LEISURE, RECREATION AND TOURISM

Leisure, Recreation and Tourism Aim

11.1 The key aim in relation to Leisure, Recreation and Tourism is:

“to enable the provision of high quality and accessible leisure and tourist facilities.”

Leisure, Recreation and Tourism Objectives

11.2 To further this aim, the Leisure, Recreation and Tourism objectives of the Local Plan are:

Objective 48: Land Allocation
To Identify sufficient land for recreation and commercial leisure development to meet the needs of the District.

Objective 49: Commercial Leisure
To promote town centre sites as the preferred locations for indoor commercial leisure developments and the arts.

Objective 50: Open Space, Outdoor Sports facilities and Play Areas
To enable the provision of sufficient facilities to meet the NPFA minimum standards for open space and recreation, by safeguarding and improving existing facilities and ensuring adequate provision in new developments.

Objective 51: Rural Facilities and Open Space
To enable the continued provision of opportunities for sustainable recreation in the countryside.

Objective 52: Corridors
To safeguard and enhance the network of open spaces, greenways and quiet roads that link urban areas with the countryside.

Objective 53: Rural Diversification
To facilitate the diversification of the rural economy by seeking the retention and enhancement of existing rural tourist facilities, and the development of new attractions and tourist accommodation facilities which are small-scale and in keeping with the character of the area.

Objective 54: Accommodation
To identify and promote suitable sites for the development of major new tourist accommodation and facilities within town centres or edge-of-centre locations.

Objective 55: Public Rights of Way
To safeguard, promote and enhance the public rights of way network.

Leisure and Recreation

Introduction

11.3 National planning policy in respect of Open Space, Sport and Recreation is provided in PPG17 which was published in July 2002. It states that open spaces, sport and recreation all underpin peopleÕs quality of life and emphasises that well designed and implemented planning policies for open space, sport and recreation are fundamental to delivering broader Government objectives on issues such as health and well being and urban renaissance. It advises planning authorities to undertake local assessments of needs and opportunities and to set local standards for open space provision. It also advises that open spaces and recreational facilities that are of high quality, or of particular value to a local community, should be recognised and given protection through appropriate policies in plans.

11.4 The Local Plan therefore seeks to ensure that land and facilities are available, in appropriate locations, for both organised and informal sport and recreation activities. The needs of local residents and visitors should be met, and proposals involving the loss of existing facilities resisted.

11.5 The District Council takes a leading enabling role in the provision of leisure and recreation opportunities within the District. It recognises the continuing growing importance of sport and recreation, and has produced and reviewed a Leisure Strategy to focus its activities. The Leisure Strategy will shortly be replaced by a new Cultural Strategy, which will encompass wider quality of life issues.

11.6 Tourism is covered by PPG21, which advises that policies and proposals in Local Plans should be confined to aspects relating directly to the use and development of land. The Economic Development and Tourism section of the Council's Planning and Environment Division deal directly with tourism promotion and publicity.

11.7 In the light of the recent advice in PPG17 (paras 1-9) the District Council intends to draw up local standards for open space in time for the next review of the Local Plan based on an assessment of the needs of residents, workers and visitors to the District.

Trends

11.8 There has been an increase in recent years in the demand for recreation and leisure activities. This has generally been brought about by improved accessibility, a wider range of facilities, a growing awareness of the fundamental role of leisure and recreation in promoting health and fitness, and the expectation of a better quality of life.

11.9 Tourism continues the upward trend of recent years, with particular growth in the short break and day visitor markets.

Open Space and Recreation

Parks and Open Spaces

11.10 The three towns within the District are fortunate in having a number of formal parks. Within Kidderminster there are Brintons Park, St. George's Park and Baxter Gardens, which are traditional town parks, whilst in Stourport-on-Severn there is the Memorial Park and at Bewdley the Jubilee Gardens. Other important parks include Springfield Park at Broadwaters, Kidderminster, and at Stourport-on-Severn and Bewdley there are extensive attractive and highly popular riverside parks leading out from the town centres to the open countryside of the Severn Valley.

11.11 The Council is committed to retaining and promoting the District's parks and Public Open Spaces, and aims to provide new areas of open space to meet any identified deficiencies. Accessible parks and open spaces close to housing are particularly important, especially for children, the elderly and the disabled who may not have easy access to the surrounding countryside.

Brintons Park, Kidderminster

11.12 There are a number of other important urban open spaces within the three towns which make a significant contribution to their character. PPG17(2002) states that "existing open space, sport and recreational buildings and land should not be built on unless an assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open space or the buildings and land to be surplus to requirements". It goes on to say that “open space and sports and recreational facilities that are of high quality, or of particular value to a local community, should be recognised and given protection by local authorities through appropriate policies in plans.”

11.13 The District Council welcomes this advice, and has identified Public Open Spaces and other important urban open spaces which will be provided with long-term protection from development. These sites are identified on the Proposals Map and Inset Plans. In addition, there are numerous areas of incidental open space less than 0.1 hectares in size, which are not shown on the Proposals Map and Inset Plans due to their size. Such spaces are regarded as being of equal environmental value. Consequently, protection of these spaces from development is essential.

Parks, Public Open Spaces and Other Open Space Areas

Policy LR.1 Proposals for development which would lead to the loss or reduction of parks, public open spaces or other open space areas will not be allowed, except in exceptional circumstances when equivalent or improved compensatory provision is made in a suitable alternative location. Development which would have an adverse impact on these areas will not be permitted.

 

Amenity and Outdoor Play Space

11.14 In addition to parks, open spaces and recreation areas, the provision of amenity space is an important aspect of the urban environment. The increasing emphasis on higher density residential development raises the importance of outdoor amenity space as an integral consideration in the design of new developments. It provides opportunities for play, outdoor relaxation, and social interaction, as well as providing essential open spaces. Policy D.13 of the Design chapter provides further advice on the details of private amenity space design.

11.15 The District Council uses the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) standard of 2.4 hectares (6 acres) per 1,000 persons (The Six Acre Standard) as a general guide for the provision of outdoor playing space. This figure is subdivided into 1.6 - 1.8 hectares for youth and adult use and 0.6 - 0.8 hectares for children's play. However, the NPFA accepts that many local authorities are currently unable to meet these recommended standards, and urges them to plan to provide sufficient playing space.

11.16 A total of 39 play areas exist within the District. 18 of these are owned and maintained by the District Council, 15 by Wyre Forest Community Housing, 3 by Parish or Town Councils and 3 are in private ownership.

Riverside Play Area, Stourport-on-Severn

11.17 The District Council's Draft Play Area Strategy reveals a shortfall in play space provision across the whole District compared to the NPFA standard. Approximately 13.4 hectares of play space is provided at present (0.14 hectares per 1000 population) as opposed to the NPFA standard of 0.6 hectares per 1000, a shortfall of 43.7 hectares. In view of this shortfall it is important to safeguard public open space and play areas from development, and to enable the provision of appropriate new facilities wherever possible. Proposals involving the loss of play space provision will not be permitted unless alternative equivalent or improved compensatory provision is made in a suitable, accessible location.

11.18 In view of the shortfall in provision, new housing developments will be expected to include the provision of new play spaces. In some instances, a financial contribution to the upgrading of existing local provision may be preferable. New play spaces should be designed in accordance with the NPFA standard, and early discussions with the local planning authority are advisable. A Section 106 Planning Obligation will be required to secure an adequate quantity and quality of play space, prior to any planning permission being issued.

11.19 The requirements for play area provision as part of proposals for new residential development will be considered in relation to the number of new child bed spaces created, calculated as follows:

- 1 bedroom dwellings, and dwellings designed for elderly people provide no child bed spaces;
- 2 bedroom dwellings provide 1 child bed space;
- 3 bedroom dwellings provide 2 child bed spaces;
- 4 bedrooms or more provide 3 child bed spaces.

11.20 New play area provision is subdivided into three categories. These are:

- Local Area for Play (LAP)
- Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP)
- Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP)

The NPFA Six Acre Standard contains detailed information regarding these categories. The combination of child bed spaces and play area categories provides a sound basis for the appropriate levels of play space provision on new residential developments.

Amenity Space

Policy LR.2 Development proposals must, where appropriate, include provision for amenity space (including LAPs) for the recreation and enjoyment of users. Section 106 Obligations may be sought for contributions toward the provision and enhancement of amenity areas. Development proposals which would have an adverse impact on the provision of amenity space will not be permitted.

 

Play Area, Brintons Park

Children's Play Space

Policy LR.3 Proposals for residential development should include the provision of adequate children's play space. This should be designed to meet the NPFA Six Acre Standard, including LEAPs and NEAPs as follows: i) on sites providing more than 75 and less than 200 new child bed spaces (including combinations of two or more adjacent sites), a Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP); ii) on sites of 200 or more new child bed spaces (including combinations of two or more adjacent sites), a Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP). Section 106 Obligations may be required to secure the provision of an adequate quantity and quality of play space. In instances where there are existing play spaces nearby it may be appropriate to provide a commuted sum for off-site improvements. Development proposals which would have an adverse impact on the quantity or quality of play space will not be permitted.

 

Allotments

11.21 The District Council owns and operates eight allotment sites within Kidderminster. The allotments are let to members of the local community, and together with others in Stourport-on-Severn (which are administered by the Town Council) are assets to the District. In addition, there are privately owned allotments at Chester Road North and Foley Park. Demand for Council owned allotments remains high, with occupancy rates consistently around 98%. The District Council wishes to maintain the existing provision of allotments, and increase this where possible

Allotments

Policy LR.4 The District Council will safeguard the allotment sites shown on the Proposals Map and development which would cause the loss of these will not be allowed, except in exceptional circumstances when equivalent compensatory provision is made in a suitable alternative location.

 

Outdoor Leisure Facilities

Informal Countryside Facilities

11.22 The natural environment of the District is highly valued as a recreational resource by local residents and is also a key element of Wyre Forest's tourism appeal. The local countryside provides facilities for a wide range of quiet sports and leisure activities. Major attractions include the Wyre Forest itself and the Severn Valley, both of which draw visitors from beyond the District.

11.23 Other important assets are the Country Parks at Kingsford (which links up with the Kinver Edge National Trust site in Staffordshire), Leapgate Country Park at Stourport-on-Severn, based on the former Hartlebury to Stourport-on-Severn railway line, Hartlebury Common Nature Reserve (important for Heathers and also a SSSI), and Blackstone Country Park, adjacent to the River Severn south of Bewdley. These Country Parks are managed by either the District or County Council, and are shown on the Proposals Map.

11.24 There are also significant countryside sites on the urban fringe around the three towns, which are owned and managed by the District Council. They afford excellent informal recreational opportunities for residents, and also attract visitors from further afield. They are:

Rifle Range / Devil's Spittleful, west of Kidderminster (partly a Site of Special Scientific Interest). It is managed to safeguard the nature conservation importance of the site, but still provides an open heathland area for walking and horse riding.

Rifle Range / Devil's Spittleful

An extensive heathland area known as Burlish Top Nature Reserve, which occupies a prominent ridge top position overlooking the Stour Valley between Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster. Once used as a wartime hospital camp, it has now regenerated. It is recognised as a Special Wildlife Site, and was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 1994. There is public access throughout the area along an extensive network of informal paths.

Habberley Valley, a 28 hectare site between Kidderminster and Bewdley, has a long history as a local beauty spot. The site was acquired by the District Council to ensure its future as a Special Wildlife Site, while at the same time allowing public access to this popular attractive area, including activities such as rambling, orienteering, and ornithology. The Valley has also been declared a Local Nature Reserve. It demonstrates the Worcestershire countryside at its very best, and contains important areas of lowland heathland, acid grassland, and high sandstone cliffs. The woodland is included as ancient semi-natural woodland in English Nature's 'Inventory of Ancient Woodland'.

Peckett's Rock, Habberley Valley

Puxton Marsh, on the Stour River corridor as it runs into the heart of Kidderminster. The marsh was declared a Site of Special Scientific interest for the high quality marshlands it possesses. It also attracts local people for recreational walking and bird watchers from further afield.

11.25 In addition to these sites, there is a range of local nature reserves within the urban areas. These sites serve a dual purpose, in that they are valuable wildlife and ecology resources, yet at the same time they provide local residents with facilities for compatible informal countryside recreation. The density of use varies, with sites such as Spennells Valley being much more intensively used due to the proximity of adjacent housing development.

11.26 The Council places a great deal of importance on the provision and maintenance of these informal countryside facilities, and wishes to enhance their quality and quantity where possible. Improvements to infrastructure, interpretation and maintenance all have a positive impact on their value to the community. Similarly, protection from environmental damage, litter and inappropriate activities such as off-road motorcycling are important to ensure that the quality of these facilities is maintained, and where possible enhanced.

Informal Countryside Facilities

Policy LR.5 Proposals for the development of Informal Countryside Facilities will be permitted, provided that they: i) enable easy and safe access; ii) contain adequate provision for future maintenance; iii) do not have an adverse impact on the quality of recreation opportunities; iv) do not have an adverse impact on surrounding land uses; v) do not have an adverse impact on wildlife and ecology. Development proposals which would have an adverse impact on existing Informal Countryside Facilities will not be permitted.

 

Stour Valley Country Park

11.27 Completion of the Kidderminster Flood Alleviation Scheme will present an opportunity to create a new country park in the Stour Valley to the north of the town. Part of the valley is designated as an SSSI, and is owned by the Council. A further area of land is to be transferred to the Council's ownership following a Section 106 Planning Obligation associated with the redevelopment of the former Stourvale Works site. The Council wishes to establish a new country park in association with other landowners, to bring improved opportunities for countryside access, creating an important link between the town centre and the existing green corridor running through Springfield Park, Broadwaters, and eventually out to Hurcott Pool, via the important wetlands of the Stour and Blakedown Brook valleys.

Stour Valley Country Park

Policy LR.6 The Council will safeguard the areas shown on the Proposals Map in the Stour Valley north of Kidderminster for future development as a Country Park. Proposals for development which would prejudice the provision of a Country Park in these areas will not be permitted.

 

Hurcott Pool and Woods

11.28 The Council has been fortunate to purchase Hurcott Pool and woods, with financial assistance from English Nature. The site opened to the public in October 2001, enhancing the community benefits of the green corridor which reaches out from Kidderminster town centre.

Information Board at Hurcott Pool

Hurcott Pool and Woods

Policy LR.7 The Council will safeguard the area shown on the Proposals Map around Hurcott Pool and Woods for future development as a Local Nature Reserve. Proposals for development which would prejudice the provision of a Local Nature Reserve in this location will not be permitted.

 

Public Rights of Way

11.29 The District is fortunate in having an extensive public rights of way network, which includes both footpaths and bridleways. The use of these public rights of way as recreational footpaths has grown in recent years due to the increasing popularity of visits to the countryside by residents from towns and cities.

11.30 Although no National long-distance footpaths pass through the District, the area is well served by the following medium-distance Regional Routes:

- the North Worcestershire Path, which runs some 21 miles from Kingsford Country Park to link with the Clent, Waseley and Lickey Hills Country Parks in the north-east of the County;

- the Severn Way, which runs along the banks of the River Severn from Mid Wales to the Severn Estuary;

- the Worcestershire Way, which runs from Kingsford Country Park to West Malvern taking in parts of the Severn Valley and the Abberley Hills before ending at the Malvern Hills; and

- the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal Walk, which runs through the District from Staffordshire to Stourport-on-Severn.

11.31 The District Council has identified opportunities for improving the public rights of way network, which will enhance the choice of routes available. In particular, the development of a new footpath and cyclepath linking Puxton with the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal towpath, Springfield Park, and eventually Hurcott Pool may be possible as part of the proposed Stour Valley Country Park.

11.32 Development proposals affecting public rights of way should not obstruct the continuation of the route. Wherever possible, the route should be maintained on its existing alignment, and diversions should only be considered in exceptional circumstances. Opportunities to improve links to existing rights of way arising through new development proposals will be sought wherever possible.

Public Rights of Way

Policy LR.8 Development proposals which affect Public Rights of Way will be required to make adequate provision for the continuation or diversion of the route. Where a new route is provided this must be of equal or improved recreational quality to the original route. Developers may be required to provide new links to existing public rights of way, where appropriate. New public rights of way will be established where possible. Proposals with an adverse impact on Public Rights of Way will not be permitted.

 

Outdoor Sports Pitches

11.33 Outdoor sports pitches are provided within the District by the Council, Parish and Town Councils, and by private and commercial sports clubs. As with amenity and play space, the Council wishes to meet the NPFA standard as a minimum standard of provision. For outdoor sports pitches this is at least 1.2 hectares (3 acres) of playing pitches per 1,000 population. Again, provision in the District is deficient compared to the NPFA standard. Latest figures for 2002 show that a total of 78.6 hectares of playing fields are provided in the District (0.82 ha per 1000 population) as opposed to a target figure of 114.71 ha.

11.34 The Council is seeking to increase provision in partnership with the private sports club sector. A partnership arrangement exists at Stourport Sports Club involving Stourport Hockey Club, Athletics Club, Worcestershire County Council and Wyre Forest District Council. Bewdley Leisure Centre is subject to a joint user agreement with the Worcestershire County Council.

11.35 The Council supports the principle of dual use of school playing fields and other sports facilities, subject to satisfactory detailed arrangements. In view of the importance of playing fields within urban areas of the District, they will be safeguarded from development. Proposals involving the enhancement of playing field and sports pitch provision, and availability to the public will be welcomed.

11.36 Sports pitches in public ownership which are within or adjacent to the urban areas have been included within the Public Open Space designations on the Proposals Map, to recognise their wider amenity and informal recreation roles. Policies LR.1 and LR.9 aim to prevent a reduction or loss of playing field provision through development. When considering proposals which involve alternative playing field provision, regard will be had to advice in PPG17 (paras 13 & 15) and the Town and Country planning (Playing Fields) (England) Direction 1998.

Outdoor Sports Pitches and Playing Fields

Policy LR.9 Private playing fields together with sports pitches situated within educational establishments, will be safeguarded to protect their contribution to sports pitch provision in the District and as valuable urban amenity open spaces. Section 106 Obligations may be required to secure the provision of playing fields as an integral part of larger new developments. Proposals for development which would result in the reduction or loss of these playing field sites will not be allowed except where: i) the proposal is for minor development, such as car parking or changing rooms, required in connection with the use as playing fields; or ii) alternative or improved provision of at least equivalent community benefit is made available.

 

Minster Road Outdoor Sports Area

11.37 Land between Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster identified on the Proposals Map is considered to be a sustainable location for outdoor sports. This open area of land is within a very sensitive and narrow part of the confirmed Green Belt, and careful attention will be paid to ensuring that the scale of any built development is kept to the minimum necessary for the functioning of outdoor sports facilities, in accordance with Green Belt Policy.

Minster Road Outdoor Sports Area

Minster Road Outdoor Sports Area

Policy LR.10 The Council will safeguard an area shown on the Proposals Map north-west of Minster Road, Stourport-on-Severn for outdoor sports use. Proposals for the development of outdoor sports facilities will be encouraged within this area subject to compatibility with Green Belt and Landscape Protection Area Policies.

 

Noisy or Intrusive Sports

11.38 Sports (including noisy or intrusive activities) are a land use appropriate to a rural area, and are therefore not inappropriate in the Green Belt. It is, however, important to ensure an appropriate balance between the use of land for recreation activities, and retaining the tranquillity of the countryside.

11.39 PPG24: Planning and Noise advises that it may be appropriate to adopt policies to avoid potentially noisy developments in areas which have remained relatively undisturbed, and are prized for their recreational and amenity value for this reason.

11.40 The District Council recognises the increasing demand for noisy and intrusive recreational sports activities in the countryside. Applications for changes of use to intrusive recreational sports in the countryside will be judged on their merits within the framework of the relevant policies in this Local Plan concerning landscape, natural resources, nature conservation, sites of archaeological importance, development in the countryside, the Green Belt, or on agricultural land.

11.41 To enable accurate assessment of proposals, planning applications for the use of land or buildings for noisy or intrusive sports must include details of:

i) any proposed buildings or conversions of existing buildings to be used in association with the sport;

ii) any proposed fuel storage containers including dimensions and capacities; and

iii) any trees or other vegetation which it is proposed to remove.

11.42 If, after due consideration, planning permission is granted, conditions may be required to limit the times and frequency of activities. A temporary permission may be granted, which will then will only be renewed if it is proven that there is no unreasonable conflict with adjacent land users, or other unacceptable environmental impact.

Noisy or Intrusive Sports

Policy LR.11 In considering proposals for land uses likely to result in noise or other nuisance, account will be taken of the effect of the proposals on nearby residents, the character and amenity of the countryside, ecological factors and highway considerations. Noisy or intrusive sports will therefore not be permitted: i) where undue nuisance may be caused to residential property; ii) within sensitive woodland areas or other wildlife habitats where there would be any adverse impact on the ecology of the area; iii) where the lawful use of a public right of way would be impeded; or iv) where they will adversely affect areas of significant recreational value.

 

Airborne Sports

11.43 Airborne sports include a variety of activities, for example, ballooning, gliding and microlighting. Policies in the Local Plan on matters such as landscape, agricultural land, nature conservation and archaeology, are relevant to the consideration of proposals for airborne sports. To enable accurate assessment of proposals, planning applications for airborne sports should include details required in paragraphs 11.39 and 11.40 above.

11.44 As a general guideline, for reasons of safety and noise disturbance, air-sports related development will only be considered appropriate in areas where the tranquillity of the countryside will not be compromised. All proposals should seek to have minimal environmental impact and be of a small scale appropriate to the rural environment. Matters including noise disturbance, other environmental effects, and safety, will be considered against other policies in the Local Plan, on the merits of each particular case.

Airborne Sports

Policy LR.12 Proposals for the development of facilities for airborne sports will only be permitted where no significant harm would be caused in terms of: i) the effect on the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of nearby residential properties, including by noise and other disturbance; ii) the impact on the quality and character of the landscape, particularly within the Green Belt, Landscape Protection Areas, and the Severn and Stour Valleys; iii) the impact on nature conservation and ecology; iv) the compatibility of the proposal with other recreational activities in the vicinity.

 

Water Sports

11.45 Water areas and watercourses are often valuable ecological resources which can be damaged by inappropriate sports and recreational use. However, there are many examples nationally where careful management enables mixed uses of water areas which benefits the users and avoids harm to the resource.

11.46 Arrangements for the protection of ecological interests, arising from proposals for development of water areas, may be covered by planning conditions. However, in circumstances where detailed requirements derived from relevant published advisory codes are to be imposed, conditions may not be an appropriate means of control. In those circumstances, the Planning Authority may seek to negotiate suitable protective measures by way of a planning obligation.

Boat Club, Stourport-on-Severn

11.47 The provision of new facilities for water sports will require full discussions with owners or operators of water facilities such as Severn Trent Water Ltd., British Waterways or the Environment Agency.

Water Sports

Policy LR.13 Proposals for the use of water areas for sports and recreational purposes will be approved, provided that the uses proposed are compatible with their surroundings and not damaging to nature conservation or the ecology of the area. The District Council may require applicants to enter into an obligation under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, as amended, to ensure that subsequent use and management of the resource is in accordance with acknowledged good practice.

 

Golf Courses

11.48 Demand for golfing facilities remains strong, although the pressure to develop new golf facilities is now considerably lower than in the early 1990's.

11.49 The Royal and Ancient Golf Club recommends a minimum standard of one golf facility per 25,000 population. The existing facilities in the District represent an over provision compared to the District's population, but as the District serves a golf 'catchment' area extending beyond its boundary, there may be a slight shortfall of provision.

11.50 Golf courses and other related developments such as driving ranges and clubhouses can often have a significant impact on the character of the landscape. The features of course layouts are very different from typical field, tree and hedgerow patterns, and the level of traffic generated can be considerable. However, in some instances golf courses can make a positive contribution to the landscape, particularly where the restoration of former mineral workings and degraded landscapes can be achieved.

11.51 Golf courses are not inappropriate development in the Green Belt, as they preserve the openness of the landscape. Small scale essential facilities may also be acceptable, although the re-use of existing buildings is preferred where possible.

Details Required with Planning Applications

11.52 In order that the District Council can properly assess the full impact of proposals for golf development, an Environmental Impact Assessment will be required for any proposal larger than 1 hectare. Details of the proposed layout and landscaping of the course must be submitted as part of any planning application. These must include details of earth moving operations, including any removal, transfer of and additional material, and finished levels. Details of the siting and size of all buildings and car parking necessary for the development should be submitted as part of the initial application. The design and external appearance of these aspects of the development may be conditioned and require subsequent full applications.

Scale of Built Development

11.53 The scale of built development proposed as part of any golf course development in the Green Belt should be limited to that which is essential for participation in the sport. Large-scale development such as function rooms and conference facilities will not normally be permitted on visual amenity grounds. The English Golf Union lists the following elements as being basic requirements necessary for a clubhouse: Entrance hall; Men's locker room; Men's toilet and showers; Ladies' locker room; Ladies' toilet and showers; Office; Lounge; Bar and bar store; Dining room; Kitchen and stores; Steward's or caretaker's flat, and an area for refuse bins, bar empties etc.

11.54 In addition a small professional's shop might also be included within the clubhouse building. Other small essential buildings (excluding dwellings) for greenkeepers' needs will generally be acceptable in principle. The use of existing buildings wherever possible is preferred, to minimise the need for new built development.

Golf Courses and Related Developments

Policy LR.14 Proposals for golf courses and related development will only be permitted where: i) the primary function of the facility is for the playing of golf; ii) there will be no adverse impact on the character and appearance of the landscape; iii) there will be no adverse impact on areas of nature conservation or ecological importance; iv) the development can be shown to be genuinely reversible where the best and most versatile agricultural land is involved; v) access can be gained from suitable roads without an adverse impact on road safety; vi) the site is of a size capable of comfortably accommodating the proposals; and sufficient safety margins can be achieved to minimise the risk of people and property being struck by golf balls without the erection of catch nets in rural areas. In all cases, proposals should comply with other policies in the Plan.

Staff Accommodation for Golf Facilities

Policy LR.15 Outside the Green Belt where an essential need can be demonstrated for on-site residential accommodation, this will be limited to a single small-scale unit designed as an integral part of the clubhouse building. Within the Green Belt development of on-site residential accommodation will only be allowed where it involves the conversion of existing buildings in accordance with Policies RB.1 - RB.8 on the Re-use and Adaptation of Rural Buildings. Where such accommodation is approved, a condition will be imposed to restrict the occupancy of the unit to person(s) employed to meet the essential needs of the golf facility.

 

Indoor Leisure Facilities

Arts, Entertainment and Museums

11.55 The Council recognises the importance of the encouragement of the arts in terms of cultural, social and economic activities. It provides important facilities for the performing arts at the Civic Halls in Kidderminster and Stourport-on-Severn, and the Wyre Forest Glades Arena. The District also enjoys the facilities offered by the Rose Theatre at Broadwaters, Kidderminster, which is a 180 seat theatre with a small studio room, operated by a resident amateur group.

11.56 The Council intends to develop facilities for expanding opportunities for the arts, to meet the needs of all sections of the local community. In 1997 the Wyre Forest Arts Partnership (WFAP) was formed, involving the District Council, the Nonentities Society, Kidderminster Educational Foundation, Kidderminster College and the Wyre Forest Arts Forum. A feasibility study was commissioned by WFAP, which concluded in 1999 that there is a need for an arts centre in the District. A supplementary study in September 2000 concluded that the redevelopment of Kidderminster town centre provides an opportunity to create a cultural quarter, including an arts centre, based around the Town Hall, Library and relocated College.

11.57 The Council is committed to the protection and interpretation of the heritage of the District through a museums service. At present the Council operates a museum at Load Street, Bewdley, which includes provision of displays of traditional crafts associated with the Wyre Forest.

Bewdley Museum entrance

11.58 There is a long standing desire to develop a Carpet Museum and Heritage Centre, to reflect the importance of this industry in the development of Kidderminster as a town. No specific preferred sites have yet been identified. The District Council supports the development of a Carpet Museum and Heritage Centre in Kidderminster, subject to the identification of a suitable site and the availability of appropriate financial resources.

Arts, Entertainment and Museum Facilities

Policy LR.16 Proposals for the development of arts, entertainment and museum facilities will be permitted, subject to compliance with other policies in the Plan, provided that a need has been established and they are located in town centres, or if suitable town centre sites are not available, in edge of centre or district centre locations.

 

Commercial Leisure

11.59 The term "commercial leisure" refers to a wide range of land uses. Facilities providing activities such as ten pin bowling, cinemas, health and fitness clubs, nightclubs etc. may be regarded as major commercial leisure uses, while cafes, restaurants and public houses are much smaller, both in scale and impact on their surroundings.

11.60 Wyre Forest District has no cinema provision for residents or tourists in the area, although there are multi-screen cinemas within easy driving distance of the District. Similarly, there are no significant private fitness clubs, and only a small two lane ten pin bowling facility. The District Council has long recognised the need for a cinema, but efforts to attract an operator have so far been unsuccessful.

Quantitative Needs

11.61 The Wyre Forest Retail and Commercial Leisure Study, commissioned by the Council and prepared by MVM Planning Ltd, was published in January 2001. It identifies a quantitative need for a cinema of up to 8 screens in Kidderminster, to meet the District's needs over the plan period to 2011. It also identifies a quantitative capacity for two additional ten pin bowling lanes within the district.

Qualitative Needs

11.62 The only publicly available leisure facilities in the District are those provided by the Council. There is no large scale commercial leisure complex run by national private operators. The study concludes that there is a qualitative need for such a facility to provide an alternative to the Wyre Forest Glades leisure centre, but that there is no pressing commercial demand at present.

11.63 Similarly, a qualitative need for upmarket restaurants is identified. Both of these needs may be capable of being accommodated in phases 2-4 of the Kidderminster town centre redevelopment. No further need is identified for nightclubs or public houses in the District. No immediate or foreseeable need for other commercial leisure facilities is identified.

Commercial Leisure Developments

Policy LR.17 Proposals for major new commercial leisure developments will only be permitted in sustainable locations within Kidderminster and Stourport-on-Severn town centres.

 

 

TOURISM

Introduction

11.69 Tourism is a major economic force nationally and locally. The District Council's Tourism Strategy 1999-2004 revealed that in 1998 there were approximately 1.7 million visits to the District, made up of 0.22 million staying visitors, and 1.5 million leisure day trip visits. Overnight visitors spent £22 million, and day visitors spent £32 million, giving a total spend of £54 million for the year.

11.70 In recent years, tourism in the Wyre Forest area has been growing steadily, with a marked growth in the short stay holiday market. The value of the tourist industry to the District's economy is clear.

11.71 PPG21: Tourism, states that national government policy is directed at securing a proper balance between:

- maximising the economic and employment benefits that tourism can bring;
- promoting the geographical and seasonal spread of tourism;
- encouraging the development of non-traditional destinations as well as the more popular visitor locations;
- respecting the needs of the tourist industry and its customers;
- safeguarding the environment; and
- protecting the interests of the communities that cater for its needs, but feel its effects.

To achieve this balance, the District Council's Tourism Strategy contains five key principles:

- Competitiveness - increasing visitor spend per head, extending the tourism season, and improving employment and conditions;

- Sustainability - to take a sensitive and caring approach to future tourism activity so that it is not harmful to host communities and the environment;

- Distinctiveness - to promote and encourage the "special" nature of the District;

- Inclusiveness - encouraging facilities and businesses to be accessible to all visitors, whatever their needs;

- Co-ordination - encouraging partnership, to avoid duplication and increased effectiveness.

11.72 Protection of the environment and some measure of protection for the amenities of local residents, will be achieved in part through the planning process by ensuring careful control over the type and location of tourism-related developments that are permitted.

Development of the Tourism Industry

11.73 The District Council strategy recognises, as does the Worcestershire County Structure Plan 1996-2011, that the most important tourism resource of the area is the high quality of its landscape and its attractive and historic towns and villages. The policies in this section of the plan, read together with those in other sections as appropriate, seek to ensure that tourism-related development will enhance, rather than detract from, environmental quality and thus contribute to the long term viability of the industry.

West Midlands Safari Park

11.74 The District Council will support the development of a sustainable tourism industry in the District by allowing only the provision or expansion of tourist attractions, accommodation and facilities which are environmentally acceptable and which respect the scale, nature and character of the local community in which they are proposed.

Tourism Development

Policy TM.1 Proposals for tourism related development (including the extension of existing attractions and facilities) will be permitted subject to the details of the proposal complying with other relevant policies of the Local Plan and provided that: i) the design, form and scale of the development is in keeping with the nature and character of the local community in which they are proposed; ii) they are environmentally acceptable; iii) they do not involve inappropriate development in the Green Belt; iv) they do not adversely affect areas of landscape, historic or nature conservation importance; v) any travel needs generated can be safely accommodated on the transport network.

 

Hotels and Guest Houses

11.75 The District Council would welcome major new hotel accommodation to serve the needs of business and leisure tourism in the District. Any such development should be located in Kidderminster town centre, where maximum access by public transport is available.

11.76 Outside Kidderminster town centre, but within the built-up areas, opportunities may arise for the construction or conversion of buildings to provide hotels, motor lodges or guest houses. Whether or not these are acceptable will depend on detailed consideration of their effects on the local environment.

11.77 The construction of new buildings as hotels or guest houses within the Green Belt is considered to be inappropriate development, unless the proposal is for the conversion of re-use of rural buildings in accordance with Policies RB.1 - RB.7. Existing small, country house type hotels and guest houses in the Green Belt are acceptable provided that the scale and intensity of use remains compatible with the rural environment.

11.78 Problems can arise, however, when this type of establishment seeks to expand. Larger hotels often desire the provision of sports and leisure facilities, conference/banqueting facilities and large-scale floodlit parking areas. This type of development is regarded as inappropriate, and the District Council therefore wishes to prevent the expansion of existing hotels and guest houses in the Green Belt.

11.79 There may, however, be some exceptional occasions when very special circumstances justify a departure from this policy. These include very small-scale extensions which are necessary to improve the operational organisation of the establishment. The determining issue will be whether the extension is intended to materially expand the capacity, in which case it is unlikely to be an acceptable departure from the policy, or whether it is intended to improve the existing facilities without expansion of capacity.

Development of Hotels and Guest Houses

Policy TM.2 The development of major new hotel accommodation within or adjoining Kidderminster Town Centre will be permitted, subject to the details of the proposal complying with other relevant policies of the Local Plan. Elsewhere, proposals for the small scale development of new or extended hotels and guest houses will only be permitted where:- i) within residential areas, the facilities to be provided are for the use of resident guests only, and where the use of the building and the associated parking and traffic movements will not harm the amenities of nearby residential properties; ii) the development can be adequately accessed and provided with adequate off-street parking spaces; iii) if extensions are to be erected, they will not have any significant adverse effects on the quality or character of the landscape, and will be in scale and harmony with the existing buildings and their surroundings, iv) there is no conflict with other policies in the Local Plan. Approval will not be given for the construction of new hotels, motor lodges or guest houses within the Green Belt, except in very special circumstances.

Extensions to Hotels and Guest Houses in the Green Belt

Policy TM.3 Approval will not be given for the extension of existing hotels and guest houses within the Green Belt, except in very special circumstances, and where the proposal will not result in an increase in capacity.

 

11.80 PPG2 makes provision for the re-use and adaptation of rural buildings in the Green Belt. The conversion of existing buildings for tourism uses is acceptable in principle, subject to the detailed considerations set out in policies RB.1 - RB.7 in the Countryside chapter of the Plan, which relate to the re-use and adaptation of rural buildings.

Conversions to Tourism Uses in the Green Belt

Policy TM.4 The change of use of existing buildings in the Green Belt to small-scale country house hotels, guest houses, self-catering cottages, public houses and restaurants, will be permitted, provided that the following criteria are met: i) the proposal complies with policies for the Re-use and Adaptation of Rural buildings in the Countryside; ii) ancillary development, including car parking, access requirements and advertising signs, can be provided without harming the visual amenities of the Green Belt; and iii) where the use proposed will not harm materially the amenity of nearby residential properties, and is environmentally acceptable.

 

Holiday Caravan and Chalet Sites

11.81 The District of Wyre Forest and particularly the Severn Valley has long been a popular destination for day and weekend visitors, mainly from the West Midlands conurbation. The popularity of the area has resulted in the development of a large number of holiday caravan and chalet sites, the latter being mainly constructed prior to the introduction of planning controls in 1947.

11.82 There are some 30 static holiday caravan sites containing in excess of 2,800 pitches, and approximately 380 chalets throughout the District. There are also 2 touring sites used by the Caravan and Camping Club and at least 7 Certificated Locations. Existing chalet sites are subject to Policies CH.1 - CH.4 in the Countryside chapter of the Plan.

11.83 The cumulative effect of these static and touring sites, both in terms of their visual impact on the Green Belt and the Landscape Protection Area and of the impact of traffic attracted to them along, in some instances, minor rural roads, is significant. These environmental impacts have to be balanced against the benefits which the occupants of the sites bring to the local economy.

11.84 The District Council takes the view that the existing level of static holiday caravan sites is sufficient to achieve a reasonable balance between meeting the demand for tourist accommodation of this type and conservation of interests of acknowledged importance. It is therefore the policy of the District Council not to allow any new static holiday caravan sites within the Green Belt except in very special circumstances, or beyond the Green Belt where there would be a material adverse impact on the landscape.

11.85 The District Council also takes the view that given the existing numbers of holiday chalets and caravans in the District catering for this sector of the tourism market, no further development is desirable.

New Holiday Caravan and Chalet Sites

Policy TM.5 The development of new static holiday caravan and chalet sites will not be allowed in the Green Belt except in very special circumstances, and proposals which would adversely affect flood plains, or the landscape quality or character of the countryside will not be permitted. Any planning permission granted for new static holiday caravan and chalet sites will be subject to conditions restricting the period of occupation to short stay holiday use only.

 

11.86 In some instances there may be scope for improvement of existing holiday caravan sites by providing better units, enhanced landscaping, better on-site services and facilities and relocation of pitches to reduce impact on the landscape. Within river flood plains improvements also have the potential to ameliorate the impact on flood flow or storage, and to minimise danger to life.

11.87 There may also be scope for the improvement of existing holiday caravan sites by substituting caravans with chalet units. A well designed chalet development using appropriate materials, for example, timber cladding, in a well landscaped development may be less intrusive in the landscape than conventional caravans. The Council will consider schemes of this type on their merits.

Improvement of Existing Holiday Caravan and Chalet Sites

Policy TM.6 Proposals for the improvement of existing static holiday caravan and chalet sites will be permitted, provided that they include enhanced landscaping and better on-site services and facilities, and reduce the impact of the site on the landscape. The improvement of existing static holiday caravan sites involving the substitution of caravan units by purpose built holiday chalets will be permitted, subject to: i) the design, materials, layout and construction of the chalets being appropriate to holiday use; ii) there being no adverse impact on flood plains, or the character or quality of the landscape.

 

Farm Tourism

11.88 The District Council supports the principle of farm diversification. Tourism presents a number of opportunities for diversification, such as the provision of accommodation and the sale of produce. The Countryside chapter of the Plan contains policies relevant to farm shops, diversification and the re-use and adaptation of rural buildings.

Farm Tourism

Policy TM.7 Proposals for small-scale tourism development which is subsidiary to the principal agricultural activities of existing farm units will be encouraged. Permission for such proposals will only be given where they accord with Policy TM.1 and where they do not conflict with other policies in the Local Plan.

 

 

Stourport-on-Severn Tourist Information and Heritage Centre.

11.93 The District Council currently operates two Tourist Information Centres, at Load Street, Bewdley, and Kidderminster Library.

11.94 The Tourism Strategy proposes a third Tourist Information Centre (subject to the availability of financial resources) in Stourport-on-Severn. It is intended to link to a heritage centre interpreting the town's history. Given the particular significance of the canal network to the development of the town, the preferred location of the proposed development is within the canal basin area.

Stourport-on-Severn Tourist Information and Heritage Centre

Policy TM.9 Proposals to develop a Tourist Information and Heritage Centre in the Canal Basins area in Stourport-on-Severn will be permitted, subject to compliance with other policies in the Plan.