Policy information sourced from the Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan
SP 1 Delivering Sustainable Development
The Local Plan seeks to bring about sustainable development in the borough by applying the following principles:
- The need to plan positively for growth in a way which supports economic growth, increases the supply of housing and helps to reduce social and health inequalities in the borough - whilst recognising environmental and infrastructure constraints.
- That new development should contribute to the creation of mixed and sustainable communities which are well planned, promote healthy and active lifestyles, are inclusive and safe, environmentally sensitive, accessible, culturally rich, vibrant and vital, well served, and built to high design standards reflecting local character.
- That the location of new development should deliver a sustainable pattern of development which prioritises previously developed land; minimises the need to travel by directing growth to those areas with good transport networks which are well served by jobs, services and facilities; protects areas of highest environmental value; and avoids areas of high flood risk.
- That the natural and heritage assets of the borough should be protected and enhanced and its natural resources used prudently.
- That adaptation and mitigation principles relating to climate change are incorporated into the design and construction of new development which include energy and water efficiency measures, the use of low carbon and renewable energy, the provision of green infrastructure and sustainable drainage systems (SUDs).
The Council will take a positive approach when considering development proposals that reflect the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework and the principles set out above.
Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision, then the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise – taking into account:
- The principles set out above; Whether there are any adverse impacts of granting permission which would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole; or
- Specific policies in that Framework, such as Green Belt policy, indicate that development should be restricted
For more information please see the Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan