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ID sylw: 107903

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: TERRA

Asiant : Lichfields (Birmingham)

As the SWAs will be aware, the NPPF is clear that:
“Once established, Green Belt boundaries should only be altered where exceptional
circumstances are fully evidenced and justified through the preparation or updating of
plans.” (Para 145)
2.78 It goes on to state that:
“Exceptional circumstances in this context include, but are not limited to, instances where
an authority cannot meet its identified need for homes, commercial or other development
through other means. If that is the case, authorities should review Green Belt boundaries
in accordance with the policies in this Framework and propose alterations to meet these
needs in full, unless the review provides clear evidence that doing so would fundamentally
undermine the purposes (taken together) of the remaining Green Belt, when considered
across the area of the plan” (Para 146)
2.79 The NPPF further sets out a sequential approach required to be demonstrated prior to
concluding that ‘exceptional circumstances’ exist. This includes utilising brownfield land, optimising densities and engaging with neighbouring authorities to assist in meeting needs
(Paragraph 147). Therefore, when considering the sequential approach required to
demonstrate whether ‘exceptional circumstances’, it is clear that there is insufficient
brownfield land across South Warwickshire, and that optimising densities is also unlikely to
meet the SWA’s needs in full.
2.80 It is also unlikely that other authorities within the C&WHMA are able to assist in meeting
the SWA’s needs, as they are equally as constrained by Green Belt or tight administrative
boundaries. When taken together and given the scale of the SWA’s housing needs under the
new SM, it is clear that ‘exceptional circumstances’ can be demonstrated and Green Belt
release should be explored within the SWLP.
2.81 It is the case however, that land that is capable of delivering sustainable development
should be the first choice in the selection of locations for new development. To this end,
Terra strongly support the SWLP identifying potential SGLs including land within and
outside of the Green Belt – particular land around SG14- East of Gaydon. Importantly, in
exercising policy choice regarding the section of appropriate sites and taking into account
the designation of land, SGO14- East of Gaydon falls entirely outside if the Green Belt, and
is not subject to any significant land use designation that would preclude development from
coming forward.
2.82 In addition, the settlement is well located in order for residents to access a range of key
local amenities and facilities, both Gaydon and Lighthorne Heath, and would also benefit
from the economic growth planned at JLR, including significant safeguarded land for future
jobs growth.