Green Policies

One of the principal aims of the Unitary Development Plan (UDP) is to encourage sustainable forms of development - defined in the plan as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". The council considers that this definition embraces social and economic aspects as well as environmental - and the plan encourages balanced communities, the provision of local jobs and services, more affordable housing and an environment that is accessible to all.

Policy Env 1 states that "all new development will be seen as an opportunity to make a positive improvement to the environment", while Env 2 says that "the council will examine all applications for development with a view to securing the objectives of sustainable development". The supporting text to the policy explains that, wherever possible, buildings should be seen in a wide context extending beyond the functional requirements of the immediate users. This should incorporate such matters as:

• green construction
• the relationship with other buildings and uses
• public accessibility
• security and safety for users
• energy efficiency
• variety of uses and facilities
• planting, landscaping and nature conservation
• impact in terms of noise, traffic, wind turbulence and air pollution
• use of environmentally friendly building materials
  
  

A key tool to achieve greater sustainability is a "sustainability assessment" and the council will request that this is prepared for significant development schemes. Supplementary guidance has been prepared to advise on how to carry out an assessment - this includes a checklist of aspects that should be looked at. To view all of this information click on the links at the bottom of this page.