01. Newcasle West Local Area Plan ( pdf file - 3593 kb in size)

NEWCASTLE WEST Local Area Plan 2008Development Proposals GenerallyThe LAP includes an Urban Development Framework that sets out the broad approach topromoting development in a way that is consistent with the strategic development objectivesand these core development policies. In order to achieve these objectives, the qualities ofnew development layout, design and architectural treatment are fundamental considerationsof the development process. The Development Framework identifies the key elements of theapproach to change and growth in the town for the next six years and is also intended toprovide the foundation that will shape the future development of Newcastle West beyond2014.It is the policy of the Council that development proposals will be considered wherethey:a. Are located within the settlement boundary as defined in the Urban DevelopmentFramework and areas zoned for development use on the Land Use Zoning Map;b. Do not conflict with the principles of proper planning and sustainable development of thearea;b. Protect and enhance the town’s physical character, and built and natural environment;c. Do not adversely affect neighbouring properties’ residential amenities and those of thesurrounding area;d. Do not create traffic hazards or congestion;e. Promote the development of Newcastle West as a compact settlement with a pedestrianfriendly environment, a legible and coherent physical form and a variety of land usesand activities.Core Policy 3:Development ProposalsGenerallyExplanation:High quality design can have a significant positive impact on the character and vitality ofareas where it is achieved, but it needs to be developed from an understanding of the natureand character of its location and the elements that will contribute to sustainable development.This policy will ensure that the strategic objectives and the key design principles describedelsewhere in this Plan are incorporated into the consideration of all planning applications.In particular, the Urban Development Framework sets out a spatial strategy for the town andprovides guidance on the preferred access and housing density of new development. Itthereby constitutes an essential tool for assessing new development proposals within thetown. It is the policy of the County Council to favourably consider forms of development onlywhere it accords with the Urban Development Framework, Land Use Zoning Map and allother architectural and design guidance set out in the LAP.Any significant divergence from the guidance must adequately demonstrate how suchdivergence would be of greater benefit in achieving the strategic development objectives forNewcastle West as set out in this Plan.To achieve sustainability, applications for development also need to demonstrate that theycontribute to the revitalisation of the town in a manner that is sympathetic to its character andsurroundings, through:• Promoting the redevelopment of derelict, obsolete and brownfield sites;• Encouraging the development of backlands where this strengthens the streetscape and24 Section 4: CORE STRATEGY