Proposed amendment – example
The diversion areas would be protected from forms of development that would prejudice restoration of the canal. In addition the policy approach would also enable restoration works requiring planning permission to be pursued, but only where such restoration fully considers and addresses the amenity of residents and or landowners. In particular restoration works would require the agreement of landowners before any works take place. Any development/restoration will also need to ensure they do not increase current or future flood risk (in line with Environmental Agency comments) and that they would not harm the heritage asset.
It should also be noted that further assessment is required to identify all areas where development has occurred that could be removed from the protected route and where restoration/creation diversion areas would be proposed. Following this assessment and discussions with landowners as necessary these areas would then be shown on the Policies Map in the Draft Local Plan. Consultation will take place on the draft Local Plan next year.
An early draft of the proposed policy wording is set out below to ensure the issues outlined above are reflected.
Draft policy wording – subject to further amendments
Development seeking to amend/restore elements of the Somersetshire Coal Canal must consider and seek to achieve, in line with the provisions set out under policy HE1:
- the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of the Somersetshire Coal Canal, and ensuring its viable use is consistent with its conservation;
- the wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits that conservation of the historic environment can bring;
- the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness;
Any projects/works associated with the Somersetshire Coal Canal are required to fully consider the amenity of residents and or landowners. In particular restoration works must secure and demonstrate the agreement of landowners before any works take place. Any developments must ensure they do not increase current or future flood risk.
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