gas issue be a
problem. This would comprise a venting trench along the edge of the landfill site (a similar
feature was installed alongside the infill site on the proposed commercial development area
between the Barlborough Links commercial development areas and the waste site. The
Council’s Pollution Control Officer (Contamination) has accepted that a suitable detailed
condition, to include in the first instance additional gas monitoring, can control this issue to
ensure residential development in the area north-east of the infill area is not exposed to
unacceptable risks. It is therefore considered that with appropriate conditions sufficient
measures can be undertaken to ensure the site is developed for residential use without any
materially harmful effect on health, safety or the environment in accordance with policy GEN4
Report 09-370 Barlborough Developments (2).doc 32
(Development on Contaminated Land) of the Bolsover District Local Plan.
All the residential site area (apart from a section of the former allotment area) is outside the
settlement framework and therefore within the countryside. It is bounded by existing
residential properties and garden areas, the A616 dual carriageway link to the M1 Motorway
junction, the motorway and slip road and the Green Belt (through which is the proposed
access into the site and open space area). It is currently unused overgrown agricultural land
and allotment. It is the only area related to existing residential development around
Barlborough which is not restricted by Green Belt designation.
Policy ENV3 (Development in the Countryside) of the Bolsover District Local Plan allows
development in the countryside if it benefits the community through the re-use of land or
would result in a significant improvement to the rural environment. Taking into account the
objections received to the development from members of the community including the Parish
Council, it is unlikely that the development could be considered to accord with these principles
of the policy and is therefore a departure to development plan policy.
However there are other material considerations to take into account. As stated above (in
‘Policy’) it is considered pending a review of housing supply that the Council does not have a
five year supply. This is based on the last justified housing supply figure which originates
from the Regional Plan. However taking into account recent completion rates it is apparent
that the Council would not have a 5 year supply even with a reduced annual target figure.
This development will therefore contribute to the existing supply of housing sites as required
by Planning Policy Statement 3 (PPS3) Housing.
Taking account of the surrounding green belt this site is a logical rounding off of the
settlement of Barlborough for residential development. It is reasonably close to the village
centre with its community facilities including primary school, doctors surgery, churches, post
office, village hall, etc. provided an acceptable pedestrian link is provided across the A616
dual carriageway. Employment opportunities are offered as part of the application as an
extension to the existing key employment area of Barlborough Links. With appropriate
conditions to ensure linkages to the main settlement area the site is considered to be in a
reasonably sustainable location.
The submitted Design & Access Statement with addendum indicates that high quality housing
(design and layout) can be achieved with a good mix of tenure and house type and a
relatively high level of affordable housing to meet the needs of Barlborough. The land is to be
used effectively and efficiently with a density of 37 to the hectare. Mitigation measures can
be put in place to reduce the effects of noise, air quality and potential gas migration.
The Draft Core Strategy identifies Barlborough as a main village in the settlement hierarchy,
which might benefit from some residential development (policy CS2 Location of
Development). Policy CS6 (Affordable Housing) indicates that in Barlborough there is a
requirement for 30% provision in Barlborough (the application proposes 33%). Specifically
the Draft Core Strategy proposes for Barlborough a net additional housing provision of 200
dwellings (Policy CS28 (Development of the Main Villages), and identifies in policy CS29
(Main Villages: Strategic Principles) the continued protection of the Green Belt and possible
limited expansion of the village to the west on land east of the motorway (i.e. the application
site).
In relation to the noise environment upon the residential site it can be seen from the above
that there are no less sensitive sites at Barlborough available for residential development
because of the tightly drawn Green Belt around the village. It is shown in the noise
assessment and with the suggested conditions from the Councils Pollution Control Officer
(Noise) that acceptable noise levels to create an acceptable living environment can be
imposed and designed into the development. This is likely to involve a noise attenuation
bund/structure and appropriate construction techniques for the dwellings themselves and
would as a result be in compliance with policy GEN3 (Development Affected by Adverse
Environmental Impacts from Existing or Permitted Uses) of the Bolsover District Local Plan.
However a further issue to consider in relation to the residential area next to 124 Chesterfield
Road is the extant planning permission on those premises which includes provision for a
scaffold storage use adjacent to the proposed residential area. This has the potential to be a
source of nuisance to prospective residents. The applicant has agreed that this use will cease
when planning permission is granted for residential development. It would be appropriate to
include a condition and clause in the S106 to ensure that this use ceases.
With respect to air quality issues for prospective residents of the residential area, this is
acceptable provided an area of land alongside the motorway boundary is kept free of
development. This area of land is still to be defined but will still leave adequate land for the
proposed development to allow compliance with policy GEN3 (Development Affected by
Adverse Environmental Impacts from Existing or Permitted Uses) of the Bolsover District
Local Plan.
In summary the residential development while contrary to policy ENV3 (Development in the
Countryside) of the Bolsover District Local Plan, would add to the 5 year supply of housing;
involves the development of unused land (some of which in the past has had planning
permission for a motorists road side facility with hotel while other areas have recently been
the subject of unauthorised activities), which is also a logical rounding off of development at
Barlborough with defensible physical barriers (principally the M1) and the Green Belt (which
will be improved in appearance by the landscaping proposals of the development) and should
have an acceptable living environment in compliance with policies GEN1 (Minimum
Requirements for Development), GEN2 (Impact of Development on the Environment) and
GEN3 (Development Affected by Adverse Environmental Impacts from Existing or Permitted
Uses) of the Bolsover District Local Plan.
A S106 Planning Obligation will be required to satisfy policy requirements for affordable
housing [policy HOU6 (Affordable Housing)], provision and maintenance of the on-site open
space, children’s play area and contribution to formal sports and recreation provision within
Barlborough Parish [policy HOU5 (Outdoor Recreation and Play Space Provision for New
Housing Developments)], for public art [GEN17 (Public Art)] and a contribution for education
facilities at Barlborough Primary School in accordance with the requirements of the education
Report 09-370 Barlborough Developments (2).doc 34
authority.
The applicant has offered 50 affordable houses (33% based on a development not exceeding
150 dwellings). The draft Core Strategy indicates a requirement in Barlborough for 30%
affordable housing, while policy HOU6 (Affordable Housing) of the Bolsover District Local
Plan as supported by the Council’s Supplementary Planning Guidance: Affordable Housing
requests 10%.
Informal recreation facilities including a children’s play area are to be provided on site in
accordance with policy; the draft S106 submitted with the application also makes provision
for its future maintenance.
The applicant bases his offer for formal sports and recreation provision and education on the
provision of 100 new dwellings, making an assumption that the 50 affordable dwellings will be
occupied by existing residents of Barlborough and therefore not place any additional demand
on local facilities. Accordingly an amount of £74,700 is offered for formal sport and recreation
provision (100 x £747 per dwelling – the 2009 commuted sum) and £225,340 to fund 20
additional education places within Barlborough. It should be noted that the definition
proposed in the S106 of people entitled to the affordable housing includes people on the
Council’s waiting list or in identified housing need and who were born in Barlborough, and/or
live in Barlborough, and/or has lived in Barlborough but has been forced to move away
because of the lack of Affordable Housing and/or whose work provides important services
and who needs to live closer to the local community and who meets the Housing Associations
letting criteria. The definition thus includes people who are not already resident in
Barlborough. It would therefore be reasonable to require contributions based on the entire
residential development (maximum 150 dwellings) unless the applicant is able to demonstrate
through a viability assessment or other reasoned justification that reduced contributions are
required to allow the development to proceed. It should be noted that development costs on
this site are relatively high because of contamination issues including landfill gas, air quality,
structural requirements and the provision of a higher than required proportion of affordable
housing.
In view of the time lapse since the education authority’s original response a re-assessment is
being carried out. Meanwhile it is suggested that the S106 should make provision for
education in line with their original comments, i.e. a total of £338,293 for 30 additional primary
places based on a development of 150 dwellings (equivalent to £2255 per dwelling).
Similarly the commuted sum for off-site formal recreation and sport provision should be based
on the current 2010 figure, which is £765 per dwelling for all the residential development.
No offer for public art has been made, the applicant has verbally expressed that this is not
affordable particularly given the offer of other S106 matters related to the residential
development and the extraordinary development costs on both areas of the application site.
Unless the applicant is able to demonstrate through a viability assessment or other reasoned
justification that reduced contributions are required to allow the development to proceed it is
recommended that any S106 Planning Obligation should be on the basis of the preceding
paragraphs.
The land directly adjoins Barlborough Links employment area, backing onto development off
Midland Way on its north-eastern side, and development off High Hazels Road to its southern
side, these also being the settlement framework boundaries. To the north west corner of the
site is a residential property (Brick Yard Farm) and across Slayley Lane to the south-west
another dwelling (White House) set in agricultural land.
Policy ENV3 (Development in the Countryside) of the Bolsover District Local Plan allows
development in the countryside if it benefits the community through the re-use of land or
would result in a significant improvement the rural environment. Development of this land
which has little agricultural potential would benefit the wider community by providing
additional land for economic development and employment opportunities.
The main objections to the commercial element of the development are related to additional
traffic, the current level of empty units and land indicating no new development is required,
and the need for improved connections into the site. The Highways Agency and Local
Highway Authority have no objections to the development subject to junction improvements to
the Treble Bob roundabout and M1 junction 30.
The Draft Core Strategy identifies Barlborough as a main village in the settlement hierarchy
where significant new employment development is not a priority (policy CS2 Location of
Development). Specifically the Draft Core Strategy proposes for Barlborough 3ha of
employment generating uses (Policy CS28 (Development of the Main Villages), and states
that there is no requirement for significant employment provision beyond existing
commitments in policy CS29 (Main Villages: Strategic Principles). The application area for
the commercial element is 4ha with provision for B1 units and B2/B8 units and would take up
the projected allocation without being a significant intrusion into the green belt or countryside.
However these are the emerging policies of the Local Development Framework as expressed
through the draft Core Strategy: revised preferred Options (April 2010), which is at an early
stage of development.
Development of this land for employment related uses is a logical rounding off of the
Barlborough Links key employment site, has defensible physical barriers into the A619 and
Slayley Lane and makes use of poor quality land with poor visual appearance. The
addendum to the Design & Access statement shows an additional pedestrian/cycle link onto
Slayley Lane and a possible pedestrian/cycle link to High Hazels Road subject to an agreed
design with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust as this passes through an area identified as a nature
conservation site in the Bolsover District Local Plan. The release of this land will add to the
supply of quality employment sites in the District, the proximity to the M1 junction making this
an attractive location which will be of benefit to the economy of the District when the general
Report 09-370 Barlborough Developments (2).doc 36
economy improves.
The Design & Access Statement sets design principles for the site with architectural form
similar to the adjacent Barlborough Links development using a coordinated range of materials
and detailing. The masterplan layout shows B1 offices of 2 – 3 storeys (9 – 12 m height) on
the more prominent part of the site, the south west corner, fronting Chesterfield Road. Red
brick and dark roof tiles would be the dominant materials of these units. When the
Barlborough Links development was approved with its related Planning Brief a height
restriction was imposed in the areas adjoining the current development site, that no roof of
any building shall exceed 140m OD. Current site levels along the Chesterfield Road frontage
range from 133m to 134m with a high point towards the Slayley Lane boundary of around
136m. The ground levels are higher than the adjacent Barlborough Links development area.
A design approach which uses brick and concrete tile (or similar), as proposed, rather than
steel cladding would be appropriate in these higher ground level areas to reduce the visual
impact on the surrounding countryside. A reduction in ground levels is not feasible because
much of the site is filled ground.
The proposal will generally accord with the policies of PPS4: Planning for Sustainable
Economic Growth which encourages a positive and constructive approach to economic
development. The addendum to the Design & Access Statement commits to achieving a high
level of environmental performances outlined in BREEAM guidelines, with a reduction in
carbon dioxide emissions and energy efficiency over current building regulations. The site is
accessible, close to the M1 motorway junction 30, being on bus routes with pedestrian and
cycle links proposed to surrounding areas, the highway authorities are content that the traffic
measures proposed are acceptable. Design will follow that of the adjoining Barlborough Links
development, and the development will add to the employment base and choice in the area.
Overall the development will contribute to the regeneration objectives of the development
plan.
Other Matters
Air quality issues for Barlborough as a result of traffic generated by both aspects of the
development, particularly on the Air Quality Management Areas at Chesterfield Road and
Orchard Close, have been considered by the Council’s Pollution Control Officer (Air) and
found acceptable and therefore in accordance with policy GEN1 (Minimum Requirements for
Development) of the Bolsover District Local Plan.
Conclusion
The proposal is a departure to policy ENV3 (Development in the Countryside) of the Bolsover
District Local Plan. However there are material considerations which justify an exception to
this policy, the application (if the Committee are minded to support the proposal) will therefore
have to be referred to Council for a decision.
The two aspects of the development can be seen as logical rounding off of development at
Barlborough without significant intrusion into the Green Belt. The residential area takes in an
area excluded from the Green Belt between the motorway and existing development on
Chesterfield Road while the commercial aspect utilises a former tip area which has little
prospect of being productive agricultural land, and relates to the adjoining Barlborough Links
employment area, with physical boundaries of Chesterfield Road and Slayley Lane. The
Design and Access statement while needing further detailed analysis and development sets
the design and layout parameters for the development which will for the commercial element
be seen as an extension of Barlborough Links and for the residential element will develop a
community taking design clues from the existing village.
The new roundabout on Chesterfield Road, required to provide vehicular access to both sites,
will have the advantage of slowing vehicle speeds along Chesterfield Road, whilst the
proposals for the ‘Treble Bob’ roundabout will enable the highway network to cope with the
traffic flows from this development and from that of the Steetley Regeneration Scheme. A
safe (controlled) crossing of the A616 from the residential area towards the original village is
an important requirement to allow integration with the village and discourage the use of the
car for short journeys. At this outline stage the development has been shown to have no
adverse environmental effects which cannot be controlled or mitigated, although some
elements (such as gas risk assessments, design character, footpath links, etc) require further
research and monitoring to achieve satisfactory results. However it is felt these issues on
balance can be overcome with appropriate conditions. The proposal is therefore generally in
accordance with the policies of the Development Plan and national policy as expressed
through Planning Policy Statement 3 (PPS3) Housing and Planning Policy Statement 4
(PPS4) Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth and in line with the emerging policies of
the LDF, although this is at an early stage of development, subject to an appropriate S106
Planning Obligation to cover issues of affordable housing, open space and recreation, and
education provision.
The issues raised by objectors are generally considered above or addressed by the consultee
responses. Issues raised by consultees (in some cases after extensive discussions and
negotiations) can be resolved through appropriate conditions. Further comments are awaited
from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (on the recently submitted additional survey information) and
the Local Education Authority (update on requirements).
RECOMMENDATION
A) Defer decision pending completion of S106 Planning Obligation to cover the
following Heads of Terms:
• Provision of 33% affordable housing with a mix of social rented and intermediate
rented housing and a mix of dwelling types, for people with a connection with
Barlborough;
• Provision and maintenance of on-site children’s play area and amenity open
space, not less than 3000 sq m of which 400 sq m will be equipped with play
facilities for children (5 pieces);
• Education contribution by staged payments to a total of £338,293 based on a
maximum development of 150 dwellings (equivalent to £2255 per dwelling) to
increase the net capacity of schools within the Barlborough area by up to 30
places;
• Off-site sports provision by staged payments based on £765 per dwelling for
the improvement/provision/maintenance of sports facilities in Barlborough;
• Scaffold use as approved under planning application 04/00615/FUL to cease
and not be re-instated on land and premises at 124 Chesterfield Road
Barlborough;
unless the applicant is able to demonstrate through a viability assessment or other
reasoned justification that reduced contributions are required to allow the development
to proceed taking account of the extraordinary development costs associated with both
areas of the application site, in which case the application and proposed S106
Planning Obligation terms will be referred back to the Planning Committee for further
consideration.
B) Upon satisfactory completion of the S106 Planning Obligation in the terms set
out above the decision be referred to Council with a recommendation that
planning permission be approved subject to conditions to cover the following
issues, given below in précis form and to be formulated in full by the Head of
Planning and Environmental Health:
Notes
Knotweed on site.
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