EAST OF ENGLAND eXPRESS - Royal Town Planning Institute

EAST OF ENGLAND eXPRESS Spring 2016

Where are we now?

Can you recognise this place?

NEWSLETTER OF THE RTPI EAST OF ENGLAND

>CONTENTS

Please click here for: Click here to download the latest version of Acrobat

SERVING PLANNERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE ESSEX HERTFORDSHIRE SUFFOLK & NORFOLK

You could win a £25 Marks and Spencer voucher (see QUIZ page for further details)

This edition of the East of England Express is sponsored by

INTERACTIVE CONTENTS

EAST OF ENGLAND eXPRESS

GUEST EDITORIAL BY MICHAEL HAND PAGE 3

OUR NEW CHAIR PAGE 4

OUR BEER & CURRY NIGHT PAGE 4 OUR EVENTS PROGRAMME 2016 PAGE 5

LEGAL INSIGHT FROM 39 CHAMBERS PAGE 6 PAUL’S PIECE PAGE 7

OUR CONFERENCE 25/11/15 STRATEGIC, LOCAL AND NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANS PAGE 8 PLANNING AID UPDATE PAGE 10

AWARD FOR CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PAGE 10

ROBERT’S REFLECTIONS PAGE 11 FUTURE PLANNERS PAGE 12 OUR CONFERENCE 09/12/15 MASTER PLANNING ETC.

PAGE 13

OUR COMMITTEE MEETINGS 10/11/2015 & 14/01/2016

PAGE 14

OUR YEARLY BIG MEETING PAGE 15

GOODBYES PAGE 15 WHO’S WHO IN OUR REGION IN 2016 PAGE 16

YOUNG PLANNERS PAGE 17 PRESIDENT PHIL IS ON THE WAY! PAGE 17 THE BIG EAST OF ENGLAND EXPRESS ROAD SHOW

PAGE 18

AWARDS NATIONAL & LOCAL PAGE 18

OUR CONFERENCE 06/11/15 PLANNING LAW UPDATE

PAGE 19

INSIDE THE BACK WITH NATASHA PAGE 20

QUIZ PAGE 21

DAVID LOCK ASSOCIATES OPPORTUNITY PAGE 22

Cover photo by David Potter

East of England Express Spring ‘16

>CONTENTS

GUEST EDITORIAL Guest Editorial by Michael Hand, our new Chair PRIDE OF PLACE I am very honoured to be your Chair for 2016 and look forward to meeting many of you over the coming year. Before looking ahead, I want to thank David Potter, immediate past chair, for his true commitment to the role - it’s a hard act to follow given his 100% record of chairing all regional conferences and committee meetings in 2015. Well done, David! Thanks also to Secretary, Jackie Ward and other members of our Committee who give considerable time and effort in developing and delivering the programme of events. Despite many years working in the associated field of economic development, I’ve always considered myself, first and foremost, a planner. From an early age I’d been interested in both the physical and natural environment and felt that town and country planning was the ideal opportunity to put this interest into practice - it was also the logical vocational path given the synergy with my university subjects (see biography elsewhere in this issue). It also explains why I’ve been a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society for 35 years. The planning profession plays an absolutely crucial role in our society, affecting everybody both directly and indirectly. Although this is rarely fully appreciated by the general public, your professional expertise makes a real difference to the lives of those living, working and visiting the region. Whatever your contribution, these are really important jobs and you should be proud of your role in contributing to communities, creating a sense of place, supporting the local economy and protecting the environment. As a trustee of Planning Summer School until it was wound up last year, I’m very aware of the increasing pressures on training budgets and individuals’ time. However, it’s important to remember the professional commitment to keep up-to-date with personal training. The events put on by our Committee are a key local learning resource, providing opportunities to develop professional

networks and showcase examples of good planning practice. I would therefore encourage you all to make the case to your managers and sign up for one or more of our forthcoming CPD events. Some particular highlights for me will be the joint conference with IHBC being held in Saffron Walden on 16 March; the President’s visit and Place Making conference in Hatfield on 21 April; the quiz, beer and curry evening in Bury St Edmunds, that follows our AGM on 17 May; the Annual Gala Dinner and Regional Awards Evening on 23 September, again at Girton College, Cambridge. In addition to increasing attendance at our events, my top priorities for the year ahead are to raise the profile and status of planners and planning; engage with partner organisations; and, roll out the RTPI Ambassador scheme to inspire school children to understand the built environment and consider a future career in planning. Besides getting involved in our activities, I would also welcome your feedback and comment on issues that matter to you as planning professionals in our region. You can email me at: [email protected]. I’m really excited to be your Chair for 2016 and I hope I can count on your support and involvement in our activities over the next 12 months. Michael Hand Thanks Michael and good luck! Now don’t forget dear readers, if you would like to get your name in lights so to speak, and contribute to our newsletter all you have to do is jot something down or draw us a cartoon or take an appropriate photograph send it to me at the address to the right. Cheerio for now and keep smiling! Peter Hakes, Editor pg 3

Next Issue The next issue should be published around Summer 2016. Deadline for copy is 23rd May 2016 to: The Editor Peter Hakes, PO BOX 11102, Brentwood, CM14 9JQ Tel:01277 220043 email:[email protected] Acknowledgements Editing: Peter Hakes/Tina Palmer Design: David Lock Associates Thanks to all contributors Follow us on: @RTPIEastofEng

Notice to Readers: The RTPI East of England Regional Management Board wish to point out that the sponsors have had no editorial role in the production of this newsletter and the Board does not endorse the sponsors or have any view on any matter on which they are involved. Registered Charity No. 262865 and Scotland SC 037841 This edition was sponsored by:


>CONTENTS

OUR NEW CHAIR

OUR BEER & CURRY NIGHT

So, who is our new Chair? TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 FROM 6.00PM

Well to help us Michael Hand has set out a few brief notes:• Graduated from Durham University (St Chad’s College) in 1975. Studied geography, economic history, anthropology and archaeology. • Following a ‘gap year’ teaching geography at a private school in the New Forest, studied full time for the postgraduate diploma in Town and Country Planning at Leeds Polytechnic. • Research Assistant at UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture and Planning on a major published study of the Broads and New Forest as potential National Parks. • Planning Assistant with Wolverhampton MBC in the Local Plans section. Prepared the casework for securing first round Enterprise Zone status for the redundant Bilston Steelworks. • After gaining membership of the RTPI, moved to Dudley MBC, working in Policy then Implementation teams. Seconded to set up and manage Dudley’s Urban Programme Unit, which grant aided the delivery of environmental, economic and social projects throughout the Borough. • In 1988, took up the post of Principal Economic Development Officer in Dudley’s newly created Economic Development Department, with responsibility for a team of 8 professional staff, working on a wide range of economic development initiatives. • Moved back to Norfolk in 1994 as Economic Planner for the County Council, where, inter alia, was responsible for developing and monitoring the employment, tourism and recreation policies of the Norfolk Structure Plan.

• Held the position of Economic Strategist at the County Council for 12 years, which included responsibility for managing Norfolk’s Rural Development Programme; production of the Local Economic Assessment; and, working with key partners on the development and review of the Economic Strategy for Norfolk (“Shaping the Future”). • Self-employed consultant in planning and economic development since 2011. • Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society for over 30 years and chair of its Regional Committee; a trustee of the Glenfinnan Station Museum and a past trustee of Planning Summer School until it was wound up last year. • Joined East of England Committee in 2013. • Married, no children but a very juvenile pedigree Chocolate Havana (exotic cat). • Play tennis twice a week, not enough golf (member of Thorpeness Golf Club) and the occasional cricket match. Enjoy skiing, walking, cycling and sailing holidays. • Continually trying to understand the French and their language by escaping to rural SW France for several weeks a year.

pg 4

The Oakes Barn, St Andrew’s Street South, Bury St Edmunds Join colleagues, bring members of your family, and enjoy a social evening in the delightful surroundings of the Oakes Barn in Bury St Edmunds. If you enjoy a pub quiz, why not get a team together ready for a challenge (each team must include at least one RTPI member). We promise there will be no planning-related questions! Fancy a curry? Meat and vegetarian options will be available from £8.00 per head. More Information and to Book Please contact Tina Palmer, email eastofengland@ rtpi.org.uk The weblink for this event is: http://rtpi.org.uk/ events/events-calendar/2016/may/east-of-englandsocial-evening/


>CONTENTS

OUR EVENTS PROGRAMME 2016 Our Regional Programme of Events is organised by professional planners for professional planners. Full details of each of the proposed events will be listed on the website http://www.rtpi.org.uk/the-rtpi-near-you/rtpi-eastof-england/conferences-and-events/ as information becomes available, but here is the latest version of the programme:

Please note: These details are subject to change and are provided for guidance only

Type of Event

Month/Date

Event

Location

Comments/Info

****** Your support at these events is vital to ensure their success

All day conference

16 March, from 9.30am

Development in the Rural Historic Environment: Managing and Accommodating Growth at the Local Level

Uttlesford DC Offices, Saffron Walden

In association with the IHBC and kindly hosted by Uttlesford DC

Would YOU be able to offer your expertise by making a presentation at one of these events?

All day conference

21 April, from 9.30am

Place Making: Delivering Successful Places - From Concept to Reality

Fielder Centre, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Kindly hosted by the Univ of Herts. This will include a keynote presentation by the RTPI President

President’s Visit

21 and 22 April

Visit by the RTPI President to the East of England

Various

Ideas for site visits would be welcomed

APC Event

21 April, 5.30pm

APC Event with RTPI Staff

University of Hertfordshire, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield

Kindly hosted by the Univ of Herts. Limited spaces

Cheese & Wine Reception

21 April, from 6.00pm

Cheese & Wine Reception with the RTPI President

University of Hertfordshire, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield

For Young Planners and Members. Limited spaces

AGM

17 May, 4.00pm

RTPI East of England AGM

West Suffolk House, Bury St Edmunds

Kindly hosted by St Edmundsbury BC

Social Evening & Regional Quiz for Members & Family

17 May, from 6.00pm

Beer & Curry evening Quiz optional!

The Oakes Barn, Bury St Edmunds

Chance to socialise with friends & colleagues. Why not get a quiz team together?

Half day conference

16 June, from 1.00pm

Viability Made Simple

Hughes Hall, Cambridge

Including interactive workshop

All day conference

15 July, from 9.30am

Conference for Councillors

Suffolk Coastal DC Offices, Woodbridge, Suffolk

Kindly hosted by Suffolk Coastal DC

Gala Dinner & Regional Award Presentation Evening

23 September, from 7.00pm

RTPI East of England Gala Dinner & Award Presentation Evening

Girton College, Cambridge

Sponsorship packages available

Half day conference

October (tbc)

Follow-up Seminar for Planning Administrators (tbc)

Location tbc

Local authority venue sought

CONFERENCE AND EVENTS PROGRAMME 2016

All day conference

4 November, from 9.30am

Annual Planning Law Update

Downing College, Cambridge

Kindly sponsored by 39 Essex Chambers and Cornerstone Barristers

All day conference

29 November, from 9.30am

Current Opportunities and Challenges in Plan Making

Huntingdonshire DC Offices

Kindly hosted by Huntingdonshire DC. Organised in association with ATLAS/HCA

All day conference

Date tbc. To be rescheduled from Feb 2016

Lessons from City Planning – Regeneration, Development and Transport

Conference Centre, Football Ground, Peterborough

Kindly sponsored by Peterborough Investment Partnership pg 5

****** Sponsorships Available Would your organisation be able to host one of our events in a suitable conference room, in exchange for a few “free” places for your staff? Or would your organisation be willing and able to sponsor one of these events by making a contribution towards the cost of a venue or towards the cost of lunch? In return, the organisation’s name would be included on the conference literature and promotional material could be displayed at the event. ****** Any offers of help or assistance from Regional members would be very gratefully received. Please help us to provide the Regional events you need. Up-to-date information can be obtained from: Tina Palmer, Regional Co-ordinator, RTPI East of England Tel: 01359 250258; Email: [email protected]


>CONTENTS

LEGAL INSIGHT FROM 39 CHAMBERS Solar farms on agricultural land – has the stable door been bolted? In an article written last year, two colleague1 and I asked whether there was light at the end of the tunnel for those seeking to promote solar farms on agricultural land. As we approach spring, the answer now appears to be a fairly resounding “no”. Over the last two months alone, no less than eight recovered solar farm appeals have been refused. At the time of writing our previous article, we recognised that, following the publication of the online PPG and certain Ministerial Statements, the government’s stance towards locating PV projects on agricultural land was rather unclear. Such lack of clarity was only compounded by the rather mixed messages that were emanating out from Planning Inspectors in their determination of solar farm appeals, with a not insignificant amount of such appeals relating to proposals utilising the best and most versatile agricultural land (i.e. land which is Grade 1, 2 and 3a on the Agricultural Land Classification) (“BMVAL”). The tension between national and local policies seeking to preserve the agricultural use of such land and policies encouraging the production of renewable energy led to much scratching of heads. The policy context for solar PV proposals on agricultural land is well known. Starting with paragraph 112 of the NPPF, which states that the economic benefits of BMVAL should be taken into account, with preference being given to areas of poorer quality land. The PPG then identifies a number of factors which should be taken into account by LPAs when determining applications for large-scale PV solar farms, including encouraging the effective use of land by focussing large scale solar farms on previously developed and non-

agricultural land, provided that it is not of high environmental value and, where a proposal involves greenfield land, considering whether: o the proposed use of any agricultural land has been shown to be necessary and poorer quality land has been used in preference to higher quality land; o the proposal allows for continued agricultural use where applicable and/or encourages biodiversity improvements around arrays. Things became still less clear on 25 March 2015, with the publication of a ministerial statement on solar farms, in which Eric Pickles MP emphasised that proposals for a solar farm involving BMVAL would need to be justified by “the most compelling evidence”. We asked then what is likely to satisfy the threshold of “the most compelling evidence”? The answer is no less clear now than it was last summer. Whilst there is no prohibition on developing greenfield land, it is incredibly difficult to demonstrate that the use of BMVAL is justified. Solar PV’s biggest strength – its ability to generate power from brownfield or small scale sites, including rooftop generation – is also the biggest Achilles heel for those proposing schemes on greenfield land. The most common response from LPAs and Inspectors is quite simply – why here when it could be anywhere? The second, and linked, difficulty is that many LPAs require applicants to undertake a sequential assessment without any consistency between LPAs as to what form such an assessment ought properly

1 Stephen Tromans QC and Philippa Jackson, who are also members of 39 Essex Chambers and who represented Elgin Energy (instructed by Phillips Planning Services) on an appeal against refusal for a 30 MW solar PV proposal in West Norfolk.

pg 6

to take and, further, how best it can be presented so as to satisfy the “compelling” evidential hurdle. This has led to geographical variations and a significantly increased – and potentially unacceptable – level of risk; there is no clarity as to what may be considered to be a reasonable search area with different LPAs and Planning Inspectors all taking vastly different approaches. Such subjectivity is plainly undesirable for those in the industry, particularly when placed in the context of the government’s withdrawal of renewable energy subsidies. The absence of case law addressing such issues means that the industry appears likely to turn its attention away from greenfield sites in order to diversify or specialise so as to bring forward schemes of a smaller scale or, more likely, on brownfield sites. As to which, it may be of more than merely passing relevance to note the very recent (and as yet unreported) Dartford Borough Council case involving argument as to the definition of “previously developed land”, which may provide scope for creative argument over the coming months (and to which I will return in a future issue). Jonathan Darby Jonathan has advised Good Energy (instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright) in relation to a 12.8 MW scheme in Cornwall involving the effect on BVMAL as the main issue.


>CONTENTS

PAUL’S PIECE Planning’s basics, Politics and Government, and sundries Despite a cold, I enjoyed our Celebration of World Cities day with an IT “fest” called the global planners’ network. We were in the Green Duck (not a pub but an IT training centre) in Bury St Edmunds. I particularly liked the Dublin city contribution with an aim to “put smiles in the city”. Basic considerations included;

I feel we need to work more in defining succinctly town and country planning and sustainability but this is difficult to do.

• Meeting housing demands and needs

Mrs Merkel visited the House of Commons and said that the Commons were laid out in an adversarial way. A round table would be better. Much good work is done by the Select Committees which scrutinise the Executive. Local Authorities also have a scrutiny function. However, recommendations are increasingly ignored or watered down by the Executive.

• Political geography – NIMBYs and BANANAs, administrative boundaries and their appropriateness and the duty to cooperate • What sort of housing and for whom, making attractive and affordable houses and surrounds, with good services and infrastructure? Pride of place is important. • How do we deal with climate change? –particularly topical recently. • Development and economics • Above all, considering sustainable development. This can be seen as a bit difficult to get to grips with. A councillor who was the portfolio holder for the Environment asked me what it was all about. He said it seems like knitting fog! The RTPI is “aiming for attractive, liveable, accessible, connected and vibrant places”. This leads to the “dinner party question” of “what do you do for a living”. When you say “I am a planner” there is bemusement and you have to wriggle about by saying I have been involved with HS2 or redevelopment; there is a more positive reaction!

I have just been reading Boris Johnson’s book on the Churchill factor. Winston said: “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of Government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time!” It is good to ask your MP for a tour of the Houses of Parliament. We went and noticed how small the House of Commons was.

Politics are entwined with planning. New Ministers want results - not surprisingly, with a forceful Government with a majority and new Ministers wanting “monuments”. Sometimes legislation, including policies, is passed hastily with dangers of “unintended consequences” and poor results. More haste and less speed. We all know how deep the cuts are for the Civil Service, Local Authorities and other important organisations including the Environment Agency. This can result in what is known as “corporate anorexia”. An organisation shrinks and production reduces. With local authorities, “shroud waving” is seen by other departments. Planning is seen as less popular than other services in surveys of the public. Planning is downgraded and parts such as conservation are much reduced yet demands on them increase. Morale is pg 7

damaged. Statements such as “pointless planning rules” as a prevention to progress by David Cameron concerning his aim to regenerate 100 housing estates are not helpful or accurate. Sparkly new buildings will not necessarily solve social ills. On a happier note, the Paris climate change conference got an agreement to limit global warming to 2 degrees, and the GPN/RTPI submission to Celebrating World Cities states that “to respond to climate change we need to be able to respond and quickly adapt to these challenges and commitments will depend on delivering better places and better developments. This will require good planning and so the help of town planners. That is why we feel that it is important to articulate to politicians, city leaders and policy makers why they need planners, how we guide development, fit into the development process and promote sustainable development.” - fine words. Roll on spring! Paul Maison


>CONTENTS

OUR CONFERENCE 25/11/15 Strategic, Local and Neighbourhood Plans: Mind the Gaps and How to Get Round Them HUGHES HALL, CAMBRIDGE

Present situation:

Satnam Choongh (No 5 Chambers) introduced the role of Neighbourhood Plans (NPs). In principle allowing more development, they have created great uncertainty which is a problem for business. This has stalled many projects.

The SoS cannot give weight to an emerging local plan, and NPs can run ahead of a local plan. A NP does not have to be sound, only taking account of national policy, not necessarily agreeing with it.

About 80 NPs have been adopted (made) with 1500 in progress. Only one NP, Broughton Astley, has designated more houses than specified. The others are ‘disconnected from the growth agenda’ which proposes a dramatic increase in housing supply.

However, a proposal in Earls Barton NP conflicting with the emerging NP boundary was approved by the SoS as no assessment was made of the NPPF 5 year land supply.

Satnam succinctly and skilfully went through the case studies. The Secretary of State now recovers decisions on all sites of over 10 houses where a NP is in progress. Two factors have proved critical in decisions, the NP and a 5 year land supply (with no 5-year supply the plans are out of date). A good example of this was the Woodcock Holdings case where there was an attempt to prevent housing with no evidence given about the housing need situation. Challenges to Neighbourhood Plans. There have been some successful challenges. It was argued that the role of the NP is subordinate to, and should follow, the local plan, defining the allocations within it. This argument was rejected by the courts, which determined that a NP didn’t need to be sound, only in conformity with the old local plan. The Gladman case (Winslow) proposed a moratorium until a new local plan was produced, but the local plan process collapsed. It was accepted that a NP could precede a local plan, but that when a local plan is produced, that prevails. Similarly the High Court refused to quash the Newick NP when the emerging local plan was suspended.

So a NP can allocate sites without strategic context, providing local people with a great deal of power. Nevertheless, all normal constraints can be overridden by housing need. In the end, planning problems must be resolved at district level or higher. Allocation between settlements is at District level and NPs are only a short-term measure. There is a basic conflict between most NPs and policies to promote development. Questions included worries that LPs will trump NPs as people thought that NPs were long-lasting and that the geography of NPs was skewed with small towns and villages being over-represented and cities and large towns being under-represented. Satnam commented that the Government position is confused, saying different things to different people. There is concern that NPs will be temporary holding operations until a later local plan takes precedence. John Williamson, Manager, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Joint Strategic Planning Unit presented the Cambridgeshire experience - its attempt to plan strategically under the new system. The basis is the 2003 Structure Plan, adopted wholesale in the East of England Plan and giving a clear lead to the region’s local authorities.

pg 8

A strong legacy of joint working and cooperation exists with a clear recognition of the need for growth. A light touch response to the loss of strategic planning was devised using the duty to cooperate, providing coordinated technical background and an advisory spatial framework. A cross party members’ group was established reporting back to the constituent local authorities. This arrangement has worked well, but not without problems including international migration, a major factor in the area. Different scenarios were examined using a wider housing market area including Cambridge and Bury St. Edmunds. The parties prepared a “memorandum of cooperation” demonstrating how a strategic vision arose from the emerging district-wide strategies. A Joint Statement on the development strategy for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough (2012) had spatial key diagrams for 2011 and 2031 that have been tested in two examinations to date. The touchstone to this success is national policy and guidance. Use of a proper housing market area with cooperation on DP timescales is a fundamental factor in the duty to cooperate. This way forward provides a strategic approach without a return to regional planning. It should speed up local planning in the area and may provide an enabling role for devolution of strategic planning functions and John suspects the Government will support local authorities wanting to proceed this way. Joan Hancox, Growth and Infrastructure Manager, Hertfordshire LEP commented on the role of the LEP in Hertfordshire, a polycentric county with 10 strong towns each with their own catchment. With good North-South and poor East-West transport links, the critical infrastructure for growth is a key issue. It has new towns and garden cities with good infrastructure.

CONTINUED >


>CONTENTS

OUR CONFERENCE 25/11/15 CONTINUED... LEPs promote economic growth, in Hertfordshire’s case, ”smart growth”. The board has 6 corporate members, 4 LAs, 2 SMEs, a non-profit and 2 education institutions. The planning framework they are dealing with is complex. Only four of 11 authorities have full strategies, and 2 local plans are very old. The LEP has pressed all LAs to have a good local plan covering infrastructure needs (especially Dacorum and St. Albans), water disposal, and transport planning. The LEP has put inputs into local plans (e.g. Stevenage, WelwynHatfield) and funded (c30%) implementation projects such as the Metropolitan Line extension to Watford Junction. The LEP supports key local planning studies such as the M1/M25 growth area, Stevenage and Hatfield. Joan noted the difficulty in promoting cooperation – for instance only 4 LAs cooperate on the SHMA and economic study, and each district has its own arrangements. A county wide approach has not yet succeeded so there may indeed be a role for a County level. Rob Krzyszowski, Planning Policy Team Leader, Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said that cooperation is not restricted to rural areas. It is just as important in urban areas. K&C is a small borough with big contrasts – North Kensington is one of the poorest areas in London. There are a number of key issues such as gypsies and travellers, decaying sewers, waste management, and the delivery of affordable housing.

Cooperation is obligatory on strategic issues which have ‘an impact on at least two planning areas’. There is a need for continuous and ongoing cooperation in preparing local plans, and preparing the evidence base, including involving a set of key consultees. The duty to cooperate is a key obligation for local plans, and this has a higher priority than plan soundness. It needs action of some weight, not just a committee, rather a memorandum of understanding or jointly prepared strategies or evidence. One of the key issues is how that should be managed, including joint studies or individual reports. The LA has cooperated on traveller sites which have an effect across the district boundary. It has also cooperated on the dilapidated sewer network in order to balance water flow. A further problem is the disposal of waste. There are no waste disposal sites in the borough, so they must cooperate on waste apportionment. They are resolving this problem in cooperation with 3 other local authorities.

Joan Hancox presents…

The LA is preparing a single SHMA for their area. Despite requests to other LAs, no interest has been forthcoming for joint working and the LA approached the topics individually, For waste, they are preparing a plan for an old gasworks site on the borough boundary via a development authority under the control of the Mayor. Detailed records are prepared and maintained and monthly reports submitted (although by law only annual reports are required). This could be important later since it is possible to prepare a register of cooperation activity to show that statutory requirements have been met. Paul Maison and Martin Cahn Rob Krzyszowski in full flight

pg 9


>CONTENTS

PLANNING AID UPDATE

AWARENESS RAISING OF PAE We are continuing to raise awareness of the wider Planning Aid England (PAE) service amongst the local authority and community representatives. In January a briefing was given to planning policy colleagues at Epping Forest DC on the current PAE service and following that a further, similar briefing has been requested by colleagues from the Essex POA Policy Forum. We hope to be in touch with other East of England local authorities soon to offer briefings to their groups. One aspect of our work which we hope will be of interest to them is the type of support our volunteers are offering to local authorities elsewhere engaged in local plan consultations. At their consultation events local planning authorities have been finding it helpful that PAE volunteers can act as independent planning advisors to members of the public – interpreting planning policies and proposals and offering advice on how to make relevant representations to local plan documents.

NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING WORKSHOPS – PAE VOLUNTEER ASSISTANCE PAE volunteers are assisting Bedford Borough Council officers with workshops for their local neighbourhood planning groups. One workshop was for groups just starting out; the other for groups further advanced in the preparation of their plans. Volunteers helped to explain the processes involved in plan preparation, some of the potential challenges groups might face, and noted some of the experiences gained by volunteers who have worked with neighbourhood plan teams across the Region. CASEWORK & PLANNING AID DIRECT In the last edition we noted the work of Planning Aid Direct, which offers free and independent planning advice, and asked members to promote the service. (The advice line operates Mondays to Fridays between 09:00 & 16:30 on 0330 123 9244 - and also via e-Mail at: advice@planningaid. rtpi.org.uk ). This is a reminder to ask Members if they would continue to publicise the service to their colleagues and to members of the public - as this is our biggest source of casework for our volunteers – and also to ensure the public are aware of the free advice available on a range of planning issues as well as the “Jargon Buster - Glossary of Planning Terms” via the PAD web-based resource at: https://www. planningaid.co.uk

pg 10

VOLUNTEER NETWORKING ON-LINE IN THE REGION Although one of the smallest RTPI Regions in terms of numbers of volunteers, the East of England is one of its largest in terms of the geographical area covered. To overcome the problems caused by the spread of volunteers over such a wide area, we would be interested in your views on whether you would like to have the opportunity to meet up periodically in future on-line – as well as at particular venues. This might be to share experiences and views on volunteer work as well as to have periodic briefings on aspects of planning work to help with your future work as volunteers. If you have any thoughts on doing this please contact me at the RTPI offices on 0203 206 8980 or via e-Mail: brian. [email protected]. Brian Whiteley, PAE Co-ordinator for our region

Award for Cambridge University In the Planning Awards 2015 run by Planning Magazine and Planning Resource the University won the award for Planning for Housing Growth for North West Cambridge Development.


>CONTENTS

ROBERT’S REFLECTIONS The unpredictable is likely to shape planning in 2016! “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining”. State of the Union Address January 11 1962 John F Kennedy The weather, like politics or planning, has patches of blue sky, clouds, heavy rain and extremes. I think we may be in for a spell of sun and showers in 2016. Whatever our politicians tell us in the run up to the vote on our position in the European Union, we live in a global economy. Consequently, unpredictable geopolitics will continue to influence the global economy and consequently the mood music behind what our politicians say and occasionally do. In short, whatever our local and national politicians say about planning, there is a lot of unfinished economic business around that will have a far greater influence on planning in the UK than yet another round of Ministers fiddling with permitted development rights or trying to convince us that we all wish to buy a new home. Much, if not all of this, will influence our politician’s perception on how planning should deliver more homes, protect the Green Belt, prevent flooding and deliver new infrastructure such as HS2. Indeed, high levels of corporate savings, weak levels of investment and the income equalities that divide generations, rather than social class, are likely to be key overarching factors. These issues are likely to shape the events of the year ahead, but I suspect there will be little overall relief from rather weak global economic performance where we struggle to reach the heady levels of pre-2008 growth. Indeed, global economic growth appears to be rapidly tilting away from the previously developing countries such as China and Brazil, back to the more mature economies of the US and part of Europe. China’s economic slowdown – it would never

be able to continue at 7% and more (whoever thought it would was clearly not a student of economic history) – is increasingly a structural global economic and political problem. Making the situation worse are places such as Brazil, the Middle East and Nigeria which were based on natural materials (oil and minerals) which are now labouring under the collapse of their economies. In the more mature economies the Chancellors, the London Mayor, the Brexit (European exit) vote and potential Presidents of the United States will, I predict, turn their focus on whether our stuttering economic growth can pick up momentum or, a new recession will loom. This year, after all, is the seventh in a bumpy period of economic regrowth. We still have an unprecedented amount of quantitative easing, our rates of economic buoyancy are still low and our interest rates have been at an all-time low for a record breaking 80 months. Furthermore, unemployment has still not bottomed out and at its current rate of decline it may take a further 2 to 3 years before we are in that situation. In the US, the interest rates – on the back of the presidential elections, are likely to rise to about 1.5%. This is likely to be a slow change that is more to do with politics than actual empirically backed economic growth. The key question for us therefore is, will the Bank of England follow? Clearly, the Brexit vote is likely to be a key factor on sterling, business and investment confidence, especially if the result of the referendum was for us to leave. However, despite what EU Technocrats say, neither the European Central Bank nor the Bank of Japan will influence our economy. However, the People’s Bank of China’s ability to manage investment is likely to be more crucial to the mood music our politicians use as a backdrop to our evolving planning system. As the Chinese domestic economy pg 11

slows, and our need to catch up on decades of failure to modernise our infrastructure continues to become more pressing, there is likely to be an influx of Chinese investment into UK infrastructure which may provide a welcome boost to the construction industry and UK economy as a whole. Indeed, a number of commentators have noted that up to £105 billion is likely to be injected into our economy, the leading sectors being energy, real estate and transport. The UK energy sector is likely to be the biggest target for Chinese capital, with investment in projects including nuclear energy – Hinkley Point C, wind power generation and photovoltaic power generation could be likely to reach £43.5 billion by 2025. In tandem with this, high profile real estate (such as Royal Albert Docks in East London and Nine Elms in Battersea) and transport (such as Manchester City Airport) sectors could receive £36 billion and £19 billion respectively over the next decade. Notwithstanding our Government’s widespread removal of support for on-shore wind and solar farms, the energy sector is expected to see a continued increase in Chinese investment in projects including offshore wind farm developments and other key renewable power networks. As this high level of Chinese investment capital allows us to ‘mend our broken roof’ our politicians are likely to claim credit for the short term benefits this brings, and at the same time seek to free up the planning system further, so as to derisk the use of China’s vast domestic manufacturing capability, capacity to export equipment and materials and real estate projects where it is providing investment.

CONTINUED >


ROBERT’S REFLECTIONS However, with UK public finances still under pressure, and likely to be so for at least the next four years, uncertainty around government support for infrastructure is still a key concern. If the UK wants to unlock Chinese investment to fill-in the immense funding gap to modernise our ageing infrastructure, the UK government will need to address issues around a lack of planning policy, up to date development plans, match funding for CIL and further develop the pipeline for investment – as delay and lack of clear commitment on policy will only create uncertainty for investors. We clearly live in interesting / potentially scary times and it may be that short-termism by our politicians and their ‘Lem-sip’ economic policies means that we now need to rely on funds from the rising sun in the east to fix our broken infrastructure. And if the Chinese cavalry do not arrive on time? Then who knows how we will repair our ever leaking roof!

Robert M Purton

>CONTENTS

FUTURE PLANNERS We need new ambassadors to help us build the future of planning… If you are proud of planning and keen to inspire the next generation of planners then why not sign up as a Future Planners ambassador? Our Future Planners education initiative encompasses school presentations and, in selected areas, new Apprenticeships for young people. The aim of the Future Planners campaign is to excite young people about planning, and to provide a flavour of the range of career opportunities it offers. We need ambassadors who have the confidence and presence to engage young people and spark their imagination. Any RTPI member can become an ambassador – young planners and experienced practitioners alike – and remember, ambassador activity can contribute to your CPD. If you already have contacts at a school, and could easily arrange a visit then we particularly would like to hear from you. The visits will be of special interest to geography teachers. However, the themes of heritage, citizenship and dealing with political challenges or debates may be useful to other curriculum subjects too.

Partner on behalf of David Lock Associates Limited The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily shared by DLA, the East of England Region of the RTPI or the RTPI.

pg 12

If you don’t have a school in mind don’t worry we have also produced a helpful series of very simple ‘how to’ guides which can assist you in identifying and approaching schools. Just contact your Regional Co-ordinator and sign up for a presentation, materials and video. Additionally, we need ambassadors to represent the RTPI at careers events which might be at a school, college or university. Perhaps you know of an event in your area that you would like to attend? Again, we have careers materials, and guidance that we can supply you with. We look forward to hearing from you and creating the future of planning with you. To find out more about the Future Planners campaign and how to become an ambassador see the RTPI website at: http://rtpi.org.uk/education-and-careers/rtpi-ambassadorsprogramme/ or email: [email protected]


>CONTENTS

OUR CONFERENCE 09/12/15 Masterplans, Spatial Frameworks & Development Briefs IN ASSOCIATION WITH ATLAS (HCA) Kindly hosted by Bedford Borough Council This full day event drew on the experience of ATLAS to explore the preparation and implementation of frameworks and master plans using experiences from projects across the country. The day involved both presentations and hands-on, practical workshops covering: • The purpose and process of masterplanning • Understanding the place • Site analysis and SWOT using examples • Creating a spatial structure • Building the spatial framework/parameters Delegates were given the opportunity to generate their own masterplan using a ‘live’ example loosely based on the growth challenges facing Ely in East Cambridgeshire. The session ended with Peter Corrie from LDA Design giving his perspective of masterplanning North Ely, how his team approached the project and how the case study is actually progressing in practice.

There were three break-out sessions: • The first ice breaker session enabled delegates to start discussions with other practitioners by preparing a short design review of a detailed site layout to identify potential issues. • The second session focused on providing participants with already mapped constraints and site/contextual information and getting them to interpret that information in better understanding the place and how it should function. It was a brainstorm for assessing options and choices before making some decisions in the next workshop • In the final session, delegates were asked to use their evaluation/analysis to create an initial spatial framework plan and consider and identify delivery issues (these are shown right).

Group 1

Group 2

Group 3

Group 4

James Farrar

The groups reviewing and critiquing a masterplan case study

pg 13


>CONTENTS

OUR COMMITTEE MEETINGS 10/11/2015 & 14/01/2016 HELD AS USUAL AT WEST SUFFOLK HOUSE IN BURY ST. EDMUNDS A very brief summary At the November meeting notes were taken by Liz Beighton, Deputy Hon. Sec., in the absence of our Jackie. David Potter, 2015 Chair, welcomed everyone to the meeting - his last as Chair and thanked members for their help and assistance throughout the year. Members reviewed events that had taken place since the last meeting: • The Gala Dinner and Award Presentation, (September) - very successful - thanks to Tina for its organisation. Positive feedback received from sponsors and Kelvin MacDonald - guest speaker, had been very entertaining. • Our first event aimed at Planning Administration staff - well attended- hosted by Huntingdonshire DC. One delegate said that it had been the first training event she had attended in her many years in an admin. role. She and others had found it extremely valuable. Members felt it should be an annual event. (Note from Our Co-ordinator: any offers to host this event in 2016 would be welcomed). • The LEP and Devolution event - attracted an excellent line-up of speakers - held at the new venue at the end of Southend Pier. Whilst acoustics had been a problem, delegates found it a worthwhile event. • Our Annual Planning Law Update conference in Cambridge - popular as ever - excellent feedback. The Secretary reported that nominations for election to the committee had to be submitted by 20 November and that The Business Plan had been completed and circulated.

The Treasurer reported that there was currently a surplus, although not all invoices had been sent out. The costs of conferences had been kept as low as possible - achieved through sponsorship and hosting of events.

particular Steve Bateman - our Treasurer for many years, during which time he had seen us through financial ups and downs so well.

Young Planners: See separate report in this newsletter.

There were reports on the conferences and events held since the last meeting and the volunteer organisers were thanked for their efforts.

General Assembly: • HQ are looking to reduce the number of membership categories

We then moved on to conference and event planning - the results can be seen in this newsletter on page 5 and elsewhere.

• Subscription rates had been fixed for 2016

There was a brief discussion on our Planning Achievement Award, looking at changes to the award, entrance criteria and the scoring template, and the formation of the Award Panel. In the true spirit of volunteering the new Panel - Paul Maison, David Potter, Shaun Scrutton, Martin Cahn and Adam Banham, met briefly after the main meeting closed, and you will see that we have launched our refreshed and renewed award competition elsewhere in this issue.

• Steven Wilkinson of Lee Valley Regional Park had been elected Junior Vice President David Lock Associates had kindly agreed to extend the term of its sponsorship for this newsletter and members expressed their gratitude. Richard Summers was welcomed to discuss World Town Planning Day events in 2015. Any events held in 2016 would need better publicity and attendance and it was suggested that it could be linked to a young planner/network event at a university. The first meeting of 2016 in January began with David Potter handing over the chain of office to our new Chair, Michael Hand. Michael thanked David for his sterling work as Chair during 2015, - “he would be a hard act to follow”. Michael welcomed members, particularly two new Student/ Licentiate members, James Claxton from Babergh/ Mid Suffolk District Council, and Clara Kerr from Huntingdonshire District Council. Michael also thanked those who had not sought re-election this time round for their contributions to the work of the committee: Steven Bainbridge and Ann Hockey, James Tipping and in pg 14

There were the usual reports: a paper from the Treasurer, and brief verbal reports on the last Nations & Regions Panel, Planning Aid activities and from the Young Planners. Our next meeting is 23rd March at West Suffolk House in Bury St Edmunds when we will look at how we can deliver our Business Plan projects in 2016: growing and retaining members, Future Planners, Planning Aid, developing closer links with ARU etc. New faces are always welcome – we are always looking for people to help organize conferences and events, and to contribute in any way to informing and communicating with members in the region. Jackie Ward, Hon. Sec.


OUR YEARLY BIG MEETING AGM and Discussion on Shared Services and/or Devolution: Tuesday 17 May 2016 from 3.45pm At St Edmundsbury Borough Council Offices, West Suffolk House, Bury St Edmunds Afternoon tea at 3.45pm: to be served before the AGM. Booking essential! AGM at 4.00pm: Our Officers will report on activities and events in 2015, and the full annual report and accounts will be presented. Discussion at 4.30pm: It is hoped that a Discussion on Shared Services and/or Devolution will take place immediately following the AGM. Watch the website for details! Social Evening from 6.15pm: A social event will be held in the wonderful surroundings of The Oakes Barn in the town centre from 6.15pm, ready for a social evening including beer and curry! See elsewhere in this newsletter for more details. MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK Please contact Tina Palmer, our Regional Co-ordinator, email: [email protected] The weblink for this event is: http://rtpi.org.uk/events/events-calendar/2016/may/eastofengland-agm/

>CONTENTS

GOODBYES At the end of 2014, after many loyal years in the voluntary role of Treasurer, STEVE BATEMAN decided to put away his calculator, file his last spreadsheet, and pass the role on to Robert Hobbs. Steve left the Committee at the end of 2015, and members would like acknowledgement to be made of the time, effort and expertise which Steve showed during his many years as a very active member. Steve will be sorely missed by all his friends and colleagues. Also leaving the Committee at the end of 2015 were STEVEN BAINBRIDGE of Evolution Town Planning and ANN HOCKEY of Anglia Ruskin University and JAMES TIPPING.

This photo shows Steve Bateman (left) being presented with an RTPI Outstanding Service Award in 2014 by Richard Summers, RTPI Past President.

Ann was previously very involved in the Environmental Education Sub-Group and was mastermind behind the very successful “Hythe Challenge, A Sustainable Settlement for the Future” teaching pack of material incorporating a Teachers Manual and Student Activity Booklet. Steven helped to organise many conferences, specialising in environmental issues. He assisted in the organisation of several Presidential Visits including to the former Bentwaters Airbase in Suffolk.

Photo taken during the President’s visit in 2009 to the former Bentwaters Airbase, organised by Steven Bainbridge (second right)

pg 15


>CONTENTS

WHO’S WHO IN OUR REGION IN 2016 OUR MANAGEMENT BOARD Chair

Michael Hand, Hand Consultancy, email: [email protected]

Wendy Hague

East Cambridgeshire District Council

Michael Hand

Private Practice

Senior Vice Chair

Wendy Hague, East Cambridgeshire District Council

Robert Hobbs

Ipswich Borough Council Retired

Junior Vice Chair

Adam Banham Broadland District Council

Paul Maison

Environment Agency

Immediate Past Chair

Elizabeth Mugova

David Potter, Retired

Jake Nugent

Bidwells

Jackie Ward, email: [email protected]

Gemma Pannell

Babergh/Mid Suffolk Council

Hon. Secretary

David Potter

Retired

Deputy Hon. Sec.

Liz Beighton, Suffolk Coastal District Council

Robert Purton

David Lock Associates

Sandra Scott

Colchester Borough Council

Robert Hobbs, Ipswich Borough Council

Shaun Scrutton

Rochford District Council

Jackie Ward

Private Practice

John Young

Retired

Lee Melin

Lanpro

Hon. Treasurer Deputy Hon. Treas. Representative on HQ General Assembly

John Young, Retired Robert Hobbs (details as above)

OUR COMMITTEE: CHARTERED MEMBERS Adam Banham

Broadland District Council

Liz Beighton

Suffolk Coastal District Council

Graham Bloomfield

Pigeon Investment Management Ltd.

Charlotte Burton

Beacon Planning Ltd.

Dr Martin Cahn

Retired

John Dagg

Barrister

James Farrar

Homes & Communities Agency

Peter Geraghty

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

LICENTIATE/STUDENT MEMBERS: James Claxton

Babergh/Mid Suffolk Council

Libby Hindle

Boyer Planning

Clara Kerr

Huntingdonshire District Council

TECHNICAL MEMBER: No technical members currently on committee OTHER POSTS: Regions & Nations Panel Rep (RNP):

Jackie Ward

Deputy/ Substitute Rep on RNP:

Michael Hand

pg 16

Rep. on General Assembly

Robert Hobbs

Deputy Rep. on Gen. Assembly:

Charlotte Burton

Consultation Co-ordinator:

Robert Purton, email: [email protected]

Newsletter Editor:

Peter Hakes, email: [email protected]

Planning Aid Regional Contacts:

Brian Whiteley, Advisor, Planning Aid England, email: [email protected] Adam Banham email: [email protected]

CONFERENCE/CPD PROGRAMME: Convenors:

Michael Hand and Tina Palmer

Young Planners Rep:

Charlotte Burton

Award Panel Convenor:

Paul Maison

Ambassador Coordinator:

Sandra Scott (temporary)

Contacts for President’s Visit:

Wendy Hague and Tina Palmer

Practice & Learning Needs Contact:

Elizabeth Mugova (tbc)

OUR STAFF: Co-ordinator (part-time):

Tina Palmer, email: [email protected]


>CONTENTS

YOUNG PLANNERS The Young Planners started the year with a social event in Cambridge on 7th January kindly sponsored by 39 Essex Chambers. Around 40 people came along for drinks and nibbles. It was great to see so many people there including new faces.

PRESIDENT PHIL IS ON THE WAY! We look forward to seeing you at one of our events soon. As always, if you have any queries or ideas for events then please get in touch. Charlotte Burton Email [email protected]

The 2016 RTPI President, Phil Williams, will be visiting us on 21 and 22 April 2016. He has 35 years’ experience in the public sector in London, Welsh and Northern Irish authorities and has led on major projects, including redevelopment of Cardiff Bay and City Centre and regeneration/reclamation schemes in the Valleys. He is currently Belfast’s first Director of Planning and Place. As part of his visit to our Region, he will make a keynote presentation at the “Place-Making” conference being hosted by the University of Hertfordshire on 21 April in the Fielder Centre in Hatfield. There is a chance for Members to meet Phil later that evening, during a Cheese & Wine Reception at the University’s De Havilland Campus in Hatfield.

Our next social event will be on Thursday 10 March at Baroosh in Cambridge sponsored by Pegasus. MEET THE RTPI PRESIDENT: 6:00PM, THURSDAY 21 APRIL - UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE, HATFIELD

On Friday 22 April, Phil is hoping to visit places of interest and meet members in their workplaces. Arrangements for the visit are in progress, but if you have a project which you would like to share with the President, let Tina know ASAP–contact details on page 5.

The RTPI President, Phil Williams, will be visiting our region in April. Our Cheese and Wine Evening with the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield is your opportunity to meet him and find out more about what the RTPI is doing in 2016. Book your free place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ east-of-england-young-planners-cheese-and-wine-eveningtickets-21351681454. EAST OF ENGLAND APC EVENT: 5:30PM – 6:30PM, THURSDAY 21 APRIL - UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE, HATFIELD HQ staff will be delivering a presentation and Q&A on the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). The session will cover eligibility and experience requirements as well as the written submission, APC competencies, log book and mentoring. Whether you’re at the start of the process or approaching the end – this is a great opportunity to ask questions. Book your free place here: http://www.rtpi.org. uk/events/events-calendar/2016/april/east-of-england-apcevent/.

Phil Williams

pg 17


>CONTENTS

THE BIG EAST OF ENGLAND EXPRESS ROAD SHOW

AWARDS NATIONAL & LOCAL

During the summer, The 2015 Roadshow toured most of the region linking into village fêtes and carnivals. It included an interactive display showing how the newsletter is put together, including showing how the pigeons are trained to provide the all-important sustainable connections with HQ, Bury St Edmunds and our sponsors/designers David Lock Associates. We also had a largish montage showing the front covers of nearly all the issues since ‘Adam was a boy’. Including when it was called the East of England Branch Newsletter, Caravan and the Orient Express. Many of our well known contributors were present to answer questions including the elusive Gibbon. Music was provided by the Saltmarsh and District Salsa Band and Dancers with a special appearance of the Phonee Tyson Exotic Dancers-from Basingstoke led by the legendry, ‘Lefty’ Cartwright MFI.

Q. Why was the RTPI Formation Dance Team disbanded? A. No one really knows … it was actually led by Chris Shepley (not the Chris Shepley - this was another one) and reached the Home Counties, North Semi-finals - it then just disappeared. The very expensive dresses did turn up several years later in a market in Berwick-onTweed.

The RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence highlight exceptional examples of planning and celebrate the contribution that planners and planning make to society.

If you missed this, and to give our reader a flavour of what it was like, here is a summary of some of the more sensible questions which our team tried to answer:-

Q. Who is Marcia Worlspittle? A. This has previously been dealt with at length in the 2014 Centenary / Autumn edition of the newsletter.

Q. Why did the newsletter change its name? A. You will need to take this up with HQ –but basically it was a copyright/trade mark issue – I know…

Q. Why the roadshow? A. Ah, a good question –we felt our readers should see what really goes on at Orient Towers to bring these newsletters to you.

• Entry for projects is free by completing a simple form

Despite, some problems with other stall holders, and pending the current legal dispute which we obviously cannot refer to in detail, it is hoped to bring the Roadshow to a community near you, in 2016. See you there…

• All entries will be showcased at Our Centenary Dinner at Girton College on Friday 23 September 2016, when the winner will be announced

Q. I am a planning inspector and have to appear shortly at an inquiry concerning a listed building followed by a site inspection –can you tell me what I should wear? A. This has already been dealt with in our sister newsletter –‘Planners on Top’, in the Material Consideration series. The answer was –for an urban location try a light grey pin stripe suit, green bow tie and wellington boots, for a rural location go for a green corduroy jacket, with leather elbow patches, cavalry twill trousers and a brownish hand-knitted tie –and wellington boots. Hope this helps, sir or madam.

Q. On a similar note what ever happened to the RTPI Enforcement Agility Dog Team? A. Again we have not been able to find out –sorry –try HQ! Q. Where does Gibbon come from? A. Apparently he came from South America and now lives in Canterbury, –winner of the ‘Primate Friendly Town Award, 1972’.

The Roadshow is sponsored by the Association of Ribbon, Back-land and Plotland Developers - Cowboys-Not Us! – ‘Building Homes today for the objectors of tomorrow’

pg 18

NATIONAL AWARDS… The entries are now in for this year but you can view a list of finalists at:http://www.rtpi.org.uk/briefing-room/news-releases/2016/ february/over-60-projects-and-people-from-uk-and-aroundthe-world-competing-for-top-planning-award/ They include several from our region! OUR REGIONAL AWARDS… All national entrants (project and plan categories) will automatically be entered into Our Awards. But you can enter for our Awards directly! • Project must relate to our six counties region • Closing date is Friday 27 May 2016

• For further details and entry form see http://www.rtpi.org. uk/the-rtpi-near-you/rtpi-east-of-england/regional-awards/ • These details cover criteria, submission requirements, conditions of entry, project eligibility and judging procedure.


>CONTENTS

OUR CONFERENCE 06/11/15 Planning Law Update DOWNING COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE The Howard Theatre at Downing College hosted this event once again; we are grateful to 39 Essex Chambers for sponsoring this conference. The major statutory and policy alterations and proposals of the last twelve months were summarised by Bernadette Hillman, Partner, Debenhams Ottaway. There had been some helpful consolidation of regulations in April 2015 (GPDO, DMPO, Uses Classes, EIA). A Treasury Command Paper, “Fixing the Foundations”, Cm9098, (July 2015), introduced the concept of zonal planning on suitable brownfield sites. With regards to primary legislation, clauses 8-11 of the Housing and Planning Bill are particularly significant for starter homes and custom build. The decision by Mr Justice Holgate in November 2014 resulted in a change to the National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) concerning the relaxation of S106 requirements for developments of less than 10 dwellings or 1000m2. The Government has been given leave to appeal this successful challenge brought by West Berks and Reading and this was also discussed in more detail by another speaker Ashley Bowes. Ministerial Statements on Local Plans and Shale Gas and Oil have mentioned new ministerial powers to intervene where authorities have failed to produce a local plan by early 2017 and to recover appeals for oil and gas. The change in the definition of “travellers” to those who have a nomadic habit of life has been introduced in the “Planning Policy for traveller sites”, DCLG. John Pugh-Smith gave a view on the interplay of the NPPF, local plans and housing land supply. John highlighted an early 2015 decision about whether second homes and vacancies should be included in the assessment of FOAN (King’s Lynn and West Norfolk BC v SSCLG). John also referred to another case relating to rural exceptions policy. Local needs are not necessarily limited to the needs of the settlement in which the proposed development is situated, but, if adequately demonstrated, could extend to meet

Dr Ashley Bowes in full voice

the needs of other small rural settlements. (Old Hunstanton PC v SSCLG). Dr Ashley Bowes, Case Editor of the JPL, reviewed important cases including the West Berkshire and Reading challenge to the Government’s relaxation in November 2014 of affordable housing policy via a Parliamentary Statement and alteration to the PPG. Mr Justice Holgate found this approach to be unacceptable; the Government’s challenge is due to be heard in the Court of Appeal in March. There remains an interesting question about the real distinction between “Policy” and “Guidance”. Mark Challis of Bircham Dyson Bell returned to the Howard Theatre to give an update on the working of the 2008 Act in terms of the types of development being determined, particularly in the East of England. Mark referred to The National Policy Statement on National Road and Rail Networks published by the Department of Transport in late 2014. The complexity of the Development Consent Order (DCO) process from the perspective of an individual objector was discussed. It was noted that under the Housing and Planning Bill, housing could be included within a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) under the 2008 Act. Daniel Stedman-Jones, 39 Essex Chambers, focussed upon neighbourhood planning. The Court of Appeal in Larkfleet Homes looked at the interrelationship between NPs and Development Plan Documents. The Judge drew a distinction between the documents prepared and those proposed. Notwithstanding that the NP for Uppingham was in draft, the NP provisions were considered wide enough to include site allocation policies. In Crane v SSCLG, Lindbolm found that the conflict with a NP was good enough reason to refuse planning permission even where Local Plan policies were out of date. Developers have been unsuccessful in bringing challenges to NPs up to early November 2015. Wendy Hague pg 19

John Pugh-Smith addressing the conference

Question Time

Chair, David Potter welcomes delegates


>CONTENTS

INSIDE THE BACK WITH Natasha Oosedam, Editor of ‘Planners On Top’, brings you ‘love, intrigue and town planning’ from the ‘Ian Phlem-Ming’ of the Marshes’ - Marcia Worlspittle.

Someone has to do it… In the small rural district centred on the town of Crabtonon-Sea, Philip, was checking decision notices following the last DC Sub., when he got the call from the Engineer and Surveyor himself.

Next day, Philip awoke with a feeling of anticipation and excitement for the railway journey north into Scotland and the prospect of meeting old friends from ‘uni.’ and making new ones.

Philip was in awe of the ex-military man with his big moustache and long pipe - one could track his progress round the Town Hall by following the trail of blue smoke. He silently studied our hero for what seemed like an eternity. At last he slowly shook his head and in crisp military tones said, “Well laddie, it’s your time for the annual jolly -that Planning Summer School thing - Chief Planner’s cried off, so you’re off to bonny Scotland tomorrow - St. Andrews to be precise. My secretary will fill you in - off you go - oh and don’t forget your clubs!”

As he stumbled out of the front door with his haversack, a postman tossed the latest edition of the TPI Journal at him. Philip thought he had already received that issue but then he remembered Willerby’s instructions and slipped it into his bag.

‘Old long pipe’ turned towards the telephone, grunted and nodded towards the door - the interview was clearly over. Smiling and slightly dazed Philip thought, yes! They have chosen me - I have been recognised! But a chat with colleagues confirmed that everyone else had cried off-he was the last choice - it was regarded as a ‘poison chalice’ because of the long report required and a presentation to Members! That night as he began packing (must not forget the Ilfamatic and trusty harmonicas), the telephone rang –it was Lt. Willerby his other part-time boss. “Hear you’re hoofing up north, young fella” (how did he know? Philip wondered)-“well we’ve got a little job for you...”

The highlight of the journey had to be the view through the driver’s cab of the DMU as it clanked through a lattice tunnel of red iron girders with the blue Forth a huge distance below -the boats really did look like toys. At last they pulled into Leuchars station where a motley crowd of planners slowly shuffled over the footbridge to the waiting taxis. At last they reached the attractive stone-built university town of St Andrews, bathed in the late evening sunshine. On booking-in Philip was amused to see that he appeared on the lists of participants as his boss, the Chief Planner. This should be interesting, he thought with a grin, I wonder what our Gordon’s going to get up to! After unpacking and a quick wash, Philip decide to sample the delights of the students bar and yes, there they were - his fellow students from ‘uni.’, now in gainful employment. There was Simon, a tall red-head, working in a London borough, a short, funny Geordie and a well-spoken lad who could imitate many different dialects, much to everyone’s delight.

pg 20

Before long they had come to the conclusion that before the week was out they should try to escape from the small university town and head for the bright lights of Dundee and the famous Barracuda club. Everyone agreed it was a great idea and the following evening found the pals speeding over the Tay Bridge singing to Philip’s harmonica, in Simon’s fibre-glass sports car. Dundee was bleak - tower blocks with gangs of youngsters patrolling the area. But at last they found the Barracuda club (famous, said Philip for having been the haunt of a young Selena Scott) and in the cloakroom Philip spotted his contact a tall American Airman - so tall he could have been one of the Harlem Globe Trotters. Later, Philip with a glass of ‘heavy,’ suddenly tripped in the low-lit dance area and spilt the contents down the back of the Airman. Following a scuffle and arguments about whose fault it was, the young Sassenach planners were ‘shown the door’. Outside Philip grinned to himself –‘did it’ he muttered - page 4 of the special edition of the TPI Journal safely delivered. The fearless four eventually drowned their sorrows in a dreary pub, devoid of atmosphere, where they were glared at by the locals for the rest of the evening.


>CONTENTS

QUIZ Where are we now? When he got home to Norfolk Philip tried to recall the week but it was a beery, hazy memory of pubs, carousing, singing, some lectures during which he often fell asleep and visits to obscure fishing villages and regenerated minerals and landfill sites. But his Agfa slides were good and he had collected quite a lot of literature, so was able to cobble together an adequate report. I wonder who will be going next year –and I wonder where it will be? thought Philip as he settled down to play a record of Irish Folk Songs that he had bought in St. Andrews. Good news for all you theatre goers:-

Hooray! It’s Essex this time… And we had another fair sized entry (if I can say that!). Yes, we had 17 submissions and they were all correct in identifying Hedingham Castle in the coincidently named village of Castle Hedingham, in the north of the county. However the first entry out of the metaphorical hat was from Kate Wood of Carter Jonas, pictured here! And she has been sent a M&S voucher for the handsome sum of £25.

Muggerwort the Musical based on Marcia’s stories –words by Tony Shepley and music by Chris Fyson, Choreography by ‘Lefty’ Cartwright and produced by Cameron Oozzedam, is to go on tour early next year.

The runners up were:Mike Ovendon, David Hill, Derek Lawrence, Colin Worboys, Peter Moss, Jenny Robinson, Martin Brooks, Colin Endean, Joanna Gilbert-Wooldridge, Beverley McClean, Debi Sherman, Peter Jermany, Ann Currell, Alan Stones, Claudia Dietz and Tony Bowhill, So now, dear reader, it’s your chance to win that valuable voucher.

Welcome to our region... WE ARE ADVISED BY HQ THAT THE FOLLOWING HAVE RECENTLY BECOME CHARTERED MEMBERS… Mr Christopher

Barnes

East Hertfordshire District Council

Mr Christopher David

Fry

Kings Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council

Mr Pearce

Gunne-Jones

Savills

Mr Simon Adam

Hoskin

Watford Borough Council

Ms Laura

Hunter

Bidwells

Mr Gregory David

Logan

Bedford Borough Council

Miss Rosanna

Metcalfe

Smiths Gore

Mrs Natalie

Winspear

Robinson and Hall LLP

All you have to do is decipher the photo on the front page (which we guarantee is somewhere within our region) and tell us where it is! Send your answers by Email to me at [email protected] These will be kept in a secure place until 29th April (BST), when the first entry taken (by someone independent of the RTPI) from this secure place will be the winner. Only those on the East of England RTPI register will be eligible and specifically excluded are myself, members of the East of England Regional Management Board and staff of David Lock and Associates. Good luck!

THE QUIZ PRIZE IS SPONSORED BY THE PLANNING LEGISLATION UPDATE Service – contact, [email protected] Web site, www.planninglegislation.info

We wish you all well and keep smiling… pg 21

David Lock Associates are always on the look out for talented planners and urban designers.

>CONTENTS

Our Services Communication and consultation skills to engage effectively with local communities, business groups, local stakeholders, political leaders, young people and all hard to reach groups in society. We can build the capacity required to ensure effective participation in debate, discussion and planning for growth and change. A long track record in the master planning and regeneration of towns, cities and regions, through robust spatial plans and urban design frameworks that guide investment in infrastructure.

A trusted multi-discipline practice of consultants and our sister companies; Integrated Transport Planning and DLA Architects Practice all of which encourage equal opportunities, to draw together the complementary skills required in any project. A broad appreciation of the complexities faced by public sector clients to deliver regeneration and change, reconciling differing requirements through planning and engagement.

David Lock Associates Limited, the proud sponsors and graphic designers of the East of England Express, are one of the largest independent planning and urban design consultancies working in the region. If you are interested in developments that make a real difference to the quality of people’s lives in places such as: Basildon, Colchester, Elsenham, Felixstowe, Ipswich, Luton, Norwich, Peterborough and The Marston Vale then please look at our website: www.davidlock.com © 2016 David Lock Associates.

Ambition for places – their potential and opportunity – to make ‘big plans’ which have the ability to galvanise consensus around a vision for the future.

Capacity to make good places through urban design and the implementation of complex plans at the local level to bring the vision to fruition.

davidlock.com The views expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the views of the Regional Activities Committee or Management Board, the Institute or author’s employer’s.

RTPI East of England Regional Office PO Box 708, Bury St Edmunds, IP31 2XP

Royal Town Planning Institute Registered Address 41 Botolph Lane, London, EC3R 8DL