Policy information sourced from Dacorum Core Strategy

CS1: Distribution of Development

Decisions on the scale and location of development will be made in accordance with the settlement hierarchy in Table 1.

Hemel Hempstead will be the focus for homes, jobs and strategic services, with the emphasis upon:

  • retaining the separate identity of the town;
  • enhancing the vitality and attractiveness of the town centre in accordance with Policy CS33;
  • maintaining a balanced distribution of employment growth, with growth and rejuvenation in the Maylands Business Park;
  • maintaining the existing neighbourhood pattern;
  • making best use of existing green infrastructure; and
  • locating development a safe distance from hazardous installations.

Any new development should:

  • be based on the neighbourhood concept;
  • provide for its own infrastructure; and
  • support relevant town-wide needs.

The market towns and large villages will accommodate new development for housing, employment and other uses, provided that it:

  • is of a scale commensurate with the size of the settlement and the range of local services and facilities;
  • helps maintain the vitality and viability of the settlement and the surrounding countryside;
  • causes no damage to the existing character of the settlement or its adjoining countryside; and
  • is compatible with policies protecting the Green Belt and Rural Area.

The rural character of the borough will be conserved. Development that supports the vitality and viability of local communities, causes no damage to the existing character of a village and/or surrounding area and is compatible with policies protecting and enhancing the Green Belt, Rural Area and Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be supported.

For more information please see the Core Strategy