Policy information sourced from the Combined Policies of Epping Forest District Local Plan (1998) and Alterations (2006).

CP7 Urban Form and Quality

In line with policies CP6 and ST1, one of the Council’s primary objectives is to make the fullest use of existing urban areas for new development before locations within the Green Belt. In view of this primary objective, the environmental quality of existing urban areas will be maintained and improved as attractive places in which to live, work and visit. Where the existing urban fabric provides for high quality in design and local environment by virtue of its existing character, open land uses and buildings and areas of architectural, historic and archaeological importance, this will be strongly protected and enhanced. New development in all urban areas which results in over-development, unsympathetic change or loss of amenity will not be permitted. Subject to those considerations, existing built-up areas will be used in the most efficient way to accommodate new development by the:

  1. recycling of vacant, derelict, degraded and under-used land to accommodate new development;
  2. re-use of existing buildings by refurbishment, conversions, changes of use and extensions;
  3. re-use of urban sites, which are no longer appropriate to their existing or proposed use in the foreseeable future, for alternative land uses; and
  4. use of higher densities where compatible with the character of the area concerned and urban design controls.

For more information, please see the Combined Policies document