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| 8 |
RECREATION AND LEISURE
IN DURHAM |
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INTRODUCTION |
| 8.1 |
This Chapter of the Local Plan deals with
the recreation and leisure needs of the residents of the District.
The Council's Leisure Strategy is based on the fundamental principle
that provision should be made for a wide spectrum of recreational
and leisure opportunities which are readily accessible to all sections
of the population regardless of age, gender, income and place of residence.
This not only enhances people's quality of life but also improves
the image of the locality. |
| 8.2 |
Sport and recreation are major land uses.
Development Plans have a key role to play in allocating adequate areas
of land for this use and safeguarding open space with recreation value.
Local Planning Authorities also have a responsibility to take account
of the community's needs for recreation space in determining planning
applications, to assess current provision and requirements and to
resist development of open space if it would conflict with the wider
public interest. |
| 8.3 |
The Local Plan, therefore, focuses on
providing and safeguarding open space in a form which meets the sporting,
recreational and leisure needs of all residents of the District. The
Plan also refers to the provision of particular sports facilities
for which there is a perceived need identified in the Council's Leisure
Strategy. |
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GENERAL BACKGROUND |
| 8.4 |
A Leisure Survey carried out in 1996 as
part of the background to the Council's Leisure Strategy identify
that walking, cycling, golf and football were the most popular outdoor
recreational activities undertaken by the general public in the District.
Swimming, snooker, keeping fit and badminton were the most popular
indoor pursuits. |
| 8.5 |
Due to the Council's commitment to support
leisure services, the District is able to offer its residents access
to a wide range of recreational and leisure activities. These include
five Leisure Centres at strategic locations throughout the District,
a centrally located swimming pool and 16 major outdoor recreation
areas providing facilities for both organised and informal sporting
and leisure activities for all age ranges of the community. The Council
is also responsible for 84 equipped play areas. |
| 8.6 |
The River Wear provides a valuable source
of recreational and leisure opportunities for both residents and visitors
to Durham. These include pleasure trips on the river, rowing, angling
and canoeing/kayaking as well as walks along the riverbanks. |
| 8.7 |
In recent years the Council has used sport
as a means of enhancing the image of Durham at regional, national
and international level. This has been exemplified by a recognition
of Durham City's increasingly important role as a location for cross
country running, culminating with the successful hosting of the World
Cross Country Championships in March 1995. |
| 8.8 |
Although the District has a public swimming
pool it is housed within a building which is over 60 years old and
now in need of replacement. The provision of a new swimming facility
is top priority in the Council's Leisure Strategy. |
| 8.9 |
There are a large number of voluntary
and private sporting clubs within the District, with their own facilities,
providing a major contribution to the sporting and social life of
Durham. They cover the full spectrum of recreational activity and
provide the basis of the City of Durham Sports Forum, whose purpose
is to discuss leisure issues in the District and provide grant aid
for sporting excellence. |
| 8.10 |
Shared use arrangements have been agreed
between the Council and County Council for public access to the recreational
and leisure facilities provided at Belmont, Framwellgate Moor, Gilesgate,
Deerness and Durham Johnston Comprehensive Schools and Laurel Avenue
Primary School. |
| 8.11 |
Both the University and New College provide
recreational facilities, which are available for use by the general
public, particularly outside term time. Their main contribution to
leisure activity within the District, however, is their ability to
accommodate arts and entertainment programmes, such as concerts, plays,
festivals, lectures and other similar events. |
| 8.12 |
The Council has been involved in improving
access to the countryside via the development of a comprehensive network
of recreational routes for pedestrians and cyclists. It has supported
the County Council in the development of long-distance leisure routes
along former railway lines in the Lanchester Valley, Deerness Valley
and the Brandon/Bishop Auckland Walkway. The Council has also assisted
Groundwork East Durham in the creation of circular walks around Cassop
Vale and in the Bearpark/Ushaw Moor area. |
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LOCAL PLAN OBJECTIVES |
| 8.13 |
The Council's objectives for Recreation
and Leisure, to be pursued through the Policies and Proposals contained
in this Chapter of the Plan are: |
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- to encourage the provision of a wide range of recreational
and leisure facilities;
- to encourage the use and quiet enjoyment of the River Wear,
especially for water-based recreational activities and whilst
improving access to this important facility, having regard to
wildlife interests, the setting of the World Heritage Site and
existing uses;
- to provide for the needs of informal, and, where appropriate,
formal recreational and leisure pursuits in the countryside;
- to safeguard and improve existing facilities;
- to ensure that the environmental impact of recreation and leisure
provision is sustainable, for example, by ensuring that new developments
are easily accessible by foot, cycle or public transport.
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POLICIES |
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PROVISION OF OPEN SPACE |
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General |
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| POLICY R1 |
THE COUNCIL WILL SEEK TO ENSURE
THAT THE PROVISION OF OPEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION WITHIN
THE DISTRICT IS EVENLY DISTRIBUTED AND IS MAINTAINED AT A LEVEL
WHICH MEETS THE NEEDS OF ITS POPULATION. A MINIMUM OVERALL STANDARD
OF 2.4 HA. OF OUTDOOR SPORTS AND PLAY SPACE PER 1,000 POPULATION
WILL BE SOUGHT. |
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Justification |
| 8.14 |
The Council supports the recommendation
of the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) which sets a minimum
standard for outdoor playing space of 2.4 hectares per 1,000 population.
This figure is sub-divided as follows: |
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1.6 - 1.8 ha for outdoor sport (youth and
adult use) |
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0.2 - 0.3 ha for equipped children's playgrounds |
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0.4 - 0.5 ha for informal children's play
space within housing areas |
| 8.15 |
The level of public and private open space
provision within the District for outdoor sport and recreation is
currently being reassessed. The level of usage and demand for outdoor
pitch sports is being assessed through the preparation of a playing
pitch strategy, based on the methodology set out by Sport England
(formerly The Sports Council) in "Assessing Playing Pitch Requirements
at the "Local Level". The results of this study will allow the Council
to reconsider whether the NPFA standard is appropriate, or whether
a District standard for the level of provision of sports pitches should
be introduced. |
| 8.16 |
The Council is also reviewing the level
of provision of outdoor playgrounds and informal play areas for children,
facilities also encompassed within the NPFA standard. Any areas of
under-provision will therefore be identified. These can then be addressed
as appropriate. |
| 8.16A |
In the light of changes to national policy
guidance, set out in PPG17, future standards of open space provision
should be set locally. Therefore the Council will endeavour to produce
a new set of standards for open space provision within the lifetime
of the plan, to be published as SPG. Until such time as these new
standards can be adopted the Council will continue to apply the NPFA
standards in the absence of any other guidance. |
| 8.17 |
The Council will encourage School Governors
and other institutions to allow greater use of school playing fields
and private sports grounds by the community. The retention of surplus
school playing fields for community use will also assist in increasing
provision within the District. |
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Recreational and
Amenity Space in New Residential Developments |
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| POLICY R2 |
IN NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
OF 10 OR MORE DWELLINGS, OPEN SPACE WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE PROVIDED
WITHIN OR ADJACENT TO THE DEVELOPMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
FOLLOWING MINIMUM STANDARD: |
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1. |
INFORMAL PLAY SPACE: 0.4ha PER
1,000 POPULATION (I.E. 100 M² PER 10 DWELLINGS) |
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2. |
AMENITY SPACE: 0.8ha
PER 1,000 POPULATION (I.E. 200 M² PER 10 DWELLINGS) |
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WHERE THERE IS AN IDENTIFIED DEFICIENCY
AND IT IS CONSIDERED APPROPRIATE, THE COUNCIL WILL SEEK TO ENTER
INTO A PLANNING AGREEMENT WITH DEVELOPERS TO FACILITATE THE
PROVISION OF NEW OR IMPROVED EQUIPPED PLAY AREAS AND RECREATIONAL/LEISURE
FACILITIES TO SERVE THE DEVELOPMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH POLICY
Q8. |
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Justification |
| 8.18 |
For the purpose of implementation "equipped
play areas and recreational / leisure facilities" encompass formal
open space for outdoor sports as well as equipped playgrounds and
informal open space. The level to be provided will, where there is
an identified deficiency, be commensurate with that set out at Policy
R1. The requirements set out in Policy R2 and Appendix 3 only apply
to development of ten or more dwellings. For smaller sites, where
it may be impractical to make provision on site, the Council would
consider a financial contribution from the developer to provide an
equivalent amenity or open space facility in the locality. The amount
of contribution will be based on the cost (per dwelling) of providing
the appropriate facility. Landowners and developers should have regard
to those requirements when preparing their development proposals,
and may wish to discuss relevant costs with the Council. |
| 8.19 |
Children need a range of playing facilities
accessible by safe routes with easy access to houses. The contribution
that new development can make towards achieving a good distribution
of playing facilities throughout the District is important. Developers
are, therefore, requested to make provision for children's play whether
in the form of equipped playgrounds or informal play space to meet
the needs of their development. This space should be thoughtfully
located within the context of the site to minimise conflict between
householders and users of the space, to encourage its safe use and
to enable easy maintenance. In practice these measures are most likely
to be fulfilled if the open space is incorporated as one area, rather
than as a series of small sites within the development. |
| 8.20 |
Amenity open space comprises a landscaped
area available for public enjoyment, but not specifically designed
for sports or children's play. It can be used to provide attractive
spaces within the new development or can enhance its setting and assimilation
within its immediate locality. |
| 8.21 |
The breakdown of informal play space requirement
as set out in Policy R2 provides an indication of the normal level
of provision which is desirable in family housing development (ie
those with two or more bedrooms). The desired balance may be different
in specialised forms of housing such as starter homes or elderly persons
dwellings where the emphasis will be on amenity open space and where
children's playing facilities may not be required at all. |
| 8.22 |
Equipped children's play areas can have
a detrimental effect on the amenity of local residents, particularly
in terms of noise and general disturbance. Such facilities are often
more appropriately located within parks or recreation grounds, although
other suitable locations may be close to community centres or District
Leisure Centres where a degree of surveillance is possible. Contributions
by developers towards off-site provision of the play equipment as
part of a planning agreement, in accordance with Section 106 of the
Town and Country Planning Act 1990 may be sought by the Council in
appropriate circumstances as advised by Government Guidance set out
in PPG17 (Sport and Recreation). The level of contribution will be
assessed as set out in paragraph 8.18. |
| 8.23 |
In all instances, the provision of open
space should be planned as an integral part of a new housing area.
It should not be included as an afterthought or to make convenient
use of an awkward or residual site incapable of being developed. |
| 8.24 |
The Council consider that where recreational
facilities and amenity spaces are provided exclusively or primarily
for the benefits of residents of a new development, it is reasonable
that the cost of maintaining those facilities should be met, initially,
by the developer rather than the local authority. The developer may
choose to make private arrangements for maintenance. If not, the Council
may seek a formal planning agreement requiring open spaces and play
equipment to be retained and maintained to a reasonable standard.
If, however, the Council is asked to adopt facilities, a commuted
sum may be sought through agreement with a developer, calculated to
cover maintenance costs for a period of 10 years. |
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PROTECTION OF OPEN
SPACE USED FOR RECREATION |
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| POLICY R3 |
DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD RESULT
IN THE LOSS OF AN AREA OF OPEN SPACE CURRENTLY USED FOR RECREATION
AND LEISURE PURSUITS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED UNLESS: |
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1. |
IT IS FOR NEW OR IMPROVED FACILITIES
RELATED TO THE USE OF THE EXISTING AREA FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION;
OR |
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2. |
IT INVOLVES A SMALL
PART OF A LARGER RECREATIONAL AREA WHICH BY DOING SO WILL BRING
ABOUT THE ENHANCEMENT OF THE REMAINDER; OR |
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3. |
AN ALTERNATIVE AREA OF AT LEAST
EQUIVALENT COMMUNITY BENEFIT/VALUE WILL BE PROVIDED LOCALLY;
OR |
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4. |
ITS LOSS WILL NOT PREJUDICE THE
OVERALL STANDARD OF OPEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION WITHIN
THE IMMEDIATE AREA AS SET OUT IN POLICY R1. |
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Justification |
| 8.25 |
Whilst the Council is committed to protect
open spaces of special landscape significance and importance to the
character and setting of the City (Policy E5), it acknowledges that
other areas of open space which are specifically used for outdoor
recreational and leisure purposes are a particularly valuable resource
which must be protected from development. These areas provide a vital
function in the community by accommodating both formal and informal
outdoor sports and leisure activities on sports/recreation grounds,
playing fields, public parks and children's play areas. |
| 8.26 |
Whilst the protection and retention of
these open spaces is of paramount importance to the Council, there
may be circumstances which could justify their development. Examples
would include the construction of changing rooms to improve the use
of sports pitches; the development of a small part of a larger area
of open space to enable new recreational facilities to be provided;
or the provision by a developer of an alternative area of open space
of comparable quality and accessibility. The loss of an area of open
space used for recreational and leisure pursuits will be judged against
the effect it will have on the overall standards set out in Policy
R1. |
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LAND SURPLUS TO EDUCATIONAL
REQUIREMENTS |
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| POLICY R4 |
THE DEVELOPMENT OF LAND (INCLUDING
PLAYING FIELDS) WITHIN SCHOOL OR OTHER EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT
GROUNDS, WHICH HAS BEEN DECLARED SURPLUS TO EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS,
WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT: |
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1. |
IT HAS BEEN DEMONSTRATED, TO THE
SATISFACTION OF THE COUNCIL, THAT IT IS NOT LIKELY TO BE NEEDED
FOR EDUCATIONAL OR COMMUNITY PURPOSES IN THE FUTURE; AND |
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2. |
IT WILL NOT REDUCE
THE OVERALL STANDARD OF OPEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION IN
THE AREA AS SET OUT IN POLICY R1; AND |
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3. |
IN THE CASE OF LAND OF SPORT AND
RECREATIONAL VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY ITS DEVELOPMENT IS IN ACCORD
WITH POLICY R3. |
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Justification |
| 8.27 |
Land within school and other educational
institution's grounds can make a significant contribution to the amenity
of the area in which they are located by helping to create a feeling
of openness. In certain areas, such playing fields also provide an
important recreational facility for the community. For example, the
"dual-use" of school playing fields (where permitted). The changing
needs of schools and other educational establishments may, however,
require rationalisation of land and playing facilities. Where such
land has been declared surplus to educational requirements it should
not automatically be regarded as offering a development opportunity.
Any proposal will need to satisfy the Council that the interests of
the community have been safeguarded, the long term interests of the
school or other educational establishment have been taken into account
and the loss of overall provision of outdoor recreation in the area
will not fall below the standard set out in Policy R1 and accords
with Policy R3. |
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PROTECTION OF ALLOTMENTS |
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| POLICY R5 |
POLICY R5 PLANNING PERMISSION WILL
NOT BE GRANTED FOR DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD RESULT IN THE LOSS
OF ALLOTMENTS UNLESS: |
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1. |
THE ALLOTMENTS ARE GENUINELY REDUNDANT
AND ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE REQUIRED TO MEET POSSIBLE FUTURE NEEDS,
OR |
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2. |
IN THE CASE OF UNDERUSED
ALLOTMENTS THE FACILITY CAN BE BEST RETAINED AND ENHANCED THROUGH
THE REDEVELOPMENT OF A SMALL PART OF THE SITE OR ALTERNATIVE
PROVISION OF EQUIVALENT STANDARD AND BENEFIT IS MADE ELSEWHERE
IN THE IMMEDIATE VICINITY; OR |
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3. |
IN THE CASE OF ALLOTMENTS WITH
HIGH OCCUPANCY LEVELS AND WHICH SERVE AN AREA OF LOCAL NEED
ALTERNATIVE PROVISION OF EQUIVALENT STANDARD AND BENEFIT IS
MADE ELSEWHERE IN THE IMMEDIATE VICINITY. |
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Justification |
| 8.28 |
Allotments both statutory and non-statutory
provide an important recreational resource within the District especially
for those people with no gardens or small gardens, as well as having
community and nature conservation value. Although the level of plot
occupancy varies between sites, they are generally well used and as
such should, under normal circumstances, be protected from development,
which would lead to the irreversible loss of this facility. |
| 8.29 |
There may, however, be occasions when
the loss of existing allotment land to development could be justified.
In assessing any such development proposal, which would result in
this, the Council will firstly consider the level of occupancy of
the allotment site, the perceived local need and opportunities to
relocate occupiers of the affected allotment within similar facility
in the locality. |
| 8.30 |
Part of the Browney Lane Allotment site
is located within the B6300 Browney Lane Improvement Corridor (see
Policy T3). The road should be aligned to ensure that any loss of
plots is kept to a minimum and, where losses do occur these will be
compensated by the provision of new allotments in the vicinity. |
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PROVISION OF RECREATIONAL
FACILITIES |
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District Sport and
Leisure Centres |
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| POLICY R6 |
THE DEVELOPMENT OF FURTHER LEISURE/SPORTS
FACILITIES AT, AND ADJOINING, THE COUNCIL LEISURE CENTRES AT
COXHOE, DEERNESS, MEADOWFIELD, SHERBURN AND ABBEY ROAD WILL
BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT: |
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1. |
ANY INTENSIFICATION IN USAGE OF
THE SITE WILL NOT: |
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a) |
ADVERSELY AFFECT RESIDENTIAL AMENITY;
AND |
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b) |
RESULT IN VEHICULAR PARKING PROBLEMS
IN THE VICINITY OF THE CENTRE. |
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2. |
ITS APPEARANCE AND
USE WILL NOT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE CHARACTER OF THE AREA. |
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Justification |
| 8.31 |
The Council recognises that it is essential
for leisure services to respond to the changing requirements of the
general public and will encourage the development of further leisure
and sports facilities at its existing leisure centres. The refurbishment
of existing facilities and the provision of new ones both indoors
and outdoors will provide the opportunity for residents of the District,
of all ages, to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Recent examples
of improved facilities include the introduction of cardio vascular
fitness rooms at the sports centres and the provision of a new type
of creative outdoor playing facility adjacent to the Meadowfield Leisure
Centre. |
| 8.32 |
The combination of facilities at existing
Centres has led to the development of the concept of fully flexible
linked centres for both outdoor and indoor recreational activities.
Research carried out by the Council has indicated that these combined
facilities are very popular and, therefore, a programme will be initiated
during the Plan period to develop linked indoor and outdoor recreational
facilities at the Coxhoe, Deerness, Meadowfield, Sherburn and Abbey
Road Leisure Centres. The recently opened flat green indoor bowling
centre on Council land next to the Abbey Road Leisure Centre is a
good example of public/private partnership in the provision of facilities. |
| 8.33 |
When considering proposals for such facilities
care will be exercised to ensure that they respect the amenity of
the surrounding residential areas. The centres are well distributed
around the District, within walking and cycling distance of many residents,
and are generally located on good public transport routes. Nevertheless
parking provision will be reviewed when considering additional facilities
so that the impact of street parking nearby can be minimised. Facilities
will be designed and located to minimise their impact on the surroundings,
for example: floodlighting, children's play areas and other outdoor
facilities. |
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New Swimming Pool |
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| POLICY R7 |
THE COUNCIL WILL SEEK, AS A PRIORITY
DURING THE PLAN PERIOD, THE REPLACEMENT OF THE EXISTING SWIMMING
POOL AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES ON A SITE WITHIN DURHAM CITY
CENTRE. THE LOCATION WILL BE DEPENDENT UPON THE NEED TO ENSURE
THAT: |
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1. |
IT IS ACCESSIBLE FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT,
CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS; AND |
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2. |
SATISFACTORY CAR PARKING
IN ACCORDANCE WITH POLICY T10 CAN BE PROVIDED; AND |
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3. |
ITS DESIGN IS NOT DETRIMENTAL
TO THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE CITY CENTRE IN ACCORDANCE
WITH POLICY E6; AND |
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4. |
THE GREEN BELT AND OPEN SPACES
ARE NOT COMPROMISED IN ACCORDANCE WITH POLICIES E1 AND E5; AND |
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5. |
IT WOULD NOT CAUSE MATERIAL HARM
TO THE AMENITIES TO THOSE LIVING NEARBY, IN PARTICULAR THROUGH
ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC, ON-STREET PARKING OR NOISE. |
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Justification |
| 8.34 |
The existing swimming pool is contained
within a building over 60 years old, which is a constraint on its
ability to satisfy modern demands. Sport England (formerly The Sports
Council) and Durham County Council have identified the need for a
new swimming pool in Durham as a top priority within the region and
replacement of the swimming pool has been a priority of the Council
for a number of years. As yet it has not been possible to identify
a site for a replacement facility, although a City Centre location,
convenient for public transport users will be sought. Until such time
as a replacement facility is available or detailed redevelopment proposals
are implemented on the site it is intended that the Durham Swimming
Baths remain in its present use. |
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New Recreational Facilities |
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| POLICY R8 |
THE LOCATION OF ANY NEW RECREATIONAL
FACILITY WILL BE DEPENDENT UPON THE NEED TO ENSURE THAT: |
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1. |
ITS APPEARANCE AND USE IS NOT DETRIMENTAL
TO THE CHARACTER AND AMENITY OF THE AREA; AND |
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2. |
IT IS ACCESSIBLE FOR
PUBLIC TRANSPORT, CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS; AND |
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3. |
SATISFACTORY CAR PARKING CAN BE
PROVIDED; AND |
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4. |
IT ACCORDS WITH POLICIES E1, E5,
E10 AND CC1. |
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Justification |
| 8.35 |
The Council's Leisure Strategy has identified
demand for other specialist recreational facilities within the District
which can be provided through organisations and governing bodies relating
to cricket, rugby, rowing and hockey. It is hoped that these or other
recreational activities, for example private health clubs and gymnasia,
can be accommodated during the Plan period on sites which accord with
the parameters set out in Policy R8. |
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All-Weather Athletics
Track |
| 8.36 |
The Council will support the provision
of an all-weather athletics track within the District during the Plan
period. The development of an all weather running track, available
for use by the general public, would enable the District to sustain
its position as a major centre for athletics within the county and
the region. Although no specific site has been identified in the Plan
for this facility, land is available next to the Meadowfield Leisure
Centre, which would allow for the provision of a synthetic track within
the parameters set out in Policy R8. This land, which is owned by
the Council, was allocated as public open space in the original Local
Plan but remains under-utilised. It has the capacity to accommodate
a variety of recreational facilities including an all-weather athletics
track which could be linked to the amenities provided within the Meadowfield
Leisure Centre (e.g. changing rooms, showers etc.). Alternatively,
it may be appropriate to consider providing the athletics track in
partnership with another body such as Durham County Council or the
University of Durham linked to an existing educational or recreational
facility, provided it complies with the parameters set out in Policy
R8 and is available for use by the whole community. |
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Specialist Gymnastic
Centre |
| 8.37 |
The Council will support the provision
of a Specialist Gymnastic Centre within the District during the Plan
period. Deerness Valley Gymnastics Club has recently obtained international
success with two of its members becoming World Champions in their
respective classes. The Club currently uses the facilities offered
by Deerness Comprehensive School. The Gymnastic Federation is anxious
to develop a centre of excellence to complement the existing facility
at Lillishall. The Council will, therefore, seek to investigate with
the Federation, Sport England and other appropriate bodies the possibility
of establishing such a facility within District, which meets the parameters
set out in Policy R8, during the Plan period. |
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Public Parks and
Recreation Grounds |
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| POLICY R9 |
THE COUNCIL WILL ENCOURAGE THE
PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL PLAY EQUIPMENT AT THE PUBLIC PARKS AND
RECREATION GROUNDS WITHIN THE DISTRICT. |
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Justification |
| 8.38 |
The Council has initiated a programme
of refurbishment of the facilities contained within its public parks
and recreation grounds. Extensive work has already been undertaken
at Wharton Park and The Racecourse in Durham City, at Holliday Park
in Langley Moor, Addison Park in Meadowfield and at Sherburn Recreation
Ground. |
| 8.39 |
The upgrading of facilities in the public
parks and recreation grounds set out below will provide a comprehensive
range of conveniently located recreational opportunities for the younger
residents of the District. |
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| Durham City: |
Belmont Park - Moor Field
Church Street
Laburnum Avenue
Lowes Barn
Newton Hall - Low Carr |
| Remainder of District: |
Bowburn Park
Brandon Park
Meadowfield - Addison Park
Croxdale Front Street
Witton Gilbert - Cooper Hall
Esh Winning - Woodland Road
Kelloe/Quarrington Hill Sports Ground
Pittington - Manor View |
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8.40 Although the Council will endeavour
to provide this equipment, it may, when appropriate, consider entering
into discussions with developers of land close to these recreation
grounds in order to assist in the provision of the new facilities
in accordance with Policy R2. |
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RECREATION AND LEISURE
IN THE COUNTRYSIDE |
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New Development for
Recreation or Leisure in the Countryside |
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| POLICY R10 |
EXCEPT WHERE SPECIFICALLY REFERRED
TO IN POLICIES R12 TO R19 PLANNING PERMISSION FOR LEISURE USES
IN THE COUNTRYSIDE AND FOR ESSENTIAL MINOR FACILITIES FOR THOSE
USES WILL BE GRANTED WHERE THEY WOULD NOT: |
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1. |
BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE CHARACTER
AND APPEARANCE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE, AREAS OF HIGH LANDSCAPE VALUE
OR OPENNESS OF THE GREEN BELT; OR |
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2. |
ADVERSELY AFFECT THE
NATURAL OR HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT; OR |
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3. |
ADVERSELY AFFECT EXISTING PUBLIC
RIGHTS OF WAY OR ESTABLISHED RECREATIONAL ROUTES; OR |
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4. |
ADVERSELY AFFECT EXISTING FLORA
AND FAUNA, WILDLIFE HABITATS AND WILDLIFE CORRIDORS; OR |
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5. |
HAVE A DETRIMENTAL EFFECT ON THE
AMENITY OF RESIDENTS OR PEOPLE USING THE AREA FOR OTHER RECREATIONAL
ACTIVITIES; OR |
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6. |
LEAD TO IRREVERSIBLE LOSS OF THE
BEST AND MOST VERSATILE AGRICULTURAL LAND; OR |
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7. |
RESULT IN CONGESTION ON THE LOCAL
ROAD NETWORK; OR |
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8. |
BE INACCESSIBLE BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT,
CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS. |
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FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS POLICY,
ESSENTIAL MINOR AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES INCLUDE; SMALL CHANGING
ROOMS, UNOBTRUSIVE SPECTATOR ACCOMMODATION FOR OUTDOOR SPORT,
OR SMALL STABLES. |
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Justification |
| 8.41 |
The countryside is a preferred location
for many recreation and sporting pursuits apart from the 'access activities'
of walking, cycling and horse riding. Some involve simple enjoyment
of the countryside, such as bird watching, and pose no threat to its
character and amenity. Others may be organised uses of land requiring
planning permission which are potentially damaging because of noise
or other disturbance, such as motorised sports. |
| 8.42 |
Fishing is a widespread recreational pursuit,
both on rivers and on still water. Still water fisheries can be a
landscape and nature conservation asset if carefully planned. Proposals
for the provision of new, or extensions to existing, still water fisheries
should be accompanied by full details of its design and impact in
relation to the criteria set out in Policy R10. |
| 8.43 |
With the encouragement of agricultural
diversification and trends in development of leisure facilities there
is likely to be an increasing variety of proposals for leisure activities
in the countryside. There is a need to ensure that such facilities
are located where they will not adversely affect the appearance and
character of the countryside, where they will not affect the amenity
of local residents, where they will not lead to irreversible loss
of the best and most versatile agricultural land and where the local
road network is adequate to serve them. |
| 8.44 |
The District contains an assortment of
historic gardens, landscapes, landforms and geological features, woodland
and wildlife habitats. The Council recognises the importance of these
in developing recreational and educational resources for residents.
It will encourage greater public access to these areas wherever possible
by establishing planning and management agreements and developing
the Council's Visitor Access Scheme. Opportunities may also exist
to provide works of public art, of both a permanent or temporary nature,
in the broader landscape which will in themselves be a source of leisure
and recreational interest to the general public. |
| 8.45 |
This Policy provides a framework to enable
the Council to consider proposals for essential minor recreational
and leisure developments that require to be located in the countryside.
For the purpose of this Policy, essential minor recreational facilities
include small changing rooms, unobstructive spectator accommodation
for outdoor sport or small stables for outdoor sport and recreation.
Policies R16, R18 and R19 relate specifically to the major countryside
based activities of horse riding, golf and off-road motor sports.
While the development for any other major recreation or leisure activities
can be adequately determined using the Town and Country Planning (Development
Plans and Consultation)(Departures) Directions 1999, and may, in certain
circumstances justify a Departure form the development plan. Other
Policies contained in the Environment Chapter of the Plan emphasise
the need to protect the Green Belt and Areas of Landscape Value from
activities which will damage their intrinsic character. While the
development for any other major recreation or leisure activities can
be adequately determined using the Town and Country Planning (Development
Plans and Consultation) (Departures) Directions 1999, and may, in
certain circumstances justify a Departure from the development plan. |
| 8.46 |
Opportunities for developing recreational
facilities may exist as part of larger reclamation or restoration
schemes at former mineral working sites. These would include former
quarries and opencast sites as well as the former colliery sites such
as Bearpark and East Hetton. A project which seeks to promote the
interests of outdoor recreation, protect the natural environment and
improve the landscape surrounding the Coxhoe landfill site was launched
in 1999. This 'Five Villages Waste to Wildlife Initiative' is a partnership
of local authorities, Parish Councils and other parties involved in
either the management and protection of the countryside or its operational
uses. Using funding from the County Durham Environmental Trust and
other available sources, various schemes, which particularly benefit
the communities around the site, will take place during the Plan period.
These include the provision of new and enhanced cycle and walking
routes to and through the area, picnic and wildlife sites, amenity
planting and reclamation of degraded landscapes. |
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Public Rights of
Way and Other Paths |
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| POLICY R11 |
PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE COUNTRYSIDE
WILL BE ENCOURAGED AND SAFEGUARDED BY PROTECTING THE EXISTING
NETWORK OF PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY AND OTHER PATHS FROM DEVELOPMENT
WHICH WOULD RESULT IN THEIR DESTRUCTION OR DIVERSION UNLESS: |
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1. |
A SUITABLE ALTERNATIVE ROUTE IS
PROVIDED; AND |
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2. |
THE PROPOSAL ACCORDS
WITH POLICY T21. |
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WHERE POSSIBLE THE EXISTING NETWORK
OF PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY AND OTHER PATHS WILL BE EXTENDED. |
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Justification |
| 8.47 |
Walking is widely acknowledged as being
the most common form of leisure activity and, therefore, the existing
network of Public Rights of Way is potentially the most important
recreational asset within the District. Cyclists and horse riders
also benefit from the network in varying degrees although their particular
needs are dealt with elsewhere in the Plan by Policies R16, T19 and
T20. The Council is committed to safeguarding and improving Public
Rights of Way within the District and wherever possible ensuring that
footpaths are capable of use by people with disabilities, the elderly
and those with young children in accordance with Policy T21. |
| 8.48 |
Emphasis will be placed on providing opportunities
to gain access from the built up areas into the countryside. Several
routes have already been established which fulfil this objective including
the Coxhoe/Cornforth Walkway, the Cassop Vale Circular Walkway, the
Bearpark/Ushaw Moor Circular Walkway and the Neville's Cross Battle
Circular Walkway. The recent reclamation schemes of Bearpark and East
Hetton Collieries have also provided the opportunity for improving
public access to the countryside by the creation of new footpaths,
bridleways and areas of amenity open space. |
| 8.49 |
In considering improvements, diversion,
and extensions to routes, their impact on landowners and existing
occupiers of land will be carefully assessed in order to minimise,
and where possible, prevent any disruption to privacy or commercial
interests. |
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River Wear |
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| POLICY R12 |
THE COUNCIL WILL ENCOURAGE USE
OF THE RIVER WEAR FOR WATER BASED RECREATIONAL AND LEISURE ACTIVITY,
PARTICULARLY IN THE AREA BETWEEN MAIDEN CASTLE AND THE SANDS
PROVIDED THAT PROPOSALS: |
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1. |
DO NOT LEAD TO POLLUTION OF THE
WATER OR THE WATER RELATED ENVIRONMENT; AND |
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2. |
DO NOT HAVE AN ADVERSE
IMPACT ON OTHER WATER BASED RECREATIONAL AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES;
AND |
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3. |
ACCORD WITH POLICIES E5, E10 AND
E16-E20. |
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Justification |
| 8.50 |
The River Wear is of great recreational
value to the City of Durham. In the area between Maiden Castle and
The Sands it is used for a variety of purposes including angling,
competitive rowing, canoeing and pleasure boating. |
| 8.51 |
Although the Council seeks to encourage
the use of the River Wear for water based recreational and leisure
activities, in the area identified in Policy R12, it acknowledges
that any such intensification of use must recognise the environmental
constraints set out in Policies E5 and E10 which seek to protect the
overall character of this very sensitive area. |
| 8.52 |
Any water based recreational and leisure
activities must respect the wildlife value of The River Wear, as a
habitat for species such as otters and water voles and as a wildlife
corridor, recognising the constraints set out in Policies E16-E20. |
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River Wear Walkway |
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| POLICY R13 |
THE COUNCIL WILL SUPPORT THE ESTABLISHMENT
OF A CONTINUOUS WALKWAY ALONG THE BANKS OF THE RIVER WEAR BETWEEN
CROXDALE AND FINCHALE PRIORY AS PART OF THE WEARDALE WAY, WHILST
ENSURING THAT THE PROPOSAL ACCORDS WITH POLICIES E16-E20 |
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Justification |
| 8.53 |
The whole of the Wear Valley is an important
and attractive area for walking. The Council supports the establishment
of the strategic Weardale Way recreation route between Croxdale and
Finchale via the City Centre during the course of the Plan period.
Such a route would take in several points of interest including Old
Durham Gardens, Kepier Hospital, Finchale Priory and several examples
of public art (e.g. 'The Durham Cow' and 'Kathedra'), and eventually
become part of a continuous walkway along the Wear from its source
high in the Pennines to its mouth in the North Sea at Sunderland. |
| 8.54 |
The exact route of this proposal has yet
to be finalised, although paths already exist along part of the route.
Any precise route must respect nature conservation interests in accord
with Policy E16-E20. Similarly, it will be routed and designed to
minimise disruption to existing landowners, occupiers of land and
riverside users (eg fishing rights). |
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Browney Valley |
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| POLICY R14 |
THE INFORMAL RECREATIONAL POTENTIAL
OF THE BROWNEY VALLEY WILL BE ENCOURAGED BY: |
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1. |
PROMOTING THE HISTORIC INTEREST
OF THE BEAUREPAIRE ESTATE AND MANOR HOUSE. |
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2. |
EXAMINING OPPORTUNITIES
TO IMPROVE CYCLE LINKAGES TO EXISTING ROUTES AND DURHAM CITY
IN ACCORDANCE WITH POLICY T19. |
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3. |
EXAMINING OPPORTUNITIES TO CREATE
A CONTINUOUS PUBLIC FOOTPATH ALONG THE RIVER VALLEY FROM TOLLHOUSE
ROAD TO HOLLIDAY PARK. |
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4. |
ALLOWING APPROPRIATE OPPORTUNITIES
FOR ANGLING IN THE RIVER VALLEY |
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ALL PROPOSALS SHOULD ACCORD WITH
POLICIES E1, E10 AND E26 AND POLICIES AND E16 TO E20. |
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Justification |
| 8.55 |
The Valley of the River Browney extends
from the boundary of the District at Langley Park to Farewell Hall
West. It is an attractive mixture of woodland and countryside within
easy reach of the built up area of both Durham City and the surrounding
villages. It is this proximity which makes the area particularly valuable
in amenity terms and worthy of protection. The Council has recognised
this by adopting a Policy which seeks to improve facilities for informal
recreation, whilst protecting nature conservation and landscape interests. |
| 8.56 |
For the purpose of this Policy the area
of the Browney Valley is set out on the Proposals Map. A high proportion
is within the Durham City Green Belt and the Area of High Landscape
Value, whilst it also encompasses the Beaurepaire Estate (defined
as an Historic Park and Garden at Policy E26). All proposals to be
encouraged under the Browney Valley Policy will be expected to conform
therefore to Policies E1, E10 and E26, although it is not intended
that the proposals envisaged will have an adverse impact on the landscape.
The Bearpark Park and Garden (Beaurepaire Estate and Garden) is of
mediaeval origin. The area includes the ruin of the Manor House, a
Scheduled Ancient Monument, and a number of historic features. The
Council will seek opportunities to aid public interpretation of the
site. |
| 8.57 |
The designated area as defined in Policy
E26 comprises, for the most part, a working agricultural landscape.
All proposals will be carefully considered to minimise their impact
on existing land users and residents. New footpaths and cycleways,
for example, will be routed to respect privacy. New cycleways will,
however, aim to improve linkages to Durham City and to existing routes
along the disused railway lines abutting the Valley. |
| 8.58 |
In developing the area for informal recreation
it is acknowledged that some visitors will arrive by car. Should the
need arise for additional parking, the Council will endeavour to facilitate
provision at suitable locations convenient for public rights of way. |
| 8.59 |
Nature conservation interests will be
maintained and, where possible, enhanced. The Council, would, for
example, support the restoration of a migratory salmon run on the
River Browney. |
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Picnic Sites |
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| POLICY R15 |
THE PROVISION OF PICNIC SITES
IN THE COUNTRYSIDE WILL BE ENCOURAGED AT APPROPRIATE LOCATIONS
THROUGHOUT THE DISTRICT DURING THE PLAN PERIOD. |
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Justification |
| 8.60 |
The availability of picnic sites is an
important element in the enjoyment of the countryside for casual leisure
pursuits. They already exist at strategic points along the Deerness
and Lanchester Valley walkways as well as adjacent to major routes
such as the A690 and the A167. Further sites are proposed (in accordance
with Policy V2), in conjunction with other facilities at Beaurepaire,
Coxhoe Old Hall, Old Durham Gardens, Ludworth Tower and Brandon Hill.
Additional sites will be developed at other locations as demand dictates,
as resources permit and by negotiation with appropriate landowners. |
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Equestrian Facilities |
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| POLICY R16 |
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF EQUESTRIAN
FACILITIES IN THE COUNTRYSIDE WILL BE PERMITTED PROVIDED THAT: |
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1. |
PROPOSALS IN THE GREEN BELT ARE
CONSISTENT WITH POLICY E1; |
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2. |
THE NUMBER OF STABLES
PROPOSED AND THE NUMBER OF HORSES TO BE GRAZED RELATES TO THE
AMOUNT OF GRAZING LAND AVAILABLE; |
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3. |
NEW COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
WHERE TREKKING FACILITIES ARE NEEDED ARE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY
TO EXISTING BRIDLEWAYS. OTHER TYPES OF COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
SHOULD EITHER BE CLOSE TO BRIDLEWAYS OR PERMISSIVE PATHS OR
MAKE PROVISION WITHIN THE SCHEME TO ADEQUATELY EXERCISE HORSES; |
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4. |
NEW COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
ARE SUFFICIENTLY CLOSE TO EXISTING RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION
TO ALLOW PROPER SUPERVISION AT ALL TIMES; |
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5. |
NEW FACILITIES ARE OF AN APPROPRIATE
SCALE, AND, WHERE POSSIBLE, ARE SITUATED NEXT TO EXISTING BUILDINGS,
AND DO NOT DETRACT FROM THE LANDSCAPE; |
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6. |
PROPOSALS ACCORD WITH NATURE CONSERVATION
POLICIES E16 TO E20. |
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Justification |
| 8.61 |
Durham, like other parts of the County
is experiencing growth in horse riding as a leisure pursuit and an
increase in demand for land to graze and stable horses. The countryside
is easily accessible from many built up areas of the District. The
combination of this demand and accessibility coupled with changes
in the farming economy is making the release of agricultural land
by farmers for grazing and stabling increasingly attractive. |
| 8.62 |
The grazing and breeding of horses for
personal and commercial use requires planning permission except where
their use is related to the farming of land. When grazing horses it
is important to ensure that sufficient land is available to support
the number of horses to be grazed. The British Horse Society suggests
that between 0.6 and 0.8 hectares (1.5 to 2 acres) can provide summer
pasture for a single horse, but that less than 0.4 hectares (1 acre)
can be inadequate. |
| 8.63 |
In establishing new riding stables the
Council will need to be convinced that adequate investment is being
made in the new enterprise to ensure that it is viable in the long
term. To avoid a proliferation of new buildings in the countryside
unrelated to existing buildings and to demonstrate that the enterprise
is genuine and adequately resourced such enterprises will only be
permitted where there is existing residential accommodation which
will allow proper supervision of horses at all times. To discourage
horse-riding along roads and footpaths it will usually be expected
that commercial establishments are located near to existing bridleways,
except where it can be demonstrated that this is not necessary and
adequate facilities can be provided within the site to exercise horses. |
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Stables |
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| POLICY R17 |
STABLES FOR PERSONAL USE IN THE
COUNTRYSIDE WILL BE PERMITTED WHEN: |
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1. |
SENSITIVELY LOCATED, PREFERABLY
NEXT TO EXISTING BUILDINGS AND TAKING ADVANTAGE OF MATURE LANDSCAPING
AND LANDFORMS; AND |
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2. |
OF A SMALL SCALE,
CONSISTING OF NO MORE THAN THREE STANDARD SIZED STABLES; AND |
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3. |
CONSTRUCTED OF APPROPRIATE MATERIALS. |
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Justification |
| 8.64 |
The construction of stables for personal
use in the countryside will only be permitted if they are sensitively
located and constructed of appropriate materials. Rendered and painted
breeze block or timber stables can be appropriate in many situations
but should be regularly and adequately maintained. Stable blocks should
also be small in scale and should generally not consist of more than
three standard sized stables. Beyond this scale stables can become
jarring and obtrusive features in the landscape. |
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Golf Courses and
Golf Driving Ranges |
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| POLICY R18 |
THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW GOLF COURSES
OR GOLF DRIVING RANGES, OR IMPROVEMENT TO EXISTING COURSES OR
DRIVING RANGES WILL BE PERMITTED IF IT CAN BE DEMONSTRATED THAT
THE PROPOSAL WOULD NOT HAVE A DETRIMENTAL IMPACT UPON: |
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1. |
THE OPENNESS OF THE GREEN BELT;
OR |
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2. |
THE CHARACTER AND
APPEARANCE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE; OR |
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3. |
THE NATURAL OR HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT;
OR |
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4. |
THE EXISTING FLORA AND FAUNA IN
ACCORDANCE WITH POLICIES E14-E20; OR |
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5. |
AGRICULTURAL VIABILITY OR THE
BEST AND THE MOST VERSATILE AGRICULTURAL LAND; OR |
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6. |
PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY; OR |
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7. |
RESIDENTIAL AMENITY; OR |
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8. |
TRAFFIC/HIGHWAY SAFETY. |
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IN THE CASE OF DRIVING RANGES,
ASSOCIATED FLOOD LIGHTING DOES NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE
IMPACT ON RESIDENTIAL AMENITY OR HIGHWAY SAFETY. |
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ALL PROPOSALS FOR GOLF COURSES
AND DRIVING RANGES SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY FULL DETAILS OF
THE DESIGN AND ITS IMPACT ON THESE INTERESTS. |
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Justification |
| 8.65 |
There are five golf courses within the
District. Three 18-hole golf courses are located at Brancepeth, Littleburn
and Mount Oswald. In addition, Ramside Hall provides a course with
a total of 27 holes. A 9 hole, par 3 golf course is provided at Cocken
Lodge, Leamside. Driving range facilities are also available at Ramside
Hall and Cocken Lodge. |
| 8.66 |
Golf courses can be a landscape amenity
and nature conservation asset. Equally an insensitive design without
regard to landscape considerations can be damaging and disruptive
particularly in parkland settings or in areas of landscape value.
It is essential that the Council is able to assess the impact of proposals
for golf course development on landscape and wildlife and full details
of course design and construction will be sought at the outset. |
| 8.67 |
Driving ranges also need to be carefully
located because they operate during hours of darkness and the floodlighting
associated with their use can have a significant detrimental impact
on both residential amenity and highway safety if the facility is
close to an urban area or the main road network. |
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Off Road Motor Sports |
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| POLICY R19 |
THE PROVISION OF A SITE FOR ORGANISED
AND SUPERVISED OFF ROAD MOTOR SPORTS ACTIVITIES WILL BE PERMITTED
PROVIDED THAT: |
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1. |
IT WOULD RESULT IN NO MATERIAL
LOSS OF OPENNESS TO THE GREEN BELT OR MATERIAL HARM TO THE CHARACTER
OF AN AREA OF HIGH LANDSCAPE VALUE; AND |
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2. |
IT IS LOCATED WHERE
IT WILL NOT BE DETRIMENTAL TO RESIDENTIAL AMENITY, OR THE CHARACTER
AND ENJOYMENT OF OPEN LAND AND COUNTRYSIDE; AND |
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3. |
IT IS ACCESSIBLE TO POTENTIAL
USERS WITHOUT DETRIMENTAL EFFECT TO HIGHWAY SAFETY; AND |
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4. |
IT COMPLIES WITH THE CRITERIA
SET OUT IN PARTS 3, 4, 6 AND 7 OF POLICY R10; AND |
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5. |
IT ACCORDS WITH NATURE CONSERVATION
POLICIES E16 TO E20. |
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Justification |
| 8.68 |
Off-road motor sports cover a wide range
of vehicles racing over tracks or rugged ground. These sports generate
a lot of noise and some may attract a large volume of traffic from
spectators. |
| 8.69 |
The main concerns with proposed off road
motor sports are to ensure that the quality of the surrounding countryside,
the amenity of residents and other land users in the area are protected.
Finding suitable sites for off road motor sports within the District
which will satisfy the criteria set out in Policies R10 and R19 is
difficult. They must not be located close to housing but they should
have good means of access and be well screened. |
| 8.70 |
In view of the potential problems and
objections which can arise from these activities, the Council may
consider it appropriate to grant a temporary permission in order to
assess the impact of the proposal over a given period of time in terms
of frequency of use, hours of operation and noise levels generated. |
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