10. LEISURE, RECREATION AND TOURISM

Introduction

10.1 The most relevant of the Government Planning Policy Guidance notes (PPGs) referring to leisure, recreation and tourism are:

- PPG17: “Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation” and “Assessing Needs and Opportunities: A Companion Guide to PPG17”; and

- PPG21: “Tourism”.

The English Sports Council’s Land Use Planning Policy Statement is also of importance.

10.2 In relation to Colchester Borough, amongst the key topics considered within the plan are:

- The future provision of leisure facilities, open space and children’s play facilities;

- Relocation of Colchester United Football Club;

- How best to promote sustainable tourism.

Objectives

10.3 The Plan’s objectives in terms of leisure, recreation and tourism are:

(a) To promote Colchester Town Centre as the Borough focus for major leisure, cultural and visitor facilities;

(b) To support the provision of an appropriate range of leisure, cultural and entertainment facilities in other locations;

(c) To promote sustainable tourism and the development of visitor attractions in appropriate locations and to improve facilities for visitors to the Borough;

(d) To encourage the development and management of a range of indoor and outdoor sports and recreation facilities appropriate to the differing needs of the population;

(e) To promote opportunities for informal recreation so far as this is compatible with the need to safeguard valuable natural resources;

(f) To safeguard existing areas of public open space and promote additional areas, including children’s playgrounds, in order to attain both a standard of 2.83ha (7 acres) of open space per thousand persons throughout the main built-up areas of the Borough and meet local needs in the villages, and to ensure that homes are located within 400m (1/4 miles) of public open space of at least 0.2ha;

(g) To maintain adequate land for allotments;

(h) To promote a woodland strategy for the Borough.

Policies

DEVELOPMENT CONTROL CONSIDERATIONS

10.4 It is important to note that all policies contained within this chapter must be read alongside the overall Development Control Policy (DC1). This policy sets out the standard planning criteria applicable to all forms of development. The relevant criteria will be used to assess the suitability of any proposal in addition to the following detailed policy guidance.

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES

10.5 There is a need to ensure the provision of a sufficient range and number of indoor and outdoor facilities within the Borough to meet the leisure and entertainment needs of residents and visitors to the Borough. This reflects Colchester’s position and role as a major centre for sport, recreation and the arts, and its status as a tourist and heritage destination.

10.6 The planning of leisure facilities in the Borough is undertaken in co-operation with regional bodies such as Sport England (East), the Eastern Arts Board and the East of England Tourist Board, and the policies below reflect the Council’s own leisure policies and consultations with those regional bodies.

10.7 Meeting the leisure needs of the local community and visitors to the Borough will be achieved in three main ways:

(a) Provision of new facilities;

(b) Improvements to existing facilities, including ancillary provision, such as changing rooms;

(c) Fuller and more effective use of such facilities as village halls and school sports provision through the principles of dual use or joint provision.

Different Types of Leisure and Entertainment Facilities

10.8 Leisure facilities, including commercial development such as theatres, snooker halls, bowling facilities, ice rinks, race-courses and sports stadia, should be located in town centres, employment zones, mixed use areas or Local Shopping Centres, as indicated in more detail within policies elsewhere in this Plan. Proposals for leisure developments affecting Colchester Town Centre are covered by policies in Chapter 15, “Town Centre and Shopping”, and will be considered in accordance with the sequential test set out in PPG6.

Suitable Sites for Leisure and Entertainment Facilities

10.9 Apart from setting out the standard criteria for examining proposals of this kind, such as traffic flow and safety, and the effect on Town Centre vitality and other resources, the Plan emphasises the need for the right setting for this type of provision. Similarly the Borough Council will seek to encourage opportunities for sport and recreation through the further establishment of indoor and outdoor clubs in the Borough. Proposals that would lead to the preservation of a listed building of special architectural or historic interest, or a building worthy of retention for its architectural, historic or community value, or a landscape of similar quality, will be welcomed.

10.10 The Council is keen to ensure that leisure and entertainment facilities in both rural and urban areas are upgraded in order to meet satisfactorily the needs of the communities that they serve. Provision is made in the Plan for a variety of new leisure facilities at various sites throughout the Borough (see Proposals Maps). Chapter 15, “Town Centre and Shopping”, also refers to those facilities listed in Policy L1 which are located in and around central Colchester. Further opportunities are identified as part of the proposals for the East Colchester Regeneration Area (see Chapter 16, “East Colchester and the Hythe”). The plan allows for the development and management of an appropriate range and standard of indoor and outdoor sports, recreation and cultural facilities. This includes improvements to sports pavilions and ancillary facilities (eg changing rooms) on existing sports grounds and playing fields.

10.11 Opportunities also exist for further provision as indicated below, and it is the intention to identify sites for:

• a dry ski slope;

• an indoor tennis centre;

• a basketball centre;

• improved skateboard and in-line skate facilities.

10.12 Similarly, the Borough Council is undertaking an assessment of local demand for the main pitch sports and how this compares with existing provision. Once the survey findings are known, it will seek to ensure that identified deficiencies are addressed wherever possible.

10.13 The list of facilities identified below in Policy L1 is not intended to preclude other arts, culture, tourist, and sport and recreation proposals coming forward. These will be considered in light of other policies in this plan.

 

L1 Provision is made in the Plan for the following leisure facilities: (i) Arts, Culture and Tourism a new Visual and Media Arts Centre; a theatre for the amateurs at Chapel Street North; a community theatre and arts centre (the Old Engine Shed Theatre Project) at Wivenhoe; second phase of development at the Mercury Theatre second phase of improvements at Colchester Arts Centre; the development of a major archaeological visitor attraction at Gosbecks Archaeological Park. (ii) Sports and Recreation second phase of community leisure development at Monkwick Sports Centre; community leisure development at Broad Lane, Wivenhoe; additional visitor facilities at High Woods Country Park; second phase of development – including new community leisure facilities, extension of sports pitches and further pavilion development – at Mile End Sports Ground; redevelopment of former nursery site in Castle Park; second phase of community leisure development at Highwoods Recreation and Sports Centre; new community leisure development at Stanway to serve west Colchester; new community leisure development at Sir Charles Lucas School to serve east Colchester; second phase of community leisure development at Tiptree Sports Centre; development of improved pavilion and spectator facilities at the Garrison athletic track; enhanced provision for rugby at Mill Road including clubhouse improvements and an extension to the current sports fields; multi-games area at West Mersea.

OPEN SPACE AND CHILDREN’S PLAY FACILITY PROVISION

Private Open Space

10.14 There are a number of areas of privately owned and maintained open space within the Borough. Some of these are used for formal games and some for informal recreation. These are important green spaces in their own right and help to meet demand for informal and formal recreational facilities. In recognition of this, the Plan has formally designated such areas as private open space. Proposals that would result in the loss of private open space will be refused unless a fully equivalent or greater amount of open space can be made available in reasonable walking distance of the proposal site or other alternative facilities acceptable to the Borough Council would be provided (see also Policy CF5, which relates to surplus educational premises and land).

Public Open Space

10.15 Public open space provides easily accessible opportunities for sport, recreation or play, with a range of styles and facilities. Public open space also provides form, structure and relief from built development in the urban environment. In rural areas, public open space contributes to the character of settlements and provides a focal point for community activity. The “Open Space” Technical Paper gives a more detailed analysis and explanation of the background to the allocation of individual sites as public open space. The Council will produce open space deficiency maps relating to different areas of the Borough. These will be regularly updated to take account of changes in provision.

10.16 Open space allocations in new residential developments are necessary in helping to meet the standard of 2.83ha (7 acres) of open space per 1,000 population. This is a long-established standard, first adopted by the Borough Council in 1974, and based upon that recommended by the National Playing Fields Association (6 acres per 1,000 population) plus the former Ministry of Housing and Local Government advice that a further 1 acre per 1,000 population be provided for informal recreation. The latest Central Government advice contained in PPG17, “Sport and Recreation”, leaves it to Local Planning Authorities to adopt appropriate local standards. This Council considers, in the light of its experience, that its long-established adopted standards should be retained to ensure an adequate supply of public open space.

10.17 The standard of 7 acres of open space per 1,000 population is applicable to all settlements in the Borough whose population is 1,000 or over. It is recognised that some settlements fall significantly below this level at present. The Borough Council will in due course seek to bring forward proposals to rectify such deficiencies. However, for now, the only new such open space allocations being proposed are at Great Horkesley and Tiptree.

10.18 It is felt appropriate that open space of at least 0.2ha (1/2 acres) in size ought to be located within a 400m (1/4 mile) distance of all homes, and this figure should become a new goal. Access to open space should be unhindered by physical barriers (eg major roads, railway lines, rivers, etc).

10.19 Playing fields in both private and public ownership are an important recreational resource. The policies listed below are designed to safeguard both public and privately owned sites currently or formerly used as playing fields. The term “playing field” specifically relates to sports pitches, greens, courts, tracks and all other such areas used for formal sports activities. In considering proposals for the loss of these, the Council will grant permission only if it is satisfied that one of the following will be met:

(a) There is evidence, from a fully quantified assessment, of a surplus of playing field provision in the area;

(b) The development is for a small part of the area which would not affect overall usage;

(c) Alternative provision to at least the same standard is to be made nearby;

(d) The development is for another sports facility, the provision of which would, overall, be beneficial to sport.

Table 1 – Hectares of Public Open Space per 1,000 Persons

Note: The “Public Open Space and Country Parks and Wildlife Areas” Technical Paper explains the basis for the above figures and updates and replaces the Council’s previous standards. It also identifies specific provision figures on a ward by ward basis.

Open Space Provision Within New Development

10.20 The provision of 10% open space within new residential areas is a long-established standard which was adopted in 1974 by this Council and reflected similar standards operated by the County Council within Essex as a whole. Thus, in assessing the overall open space requirements for the Borough, and in making new allocations, the anticipated contribution from the “10% policy” for individual sites has been taken into account.

10.21 Whilst the Council would normally expect the 10% open-space provision to be included in new development, it may not be necessary or feasible to require this, in whole or in part, on all sites. The following are offered, by way of examples, of possible alternative provision:

(a) In areas of very low housing density (2/3 dwellings per acre) where public amenity space would be of less value to residents;

(b) Where provision is made elsewhere locally as part of an agreed scheme;

(c) Where other land is secured to provide alternative amenity benefits, such as woodland or nature reserves.

10.22 An important reason for seeking open space allocations in new residential developments is the need to meet the immediate needs of residents in the new development itself, such as those of young children. It is recognised that such provision for residents on smaller housing developments needs to be allocated on a different, somewhat more flexible basis. In addition, in respect of new development providing specialised accommodation for the elderly, such as sheltered housing, the Council will require the provision of suitable and adequate amenity space as part of the scheme.

10.23 In this regard, many new residential areas provide high-density, relatively low-cost housing, catering to a large extent for young families with children. Such developments inevitably provide more limited private garden areas for children’s play. Alternative, communal provision of play areas is therefore essential within such developments if adequate facilities are to be provided for this important element of social life.

10.24 Such communal areas can, however, cause problems, especially as regards loss of amenity from overlooking, noise and general disturbance for residents living adjacent or nearby, and this is exacerbated when such areas are provided after developments are built and occupied. The identification of suitable areas at the outset can help to avoid such problems, as they can be designed into housing layouts, thus allowing possible amenity problems to be taken into account and therefore minimised.

10.25 In addition, there is less likelihood of problems arising following occupation of properties, as new residents can be made aware at the outset of the ultimate arrangements for play areas and play equipment provision within the development. It is considered important that such areas and equipment are not only earmarked but also properly provided for.

10.26 When considering specific proposals for open space provision within new residential development, the following factors will be taken into account:

(a) The amount and location of existing local provision;

(b) The topography and other physical characteristics of the site;

(c) The form and density of layout proposed;

(d) Scope for integration into the Borough’s greenlinks network.

Off-site Open Space Provision

10.27 In appropriate circumstances, applicants will be permitted to provide open space off site, subject to it being convenient and accessible to the new development and of an equivalent or greater benefit.

CHILDREN’S PLAY FACILITY PROVISION

Playground Development Plan

10.28 The provision of children’s play facilities will be supported where they accord with the objectives of the Borough Council’s “Playground Development Plan”, which seeks:

(a) to provide safe and attractive equipped playgrounds for use by children up to 14 years of age, such playgrounds to be distributed throughout the Borough, taking into account the following considerations:

(i) demographic profile/trends for the area;

(ii) potential catchment areas so that playgrounds are within easy reach of the most family homes;

(iii) physical barriers, such as major roads and railways, that prevent safe access to playgrounds.

(b) to develop kick about areas and other facilities for the 11+ age group to allow opportunity for exercise and socialising with the minimum disruption to younger children and residential areas;

(c) to provide integrated play facilities for use by young people with disabilities on selected sites throughout the Borough.

Children’s Play Facilities

10.29 Conflict can arise between residents keen to get further children’s play facilities provided within their neighbourhoods and those worried about noise and disturbance emanating nearby to their homes. Consequently, the Borough Council will seek to ensure that proposed sites for such facilities within new developments are identified and made known as early as possible, in order to help to avoid local discord. A requirement will be introduced whereby developers are required to display notices within areas approved as public open space and “children’s play areas” prior to any work commencing on site. This will draw attention to the fact that these areas will be used for such purposes.

GENERAL

Commuted Payments

10.30 The Council is concerned to ensure that areas of public open space and children’s play facilities are properly maintained and available for use by residents of the area. This can impose a severe financial strain on the Council in perpetuity, which, it is considered, should be offset by contributions from the developer. Accordingly, a “one off” commuted payment will be required to provide for a maintenance period of 25 years for public open space, appropriate nature conservation management and any play equipment provided in children’s play areas. The Borough Council has adopted figures which it proposes to review periodically.

Greenlinks

10.31 The Borough Council’s greenlinks policy should also prove of assistance (see Policy UEA14). It will connect green corridors of value in terms of landscape and amenity, wildlife, historic significance and access and enjoyment. The Council will also encourage the establishment of a wider network of recreational footpaths linking green spaces to one another and will increase the accessibility of open land to the urban areas.

10.32 Where open spaces are being provided for public use beside railway lines, suitable and secure fencing will be required. The relevant rail infrastructure body will advise on the appropriate form and extent of the fencing.

 

L2 Permission will not be granted for any change of use to any other purpose of a private playing field, sports ground or open space defined on the Proposals Map as private open space, unless – in the case of playing fields – the proposal complies with one of the following requirements: (a) There is evidence, from a fully quantified assessment, of a surplus of playing field provision in the area; (b) The development is for a small part of the area which would not affect overall usage; (c) Alternative provision to at least the same standard is to be made nearby; (d) The development is for another sports facility, the provision of which would, overall, be beneficial to sport.

L3 Permission will not be granted for the development of sites allocated on the Proposals Map as existing or proposed public open space for any other purpose, unless – in the case of playing fields – the proposal complies with one of the following requirements: (a) There is evidence, from a fully quantified assessment, of a surplus of playing field provision in the area; (b) The development is for a small part of the area which would not affect overall usage; (c) Alternative provision to at least the same standard is to be made nearby; (d) The development is for another sports facility, the provision of which would, overall, be beneficial to sport.

L4 The Plan makes provision for the following areas of public open space: Abbeyfields and Cricket Ground* Bowling green at Braiswick Braiswick Fruit Farm Breachfield Road Bullock Wood Bypass Nurseries, Cowdray Avenue (see paragraph 5.18) Camulodunum Way Chitts Hill map Colchester Road, West Mersea Cymbeline Meadows (Lennox Land and Essex Hall) Distillery Pond Elmstead Road, Wivenhoe Elmwood Avenue Gaffney’s site, Tiptree* Gosbecks (land adjoining) Grove Road, Tiptree* High Woods Country Park Extension High Woods Country Park (heathland adjacent Visitors’ Centre) Hillyfields Colchester Institute Playing Field Horkesley Heath (Coach Road)* Inworth Grange, Tiptree Rowhedge Iron Works Meadow* Irvine Road (currently leased by CBC) Land north-east of Suffolk Avenue, West Mersea* Land west of Iron Latch Wood, Halstead Road Lordswood Road Mile End Sports Ground Extension Mill Hotel (land to rear of former) Mill Road Sports Ground Extension Oaks Drive (land to rear of) Priory Street Roach Vale (British Gas Sports Ground), Bromley Road St John’s Road (land to north of) Spring Lane Playing Fields Stanway Pit (former ARC land)* The Moors Tiptree – TBS site* Wivenhoe Ferry Marsh* Wivenhoe Redlands site * Public open space to be provided as part of a residential development scheme.

L5 Within any area of new residential development, the following open space provision will be required: (a) Where the site area is 2ha (5 acres) or over: (i) at least 10% of the area will be reserved for open space purposes, including children’s play spaces, kick about areas for older children, and amenity/ landscaping; (ii) such open space provision is concentrated in as large parcels as possible, and no less than 0.2ha (0.5 acres). (b) Where the site area is under 2ha (5 acres), the developer will: (i) either make a 10% contribution of site area as an addition to any abutting open space provision; or (ii) allocate 10% of the site area itself for avenue planting along the principal roads. Where open space is to be dedicated to the Council, a commuted payment will be required from the developer to provide for future maintenance. Developers will also be required to provide play equipment to the Council’s satisfaction in order to meet the needs of the particular housing scheme.

OPEN SPACE IN VILLAGES

10.33 The Plan aims to encourage the provision of further open space and sports facilities in the villages, particularly in those which have already recorded, or will experience, increases in population. The Borough Council’s Rural Recreation Study and its individual Village Appraisals will help form a basis for the assessment of local needs. The Borough Council grant aid playgrounds in villages and other sports facilities.

10.34 The role of small areas of land for use for informal recreation purposes within the countryside needs to be recognised as making an important contribution to leisure provision. Pitts Wood at Copford is a good example of what can be achieved. The plan will seek to safeguard existing such areas and promote further areas.

10.35 The Borough Council will consider financial or other assistance in providing adequate village sports facilities, playing fields and areas of open space (including small plots) for informal recreation. In particular, priority will be given to areas where deficiencies in local provision have been recorded (eg Great Horkesley) and villages that have or will experience population growth. New allocations of public open space are proposed as part of proposed housing schemes at Great Horkesley and Messing.

 

L6 Permission will not be granted for the development of any important open space designated as such within a village envelope or outside it.

COMMONLAND, HEATHLAND AND VILLAGE GREENS

10.36 It is considered important to protect commonlands, heathlands and village greens from any form of development and to oversee their good management as they form valuable assets in terms of their ecology and contribution to the historic character of settlements, as distinctive landscape features and as places for informal recreation within the countryside. In the latter regard, recreational use of these areas should be restricted to informal pursuits such as horse riding, picnicking, dog walking and those team sports that are traditional features of village greens.

 

L7 Permission will not be granted for development which would lead to the loss of any part of a registered common, heathland or village green.

ALLOTMENTS

10.37 It is considered that the proposed standard of 0.2ha (2 acres) per 1,000 population is adequate given the relatively low level of demand for allotments. New allotment sites will be sought in the north of Colchester and at Wivenhoe and Tiptree.

10.38 No other type of development will be permitted on any allotment site zoned in the Plan unless the Borough Council is satisfied that either alternative provision of an equal or greater value will be located nearby by the applicant, or the need for the retention of the allotment facility no longer remains.

 

L8 Permission will not be granted for development on an allotment site unless: (a) a facility of an equivalent or greater value will be provided by the applicant at a location within an equally convenient walking distance of the site’s potential catchment area; or (b) the facility is no longer needed.

EXTENSION OF COLNE RIVERSIDE WAY

10.39 The extension of the River Colne Riverside Way which runs between Colne Bank Avenue, Colchester and Wivenhoe (see Proposals Map) is seen as an important feature of the overall need to extend opportunities for leisure walking and cycling in Colchester and provide links between the Town Centre and the wider countryside. The Wivenhoe Trail section has already brought benefits to the area. There is considered to be particular scope for this in areas of major redevelopment, such as at the Hythe. The proposed route of the Colne Riverside Way as shown on the Proposal Map is indicative, rather than definitive, and is subject to detailed negotiation, taking into account wildlife and landscape considerations.

GOLF FACILITIES

10.40 In its publication entitled “The Future for Golf – Review” (1992), the then Sports Council (Eastern Region) suggested that Colchester Borough required a further two play-and- pay courses and two other golf courses in order to satisfy demand. It is the view of the Authority that existing provision is now adequate. However, the policy does not impede further proposals coming forward.

10.41 Proposals for all types of golf course development should accord with the Essex Golf Report SPG adopted by the Borough Council in September 1992. Further relevant information is contained within the Countryside Commission’s “Golf Courses in the Countryside” (1993) and English Nature’s “On Course Conservation – Managing Golf’s Natural Heritage” and “Your Course – Preparing a Conservation Management Plan”.

10.42 Proposals for golf facilities within or adjacent to the Dedham Vale AONB will be refused permission in order to safeguard the quality of this nationally important landscape (see also Chapter 5, “Countryside”, for further policy guidance on the Dedham Vale AONB), although golf course developments can be an appropriate land use in other areas of the countryside. However, in terms of the market they are designed to serve, or because of their particular nature, some of these developments, such as golf-driving ranges, may well be best located in areas close to, or within, the urban fringe. Proposals for golf courses in areas of despoiled or derelict land which would result in material improvements to the appearance of the landscape will be welcomed. Proposals for unrelated development, such as banqueting suites, beauty salons, hotels, swimming pools, conference facilities and similar indoor or outdoor leisure and social provision, will not be permitted.

(a) Visual Impact – the development should present only an intensification of the existing landscape pattern, as opposed to the imposition of an alien landscape form. In this regard, applicants will be expected to submit:

(i) a comprehensive landscape appraisal of the proposal site and relevant areas adjoining the proposal site; and

(ii) full details of the development layout, the proposed landscaping scheme, the siting and size of buildings and associated parking as part of the planning application, and not as a reserved matter for later approval by the Authority.

(b) Ecological Impact – the provisions of Policies CO4 and CO5 will be closely adhered to. In this regard, applicants will be expected to submit a comprehensive ecological statement, which should demonstrate both how existing ecological features and habitats will be safeguarded and the scope for enhancing existing habitats and creating new ones. Developers will also need to submit adequate information with planning applications to enable a judgement to be made against Policy CO8, which seeks to protect agricultural land.

10.43 Applicants seeking planning permission for the expansion or intensification of existing golf course facilities, or the creation of new facilities, will be expected in appropriate cases to:

(a) enter into S106 Agreements dealing with all relevant matters, such as improvements to the local road networks and safeguarding important natural features; and

(b) fund any or all appraisals relating to ecology, landscape or archaeology.

 

L10 Golfing facilities should be located in either: (a) the urban fringe; or (b) in those rural areas where the more “urban” characteristics of such facilities, particularly golf driving ranges, can be satisfactorily screened from outside view. Permission will be given for golf course development, including golf driving ranges, pitch-and-putt courses and putting greens, if the proposal meets all of the following criteria: (i) It maximises the re-use of existing redundant buildings on the site, rather than creates a need for major new built development; (ii) It does not include “unrelated” development; (iii) The local rights-of-way network is unharmed and, where possible and appropriate, enhanced; and (iv) It will not use land zoned as an “approved” or “preferred” site in the Essex County Council’s Minerals Local Plan.

BIRCH PIT

10.44 Following the extraction of gravel from Birch Pit, an area of water will remain. It is considered that this could be used for appropriate quiet water recreation uses in accordance with the planning after-use agreement and which do not generate heavy volumes of traffic.

 

L11 Provision is made for an area of water recreation at Birch Pit. The following water recreation uses are considered suitable: fishing, rowing, sailing and canoeing.

WOODLAND, TREE AND HEDGEROW COVER

10.45 Woodland, tree and hedgerow cover has been decreasing over the years due to changes in agricultural practices and pressure from development. PPG7 refers to the benefits of well planned and managed woodland and states that the Government would like to double woodland coverage over the next 50 years. The importance of protecting these features for their habitat and wildlife value is dealt with in policies in Chapter 5, “Countryside”, but another of the benefits of woodland is the valuable opportunity it provides for leisure and recreation. The Council will therefore seek to increase the area of woodland in the Borough and encourage the planting of trees and hedgerows. This will be through new development schemes to provide informal leisure and recreation opportunities or to secure additional planting in relation to large-scale developments to enhance the overall amenity of the Borough.

 

L12 The Council will pursue the planting of woodland, trees and hedgerows using locally native species through opportunities provided by new development and will provide access to these areas for leisure and recreational uses.

COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION

10.46 Increased pressures for informal recreational facilities (eg footpaths, picnic sites, small country parks etc) will inevitably occur for a number of reasons (see also Chapter 5, “Countryside”, and Chapter 4, “Coast and Estuaries”). These include shorter working hours, higher disposable incomes and increasing car ownership levels.

10.47 Whilst the Council wishes to see increased provision for informal recreational activities to meet this higher anticipated demand, there is a need at the same time to ensure that no harmful impacts (eg noise and disturbance) are caused to the Borough’s limited and valuable resources, such as its fine landscape, good agricultural land, important wildlife habitats and archaeological sites.

10.48 Finding an appropriate balance between conserving these resources and meeting the demand for informal recreation opportunities will require very careful planning in a situation where most of the demand is from car-owning households wanting easy access to facilities. The Borough Council will assist with the implementation of this policy in specific locations. In addition, liaison will occur with landowners throughout in order to promote public access. The needs of people with disabilities should be particularly borne in mind. See Policy CF3 in Chapter 8, “Community Facilities and Infrastructure Provision”. Proposals should be easily accessible by public transport, bicycle or foot.

Rivers

10.49 The Borough’s rivers attract local residents and tourists as a setting for various informal recreational activities. While increased access to, and recreation along, such river courses should generally be encouraged, full account will be taken of relevant local nature conservation and agricultural interests as well as the need to conserve scenic landscapes (see policies relating to the Dedham Vale AONB and to Countryside Conservation Areas) and water quality. Proposals should accord with the Environment Agency’s “North Essex Local Environment Agency Plan” (LEAP), which covers a wide range of water issues relevant to the Rivers Blackwater, Colne and Stour.

Ministry of Defence Land

10.50 Considerable use is made of the Army training areas stretching south from Middlewick Ranges to the Roman River Valley. Although footpaths cross this area, the bulk of this use is due to the generosity of the Ministry of Defence in allowing public access when the areas are not in use for military purposes. The Council will seek the co-operation of the Ministry of Defence to ensure the continuance of these arrangements, which are of considerable benefit to the Borough.

 

L13 A proposal for an informal recreational facility in the countryside or along river courses or the coast will be permitted if it would not: (a) introduce an activity damaging to the area in scale or nature; and (b) harm the character or appearance of the countryside or coast. Facilities should use existing buildings if they are available. New buildings or structures should be sited close to any existing buildings, blend into the landscape and provide for the needs of people with disabilities.

PROTECTING PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY

10.51 The continued retention of existing rights of way is necessary in order to maintain public access and to promote more environmentally friendly alternatives to motor transport. It is fully recognised that, in order to proceed, some development schemes will require changes to be made to existing public rights of way. In such instances, permission will be given only if the changes would not be harmful to its users, the environment or nearby residents and land users.

 

L14 Permission will not be granted for any development affecting a public right of way unless: (a) it would include the maintenance or the diversion of the public right of way as a route no less attractive, safe and convenient for public use; and (b) it would not be harmful to the environment or nearby residents and land users.

IMPROVEMENTS TO RECREATIONAL FOOTPATHS, CYCLEWAYS AND BRIDLEWAYS

10.52 One significant measure to meet the increasing demand for informal recreation opportunities in the countryside (as outlined under Policy L14 above) is an improved and extended footpath, cycleway and bridleway network throughout the Borough. The Council is fully committed to the extension of the definitive and permissive routes network and will work in conjunction with other relevant parties to achieve this outcome. Proposals should be integrated into the existing network and not be harmful to residents, nature conservation, historic buildings or sites, archaeological interests, agriculture, vehicular traffic or other users of the route. They should be designed both to minimise opportunities for criminal behaviour and to make provision for the needs of people with disabilities. The creation and diversion of footpaths, bridleways and cycle tracks are subject to statutory procedures.

10.53 The Countryside Agency is currently promoting the “Milestones Initiative” to have the rights of way network in good order by the year 2000. The primary responsibilities for achieving this rest with the Highway Authority, although the Borough Council has an important role to play. In addition, the Council’s Countryside Recreation Access Group (CRAG) will work towards achieving the aims of this initiative.

10.54 The Borough Council is also keen to encourage recreational cycling and supports the East of England Tourist Board’s “England’s Cycling Country” initiative, which seeks to establish the region as the country’s leading cycling destination. Cyclists can use bridleways by right under the Countryside Act 1968. When considering the creation of new routes for cyclists, the Borough Council will consider whether it is appropriate to designate these routes in such a way as to allow equestrian use of them as well. Such shared use facilities will be likely to be most appropriate in rural areas and for long distance cycle paths.

10.55 The creation of new public footpaths, cycleways and bridleways not only boosts informal recreation activities but also provides new opportunities for people to avoid having to travel by car. Such provision in new development should be linked to nearby facilities such as shops, community and sports centres, schools and open spaces and other such places of public resort (see paragraph 6.70, UEA14).

 

L15 Proposals to improve and extend the recreational footpath, cycleway and bridleway network will be permitted provided that they: (a) are linked to existing or proposed routes, or places of public resort; (b) do not harm agricultural operations; (c) are located and designed with regard to community safety; and (d) do not have an adverse effect on nature conservation, wildlife and historic features.

SPORTS CAUSING NOISE OR DISTURBANCE

10.56 A number of increasingly popular sporting activities have in recent times given rise to greater levels of complaints from nearby land users and residents due to ensuing noise and disturbance. Examples of these include a wide range of activities, from shooting to motorised sports on land, parachuting, parascending, microlight flying, hang-gliding and model-aircraft flying in the air.

10.57 There is a need to ensure that the interests of both those wishing to participate in sporting activities and those living and working nearby are adequately served. To this end, it will be necessary to ensure that proposals for sports are located (or relocated) in appropriate localities. Degraded land, former minerals sites and set-aside farmland offer considerable scope for establishing many noise generating and/or disturbance causing land based activities. In the case of noisy air sports, proposed runway and circuit alignments will be closely examined in order to ensure that minimum ground noise and disturbance is caused to locally affected residents. Restrictions will be imposed on the number and times of runway movements and the sizes of aircraft permitted.

10.58 Locations which are likely to prove more suitable for noisy sports include sites adjoining existing noise generating areas, such as major A roads (ie A12 and A120) or the main railway line to London, particularly where these are well screened by banks and trees and provided that they comply with the policy criteria listed below.

10.59 Recreational proposals should not cause harm, including noise and disturbance, to local residents and land uses because of the nature, scale, extent, frequency or timing of the activities. No harm should be caused to public safety (particularly in relation to nearby roads and public rights of way) or to traffic flow. Any proposed sporting activity will be required to conform with Policy DC1.

Wormingford Airfield

10.60 Wormingford Airfield is used by Essex and Suffolk Gliding Club for glider flying and training. As it is an unlicensed aerodrome, the Civil Aviation Authority recommend the protection of obstacle limitation surfaces around the runways by reference to an unofficial safeguarding map. The Club has lodged an unofficial safeguarding map for Wormingford Airfield with the Council. This map is used as a basis for an agreed consultation procedure on certain types of planning application.

War Gaming

10.61 It is acknowledged that “war gaming” or “combat games” is a popular leisure activity which, in Essex, has led to damage in a number of ancient semi-natural woodlands. It is especially vital to protect these woodlands, as they generally support a greater diversity of wildlife than either planted woodland or semi-natural woodland of recent origin. It is felt that there are alternative types of site, such as derelict land, scrubbed-over wasteland or recent secondary woodland, which should be used in preference to ancient woodland for playing combat games. Control over this type of leisure activity is constrained by the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, Part IV, Class B, which permits combat games to be pursued up to 28 days in any one calendar year without planning permission. Nevertheless, in cases where planning permission must be sought, applicants will be expected to put forward proposal sites away from sensitive nature conservation or wildlife habitats, including particularly ancient semi- natural woodland.

10.62 Planning permission will not be granted for the leisure activity of war gaming in areas containing important and sensitive nature conservation or wildlife habitats, particularly ancient semi-natural woodlands. Nor will permission be granted where there would be disturbance to equestrians, cyclists or pedestrians using adjacent or nearby public rights of way.

Site Issues

10.63 Full consideration will be given to the number of people likely to be present at any one time and the effects of their overall concentration or dispersal within the site. Landowners and operators will be encouraged to prepare site-management agreements where appropriate.

 

L16 Permission will be given for a proposed sporting activity causing noise or disturbance only if: (a) harm would not be caused to local residents and land users by the nature, scale, extent, frequency or timing of the recreational activities proposed, including: (i) any noise or disturbance to be generated by the proposed recreational activities; and (ii) the number of people likely to be at the site at any one time and their degree of concentration or dispersal within the site; and (iii) the harmful use of outdoor lighting; (b) it is located and designed with regard to community safety.

COLCHESTER UNITED FC

10.64 The existing site occupied by Colchester United Football Club is unsatisfactorily located and there is some conflict with the amenity of local residents. In order to find a satisfactory alternative location, the Borough Council established a working party consisting of its officers and representatives of the club. Consultants were commissioned to investigate the viability of a new community-based stadium to incorporate Colchester United FC. These consultants also investigated alternative locations, having taken on board the need for any chosen location and scheme to conform with the following criteria:

(a) Road safety and the free flow of traffic would not be impaired;

(b) Access would be available by a choice of means of transports;

(c) Harm would not be caused to the amenity of local residents and land users;

(d) Adequate access and parking provision could be made;

(e) The character or appearance of the countryside would not be damaged;

(f) No harm would be caused to sites of historic, archaeological or nature conservation value, or to high quality agricultural land;

(g) The proposed stadium and any associated buildings and structures would be compatible with its surroundings in siting, scale, design materials and landscaping;

(h) Only the minimum necessary lighting would be used;

(i) Facilities for spectators would be adequate, including those for people with disabilities

10.65 As a result, it has been established that the most appropriate site on which to locate a new football stadium is Cuckoo Farm (south of the A12), as defined on the Proposals Map. Any planning application should be accompanied by detailed environmental-impact assessment and traffic-impact reports and will need to secure a satisfactory junction to the A12 (as required by Policy ME1).

10.66 Should the development not proceed for any reason, the site will provide for a significant extension to the Cuckoo Farm (south of the A12) Employment Zone. Development will therefore be expected to conform to Policy EMP1.

 

L17 The Plan provides for the relocation of Colchester United football ground to a site at Cuckoo Farm (south of the A12) as part of a new community sports stadium. Should this development not proceed, future development will accord with Policy EMP1.

ARTS

10.67 The initiative pioneered by the Arts Council in 1988 which encourages private sector investment in the arts by commissioning suitable works of arts and craft within, or in association with, new development or refurbishment schemes is strongly supported.

10.68 In supporting this initiative, the Council wishes to encourage, by negotiation, the use of art and craft, especially that created locally, to enhance important development schemes. The policy below relates to development which would, either by its scale or location, have a significant impact on the environment. The term “major development” will apply to any proposal for more than 1,000 sq m floorspace, or where the site area is 1ha or more in size, or where the development is of more than 10 dwellings, or 0.5ha in size if the number of dwellings is not given. Schemes involving new buildings open to public view within Conservation Areas, and those on particularly prominent or important sites elsewhere, will be considered against this policy.

10.69 The Council will seek to negotiate for those features which would embellish and enhance already acceptable schemes. These should result in a positive contribution to the scheme itself, its immediate environment or the locality in general. Whilst art forms such as sculptures, murals and paintings could be acceptable and appropriate, this policy also aims at promoting such elements as enhanced architectural detailing, traditional features requiring a significant “craft” element in their fabrication and, possibly, the use of enhanced materials where they may not ordinarily be required, such as in paving or street furniture.

10.70 As an alternative, it may be considered appropriate for developers to contribute towards the financing of arts facilities or works of art away from the immediate locality. The Council’s Cultural Services could advise on this different context.

10.71 The Council will promote the further enhancement of the arts in the environment in general, and individual development in particular, by seeking to secure, as supplements to its normal design requirements, the provision of architectural features or works of a purely artistic or craft nature as an integral part of important development proposals. It may also seek to secure the provision of other facilities for the arts through the use of S106 Agreements attached to such proposals.

 

L18 Major development will be required to make provision for commissioning features or works of an artistic or craft nature.

TOURIST AND VISITOR FACILITIES

10.72 A Regional Tourism Strategy has been prepared by the East of England Tourism Board. The Borough Council maintains a “Tourism Development Plan” and is keen to support sustainable tourism, and will continue to make its own direct contribution through, for example, the visitor information and museums service and the promotion of a positive approach to the management of visitors. However, it is nevertheless aware that certain parts of the Borough, such as the Dedham Vale area and Mersea and the coast, have only a limited capacity to absorb further visitor-related activities, whether this is higher flows of tourists and day-trippers or means more physical infrastructure and other provision to cater for their needs. The Council has undertaken a capacity study, the “Dedham Recreation Capacity Study”, which has resulted in the production of a new policy (see Chapter 5, “Countryside”). In addition, the “Constable Country Visitor Management Plan” was produced under the co-ordination of the Dedham Vale AONB Project. In relation to Mersea, the Blackwater Estuary Management Plan is of relevance to visitor management. The Colne Estuary Management Plan has been prepared in respect of the River Colne and is particularly relevant to Wivenhoe and Rowhedge. Particular regard will be paid to the aforementioned documents when determining proposals for visitor facilities and services at locations covered by them.

10.73 The Plan supports the principle of sustainable tourism and visitor facilities. Whilst some parts of the Borough may well be able to accept tourism-related development, the Local Planning Authority must have regard to the ability of other areas to absorb further such development. The Council will assess all tourist and visitor related proposals (eg the establishment, extension or change of use of premises for hotel, guest house, youth hostel, public house, restaurant, or self catering visitor accommodation, etc) in terms of their likely impacts on local environments, especially in terms of traffic generation, general amenity and, in particular, high quality townscape or landscape, or important wildlife habitats. Whilst the policy seeks to encourage the provision of small-scale tourist related development in the countryside, all proposals will be subject to other relevant policies elsewhere in the Plan. The following policies are especially relevant: CO10 (farm diversification), EMP4 (employment uses in the countryside – general), UEA6 (converting listed buildings) and CF3 (access for people with disabilities). Larger-scale proposals are likely to be appropriate only within, or on the edges of, urban areas (Policies TCS21 and TCS22 are of particular relevance here).

10.74 Hotel and conferencing facilities would be acceptable in respect of the community stadium and university sites. In addition, hotel provision may be acceptable within some of the Town Centre Regeneration Areas (see Policies L17, ME1, UC1 and TCS24).

10.75 Caravans and tents can provide relatively cheap holiday accommodation for tourists coming to the Borough. However, provision for these types of holiday accommodation should be provided at established sites, as referred to in the policy below. Entirely new sites in the Borough will be considered if they can be catered for without harming the local environment, residents and land users and without generating new problems of traffic management. The term “camping sites” referred to in the policy below is applicable to all proposals for facilities for touring and transit caravans and tents. As the development of “leisure plots” can have a damaging impact on the landscape and result in high amounts of traffic travelling along narrow country lanes, such proposals will be rejected. (See also Policies CE4 and CE5 in Chapter 4, “Coast and Estuaries”, which relate to further holiday development within or close to the coast and caravan occupancy restrictions.)

 

L19 Outside the Coastal Protection Belt, a new or extended visitor facility will be permitted if: (a) the local area is able to absorb the proposed development; and (b) it does not propose the development of small plots of land in the countryside as leisure plots with any buildings, caravans or structures. Additional camping sites will be permitted only where the development has good access to the main highway network and would not result in unacceptable traffic or environmental impacts or harm to local residents.