Southend New Local Plan Preferred Approach with Options

Having an up-to-date Local Plan that is shaped through community engagement, provides an important tool to help manage future development proposals that would otherwise come forward without local policies guiding the type, scale and location of new development.

We first consulted on an 'Issues and Options' document in early 2019. Building on the feedback received we then published a 'Refining the Plan Options' document in 2021 for further public comment. The feedback received on these documents has provided the foundation for preparing the latest version of the local plan, the 'Preferred Approach with Options'. Previous comments can be viewed on the website.

A common theme has emerged for the need to ensure that the infrastructure to support new development and growth is provided, particularly in relation to highways, health and education facilities and access to open space provision. This 'infrastructure-led' theme has been enshrined throughout this version of the Southend New Local Plan. We are committed to prepare an Infrastructure Delivery Plan alongside preparation of the local plan.

Once again, we are now seeking your comments and views on this document which sets out a draft strategy, proposed policies, and identifies specific sites that could contribute to meeting future development needs and poses the question of whether to include the option of a new neighbourhood on land north of Southend (see section 3b.).

Your input will be invaluable in contributing to a final version of the Local Plan to be prepared following this consultation. You can contact us or make comments on the Local Plan as follows:

The Local Plan is divided into 13 chapters within 8 overarching sections, with a Glossary and other Appendices at the back.

• Chapter 1, the introduction, sets out the context and purpose of the Southend Local Plan.
• Chapter 2 sets the scene and looks at the city's historical context, demographic factors, the regional context, key issues and drivers for change.
• Chapter 3 describes Southend's overarching long term Spatial Vision, accompanying Strategic Objectives, and the Strategic Policies setting out the key strategy and guiding principles for development in Southend and associated Key Diagram.
  • Chapter 3b Poses the question on whether to build a new neighbourhood on land to the north of Southend.
• Chapter 4 to 11 set out the thematic policies to manage development and help deliver the overarching spatial vision and strategic objectives. These sections start with a Strategic Policy and are then followed by a set of more detailed Development Management Policies. A guide to the Strategic Policies and the Development Management Policies and how to use and interpret them is set out below.
• Chapter 12 shows what Strategic Policies and Development Management Policies will mean for the Neighbourhoods of Southend, setting out what changes are expected to take place up to 2040. This section also sets out specific Neighbourhood Policies and Proposals (sites that the Southend Local Plan allocates for future development). Review of the Southend Central Area Action Plan (SCAAP - adopted 2018) will primarily fall within this section (i.e. Southend Central neighbourhood).
• Chapter 13 explains how the policies proposed will be delivered. This is closely linked to the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, which will set out detailed infrastructure requirements to support the Strategic Policies and how this will be delivered. This section also links to the Monitoring Framework to measure the effectiveness of the policies contained within this document.
• Appendices – further information is provided in the appendices at the end of the document
• Policies Map – proposed designations and proposals (allocations) related to relevant Local Plan policies are depicted on a draft Policies Map for the entire city. Neighbourhood specific maps are also available within Chapter 12.

1.1 Southend is a vibrant city by the sea. It is a major tourist destination and business centre with a growing population. It is a city of enterprise, culture and opportunity.

1.2 The city lies at the eastern most extremity of the south Essex peninsula at the mouth of the Thames Estuary some forty miles east of London. It stretches along a foreshore of around seven miles, which provides an east/ west linear layout.

1.3 With limited land resources and one of the most densely developed urban areas in the country outside London, harnessing the city's potential for growth and meeting the needs of its resident and business community while addressing the impacts of climate change and technological advances, and having regard to the natural and historic environment, is a major challenge and requires careful planning.

1.4 The Local Plan seeks to meet this challenge by planning for the future sustainable development of the city to 2040, whilst seeking to provide for new homes and jobs and safeguarding the city's valuable parks and green spaces, distinctive heritage and character, and its sensitive coastal environment.

1.5 An 'Issues and Options' document was published for public comment in February 2019, which represented the first stage in seeking views on what the direction and content of a new Local Plan for Southend should be.

1.6 In the light of comments made, a 'Refining the Options' document was prepared for further comment in August 2021. Representations received have been instrumental in shaping the format of this next stage of Local Plan preparation, namely the 'Preferred Approach with options'.

1.7 The 'Preferred Approach with options' sets out a draft spatial vision and policies and proposals to address the needs of the city. This is set out under specific themes as follows:

• A CITY BY THE SEA – setting out objectives, spatial strategy and principles; managing the impacts of growth and infrastructure and whether to provide a new neighbourhood on land north of Southend.
• A CITY THAT IS HEALTHY AND SAFE - enabling healthy lifestyles and wellbeing;
• A CITY OF OPPORTUNITY - the provision and type of new homes and securing a thriving economy;
• A CITY TO BE PROUD OF - urban design, character and heritage;
• A CITY THAT IS GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE - the natural environment, biodiversity and climate change;
• A CITY THAT IS CONNECTED AND SMART – transport and connectivity;
• THE NEIGHBOURHOODS OF SOUTHEND – proposals for the neighbourhoods of Southend;
• A CITY THAT DELIVERS – how the Local Plan will be delivered and monitored.

1.8 Further comment is now sought on this 'Preferred Approach with options' version of the Local Plan. Following this stage and consideration of the feedback the Local Plan will be further refined to produce a 'Submission' document which will be published for comment and then be examined in public before an Independent Inspector.

1.9 The preparation timetable for the Local Plan is set out below (Figure 1.1) and detailed in the Southend Local Development Scheme (LDS).

(Q refers to the quarter of that calendar year)

1.10 The various stages of Local Plan preparation have drawn upon an extensive evidence base which is regularly updated. Documents comprising the evidence base are referenced throughout this document. The Local Plan 'Preferred Approach with Options' is also accompanied by an Integrated Assessment, comprising Sustainability Appraisal setting out the impact of the draft strategy and planning policies from an environmental, social and economic perspective, and an Infrastructure Delivery Plan detailing infrastructure needs.

1.11 Once adopted the Southend New Local Plan will replace several current adopted planning policy documents, namely:

• the Southend Core Strategy (2007);
• Development Management Document (DPD 2015);
• Southend Central Area Action Plan (SCAAP 2018); and
• some of the strategic policies within the London Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan (JAAP 2014);

1.12 These policy documents are supported by three Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD) namely:

• Design and Townscape Guide (SPD1 2009);
• Planning Obligations A Guide to s106 and Developer Contributions (SPD 2 2015); and
• Streetscape Manual (SPD 3 2015).

These will be updated and reviewed as appropriate.

1.13 The Essex and Southend Waste Local Plan (2017), prepared jointly by Southend and Essex County Council, sets out an approach to 2032 and will be reviewed in due course separately.

1.14 The current adopted planning policies to be replaced by the New Local Plan upon adoption are detailed in Appendix 3.

1.15 Set at the eastern end of a peninsula, Southend looks westwards towards London and relies on transportation links across south Essex for its accessibility.

1.16 Southend is a Unitary Authority responsible for all local government services, unlike many other '2-tier' local authorities that rely on County Council's to delivery certain services, including transport, education and waste. Nevertheless, the Southend new Local Plan has been prepared in close collaboration with neighbouring authorities, including the South Essex Councils and other key stakeholders to ensure it has regard to its strategic context.

1.17 The hierarchy of strategies and plans related to Southend are set out below in Figure 1.2. The future development of Southend needs to be viewed in the context of growth and development within the South Essex sub region (Figure 1.3). The councils of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend-on-Sea, Thurrock and Essex County have formed South Essex Councilswww.southessex.org.uk (SEC). They are working together to promote prosperity and wellbeing in the region and make it the place to live, visit and do business.

2.1 Southend takes its name from being a small fishing village located at the 'south end' of Prittlewell which has 6/7^th century origins as a Saxon village. The finding of a Saxon King burial chamber nearby in 2003 illustrates the historical and archaeological importance of the area. Leigh to the west also has its origins as a Saxon fishing village and grew to become a prosperous port in the sixteenth century.

2.2 It was not until the late 18th century when sea bathing became fashionable and popular that some limited growth occurred along the foreshore at Southend with the Regency developments of Royal Hotel and Royal Terrace. In 1830 a wooden pier was constructed to receive sea passengers visiting the area which was later extended to reach deep-water. In 1891 the pier was reconstructed in iron and two years later its own railway was opened. The Pier remains the longest leisure pier in the world and the iconic face of Southend at the heart of its resort facilities.

2.3 The opening of the railway line from London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central in the 1850's, followed by the line from London Liverpool Street to Southend Victoria in 1889, was the catalyst for rapid growth and saw Southend's population increase significantly from under 10,000 in 1890 to 150,000 in the mid 1940's.

2.4 The arrival of the railway in central Southend stimulated residential development including the laying out of Clifftown, and its distinctive Victorian large yellow stock brick buildings with Welsh slate roofs, together with Prittlewell Gardens, the first public park to be created in the city. To serve the increasing population, Southend's retail centre developed between the two central railway stations and the Pier.

2.5 The mid to late Victorian period saw continued growth particularly to the north of Central station and to the east of Leigh on Sea. Larger villas were built often individualistic with corner turrets, employing a wide range of building materials together with larger areas of terraced housing based on regular grids.

2.6 In the east of the city the British School of Gunnery was opened in 1848 in Shoeburyness with associated barracks and the railway line extended from central Southend to serve the area some thirty years later. This stimulated residential and commercial development in the adjoining area. The Shoebury Garrison remained in military use until 1976 when it was disbanded. The site was eventually sold in 2000 for development when it was converted into predominantly residential use and now forms the historic Garrison conservation area with the adjacent Gunners Park and part of the historic High Street in Shoebury. The military establishments at New Ranges in north Shoebury and adjoining Foulness remain.

2.7 The coming of the railway also saw the growth in popularity of Southend as a traditional seaside resort and the development of hotels and tourist facilities, most notably the commanding Palace Hotel overlooking the Pier and the nearby Kursaal theme park, one of the world's first purpose-built amusement parks. The popularity of water recreation also saw the emergence of the first yacht clubs in Southend which remain a prominent feature on the foreshore.

2.8 At the turn of the century the Edwardian period was one of the most prolific in terms of Southend's growth with the expansion of Leigh-on-Sea up to the London Road and in Westcliff, Westborough and the southern part of Prittlewell. The initial development of areas of Southchurch, both to the north of the railway line and along the seafront also took place. Areas of planned street network, either on a regular grid or flexible grid, were built out by a wide range of developers.

2.9 This expansion of the urban area promoted the establishment of shopping centres at Leigh, Westcliff and Southchurch to serve the needs of the growing population. Hamlet Court Road shopping area in Westcliff became a fashionable retail area and is thought to have been known as the 'Bond Street' of Southend.

2.10 The national recognition of the benefits to health of providing parks in urban areas saw the establishment of such facilities in Southend in the early to mid-1900's to serve the needs of a growing local population. The first parks came into being through a combination of philanthropy and acquisition, namely Priory Park, Southchurch Park, Chalkwell Park, Southchurch Hall Gardens, Belfairs Park and Nature Reserve, Shoebury Park and Eastwood Park. These remain the principal parks in the city and provide valuable green lungs and recreational space within the urban area.

2.11 In the inter-war period there was a significant push to build new areas of housing, and the public housing programme grew significantly. Development took place in Leigh and Southchurch together with the early phases of Thorpe Bay. The classic house of this period was the semi-detached with wider and squatter proportions than its Edwardian and Victorian predecessors. Thorpe Bay was laid out in a grid drawn to generous proportions with wide plots and very large Edwardian and interwar houses as well as a substantial phase of post war bungalows and houses.

2.12 In 1935 Southend Airport to the north of the town was officially opened as a municipal airport having first been used as an airfield by the Royal Flying Corps during World War I before reverting to farmland. The Airport grew to be London's third-busiest airport from the 1960s until the end of the 1970s after which it declined in use until its more recent redevelopment which saw a resurgence in its use and popularity.

2.13 As with the period following the First World War the decade after the Second World War lent renewed vigour and urgency to house building. Initially, for speed a number of pre-fabricated building systems were developed to enable homes to be erected on site as quickly as possible. Examples of these are still evident in Southend. However, conventional brick-built houses very quickly became the norm again, accounting for large areas of new development which owe much to the earlier garden city style housing for their design and planning influences.

2.14 The key infrastructure addition during this period was the development of the A127 as a dual carriageway, providing a new focus for development and particularly industrial and business development, in the northern part of the city. The increase in car ownership and relative ease of access across the north of the Borough promoted suburban housing developments at Eastwood and Shoeburyness.

2.15 The post war period was a boom period in terms of tourism with large numbers of people visiting Southend, some two and a half million people used the Pier in 1950. Although numbers declined in the 1960's with the introduction of cheaper holiday destinations abroad, Southend has retained its status as a major resort destination witnessed by the expansion of Adventure Island theme park adjacent the Pier in the 1990's and by numerous recent hotel and leisure developments.

2.16 The 1960's saw significant redevelopment in the town centre to accommodate the car and provide for new shopping and employment facilities. Victoria Avenue was developed as a gateway to the town centre with large office blocks, civic area and educational establishments, and the Victoria Shopping Centre and multi storey car parks developed. The High Street was one of the first to be pedestrianised in the country. Tall buildings set within areas of landscape were built as part of public housing projects. The Royals indoor shopping centre was developed at the southern end of the High Street in the late 1980's.

2.17 In the face of large redevelopment schemes across the country, in 1967 the Government of the day introduced Conservation Areas to protect areas of special architectural or historic interest. The ability to protect individual historic or architecturally important buildings by 'listing' them, had been introduced after the Second World War. Southend now has 16 conservation areas and numerous listed buildings spread across the city.

2.18 Increased emphasis from central government on allowing out of town shopping areas through the 1980's and 90's resulted in new large supermarket outlets and retail areas being established mainly to the north and east of Southend.

2.19 All these developments gave the city its current urban form. To safeguard the surrounding areas of open countryside from urban sprawl and coalescence with neighbouring settlements, the majority of the open countryside was designated in the late 1980's as forming part of the wider Metropolitan Green Belt stretching from east London across south Essex.

2.20 More recent development has seen a return to more clearly defined urban forms which relate to conventional street patterns, often using modern materials. There has also once again been a focus on town and city centres, with higher density development and sustainable models of living.

2.21 Figure 2.1 provides an overview of Southend's urban/ population growth.

1. About Southend – Southend's administrative boundary tightly abuts the existing urban area, and the surrounding open countryside is designated as forming part of the wider Metropolitan Green Belt stretching from east London across South Essex. These factors mean that land resources in the city are extremely limited and provides for a significant planning challenge in seeking to meet future development needs, particularly for housing, whist safeguarding the character and natural amenities of the area. Being located on a peninsula, the geography of the area dictates the surface transportation links to the city which are concentrated in a narrow east-west corridor which present congestion and accessibility issues affecting the local economy and tourism industry.

2. Strategy and Objectives – sustainable growth that contributes to future needs whilst protecting and safeguarding the character and natural amenities of the city requires the development of a comprehensive strategy and objectives which underpin the principles and policies of the Plan.
3. Securing and Improving Infrastructure – it will be essential that the social and physical infrastructure is secured to meet the needs of a growing population. Education, health, sewage and drainage, and highway infrastructure is already struggling to cope with demand. Further developments need to be carefully planned to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to meet the increasing cumulative demands. This document therefore seeks to adopt an 'infrastructure led' approach.
4. The option of providing a new neighbourhood on land north of Southend - due to this significant under-provision in new homes, the Local Plan must consider the possible designation of land designated as Green Belt for residential mixed-use development in line with national planning policy.

5. Enabling Healthy Lifestyles & Wellbeing – There are health inequalities across Southend often exceeding the national average. It will be essential that new development embraces the principle of facilitating healthy lifestyles through promoting walking and cycling and the provision of sport, recreation and green space facilities. The concept of facilitating complete neighbourhoods across the city, where everyday essentials and services are within a convenient walking distance, will help promote healthy lifestyles.

6. Homes - the city has grown into a substantial residential area comprising 83,500 dwellings, providing homes for 182,000 people. This has resulted in the city having one of the highest residential densities in the UK outside London. The Government Standard Method for calculating housing need indicates that 1,405 new homes are needed each year in Southend. Recent housing provision has been concentrated on brownfield sites mainly in the central urban areas with a large proportion of flatted developments. In the City Centre conversion from obsolete office blocks to residential have provided a significant stock of accommodation. However, this provision has not kept pace with demand particularly for affordable and family housing.
7. Securing a Thriving Local Economy – the local economy is dominated by small to medium enterprises with 86% of companies employing 10 staff or fewer. There are approximately 80,000 jobs in Southend provided in a variety of commercial areas and designated business estates. There is a need to provide around 450 additional jobs per annum with opportunities for growth in several sectors, including construction, aviation, health industries, tourism and leisure, and business and financial services. It will be essential that the Plan embraces this potential and satisfactorily accommodates the trend for increased working from home and the need for digital infrastructure. The City Centre, London Southend Airport and associated business park, and a cluster of existing employments areas located along the A127/A1159 corridor are well placed to achieve economic growth. It will also be important that education and further education is facilitated capitalising on the city's university campus and apprenticeships and building the skills base.
8. Tourism – Southend is a major UK resort and attracts around 7 million day visitors and over 200 staying visitors each year which enrich the local economy. There is significant potential to maximise Southend's potential as a visitor destination and resort, particularly in terms of the evening economy and through encouraging overnight and longer stays by capitalising on the resort's success as a day visitor destination. Managing these visitor numbers in a sustainable way will need to be addressed by the Plan, having regard to access and visitor parking.

9. Urban Design, Character and Heritage – with limited land resources, areas of high urban building densities and an established local character, quality design and layout will be an important ingredient in new development schemes in seeking to protect the unique character of areas and their sense of place to provide attractive environments where heritage is celebrated and recognised for the role it can play in place making and regeneration.

10. Enhancing our Natural Environment – with seven miles of foreshore and over 500 hectares of green space, the city has a rich and varied landscape providing for recreation and important wildlife habitats and green lungs within the densely developed urban area. It will be essential that the foreshore and green spaces are protected, and biodiversity is enhanced within an improved network of green corridors.
11. Climate Change and Environmental Protection – all development and future proposals will need to address the challenges of climate change and flood risk, including energy efficiency. Southend is susceptible to local water surface flooding under conditions of extreme rainfall and from tidal flooding in certain locations. It is essential that these issues are properly managed and planned and that sustainable drainage systems are incorporated into development schemes.

12. Transport and Connectivity – the city is served by two railway lines and two highway arteries (the A127 and A13) within a confined east - west corridor to London. Reliability and congestion issues can have major impacts on the local economy and its tourism offer. It will also be important for the Plan to embrace sustainable transport provision, including the bus, cycling and walking particularly for short journeys, whilst recognising the important role that the private car has to play in the local economy, particularly for tourism.

13. London Southend Airport – Following the impacts of Covid-19 the Airport is in a state of recovery and it is likely to take several years to return to pre-pandemic levels. Any further growth will need to be carefully managed in association with all relevant partners to ensure that growth takes into full account environmental considerations, particularly those relating to noise and surface access. The Airport Business Park continues to provide a significant opportunity for new employment floorspace and jobs.

14. Place Specific Policies – Southend has grown organically from the villages of Leigh, Prittlewell and Shoeburyness to form a cohesive urban area comprising distinct neighbourhoods (see Figure 2.2). It will be important that this local distinctiveness and character is recognised and respected in future development schemes. It will also be important for the Plan to address the changing role of the retail and commercial centres within the neighbourhoods, particularly in the City Centre. The City Centre has been greatly impacted by the changing shopping patterns of customers with the advent of on-line shopping and the demise of a number of prominent national retail outlets.

(Southend Neighbourhoods)

3.1 The Local Plan Preferred Approach seeks to build on previous visions, including that of the Southend Core Strategy, London Southend Joint Airport Area Action Plan and the more recent Southend Central Area Action Plan. It also seeks to embrace The Southend City Vision: Our City, Our Future.

3.2 The Southend City Vision ('Our City, Our Future'), developed by the Southend City Partnership, sets a clear direction for Southend's growth and development, prepared through extensive consultation and engagement. The consultation highlighted priorities and aspirations from residents, business owners, visitors, and students. The communication campaign and engagement strategy reached over 10,000 people, with over 2,000 responses received to the consultation survey.

3.3 Looking to 2035, the vision is that: 'Southend-on-Sea is a vibrant, welcoming and well-connected coastal city brimming with opportunities, seamlessly blending its rich heritage with a contemporary, creative outlook.' It prioritises the following themes: safe and thriving communities; bustling high streets and business spaces; haven for leisure and creativity; clean, green and proud. For more information see: Southend City Vision - Visit Southendwww.visitsouthend.co.uk/southend-city-vision.

3.4 A key and integral part of developing the Local Plan will be to encapsulate The Southend City Vision and present a place-based vision and set of strategic objectives for the Local Plan.

3.5 The previous local plan consultation 'Refining the Plan Options' document, which represented the second stage of public consultation on the new Local Plan, set out a draft aim, development principles and a set of strategic objectives for comment. You told us that in relation to these elements of the draft plan:

• the Draft Aim, Spatial Objectives and Development Principles are broadly supported;
• infrastructure of all types is essential to support new development;
• climate change should be central to the plan and given urgent attention to reach net zero ambition;
• housing numbers are unrealistic in the context of Southend;
• transport accessibility must be improved, including for non-car modes;
• the regeneration of the high street and local centres is needed to support local businesses and jobs;
• our neighbourhoods should be sustainable and respect the different character areas of Southend; and
• the environmental aims should include more detail on protecting the coastline, biodiversity, agricultural land, and flood risk management.

3.6 A draft vision and strategic objectives have been amended in response to these comments. The thematic sections of the plan then set out the detailed strategy for these and the relevant policies relating to them.

3.7 The draft long-term vision and strategic objectives encapsulates what we envisage the city will be like in the future. The planning policies contained within the Local Plan will seek to aspire to deliver the vision.

Strategic Objective 1: Deliver new and improved infrastructure to meet sustainable growth by pursuing an 'infrastructure led' approach.

Strategic Objective 2: Contribute towards the delivery of sustainable, safe and healthy complete neighbourhoods.

Strategic Objective 3: Reduce deprivation and reduce inequalities between the neighbourhoods of Southend.

Strategic Objective 4: Promote and protect community and sport and recreation facilities.

Strategic Objective 5: Develop Southend's role as a major business centre attracting investment and providing new jobs, where both existing and new enterprises can prosper.

Strategic Objective 6: Regenerate the City Centre to provide for a diversity of uses, including cultural and creative enterprises, complemented by a growing residential population, set within a quality and green environment.

Strategic Objective 7: Establish Southend as a major resort and year-round destination and increase the value of the visitor economy.

Strategic Objective 8: Secure the regeneration of Southend as a cultural and intellectual hub and a centre of education excellence.

Strategic Objective 9: Provide a choice of homes for people at all stages of life.

Strategic Objective 10: Southend is the regions first choice coastal tourism destination, and the seafront and marine environment has been protected and enhanced.

Strategic Objective 11: Enhance the city's built heritage and capitalise on it to promote tourism and regeneration.

Strategic Objective 12: Maintain and enhance the distinct character and environment of the city's neighbourhoods to ensure that they remain vibrant, attractive and accessible.

Strategic Objective 13: Create well designed and attractive places that respond positively to the distinctive character and historic value of the city's different neighbourhoods and enhances the natural environment.

Strategic Objective 14: Make the most efficient and effective use of land and buildings and prioritise the use of previously developed land.

Strategic Objective 15: Prevent or minimise the impact of climate change, including for air quality and flood risk and improve energy efficiency.

Strategic Objective 16: Improve the quality and accessibility of green space whilst safeguarding environmental assets and enhancing biodiversity.

Strategic Objective 17: Greening the city through extensive landscaping and tree planting to create a network of green spaces and corridors.

Strategic Objective 18: Protecting and enhancing the quality of the coastal environment and its marine biodiversity.

Strategic Objective 19: Regenerate and bring back into productive long-term use land that is contaminated or otherwise degraded, including where appropriate use for biodiversity or other natural resource value.

Strategic Objective 20: Improve accessibility, connectivity, sustainability, safety and ease of movement to, from and within the city.

Strategic Objective 21: Reduce the need to travel by achieving closer alignment of homes, jobs, infrastructure and services within a network of highly accessible neighbourhoods.

Strategic Objective 22: Provide multi-modal transport facilities that achieve seamless and integrated connectivity between neighbourhoods, with neighbouring towns and the wider region.

Strategic Objective 23: Facilitate the sustainable growth of London Southend Airport to realise its potential in becoming a carbon neutral regional transport hub that provides a range of job opportunities.

Strategic Objective 24: Explore opportunities to utilise the River Thames as a sustainable transport corridor for business and leisure use subject to protecting the coastal and marine environment.

3.8 The Vision and Strategic Objectives have in this version of the draft plan been developed into three Strategic Policies, namely:

• Strategic Policy SP1: Spatial Principles;
• Strategic Policy SP2: Spatial Strategy; and
• Strategic Policy SP3: Infrastructure

3.9 The three strategic policies provide the framework for other thematic strategic policies and more detailed development management policies which are set out in subsequent sections of this Local Plan Preferred Approach.

3.10 The Spatial Principles seek to ensure that all development proposals achieve quality design and environments that make the best use of previously developed land to deliver sustainable development that enhances the built form and sense of place in the city whilst protecting its character and amenities.

3.11 Strategic Policy SP1: Spatial Principles embraces comments made on the development principles as contained in the ‘Refining the Plan Options’ document.

3.12 The Spatial Principles set out above in Strategic Policy SP1 are applied in Strategic Policy SP2: Spatial Strategy to provide a clear indication of how regeneration and growth will be distributed within the city to deliver sustainable regeneration and to ensure that growth is directed to places with good concentrations of infrastructure and accessibility to a variety of transport modes.

* in particular ensuring that European and international sites for nature conservation are not adversely affected by any new development. Appropriate and sustainable flood risk management measures will be provided as part of a comprehensive shoreline management strategy.

Refer to Strategic Policy Option 3b below to comment on the potential option of providing a comprehensive new neighbourhood on land designated as Green Belt to the north of Southend.

The provisions of the Strategic Policies contained in the Local Plan are summarized and depicted on Figure 3.4: Key Diagram.

3.13 Infrastructure capacity and deficiency issues have been a recurrent theme in the public consultation responses to the Local Plan with comments from both the general public and infrastructure providers. Strategic Policy SP3 seeks to ensure that individual or cumulative new development does not have a negative impact on existing infrastructure, especially where it is operating at or close to capacity. Where existing infrastructure is shown to need upgrading the developer will be expected to work with providers to identify robust mechanisms to show how this will be addressed to include identified funding and implementation mechanisms by means of legal agreements as appropriate as part of an 'infrastructure led' approach to development.

3.14 New or improved infrastructure must be delivered first or at pace to meet the needs of new development. For larger development proposals that may be built out over a number of years this should take account of phasing to ensure that utilities and supporting services and facilities are in place to ensure new communities are sustainable and can thrive.

3.15 The Council will work with partners to ensure the provision of physical, social and environmental infrastructure. The Council will also continue to lobby central Government and relevant agencies for improvements to infrastructure provision which serve the city. This particularly applies to transport infrastructure and the need for improvements to the accessibility of the city to and from the wider region which are vital to the city's local business and tourism economy.

3.16 Infrastructure covers a wide variety of different types of provision including:

• Utilities - water, sewerage, storm water drainage, flood risk, electricity, gas, waste management and telecommunications;
• Transport – highways, public rights of way including cycleways, railways, other public transport (see Strategic Policy SP10 Transport and Connectivity);
• Education - early learning, primary and secondary schools, specialist schools, further and higher education including libraries;
• Health and Welfare - GP's, dentists, clinics, health centres, emergency services and hospitals; and
• Social - sports, leisure, parks and community facilities.

3.17 Good quality infrastructure is essential to people's quality of life, health and wellbeing. It is central to creating neighbourhoods where people want to live and to the effective operation of places.

3.18 Infrastructure in Southend varies in quality. This is partly a reflection of the age of some of the provision which needs upgrading, such as the Victorian sewers and some of the electricity networks. Parts of the sewer network encounter issues with exceptional flows which have resulted in overflow incidents on the foreshore. Elements of the electricity network in Leigh are also operating close to capacity. In contrast the digital network has recently been upgraded. Changing requirements, including in the health and education sectors, mean that existing estates must be adapted to meet the requirements of 21st century service delivery.

3.19 The Infrastructure Delivery Plan produced to inform this Local Plan sets out the issues in detail. The Infrastructure Delivery Plan highlights that some infrastructure provision is already near or exceeding capacity, this particularly applies to health and education facilities. It will therefore be essential that development is served by the necessary infrastructure by pursuing an infrastructure led approach, including the best use of existing assets. A list of potential projects from the IDP is listed in Appendix 4.

3.20 There has been a trend for several years towards centralisation and increasingly digitisation of service provision, both to improve the quality of services and reduce costs. This can however reduce accessibility to services for the most vulnerable. It is therefore important that new or replacement services are located in accessible locations, including the city's retail/ commercial centres and, where appropriate, that existing facilities are safeguarded.

3.21 In seeking to meet the national housing need figure for Southend, the two previous Local Plan consultation documents (the 'Issues and Options' and 'Refining the Plan Options') identified possible strategic options, namely:

• Option 1 - all development provided within existing urban areas;
• Option 2 - (including Option 1) most development provided within existing urban areas with some development on the urban edges on greenfield and agricultural land; and
• Option 3 - (including Option 1 and 2) and the potential provision of a new neighbourhood on predominately agricultural land, designated as Green Belt, to the north of the city with the possible potential to work with neighbouring Rochford District Council to develop a more comprehensive cross-boundary new settlement/s, subject to the outcome of detailed green belt studies.

3.22 Comments received on the possible development of Green Belt land as part of Option 3 were mixed. Whilst it was recognised that the land offered the opportunity for significantly contributing towards meeting projected housing needs and thereby ease housing pressures, it was recognised by a number of residents that it would result in the irreversible loss of the only extensive area of open countryside and Green Belt land in the city, contrary to the stated purposes of the Green Belt and would lead to the loss of agricultural land and potential mineral resources.

3.23 Land designated as Green Belt to the north of Southend traversing the administrative boundary with Rochford District is being promoted by developers as part of the Local Plan preparation process to Southend City and Rochford District Councils for strategic scale development (Figure 3b.1). Such development could provide for a mix of new homes and new infrastructure to support a new neighbourhood. This could include a new highway access route linking to the strategic highway network and a new Country Park facility aligning the River Roach, but such provision would be dependent on land within the Rochford district. In support of this a 'Proof of Concept' has been provided by land promoters, which was published alongside the 'Refining the Plan Options' Local Plan document. This provided a 'developer' led view on one way in which the strategic scale new neighbourhood could come forward (available on the Council's website https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Iceni%20Projects%20Response%20-%20Rochford%20and%20Southend%20Proof%20of%20Concept_2021.pdf).

3.24 The land to the north of Southend within the Green Belt being promoted to the Southend Local Plan equates to 288 hectares. Development of this land in isolation from land within the administrative district of Rochford could deliver (Figure 3b.2):

• around 4,000 – 5,000 new homes of mixed size and type to include a high proportion of family and affordable housingA similar amount of new homes could be delivered within Rochford District as part of an expanded series of new neighbourhoods to the north of Southend. This will be considered as part of the Rochford District Local Plan.;
• supporting uses, including employment provision, health, school and community facilities;
• a network of formal green and blue Infrastructure such as public open spaces, sport, recreation and community space;
• the provision of sustainable urban drainage, landscaping and biodiversity measures; and
• new transport links and pedestrian and cycle connections and bus priority measures.

3.25 A new neighbourhood could be linked by a new multi-modal transport corridor. The corridor could feature varied open spaces acting as the central spine of the development, connecting to existing rail stations, the City Centre and the wider strategic transport network. Several new communities and centres would be arrayed along this central spine.

3.26 It should be noted that a new transport corridor, linking the new neighbourhood to the strategic highway network, would be dependent on land within the Rochford District being incorporated within the scheme. Delivery of such requisite transport improvements would therefore be dependent on the co-operation of Rochford District Council as the Local Planning Authority and Essex County Council as the highway authority.

3.27 The development of land north of Southend would be able to accommodate a range of housing needs, including the delivery of much needed family and affordable housing, but would still not meet the national Standard Method for calculating housing need for Southend. Neighbouring local authorities have continually been engaged about the constraints Southend faces and whether they would be able to make a contribution to Southend's unmet housing needs. However, all have indicated that they are similarly constrained and therefore unable to accommodate any requests from Southend, except Rochford District Council who are unable to confirm their position, as they are yet to reach the point of making strategic decisions in regard to their spatial strategy and where housing growth could sustainably be accommodated in the District.

3.28 The development of land north of Southend would also result in the irreversible loss of designated Green Belt land and agricultural land. National Green Belt planning policy is set out within the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

"The Government attaches great importance to Green Belts. The fundamental aim of Green Belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open; the essential characteristics of Green Belts are their openness and their permanence" (NPPF para. 142). The guidance provides that a change to Green Belt boundaries should only be made through the Local Plan process where exceptional circumstances are fully evidenced and justified (NPPF para. 145). "Exceptional circumstances in this context include, but are not limited to, instances where an authority cannot meet its identified need for homes… 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" (NPPF para. 146).

3.29 The Rochford District and Southend on Sea Joint Green Belt StudyRochford District and Southend on Sea Joint Green Belt Study, LUC, London, February 2020 Rochford District and Southend-on-Sea Borough Joint Green Belt Study identifies that the majority of Green Belt land to the north of Southend as continuing to serve the stated purposes of the Green BeltThe Green Belt serves five purposes as set out in the NPPF (paragraph 143):
to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land. well, in particular by maintaining the openness of the countryside. The study notes that the release of the Green Belt land for a new neighbourhood within Southend would:

• represent significant urban sprawl northwards of Royal Artillery Way and the A13 onto Green Belt which is typically open and has a strong relationship with the wider countryside
• diminish the 'gap' between Southend with the inset villages of Great and Little Wakering to the east and create a more irregular Green Belt boundary when compared to the existing strong boundary;
• weaken the integrity of the neighbouring Green Belt to the north of the city within Rochford; and
• result in a predominantly 'high harm rating'Joint Green Belt Study 2020 – Definition of High Harm Rating: 'Where land makes a relatively strong contribution to multiple Green Belt purposes and where its release would weaken the adjacent Green Belt (for example by leaving a narrow gap between towns, or increasing its containment by urban areas), harm is likely to be high'. to the Green Belt, the harm generally increasing the greater the area of release, i.e. the further away from the existing urban edge the new Green Belt boundary is located.

Southend Land Budgets in Large Scale New Developments. Sets out benchmarks for land use budgets based on 16 examples of large-scale developments.

*A similar amount of development could be provided within Rochford, subject to the preparation of the Rochford Local Plan.

3.34 If it is deemed appropriate to pursue the provision of a new neighbourhood on Green Belt land north of Southend following this stage of Local Plan consultation, it will be important to incorporate a Strategic Policy in the next stage of Local Plan preparation, setting out guiding principles and expectations to guide the new development scheme.

3.35 We need your views on what policy criteria should be included to guide the design of a new neighbourhood if this option is in the next stage of the Local Plan.

3.36 Strategic Policy Option 3b below sets out the range of different land uses, services and facilities that would be needed for a new neighbourhood to be sustainable, vibrant and thrive. Figure 3b.3 provides a guide for the proportion of land given over to certain uses.

For example, 50% of the land being promoted would be expected to be Green and Blue Infrastructure. This includes a wide range of features, such as parks, open spaces, playing fields, allotments, woodland, road verges and water features, sustainable drainage, lakes and ponds. This does not comprise private/ communal residential gardens or green roofs and walls (as these are included within the residential parcel area calculation).

3.37 Southend is a city with significant opportunities, and it is important that the new Local Plan recognises, embraces and promotes these.

3.38 However, it is also a city that faces significant challenges which need to be addressed in the Local Plan. These particularly relate to identifying future development needs in the face of limited land resources, providing the necessary infrastructure to support growth, and regenerating and refocussing its city Centre whilst respecting the city's character and distinctiveness and safeguarding and enhancing its natural environment.

3.39 This requires careful planning, and this Preferred Approach version of the Local Plan seeks to achieve an appropriate sustainable balance between allocating and identifying opportunities for future development and growth whilst protecting the city's character and valuable natural assets. The Local Plan embraces the concept of facilitating complete, compact and connected neighbourhoods across the city, where everyday essentials and services are easily accessible and thereby help promote healthy lifestyles, boost local economies and increase opportunities for social interaction. It also seeks views on whether a new neighbourhood on Green Belt land north of Southend should be pursued in the next stage of Local Plan preparation.

3.40 An integral part of achieving this is the provision of infrastructure which is fit for purpose to meet current and future development needs and growth in the city. The Council is preparing an Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) to ensure that key infrastructure requirements, including planned projects, are clearly identified and deliverable. The Infrastructure Delivery Plan sets out the anticipated infrastructure requirements and funding mechanisms for the Plan period. The Council will work with providers and partners, as appropriate, to facilitate the delivery of key projects. A list of potential projects from the IDP is listed in Appendix 4.

4.1 Southend faces a number of significant challenges in relation to the health and wellbeing of its residents. There are marked inequalities between different areas of the city. Life expectancy is around 10 years lower in the most disadvantaged areas compared with the least disadvantaged, and this is worse than the average for EnglandPublic Health Outcomes Summary for Southend May 2025 Public Health Outcomes Framework - at a glance summary. The proportion of older and younger people has also grown relative to the general populationSouthend Population change, Census 2021 www.ons.gov.uk/visualisations/censuspopulationchange/E06000033/, meaning there will be greater demands on local services and the need to plan for inclusive environments that meet the needs of all. As the population grows in Southend so does the demand on health, social care and community services, together with sport and recreation facilities.

4.2 The existing health care model of treating ill health has evolved towards a more holistic, preventative approach to supporting people with all aspects of their health and wellbeing throughout their lifetime, by GPs and other health and social care professionals, with a focus on reducing health inequalities. The links between spatial planning and health are well recognised by health and planning professionals.Spatial Planning for Health https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5b59b090e5274a3ff828c70c/spatial_planning_for_health.pdf A better quality natural and built environment will lead to improved health and wellbeing for our residents. Strategic Policy SP3: Infrastructure sets out the broad framework for securing infrastructure, including health and social care facilities and green infrastructure.

4.3 Southend's strategic health priorities are underpinned by local health evidence,Annual Public Health Report and engagement with a range of key stakeholders and the local community. Spatial planning has a key role in creating and maintaining healthier environments and making a healthy lifestyle as easy as possible for example by:

• using active environment design and spatial planning principles to support healthy lifestyles;
• maintaining and developing safe spaces for play, sport and social interaction that are accessible for all;
• using cultural spaces, such as parks to access the arts and heritage, and by doing so, increasing physical activity;
• developing integrated active travel networks, which are safe and connected for walking, cycling and for public transport;
• designing homes to be flexible for residents' use at all stages of their lives, including provision for extra care and other specialist housing;
• making better use of our existing natural and built environments to encourage healthy lifestyles for all;
• continuing to avoid or mitigate air, noise, water, soil pollution and flood risk, so our surroundings are clean and green.

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 4

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available at localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents

• About a third of adults in Southend are physically inactive – a quarter of adults complete less than 30 minutes moderate activity per week.Active Lives Adult (Sport England) November 2022-2023
• Around 2 in 5 children leaving primary school (Year 6) are considered to be overweight or living with obesity.National Child Measurement Programme 2021-2022 (OHID)
• Southend has above average incidence of people in poor mental and physical health.
• Southend has above average proportion of older residents – over 65's will increase from 19% to around 25% of population by 2031.Southend Adult Social Care JSNA (2022)
• 10-year gap in life expectancy between residents living in the most and least deprived neighbourhoods.

4.4 The links between Local Plan policies and health and wellbeing are cross-cutting across a range of social, economic, and environmental issues. The Local Plan policies most relevant to health and wellbeing are listed below:

4.5 Spatial Planning influences the health and wellbeing of Southend's residents by affecting the wider determinants of health.Dalgren and Whitehead, 1991 The Southend Joint Strategic Needs Assessmentshttps://southend-jsna-southend.hub.arcgis.com/ and Annual Public Health Reporthttps://annual-public-health-report-southend.hub.arcgis.com/ set out the main issues relating to the health and wellbeing of Southend's residents and the challenges and opportunities to improve this.

4.6 The Local Plan can have a positive impact by ensuring developments are located to support active lifestyles, provision of homes that meet people's needs through all stages of their lives, encouraging local jobs and services within easy reach of homes, maintaining access to fresh food and community food growing sites, and requiring the layout and design of buildings and spaces to support good health and wellbeing.

4.7 Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) provide a way to assess the effects on health of a development proposal and mitigate any impacts so that health inequalities are reduced, and wellbeing improved. The outcome of these actions should be clearly identifiable within the planning application. For all developments requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment, Health Impact Assessment must be incorporated into this assessment.

4.8 A desktop Health Impact Assessment will be required to be submitted with all proposals for 50 or more dwellings, and/or 5000sqm or more commercial floorspace for the Council to understand the potential impacts of the development on the health and wellbeing of the local population or particular groups within it (see Appendix 5). This will also be a requirement for Large HMOs, including applications to change use from a Small HMO to a Large HMO.

4.9 HIA should be undertaken early in the design process to ensure that any potential health benefits can be maximised, and any potential harms mitigated. Further guidance on HIAs is available from The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID). The assessment should highlight any potential impacts on health and wellbeing and how these can be mitigated, and where appropriate secured by planning condition.

4.10 A statement must be provided which initially identifies potential negative and positive impacts and then summarises how negative impacts have been minimised and how positive impacts have been maximised, for both new occupiers and existing communities.

4.11 On occasion, there may be a requirement for a full HIA to be completed, for example if the completed desktop HIA indicates that the proposal is likely to have a significant impact on health and wellbeing. If this is the case, the Council will confirm this in writing.

4.12 NPPF paragraph 97 requires that Local Planning Authorities "refuse applications for hot food takeaways and fast food outlets: a) within walking distance of schools and other places where children and young people congregate, unless the location is within a designated town centre; or b) in locations where there is evidence that a concentration of such uses is having an adverse impact on local health, pollution or anti-social-behaviour".

4.13 The Southend and Rochford Settlement Role and Hierarchy StudySouthend Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study 2020 identifies walking and cycling catchments for a range of day-to-day services. For example, 400 metres equates to approximately five minutes walking, and 1,250 metres equates to five minutes cycling, based on averages for able bodied peopleSee for example, Institution of Highways and Transportation, 2000, guidelines for providing for journeys on foot. The study provides average walking distances from home to schools. These have been used to establish an appropriate buffer, within which hot food takeaways and fast-food outlets will not be permitted, unless they would be located within a designated City, District or Neighbourhood centre.

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 4

Strategic Objective 21

Policy SP3 Securing and improving Infrastructure

4.14 Community facilities are essential both to residents' quality of life and to the sustainability of the city. They contribute to the provision of 'complete neighbourhoods' so that residents can access facilities and services they require easily and conveniently.

4.15 With changes in society and service provision it is necessary to ensure that existing facilities are protected, and new facilities meet the needs of residents. There are trends in some sectors, such as health, for a move towards consolidating services at 'Hub' locations. This offers benefits in the quality of care but needs to be planned carefully to ensure that it is accessible to all users.

4.16 Community facilities cover an important range of facilities and services, including health and education facilities, community centres/ halls, libraries, places of worship, public houses (pubs), theatres and other cultural facilities.

4.17 The policy seeks to safeguard existing community facilities. In some cases, Permitted Development rights allow changes without planning permission being required. However, where planning consent is required to change use from community facilities, the Council will expect full justification to be provided for why the facility cannot be retained, and is no longer in demand, viable or suitable for its continued permanent authorised use, as set out in the policy criteria tests within Policy DM4.1, and in accordance with Appendix 6, Part A. This should include a minimum of 1-year active marketing exercise where the site/ floorspace has been offered for sale or letting on the open market at a realistic price and that no reasonable offers have been refused.

4.18 New or enhanced community provision should be located where it is accessible by a variety of transport modes including public transport with a good quality of service.

4.19 Policy DM4.1 also includes criteria for managing proposals relating to burials and cremations. Sports facilities are covered separately in Policy DM4.2.

4.20 The Council provides and maintains public cemeteries, however, there is no statutory duty to provide burial space. The Council has recently refurbished Southend crematorium, however, like many authorities nationally, burial space in Southend is rapidly running out. Given that greenspace that might be suitable is limited in the urban area it will be necessary to look at alternative options. Cemeteries and Burial Grounds also form part of the city's green infrastructure network (and have a multifunctional role including for biodiversity and for some spaces, recreation (see Strategic Policy SP8).

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 4

Please refer to localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents particularly under the header 'Providing community services and infrastructure'.

Southend Playing Pitch Strategy and Southend Built Facilities

4.21 Southend has a good range of indoor sports facilities that cater for recreational through to regional level performance in sports. Approximately 94.6% of Southend's population live within 800 metres of a sports facility, and around 96% of the population can access these facilities within a 20-minute walk.

4.22 The Built Facilities Strategyhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents found that:

• Indoor sports provided for include tennis, indoor bowls, diving, swimming, futsal, basketball, badminton, gymnastics, and volleyball, although the Council has limited direct influence over the programming of facilities and more could be done to widen community access, e.g. use of indoor facilities within schools;
• Sports Hall supply is low at 3.9 courts per 10,000 residents, limiting the capacity and potential expansion of clubs catering for basketball, netball, badminton and futsal;
• Swimming Pools are well used and operate above Sport England's comfort benchmark rating, however there is a shortfall in pool provision equating to around 9.3 lanes of a 25m pool (based on 2018 study);
• Growth in girls' participation in sport e.g. basketball and futsal will require further provision for indoor space over the plan period;
• The health and fitness market has mainly good and above average quality of provision with a good range of price points;
• Active Southendwww.activesouthend.com are delivering a range of health and wellbeing activities at indoor and outdoor sites in the area.

4.23 The Built Facilities Strategy recommended that the Council work with partners to create opportunities to accommodate additional swimming and sports hall provision, and continue multi-agency work to support an increase in opportunities for physical activity and sport. Opportunities should also be sought to identify ongoing investment, maintenance, and refurbishment requirements to protect and improve existing sports facilities, including the Council's own assets, and to ensure all school sports facilities are made fully available for community use.

4.24 The Playing Pitch Strategyhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents found there was a shortfall in provision for pitches for football within Southend Central area, and for Rugby and Cricket, with a projected shortfall in 3G pitches of 6 full size football pitches and one full size Sand artificial grass pitch. For the most part, shortfalls in provision can be met by better utilising current provision or pitch re-configuration. An increase in 3G provision could also help reduce grass pitch shortfalls for football and rugby. Since the study was published, one 3G pitch has been completed at Garon Park with further provision planned.

4.25 There were also shortfalls in quality of provision for both indoor sports and playing pitches. Recent quality improvements include investment in tennis courts within public parks, with new nets, lighting and secure access, and conversion of tennis courts at Garon Park to Padel courts.

4.26 In terms of participation in sport, around a quarter of adults aged over 16 are completing less than 30 minutes moderate intensity activity per week, and the proportion of residents aged 65 and over is expected to increase by 57.3% by 2037.2011 Census Providing sufficient opportunities for residents to engage in both formal and informal sports and physical activity will enable residents to Live Well and Age Well, contributing to reduced childhood and adult obesity levels and providing associated benefits for mental health, improved general health and wellbeing and reduced health inequalities.

4.27 The Built Facilities Strategy and Playing Pitch Strategy for Southend (2018) each set out an Action Plan with high, medium and low priority for investment in a range of sports. The Council works with Sport England and the Sports' governing bodies to update the action plans for each sport, and to further the provision of sports and recreation facilities in the city, based on local priorities.

4.28 Policy DM4.2 seeks to protect existing sports and recreation facilities, address existing qualitative and quantitative deficiencies and ensure that new developments fully contribute to meeting the demand they generate. The scale of new dwellings proposed in the Local Plan will be taken into account in updating the Built Facility Strategy and Playing Pitch Strategy, to understand the demand on the city's sport, recreation and open space facilities.

4.29 The loss of existing facilities will not be permitted unless they have clearly been shown to be surplus to requirements. Deficiencies should be remedied through provision of open space, sports and recreation facilities, and through qualitative improvements to existing facilities, where planning permission is granted for new developments (especially housing).

4.30 New investment should be focussed within existing sport facilities and/ or where it would address identified sport specific deficiencies, in accordance with the priorities set out in the Built Facilities Strategy and Playing Pitch Strategy or subsequent updates.

5.1 The key issues that the city faces in terms of planning for new homes are as follows:

Context

• Housing in Southend, and South Essex as a whole, has become less affordable in recent years compared to the national average. Indeed, for many it is simply unaffordable.
• Southend is a densely populated urban area with limited supply of both brownfield and especially greenfield land for new development.
• The need to provide for an annual increase in housing delivery, whilst recognising limited land availability and the need to provide for supporting infrastructure, employment, education, health, green spaces and other community facilities to ensure good quality of life for residents.
• Growth needs to be sustainably managed across the city so it contributes to the vitality and viability of centres, whilst not undermining the city's valued character and heritage.
• It is vital that future growth in Southend is infrastructure led.

Housing Need

• The need for new homes in Southend is high, the national standard method for calculating housing need is more than 4 times annual delivery rates and that of previous adopted housing targets for the city.
• There is a need to safeguard and increase the delivery of three bed (and larger) homes to cater for families, as well as providing for a range of different sized housing, including accommodation to meet Southend's growing proportion of older people.
• The need to deliver more affordable housing, whilst ensuring development remains viable.
• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are a feature of the city, especially in Southend Central, Southchurch and Westcliff. Such properties perform a useful role in providing affordable rented accommodation. However, concentrations of HMOs, especially when these are poorly maintained, can result in localised adverse impacts.
• Evidence does not indicate a requirement for gypsy or traveller pitches.

Past Delivery

• Between 2001-2023, approximately 7,550 new homes were built in the city (340 per annum), representing nearly a 10% increase in total stock across the city. This overall provision exceeded the figure of 325 homes per annum set out In the Core Strategy (2007). It is, however, significantly below the Government Standard Methodology for calculating housing need of 1,405 homes per annum.
• Of the 7,550 new homes built between 2001 – 2023:
  • 96% of new homes were built on previously developed land.
  • Around three quarters of new homes were flats (75%), reflecting the dense nature of the city and the conversion of redundant office blocks especially on Victoria Avenue.
  • 28% were 1 bed, 50% were 2 beds, 14% were 3 beds and 8% were 4 or more beds.

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 6

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 14

Strategic Objective 19

Strategic Objective 21

5.2 Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Planhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents. This is supplemented by key housing statistics including those published by the Government, the Office for National Statistic (ONS), Valuation Office Agency (VOA) and the Authority Monitoring ReportAuthority Monitoring Report.

Plus 2,400 new homes from windfall development

5.3 Over many years Southend has continued to grow leading to pressure on its social and physical infrastructure and is also suffering from a worsening housing crisis, with higher rates of overcrowding, enforced house sharing and homelessness compared to the national average. House prices and private rents continue to outstrip local wage levels, and it is very hard for young people to get on the housing ladder.

5.4 The Local Plan seeks to provide people with a choice of decent, well-designed housing to meet their needs at a cost they can afford. There is a need to plan for an annual increase in housing and to identify the location of new homes and provide for a variety or mix of homes in terms of type, size and tenure (the type of new homes). It is important that new development is accompanied by supporting infrastructure, meets a range of local housing needs and contributes to the creation of mixed and sustainable communities by respecting local distinctiveness and protecting the built, natural and historic environment.

5.5 It is vital that growth in Southend is 'infrastructure led'. This means that the provision of new homes is supported by improvements in the quality of services, transportation, and facilities for the future health, education, sports and leisure and community needs of residents. (Strategic Policy SP3 sets out the approach to securing and improving infrastructure).

5.6 In seeking to meet future housing needs and creating balanced and sustainable communities in the face of limited land resources, it will be essential that not only is optimum use made of available sites but that these are developed to a high standard and quality of design to ensure the successful integration of the scheme within the area and that the character and amenities of existing residential areas are protected in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 of this Plan (Urban Design, Character and Built Heritage). It will also be important to ensure that a wide choice of homes is delivered providing for a range and mix of housing to meet future identified needs.

National Planning Policy

5.7 In line with national planning policy establishing a housing requirement through the adoption of a Local Plan can be summarised as a 2-stage process as follows:

1. Requires housing needs to be objectively assessed (often termed a policy-off approach) – in line with the national Standard Methodology; and
2. Then a distinct assessment made as to whether (and, if so, to what extent) other policies dictate or justify constraint (policy-on approach).

5.8 It is through this two-stage process, that housing provision is refined, tested and consulted upon through the preparation of Local Plans. Local Authorities are then able to establish a housing requirement figure for their whole area, which shows the extent to which their identified housing need can be met over the plan period.

5.9 In practice landowners and developers (including the Council itself) promote land for development. This is then tested and consulted upon as part of the Local Plan preparation process to determine if such sites can be delivered during the plan period and result in sustainable development.

5.10 The Local Plan makes provisions for at least 9,500 homes (4,000 through existing permissions, 1,900 site allocations, 1,200 opportunity sites and a windfall allowance of 2,400) that could be sustainably accommodated within the existing urban area of Southend, including land at Fossetts Farm to the north of the city by 2040.

5.11 The Local Plan preparation process has highlighted that there is not enough land to meet housing need as defined by the national standard methodology, despite multiple call for sites (allocations), identifying broad locations for development (opportunity sites), applying a range of density assumptions based on typologies and making an allowance for unidentified development based on past rates (windfall).

5.12 The Local Plan housing provision results in a short fall of approximately 14,400 new homes by 2040 compared to the national Standard Method for calculating need (which suggest 1,405 new homes are needed per annum). The possible policy option of developing Green Belt land north of Southend as identified in Chapter 3b (Question on whether to develop a new neighbourhood on land to the north of Southend) could potentially accommodate a further 4,000 to 5,000 dwellings within Southend but would still be nearly 10,000 homes short of the Governments Standard Housing Method for Southend to 2040.

5.13 The Council will continue to work closely with neighbouring authorities to explore opportunities in resolving infrastructure and environmental constraints to determine if unmet need arising in Southend can be met elsewhere.

Appendix 2 provides more information on the sources of supply in delivering new homes and lists all potential allocations and opportunity sites.

5.14 Housing market data and recent demographics highlight the difficulties faced by a large portion of the resident population in securing housing that is affordable. With rising house prices and interest rates, and large deposits required, owner occupied housing is increasingly becoming beyond the financial means of a significant number of local residents. This trend is reflected in a significant growth in the private rented sector. However, the private rental sector has also witnessed increasing rental values which have exacerbated the affordability issue.

5.15 Privately rented households are likely to increase in number in Southend given projected growth in this type of housing – such as unrelated sharing adults and families. This demand could be predominantly met through stock managed by private landlords but Build to Rent schemes may also become more prominent in the city.

5.16 In addition to affordability, the city's older populationOver 65 years of age is increasing and grew by 12% in the ten years between 2011 to 2021Census (ONS), generating a requirement for specialist housing to meet their specific needs. The number of families with children is also increasing creating a demand for family dwellinghouses with the population of younger age groups in Southend under the age of 15 growing 4.2% over the same period. The student population in Southend has been stable in recent years (South Essex Housing Need Assessment HNA 2022).

5.17 The provision of housing also impacts on people's health and wellbeing which need to be addressed in all development schemes. This includes internal space, accessibility and adaptability, outdoor amenity space, and suitably adapted homes to support independence at home.

5.18 Future development should therefore seek to provide for a diverse range and mix of housing products within the local housing market including the affordable sectors. This is necessary to meet the housing needs of the city, including units suitable for families, older people, students and people wishing to build their own homes and Starter Homes.

5.19 In seeking to meet this provision, it is essential that the existing residential stock is safeguarded and planning applications that result in the loss of residential accommodation will not normally be permitted, particularly small family dwellinghouses providing accommodation for families with children.

5.20 Gypsies and Travellers have their own specific housing requirements. The South Essex Gypsy and Traveller Area Assessment Update 2019South Essex Gypsy and Traveller Area Assessment Update, 2019 does not identify any need for permanent pitches within the city. This is reiterated in the more recently completed assessment undertaken specifically for the Southend area with no identified need over the plan period.Southend-on-Sea City Council Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA), December 2024

5.21 However, while there is no current identified need for Gypsy and Traveller sites in the city, Policy SP5 sets out a criteria-based framework should any established need be identified and an application be received for such facilities. This accords with national guidancePlanning Practice Guidance (PPG), Planning Policy for Traveller Sites, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, December 2024 (Paragraph 11).

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Policy SP6

5.20 House prices in Southend have risen considerably over the past 20 years partly fuelled by strong house price growth in London and as a result of a limited housing supply in reference to the size of the population. This combined with the requirement for purchasers to have an initial deposit has created an increasingly significant barrier for people wishing to purchase their own home. Many of these households have turned to alternative housing products with smaller immediate financial requirements, thereby delaying their buying of a home.

5.21 The private rented sector has seen considerable growth as a result with the cost of privately renting any size of property rising most notably for properties with three bedrooms. However, despite increasing rental levels, Southend has the lowest rents, both overall and for each size of property, in South EssexONS (2021) Private Rental Market Statistics.

5.22 In Southend the percentage of private renting increased from 22.0% in 2011 to 26.5% in 2021 whilst the rate of social renting remained constant at 11.5% and the rate of home ownership decreased from 65.2% to 61.3%.

5.23 As a result of these circumstances many people in Southend who want to own their own homes simply cannot afford to do so. In addition, over a third of newly arising households are now unable to afford a lower quartile private sector rented property without spending over a third of their income on rent.

5.24 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires local authorities to assess the number of affordable homes that are evidenced as being required in their area. Affordable housing is defined as:

"housing for sale or rent, for those whose needs are not met by the market (including housing that provides a subsidised route to home ownership and/or is for essential local workers); and which complies with one or more of the following definitions: Social Rent, Other affordable housing for rent, discounted market sales housing, Other affordable routes to home ownershipNational Planning Policy Framework 2024, Annex 2 Glossary (further detail on each of the affordable housing types provided in this glossary)."

5.25 National Planning Policy provides that affordable housing should not be sought for residential developments that are not major developments (less than 10 units) and on major development sites planning policies and decisions should expect that the mix of affordable housing required meets identified local needs, across Social Rent, and other affordable housing for rent and affordable home ownership tenuresNational Planning Policy Framework 2024 – paragraphs 65 and 66..

5.26 The planning guidance establishes a methodologyPPG Section 67 – "Housing needs of different groups"; relevant paragraphs last revised in July 2019. At the time of writing, Section 2 of the PPG ("Housing and economic needs assessment") retains almost identical guidance on assessing affordable housing needs, which was last revised in February 2019. for assessing affordable housing need which takes into account households on the Council's housing registers, newly arising households in need as a result of changing circumstances (for example when their financial or family circumstances change) and the available supply of affordable housing taking into account lettings, the release of occupied affordable homes and committed supply. This results in a significant need for affordable housing well above recent delivery

5.27 Policy SP6: Homes establishes that due to the limited availability of land it is not possible for Southend to meet the Government's objectively assessed standard method in full. Nevertheless, the methodology for assessing affordable housing need highlights the significant demand for affordable housing in Southend and the need to make optimum use of land and property resources in seeking to maximise the opportunities for achieving affordable housing provision whilst recognising the viability constraints to achieving this in terms of land purchase, development and other related costs.

5.28 The assessment of affordable housing need when broken down by the size of property required suggests that in Southend there is a shortfall of every size of property, which is most pronounced for homes with two bedrooms.

5.29 In seeking to meet the need for affordable housing, the Council has applied an affordable housing policy since 2007 as contained in its Core Strategy. This sought to ensure that in residential developments of 10-49 dwellings (or 0.3 hectares up to 1.99 hectares) not less than 20% of the total number of units were affordable, whilst for residential proposals of 50 dwellings (or 2 hectares) or more, not less than 30% of the total number of units on the site were affordable.

5.30 The NPPF requires Local Plans to be informed by viability assessments based on market evidence. This is to ensure planning policies are set at a level so as not to place an unreasonable burden on development so it can be demonstrated that growth set out in the local plan is broadly deliverable over the plan period. The plan should not expect every site to be 'deliverable' now, within the current market, but with a realistic prospect of sites coming forward at a later date.

5.31 Initial viability assessment suggests that the provision of affordable housing will have an impact on the development viability. The viability assessment highlights areas within Southend having stronger and weaker viability linked to sale values achieved in different areas across the city. For instance, Leigh, Thorpe Bay and areas around Shoebury Garrison and the Central Seafront have the highest sale values in the city. Viability assessment outlines that these areas can support the Core Strategy affordable housing rate of 30%. Outside of these areas assessment suggests that viability is more marginal for flatted development on brownfield due to the higher associated build costs (relative to the provision of houses and greenfield sites). Therefore, an affordable rate of 10% is recommended for brownfield flatted development in mid/ low viability areas.

5.32 The policy provisions are based on current and future demographic and market trends which indicate a significant need for affordable housing provision in Southend to meet the locally generated needs to 2040.

5.33 The Policy presents two options regarding the rate of affordable housing to be applied to new major development schemes. A continuation of the current provisions as set out in the adopted Core Strategy (20% affordable housing provision on sites of 10 to 49 dwellings and 30% on larger sites) or a new rate reflecting the viability across different parts of the city which demonstrates 30% affordable housing for 10 units or mote, except where flatted development is delivered on land classified as brownfield outside the high value areas of Leigh, Thorpe Bay, Shoebury Garrison and the Central Seafront, where a rate of 10% would apply. Such provision aims to strike an appropriate balance between seeking a realistic proportion of a major development site to consist of affordable housing having regard to the significant demand for such housing, whilst recognising development viability considerations.

5.34 Policy Table DM5.1 reflects the findings of the Housing Need Assessment (2022) and is intended to provide an overall target for new residential development within the city. For individual development proposals the preferred dwelling mix should not be treated as a definitive mix but should be used during negotiations. When considering development proposals that deviate from this mix, the Council will take account of the latest available evidence from the HNA (or its equivalent successor); the site context; viability and any pressing short-term housing need as identified by Southend Council's Homeseekers Register.

Source: Turley Analysis 2022

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Policy SP6

5.35 The delivery of a wide choice of homes will be essential to ensure that all development schemes contribute to the creation of mixed, balanced, inclusive and sustainable communities that meet the housing needs of the city. Updated housing assessments of need indicate that in Southend;

• there will be a substantial growth in the number of households with children;

• there would likely be almost as much growth in the number of one-person households, with this group a particularly key driver in Southend;
• a continuation of these local trends could see some 35% of additional households in Southend needing three bedrooms; about 30% could need two bedrooms and just over half as many (19%) could need one bedroom, with the remaining 16% needing at least four bedrooms;
• over the last 20 years the overwhelming proportion of dwellings have been 1 and 2 bed (78%) and there is need for more family accommodation.

5.36 Policy SP6: Homes establishes that due to the limited availability of developable land it is not possible for Southend to meet the Government's objectively assessed standard method in full. As the Housing Need Assessment (2022) is based on Southend meeting its objectively assessed housing needs in full the findings have to be treated with a degree of caution, but they do nevertheless provide a proportionate guide to the size and type of housing mix that is required in the city as indicated in Policy Table DM5.2.

5.37 The policy provisions are based on current and future demographic trends, market trends and the differing needs of various sectors of the community to ensure the delivery of a mix, size and type of homes to meet local needs.

5.38 Policy Table DM5.2 reflects the findings of the Housing Need Assessment (2022) and is intended to provide an overall target for new residential development within the city. For individual development proposals the preferred dwelling mix should not be treated as a definitive mix but should be used during negotiations. When considering development proposals that deviate from this mix, the Council will take account of the latest available evidence from the SHMA (or its equivalent successor); the site context; and viability.

5.39 It will be important to ensure that any development scheme is compatible with and complements its locality in terms of its massing and design and optimises the development potential of the site. In this respect, a number of development sites (Allocations and Opportunity Sites) and areas identified for regeneration and growth that are highly accessible offer the potential to achieve higher density flatted development where compatible with local character. In contrast more suburban areas provide the potential to achieve a larger proportion of family housing.

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP6

5.40 With its high urban densities and limited land resources, opportunities for increasing the housing supply in the city are severely constrained. In such circumstances it is essential to ensure that the city's valuable existing housing stock is retained and safeguarded.

5.41 The Policy aims to safeguard the existing housing stock from inappropriate development to ensure that it continues to make a valuable contribution to meeting local housing needs.

5.42 The Local Plan seeks to resist development proposals that result in the net loss of residential accommodation except in certain circumstances, including the need to meet residential standards within Policy DM5.5. Other exceptions apply where a net gain of affordable housing can be achieved or where a loss would be the only way to preserve a building of special architectural or historic interest. All exceptions will need to be clearly justified and accompanied by suitable supporting information.

5.43 Where development involves the demolition and redevelopment of homes, the Council will generally expect proposals to provide an equivalent or greater number of replacement homes. Where an application involves a small-scale net loss of Use Class C3 residential units (for example the de-conversion of small flats back to a family sized home) then applications will be considered on their merits taking account of other considerations including, for example, amenity considerations and evidence regarding the city's identified housing needs.

5.44 The objectively assessed housing need indicates that there will be a demand for family sized homes (3+ bedroom properties) and the de-conversion of small flats back to family sized homes can contribute towards this element of identified need.

5.45 A change of use may be permitted where a local need can be demonstrated to provide an important local community facility (see Policy DM4.1).

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP6

5.46 The aim of this policy is to manage the subdivision of single residential units into smaller self-contained units in order to ensure that conversions provide a high standard of accommodation and promote and retain housing choice in the city to meet local needs.

5.47 Southend has a large demand for 2 and 3 bed family housing and it is important that the existing stock is retained to provide a valuable resource to meet the needs of families and provide housing choice. In contrast, the conversion of larger properties into smaller residential units plays an important role in increasing housing supply, contributes toward the provision of a wider range of housing, and helps to meet the needs of a growing number of smaller households. It is also consistent with the objective of making the best use of the land available within the city.

5.48 The Policy aims to control the conversion of housing to smaller units in the interests of protecting the character and amenities of residential areas and retain family sized accommodation. The policy therefore seeks to strike a balance between protecting smaller family dwellinghouses from conversion whilst allowing the suitable conversion of larger properties into smaller units. The policy safeguards those single family dwellinghouses with an original floor area that is less than 124sqm and to ensure that the sub-division of larger residential units (with a floor area greater than 124sqm) will provide for at least one unit suitable for family occupation (a minimum of 3 bedrooms).

5.49 A high proportion of house to flat conversions can have an adverse impact on residential amenity, particularly in those areas where dwelling densities are already high. The conversion of properties below the threshold stated in the policy would result in a poor standard of accommodation and as such the policy is consistent with the aims of the Nationally Described Space Standards (see Policy DM5.5 Residential Standards). Similarly, too many conversions can exacerbate on-street parking stress to the detriment of the local street scene, particularly in the older Edwardian and Victorian streets of the city with limited off-street parking facilities.

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP6

5.50 Housing design and quality is not only important aesthetically in terms of its visual impact on the local environment and street scene, it also has a direct impact on who can live there and on the health and well-being of occupiers in terms of the internal space available, its accessibility and adaptability, and suitability to support independent living at home.

5.51 The value of internal space and layout in achieving the delivery of quality homes within the city has long been recognised by the Council. It is the Council's aim to deliver good quality housing, ensuring that new developments contribute to a suitable and sustainable living environment now and for future generations. To achieve this, it is necessary to ensure that new housing developments provide the highest quality internal environment that will contribute to a good quality of life and meet the requirements of all the city's residents.

5.52 National planning guidance recognises that 'accessible and adaptable housing enables people to live more independently, while also saving on health and social costs in the future'PPG Reference ID 63-008-20190626. It further suggests that:

"It is better to build accessible housing from the outset rather than have to make adaptations at a later stage – both in terms of cost and with regard to people being able to remain safe and independent in their homes"

5.53 This is vitally important given that nearly 20% of Southend residents have their day-to-day activities limited a lot or a little due to long-term health problems and/or disability (with 8% limited a lot). The majority of these (approximately 90%) do not live in communal establishments but mainly live at home independently or with relatives, friends or carersONS Census 2021.

5.54 The Council will apply the Governments nationally described space standard set out in its published guidance 'Technical Housing Standards'Statutory Guidance – Technical Housing Standards – March 2015 and will expect all forms of residential accommodation to have regard to these standards including those not considered to fall within Use Class C3. Such accommodation can include Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), extra care, assisted living and other such schemes designed for frailer older people or others with disabilities and those in need of care or support. In respect of a property being extended, the new extension will be expected to accord with the relevant standards, and it must not make the existing accommodation worse.

5.55 It is recognised that there may be some instances when an exception to an element of the requirements might be justified. For example, it may not be viable to provide level access via a lift to all units within small residential schemes. In such instances the accessible and adaptable standard should be met as far as possible applying where practicable an alternative solution to lift provision, such as an accessible stairway capable of providing a stair lift. A flexible approach to the standards might also be justified with regard to a conversion of a listed building. Where it is considered full compliance with the standards would not be possible, applicants must address this at an early stage in the planning and design process.

5.56 The needs of wheelchair users are often difficult to meet in general needs housing and invariably require increased circulation and activity spaces within and between rooms, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens. In recognition of this, the Council will require at least 10% of new housing in all major developmentsMajor developments are those of 10 or more residential units. to be wheelchair accessible, or easily adaptable for a wheelchair user in accordance with the Equality and Human Rights Commission recommendation that at least 10% of new-build housing across all tenure types should be built to higher wheelchair-accessible standardsEquality and Human Rights Commission (2018) Housing and disabled people: Britain's hidden crisis (M4(3) design standard. The 10% wheelchair requirement will be accommodated within developments by varying unit sizes to accommodate the additional floorspace required for turning circles.

5.57 Lack of storage space can be a particular problem in many new homes. Without adequate storage space, resident's belongings will often take space away from the living accommodation and have an adverse impact on amenity. The lack of storage space within a home may, therefore, have a restrictive effect upon the way a home is used. There is, therefore, a need to ensure that dwellings contain sufficient space both internally and externally (where applicable).

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP6

5.59 Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and other shared housing form part of the city's private rented housing stock and make a contribution to people's housing choice. With significant rises in the cost of housing over the past 20 years a growing number of people in Southend have turned to more affordable shared housing, including Houses in Multiple Occupation.

5.60 However, multiple occupancy has the potential to create negative impacts on the residential amenity and character of an area as a result of more frequent noise nuisance and disturbance, increased pressure on parking due to higher population densities, and higher levels of population transience leading to a possible longer-term breakdown of community cohesion.

5.61 As such HMOs are likely to have proportionately greater impacts on surrounding occupants and neighbourhoods as each additional resident will increase the level of activity through more frequent comings and goings, different patterns of behaviour and consequential noise and disturbance. A property occupied by a group of unconnected adults is likely to have a greater impact than a typical family home with a similar number of occupants as lifestyles and movement patterns will be less connected.

5.62 A House in Multiple Occupation is defined as a property rented to at least three people who are not from one 'household' (e.g. a family) but share facilities such as a bathroom and kitchen. Examples include bedsits, shared houses and lodgings. The planning Use Classes Order distinguishes between 'small' HMOs of up to six people (Use Class C4), and 'large' HMOs of seven of or more occupants which are sui generis. The General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) provides permitted development rights to convert ordinary family housing (Use Class C3)to small Class C4 HMO use without the need for planning approval. Larger sui generis HMOs on the other hand will always require planning approval to be created from either Class C3 housing or any other land use. To bring all HMOs under planning control it is proposed to introduce an Article 4 Direction in the city removing permitted development rights.

5.63 There are approximately 2,320 HMO bedspaces spread across the city. These are principally concentrated in Edwardian and Victorian housing in the central parts of the city in the Westcliff, Southend Central and Southchurch neighbourhoods. Of the remaining HMOs the majority are located in the southern part of the Leigh neighbourhood. All these areas are characterised by tightly knit housing with limited off-street parking spaces, located near to city and district centres and transport hubs.

5.64 With growing numbers of people turning to HMOs as a source of affordable housing, the HMO policy seeks to ensure that an appropriate balance is struck between meeting the demand for this form of housing whilst protecting and safeguarding the character and amenities of established residential areas. The policy also seeks to provide good quality accommodation by ensuring development complies with relevant standards and requirements.

5.65 In addition, the HMO policy recognises the need to safeguard an adequate stock of small family dwellinghouses to meet the demands for family housing in the city in accordance with the provisions of Policy DM6.4 and permits the reversion of HMO properties to family homes.

5.66 This policy applies to building new HMOs; converting existing dwellings into HMOs; intensifying existing HMOs through an increase in the number of bedspaces, where this requires planning permission; and other forms of shared housing.

5.67 Policy DM6.6 (Houses in Multiple Occupation) responds to the demand for lower cost housing accommodation by allowing for further conversion to HMOs but only where this does not harm residential amenities and the character of an area or where the choice of housing is reduced and no longer provides for the different groups within the community through concentrations of HMOs. The Council considers that a harmful concentration is likely to arise when more than 10% of the total dwelling stock is occupied as HMOs within 50 metres of the site. Harm can also be localised when an existing dwelling is sandwiched between two HMOs intensifying impacts on individual households or where it results in a continuous frontage of three or more HMOs.

5.68 To ensure a good standard of accommodation for future occupiers, issues relating to internal living space, layout, external amenity space, outlook, privacy, adaptability, security, safety, cycle and car parking and refuse and recycling storage will need to be considered.

5.69 The Housing Act 2004 requires landlords of larger HMOs to apply for licences which is a separate regulatory regime to planning and seeks to secure minimum standards of accommodation fit for human habitation such as fire safety standards and access to basic facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom and toilet facilities. Regulatory standards also apply to smaller HMOs. The planning system has a wider responsibility for ensuring that the quality of accommodation will provide more than the bare minimum for its occupants by ensuring an adequate standard of living for long term occupants.

5.70 Where additional bedrooms are created in both new build HMOs and conversions of existing buildings, these will be expected to meet the internal space standards set out in Policy DM6.5. Appropriately sized, proportioned and equipped communal areas and adequate bathroom and cooking facilities should be provided, relative to the expected number of occupants in accordance with the Council's adopted guidance.

5.71 Communal living space should be provided within the main structure of the building and not within conservatories due to the inferior noise insulation and consequent effect on amenity of neighbours. Insufficient communal areas increase the time occupants must spend in their individual bedrooms and can therefore hinder social cohesion within the property.

5.72 Planning applications must be supported by a full set of floor plans that includes details showing the internal measurements for each room; for bedrooms indicating if they are intended to be single or double; and any areas of reduced ceiling heights.

5.73 HMO proposals are also required to provide useable private outdoor amenity space appropriate to the scale and character of the development as required by Policy DM6.5: Residential Standards.

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Policy SP6

5.74 The population of Southend has been growing, and the number of elderly residents (over 65) is increasing at a faster rate (12%) than the population at large (4%). It is important that older residents of Southend have access to housing that meets their specific needs. This may include specialist residential accommodation, comprising extra care and supported accommodation.

5.75 The Council's Older People's Housing Needs AssessmentSouthend Housing Needs Assessment: housing and accommodation for older people (2022) includes detailed analysis of the accommodation and support needs of older people in Southend and involved local consultation with older people about their preferences for housing and care. Research indicated that the great majority of older people would like to remain in their own homes, with adaptations if necessary. Specialist housing should be seen as aspirational and be of a variety of tenures.

5.76 The Local Plan aims to ensure that there is a wide mix of housing and accommodation options for older people. This will include supporting people to live well in their own homes but also requires the provision of a mix of purpose-built housing types and tenures that will facilitate 'downsizing'/'rightsizing', creating a climate where moving in later life becomes a realistic and positive choice. The availability of a range of suitable accommodation options for older people can help release family sized accommodation, improve quality of life and reduce the need for residential care. More specialist forms of housing for older people, including extra care housing, have the potential to provide the level of support needed to help people to remain part of the community and maintain independence for longer through the integration of accommodation and care.

5.77 The Older People's Housing Needs Assessment includes projections of need for specialist housing and accommodation for older people in Southend over the period to 2040 and beyond. This analysis indicates:

• Housing for older people (retirement housing for sale and for rent): the estimated net need for housing for older people to 2040 is c.930 units;
• Housing with care (extra care housing): the estimated housing with care net need to 2040 is c.450 units;
• Residential care: the estimated net need for residential care to 2040 is c.-430 bedspaces, i.e. there is estimated to be a significant oversupply of residential care beds currently and no further supply is considered to be needed in Southend;
• Nursing care: the estimated net need for nursing care to 2040 is c.370 bedspaces. This reflects the growth in the 75+ household population to 2040 (47%) and the projected increase in complex care needs amongst this population, including a projected increase in the number of older people living with dementia related needs.

5.78 These indicative projections and any subsequent updates will be used for planning purposes to give a broad indication of the scale of requirements in the city. However, it should be noted that these figures do not include any allowance for the replacement of existing specialist housing/ accommodation that may be out-dated and no longer suitable to meet older people's needs.

5.79 Accommodation costs for specialist older persons housing are frequently expensive. Where market housing in Use Class C3 is specifically proposed for older people, a proportion of affordable housing provision will be sought in accordance with Policy DM5.1. As far as possible an equivalent amount of affordable provision for older people will be sought to meet needs. Taking account of criteria in Policy DM5.1.2, a flexible approach may be taken to the nature of provision and whether the affordable provision can be made on site.

5.80 Development that attracts additional care users into the city is likely to have a significant impact on Council resources. The Council will therefore expect development proposals for housing and accommodation for older people to be supported by evidence demonstrating that they are targeted to and will contribute towards meeting the city's identified needs. The Council will require, as a minimum, that the accommodation is marketed and made available for sale, rent or as appropriate within the city to local residents/ people with a local connection for a period of at least 6 months before it is marketed more widely (details of what constitutes a local connection are provided in the paragraphs below, and further details on marketing set out in Appendix 6).

5.81 In terms of land use classification, specialist housing/ accommodation for older people will include development falling within both Use Classes C3 and C2. Examples of the types of housing and accommodation that will be covered by this policy include:

• Age restricted occupancy housing commonly known as retirement housing (Use Class C3) - accommodation where an age restriction is placed on occupants who live independently in self-contained homes;
• Warden assisted housing (Use Class C3) - clusters of accommodation where people live independently in self-contained homes where a warden is contactable between specified times to manage communal areas and may check on residents. Sometimes a communal meeting lounge and gardens are provided;
• Sheltered housing (usually within Use Class C3) - clusters of accommodation where people live independently in self-contained homes where low intensity support is available, sometimes on site. Often with a communal meeting lounge, guest room and gardens;
• Extra-care/assisted living homes (also known as close care, very sheltered or continuing care housing) (can fall into Use Class C2 or C3, depending on the level of care and the scale of communal facilities provided) - independent living in purpose built self-contained homes, but designed to enable a range of care needs to be provided as occupiers' needs increase, with on-site care facilities available (up to 24 hours). On-site facilities may also provide support for older people in the wider community. Shared lounges, dining areas and other social and leisure facilities are sometimes provided;
• Residential/nursing homes (including end of life/ hospice care and dementia care) where higher intensity care is available 24 hours (usually within Use Class C2) - commonly bedsit rooms with shared lounges and dining area - this may involve residential care only, nursing homes staffed by qualified nursing staff, or dual-registered care homes where medical assistance is provided to occupiers that need it.

5.82 The provision of housing and accommodation for older people should be targeted towards people with a local connection to Southend through a 6-month marketing exercise (see Appendix 6, Part D).

5.83 Housing or accommodation for older people will generally be covered by Policy DM5.7, except where such accommodation is aimed specifically at one of the groups covered by Policy DM5.8 - Supported Accommodation (Specialist and Vulnerable Needs).

5.84 Older people may not want or need specialist accommodation or care and may wish to stay or move to general housing that is already suitable, such as bungalows. Plan-makers will need to consider the size, location and quality of dwellings needed in the future for older people in order to allow them to live independently and safely in their own home for as long as possible, or to move to more suitable accommodation if they so wish. Policy DM7.2: Efficient and Effective Use of Land, seeks to safeguard such provision.

Strategic Objective 2

Strategic Objective 9

Strategic Policy SP6

5.85 In addition to meeting the needs of older people in Southend it is also essential that needs of the vulnerable and people with specialist accommodation needs are met so that local residents have access to housing that meets their specific needs. This may include specialist residential accommodation to meet the needs of people who are:

• homeless
• disabled and/ or vulnerable, including people with:
  • learning disabilities;
  • mental health problems;
  • dependency addictions;
  • victims of domestic abuse or violence;
  • residential care for young people.

5.86 This policy facilitates the delivery of supported and specialised housing or accommodation not covered by Policy DM5.7 Housing and Accommodation for Older People. This includes hostels; refuges; supported housing; and other types of accommodation designed to meet the specific requirements of persons or groups of people with specialist needs and/ or classed as vulnerable.

5.87 The policy does not cover student housing, houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), hospitals, or hostels offering visitor accommodation such as youth hostels - see policies DM5.5 Residential Standards (for student accommodation), Policy DM5.6 Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), and DM6.5 Tourism and Visitor Accommodation.

5.88 In determining the appropriate use class for self-contained facilities, the Council will consider whether the development will be a registered location with the Care Quality CommissionUnlike residential care homes in Use Class C2, the private address of a person who uses care services is not defined as a location by the Care Quality Commission for the purposes of its registration process. However, the delivery of the domiciliary care component to individual residents is registered by the Care Quality Commission. Further information on registration is available on the Care Quality Commission website., the degree of care, and the proportion of units for which care is likely to be available. In some cases, a development may be deemed to provide units within both the C2 and C3 Use Classes, and some may be deemed to be 'sui generis'.

5.89 Where a proposal for specialist residential accommodation involves the conversion of an existing dwelling, regard should be given to Policy DM5.4 Residential Conversions and the Retention of Smaller Dwellings.

5.90 Other relevant policies will be taken into account when determining if a proposal is appropriately located, for example impacts upon transport, local amenity and the character of an area.

5.91 The provision of housing and accommodation for older people should be targeted towards people with a local connection through a 6 month marketing exercise (see Appendix 6, Part D).

• Seek to facilitate around 7,500 additional jobs in Southend by 2040Cambridge Econometrics Economic Projections March 2022/ Southend EDNA (2024)
• Significant losses in employment floorspace primarily from dated high rise office stock over the last decade, with employment land also being lost to residential development given pressures for the provision of new homes and associated land values.
• The Covid pandemic had an impact on consumer and travel to work patterns, with more remote/ hybrid workingSouthend EDNA (2024) – the 2011 Census reports that the resident self-containment rate in Southend was 55.3%, based on 2021 Census data, the resident self-containment rate was 79.6%, highlighting the impact the Covid-19 lockdown which result in significantly higher self-containment rate and reduced net outflow from Southend., and on-line shopping.
• There remains a need to protect employment land, and encourage opportunities for regeneration and growth, to accommodate business needs and provide opportunities for local jobs.
• It is important to the local economy to continue to attract and grow new businesses locally, alongside this continuing to close the skills gap will be a key factor in supporting business growth and innovation, and to help reduce welfare reliance.
• Priority growth sectors include aviation, construction/ specialist construction, health and medical industries, business and professional services, tourism, food and beverage services, cultural and creative industries, civic and government administration, commercial fishing marine activities.
• Small and Medium sized businesses play an important role, with a notably higher level of small businessesLess than 10 employees than the rest of Essex. Supporting the growth of small and medium sized businesses is therefore an important part of Southend's economic growth.
• Growth in Gross Value AddedGVA is the measure of the value of goods and services produced in an area, industry or sector. It is an important measure as it is used to determine gross domestic product (GDP) – which is an indicator of the health of a national economy and economic growth. (GVA) to the economy has taken place in the city over the past decade, however at a slower rate than the rest of England. This can largely be attributed to a contraction in the financial sector in Southend.
• There are important geographical interdependencies between Southend's residents and the wider regional economy. In-commuting predominantly comes from Rochford, Castle Point, Basildon and Chelmsford. Out-commuting includes London, Rochford, Basildon and Castle Point.

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 6

Strategic Objective 7

Strategic Objective 8

Strategic Objective 10

Strategic Objective 11

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 21

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Planhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents, particular under the headings 'Securing a thriving economy', 'Promoting Southend as a major resort', 'Providing for vibrant and attractive town centres'.

1. The NPPF requires Local Planning Authorities to set out a clear economic vision and strategy which positively and proactively encourages sustainable economic growth. As part of this the plan should set criteria, or identify strategic sites, for local and inward investment to meet anticipated needs over the plan period, seek to address barriers to investment, and to be flexible, enabling a rapid response to changes in economic circumstances, allowing for new and flexible working practices, and accommodating needs not anticipated in the plan. Planning policies are expected to recognise and address the specific locational requirements of different sectors, including provision for clusters or networks of knowledge, data driven, creative or high technology industries, storage and distribution at a variety of scales in sustainably accessible locations.
2. The Southend Economic Development Needs Assessment (EDNA) (2024) reports on a number of scenarios when estimating the need for future employment floorspace, including Cambridge Econometrics Economic Projections that estimates a need for approximately 7,500 additional jobs for Southend by 2040. Additionally, it also identifies several key economic sectors for Southend – these are set out in Policy Table DM6.1a, which identifies priority locations for these sectors.
3. The City Centre, London Southend Airport and associated business park, and the city's employment growth areas (Policy DM6.3 and Policy Table DM6.3b), are particularly well placed to achieve economic growth, with opportunities for increased modern employment floorspace. The EDNA recognises the role existing commercial centres across the city (particularly the City Centre) can provide in terms of flexibly meeting employment needs for Class E uses, including health service-based facilities, offices, leisure, higher education, restaurants and cafes. This should also help to contribute to the creation of complete neighbourhoods, ensuring the city's neighbourhoods benefit from good provision of services, including healthcare and education.
4. The City Centre will remain the first preference for all forms of commercial development and for other City Centre uses attracting large numbers of people, in accordance with Policies SP1, SP2 and the retail hierarchy set out in Policy DM6.4. It will be supported as a sub-regional centre providing the full range of high quality sub-regional services and facilities required to meet identified needs. There is also opportunity to introduce additional well designed residential and enhance the local environment in and around the City Centre, through urban greening and streetscape enhancements. The District Centres of Leigh and Westcliff will support the City Centre, providing for the day-to-day needs of local residents, complemented by the city's other Neighbourhood and Local Centre provision. The central seafront will complement this, providing a focus for tourism and leisure within the city.
5. There are number of key strengths in terms of the tourism offer of SouthendThe South Essex Tourism, Leisure and Recreation Strategy (2020), including the strong traditional day trip offer focussed to the central seafront, the Pier and adventure island; and other well-established visitor destinations including Leigh-on-Sea and Shoeburyness. A wide range of attractions, cultural provision and events programmes, the network of high quality open green spaces, all provide opportunities for enhancing the tourism offer. In addition, London Southend Airport provides the potential for growing national and international visitors to the city. Opportunities exist for further strengthening Southend's tourism, cultural and leisure offer, and Policy DM6.5 sets out the approach to managing tourism and visitor accommodation in the city, including short-term lets.
6. London Southend Airport and environs provides a strategic employment opportunity to support the delivery of a significant number of additional jobs, including employment directly related to the Airport. These jobs will contribute to the delivery of the jobs totals for Rochford District Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council as per the provisions in the airport adopted Joint Area Action Plan – the apportionment to each authority will be based on a 50-50 split of the overall jobs total to be provided within the JAAP area.

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 6

Strategic Objective 7

Strategic Objective 8

Strategic Objective 23

6.7 This policy seeks to encourage economic growth, as well as identifying key economic sectors and priority locations for them in Southend. Enabling economic growth has a key role to play in levelling up disparities across the city and bringing about positive changes. The Southend Economic Growth Strategy (2024-2028) highlights the importance of supporting established businesses and organisations across the city to achieve sustainable economic growth, particularly within key economic sectors, and driving the development of local skills and training, employment and infrastructure. It recognises the important role of micro, small and medium enterprises within Southend, and promoting them to deliver a growing business base in the city. The Southend EDNA (2024) identifies several economic sectors for Southend, and priority locations for their growth, as set out in Policy Table DM6.1.

6.8 Sustainable economic growth will depend on building upon existing strengths, seizing new opportunities, helping businesses to grow locally, as well as supporting skills development. It is important to ensure there is sufficient flexibility within employment floorspace to enable emerging growth sectors to prosper. Development proposals will contribute positively and sustainably to achieving economic growth within Southend. A key element of this are the identified Key Employment Sectors and Priority Locations (Policy Table DM6.1) which are important to Southend's economy and future economic growth, and the Council will seek to promote these sectors and ensure that their location requirements are supported in a sustainable manner. It is recognised that there are other business areas that may develop/ grow within the city, and the Policy supports opportunities for sustainable economic growth, which can be achieved by increasing the capacity and quality of employment land, floorspace and jobs (Policy DM6.1.1). The Policy also recognises the potential for growth and regeneration within the Southend Central neighbourhood (including the City Centre), a sustainable location benefiting from existing shops, services and public transport provision.

Strategic Objective 8

Policy SP6: Securing a Thriving Economy and Visitor Destination

6.9 This policy seeks to manage skills development in Southend, recognising that Southend has a diverse workforce. There are many skilled workers in the city, however a significant proportion of these workers commute to jobs in London and other parts of South Essex. Lower skilled employment is more prevalent in Southend than nationally, with people working in Southend comparatively more likely to be employed in lower-skilled occupations and less likely to be employed in higher skilled, managerial and professional, occupations.

6.10 There is opportunity to improve the local skills base, attract new talent and improve access to training and high-quality jobs for employees, job seekers and students, as well as providing opportunities to upskill the workforce for local businessesSouthend Economic Growth Strategy (2024-2028). By harnessing the benefits of economic growth and working with partnerships and training facilities, the Council seeks to ensure provision of a broad range of employment and skills development opportunities are made available to local residents. This will include opportunities for skills development, training and employment during the construction phase of new development where appropriate and create a range of temporary and permanent employment opportunities at different skill levels.

6.11 Policy DM6.2 sets out the Council's emerging approach to skills development to ensure opportunities to up-skill local residents are realised. The policy approach sets out the intention that this will be supported by the preparation of Employment and Skills Plans (ESPs). Typically, an ESP will set out a framework for the delivery of employment and skills opportunities arising from a development, developed alongside a S106 agreement to include fee charging obligations, and enable its monitoring, and include an action plan, providing detail on how the development will deliver for local residents: construction apprenticeships, local employment opportunities during construction, construction work experience opportunities, end-use apprenticeships (for commercial development, as appropriate), monitoring information and timescales.

6.12 The ESP Fee will be contained within a S106 agreement and will be in line with the contribution schedule, options for which are set out in Policy Option DM6.2a and Policy Option DM6.2b below. This fee would be payable on commencement of the development and index linked from 1 April 2025 to the point at which it is paid/ subject to review. ESPs can help to increase local employment opportunities, raise skills levels, and address skills gaps. They offer potential to employ local people, providing them with work related training, and education opportunities.

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 21

6.13 This policy sets out the approach to managing the city's employment areas. Developable land in Southend is a scarce resource which needs to be effectively utilised to facilitate economic growth. Employment land in Southend has relatively lower land values compared to other land uses, such as residential, and as a consequence it is necessary for land in employment use or in desirable locations for employment development in market and sustainability terms, to be safeguarded or allocated as such in order to facilitate present and future economic growth, otherwise it is likely that this land will be developed for alternative uses. Given this, the city's existing designated Employment Areas have been reviewed to determine their 'health' and whether they continue to serve a clear purpose in terms of employment land and local jobs provision.

6.14 The city's Employment Areas (Policy Table DM6.3a) are recommended to be protected and maintained in employment use. The Employment Areas form a network of locations where new economic development and investment will be focused. The retention and provision of employment areas is necessary to enable balanced job and housing growth within Southend, in accordance with Strategic Policies SP5 and SP6. The Employment Areas contain a range of sites and premises that meet the needs of the business community. Within this context, the Employment Growth Areas (see Policy Table DM6.3a) are recognised for their potential to provide for increased/ modern employment floorspace, providing opportunity to intensify employment uses and make efficient and effective use of land for employment purposes.

6.15 There are several other employment areas within the city that fall under the category of industrial/ business estates (see Policy Table DM6.3a). These employment areas also provide an important economic function and should also be retained and protected for employment uses, although an increase in employment floorspace in these locations is not projected, they continue to serve business needs. Within all employment areas, it will be important to ensure that any new employment floorspace is designed to respond to changing economic conditions and supports economic growth. For example, by allowing capacity and flexibility for 'grow-on' space as well as larger footprint space where appropriate and having due consideration to the character and function of the relevant employment area.

6.16 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) make an important contribution to the Southend economy. The Economic Growth Strategy (2024-2028) seeks to promote Southend as the home of such businesses, focusing on sectors that bring the greatest value. To facilitate growth, it is recognised that micro, small and medium enterprises are likely to require flexible layouts, with potential for incubator, micro spaces and 'grow-on' spaces, and flexibly designed, medium sized premises to meet the needs of businesses in the middle stage of growth. Consideration should be given to their provision within employment areas as appropriate (recognising that some existing employment areas, such as Vanguard Way, already include such premises).

6.17 The Employment Site Release Topic Paper (2021) suggests a small number of self-contained, poorer performing employment areas (as previously designated in the development plan) where the employment area designation could be removed, to assist regeneration and having potential to deliver a mix of uses. These areas have been reviewedSurvey of Employment Areas, 2024 and further information is set out in Policy Table DM6.3b.

6.18 Recent changes to the Use Class Order in England have created a new 'Class E' which comprises commercial, business and service uses, replacing the former Class A and Class B1, while Class B2 and B8 uses remain as a current use class category. Under the General Permitted Development Order (GDPO), permitted development rights allow certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without the need for a full planning application. There is often a requirement for 'prior approval' for development carried out under permitted development rights. Appendix 8, Table DM6, sets out relevant use classes, and the permitted change of use within them (including where there is a requirement for prior approval).

6.19 Within the city's Employment Areas, changes to the Use Class Order, particularly the introduction of Class E and its incorporation of former Class B1 (office uses) enables the potential for more diversification to take place. For example, the introduction of residential uses, through Class MA, that may not be compatible with an area's use and function. This also applies to Class B8 (storage and distribution) uses that are often found in the Employment Areas, with PD Class L allowing for change of use to residential subject to the prior approval process.

6.20 To ensure that the Employment Areas are safeguarded, the Council will investigate the use of an Article 4 Direction as appropriate, particularly if there is a prevalence of Class E and Class B8 uses within an employment area that could, subject to the prior approval process, be permitted to change to residential use, which would be detrimental to an area's form and function and continued viability.

6.21 The Council will seek to retain class B2 and/ or B8 (and Class E(g)i-iii office uses as appropriate) uses in the Employment Areas (Policy Table DM6.3b), to ensure these areas maintain their role and function, providing a base for economic activity in the city. Where there are opportunities to redevelop poorer quality/ older industrial premises within the Employment Areas for employment use, the Council will encourage a mix of well-designed, flexible units that are suitable for Class B2 and/ or B8 (and Class E(g)i-iii as appropriate), making efficient use of land to support local business needs, including potential for flexible and grow-on spaces, and premises suitable for micro, small/ medium enterprises. In some instances, Sui Generis uses of an employment nature, suitable to the character and context of the Employment Area in question, may be appropriate, and this will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and in accordance with the provisions of Policy DM6.3. In cases where there it can be clearly demonstrated that there is no long term or reasonable prospect of a site being bought back into B class or E(g)i-iii use, in accordance with Policy DM6.3.3 and Appendix 6, marketing/ market demand evidence will be provided to the Council to clearly demonstrate that the property has been actively marketed for a minimum period of 1 year.

6.22 The Employment Growth Areas offer opportunities for employment growth, particularly B2 and/ or B8 (and Class E(g)i-iii office uses as appropriate). Development Proposals that fall outside of these employment use classes would not normally be supported unless certain conditions are met, for example in cases where the proposed use is of an employment nature and falls within the Sui Generis use class and would be compatible with the existing operating conditions of the employment area. Such a use may have the potential to complement the employment area and not detract from its function, while providing employment opportunities.

6.23 The Council will monitor and manage the function of the Employment Areas so that these areas continue to positively contribute to strategic and local economic objectives. Opportunities to enhance sustainable connections to the employment areas will be encouraged wherever possible.

6.24 Outside of the Employment Areas, in cases where a site is in employment use, or was last used for employment purposes (including employment uses of a Sui Generis nature), in order to retain employment premises within the city, there will be a need to demonstrate that it is no longer viable to accommodate or retain the use of the site for employment purpose, that use of the site for Class B2 and/ or B8 purposes would give rise to unacceptable environmental problems, and it can be demonstrated that an alternative use or mix of uses will give greater potential benefits to the community and environment than continued employment use (see Appendix 6, Part C).

6.25 It is recognised that Southend's Employment Areas are likely to have a different noise character to areas which are, for example, more residential in character. The potential provision of new residential properties, including property conversions, and other sensitive uses within or close to the Employment Areas will need to consider noise from established commercial units and premises (residential uses in Employment Areas will be resisted). The 'agent of change' principle will therefore apply (Policy DM9.3.7).

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 6

Strategic Objective 8

Strategic Objective 13

6.26 This policy sets out the retail hierarchy for Southend and the approach to managing retail/ commercial centres across the city, recognising the role they play in providing shops and services for the communities that they serve. It identifies the key role Southend City Centre has as a sub-regional centre, providing a range of shops, services and leisure opportunities for Southend's residents and visitors.

6.27 The changing nature of the 'High Street', facing competition from online shopping, changing shopping patterns and habitats, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic downturn, together with competition from retail parks and centres outside of the city, has impacted upon the level of trading in Southend City Centre, and the quality of provision. There is subsequently a need to upgrade, enhance and broaden its offer and function, to help to drive footfall and bring about regeneration through the day and evening economies. Policy DM6.4 seeks to maintain and enhance the attractiveness of the City Centre, and the city's district, neighbourhood and local centres, by encouraging active retail and commercial uses, particularly at ground floor within Class E use, within these retail/ commercial centres.

6.28 Existing premises, and planning permissions, are expected to accommodate the projected growth for retail and food/ beverage uses, particularly in the short term. In addition to this, vacant floorspace is likely accommodate future residual growth. There is no pressing need to bring forward major new allocations for retail and food/ beverage development in the city to 2035 (and in the longer term, retaining retail floorspace should be considered to accommodate residual needs through the re-occupation of vacant floorspace, as well as potential site allocations within Southend Central providing opportunity for retail, food/ beverage, and leisure uses)Southend Retail and Leisure Needs Assessment Update (2022).

6.29 Policy Table DM6.4a sets out the hierarchy and network of retail/ commercial centres in the city.

6.30 As part of the preparation of the Local Plan, the city's retail/ commercial centres were surveyed to determine their current 'health'. As part of this work, one small, local centre (Victoria Avenue/ Fairfax Drive) was identified that has a significant proportion of vacancies. This is recommended for release from its designation as a centre/ retail frontage, as set out in Table DM6.4b belowReview of Retail/ Commercial Centres and Retail Parks, 2024.

6.31 Within the city's retail/ commercial centres, changes to the Use Class Order (see Appendix 8) enables the potential for more diversification to take place to include a broad range of commercial uses (including retail) within Class E, which contribute to the health and vitality of centres. However, it also allows for the potential for Class E uses, including retail premises, to change to residential through permitted development rights within Class MA. This could have the impact of creating areas of non-commercial, inactive frontage within the centres, detracting from the vitality and viability of the centres and the role they play in providing shops and services to the local communities that they serve, which are sustainably accessible (and, in the case of the City Centre, its role as a sub-regional centre serving a wider population). While residential development can contribute to the health of centres by providing opportunities to live in some of the city's more sustainable locations, and contribute to local housing need, residential development should only be provided above ground floor within the centres to ensure that active, continuous commercial frontages (primarily within Class E uses) are retained at street level to support footfall. Within all retail/ commercial centres therefore, change of use to residential at ground floor will be resisted to maintain vitality and viability.

6.32 The Council will investigate the use of Article 4 Direction(s) as appropriate, within designated centres to restrict permitted development rights within Class MA that would allow the change of ground floor retail and commercial uses (Use Class E) to residential (Use Class C3) without the need for planning permission, in order to maintain the vitality and viability of these well-established, historic commercial centres and the role they play in creating complete neighbourhoods where shops and services are within easy walking/ cycling distance for residents.

6.33 'Meanwhile uses' are introduced for a temporary period. They are sometimes referred to as 'pop-ups' and can play an important role in bringing vacant premises back into short-term use by providing space for local start-ups and/ or small, independent businesses, or to accommodate a use that is intended for a limited time only, like an art display, for example. They can provide locations for community spaces, incubator hubs, art and cultural facilities, and affordable workspaces.

6.34 While some Sui Generis uses may support the function of a centre, such as a theatre or cinema, there are other uses within this class that can have an adverse cumulative impact on the function of a centre and the health and wellbeing of the local population. Betting Shops, Adult Gaming Centres and Pay Day Loan Shops are classified as Sui Generis uses. Planning permission is required for a change of use within the Sui Generis use class, and for change of use from other uses.

6.35 To ensure the function, vitality and viability of the city's retail/ commercial centres is maintained, in the interests of health and well-being, and to protect amenity within these centres, Policy DM6.4 seeks to avoid an over-concentration of these uses to avoid adverse cumulative impacts. The Council will therefore consider planning applications for these uses on their merits, based on a review of the concentration of similar uses (with a separation distance of at least two units in other uses), impact on amenity, proximity to sensitive uses, and against other relevant Local Plan policies.

6.36 There are several retail parks (Table DM6.4c) across the city that provide some large format units, often occupied by comparison goods stores, and some complementary smaller uses including food outlets, and associated areas of surface level parking. Proposals to locate or expand main town centres uses outside of the defined hierarchy of centres, within the Retail Parks, will be required to demonstrate through a sequential assessment that there are no sequentially preferable sites available to ensure that the vitality and viability of the city's network of centres is not adversely impacted.

6.37 Southend City Centre's role is as a sub-regional centre, and it will be the first form of preference for all forms of retail development and other town centre uses attracting large numbers of people. Map DM6.4 shows the extent of the City Centre's defined Primary Shopping Area, together with areas of defined Primary Shopping Frontage within it that will allow for a strengthened retail presence, supported by areas of Secondary Shopping Frontage. Development within the City Centre should be in accordance with the spatial strategy set out in Policy SP2. New retail and commercial development should be well integrated and closely linked with the City Centre Primary Shopping Area. The City Centre will provide the full range of high-quality sub-regional services and facilities required to meet identified needs for retail, health, food and drink, professional and financial services, leisure, cultural and higher education services, and homes (above ground floor).

6.38 The District Centres of Leigh-on-Sea and Westcliff will continue to support the City Centre, providing a range of local comparison shopping and services. There is little scope for significant additional floorspace within these centres and any expenditure growth should be used to support the vitality and viability of existing floorspace. Parts of both District Centres are designated as Conservation AreasLeigh and Leigh Cliff Conservation Areas form part of Leigh District Centre; Hamlet Court Road Conservation Area forms part of Westcliff District Centre., which form the primary shopping areas, and there are other heritage assets within them including locally designated Frontages of Townscape Merit. These are well established, historic retail/ commercial areas and the provision of continual retail/ commercial frontage forms an important part of their character, and development proposals within the Conservation Areas or affecting a heritage asset should have regard to the provisions of Policy DM7.6, conserving these assets, providing opportunities for enhancement as appropriate.

6.39 Existing centres elsewhere within the city will be supported as Neighbourhood and Local Centres and will meet the day-to-day convenience and community needs, primarily providing top-up food, convenience shopping and local services. Ground floor uses will be encouraged within Class E to support footfall and development proposals will maintain active, shop frontages and provide a direct service to visiting members of the public.

6.40 Ground floor residential conversions will be resisted within all retail/ commercial centres and a strong provision of Class E uses, including retail, should be maintained. The Council will investigate the use of an Article 4 Direction within designated centres, to remove permitted development rights for ground floor conversions to residential within Class MA.

6.41 The policy approach to the design of shopfronts and advertisements is set out in Policy DM7.4. The Council will expect any new or replacement shopfronts to be of a high standard of design, respecting the character of the building and adjoining properties.

6.42 The Council will keep retail floorspace requirements and the health of the centres, and the retail hierarchy, under review over the plan period.

6.43 'Meanwhile uses' will be supported in the short term where they provide activity and interest to vacant units within the centres. It is important to ensure that meanwhile uses do not have a negative impact on the amenity of neighbouring uses, including residential properties, and do not prevent a sites' development from being brought forward. As such, meanwhile uses, where acceptable in principle, will normally be granted temporary permission to ensure that their impact can be regulated and/ or to control the length of time that such uses occupy a unit(s).

6.44 It is recognised that Southend's retail/ commercial centres are likely to have a different noise character to areas which are, for example, more residential in character. The design of new residential properties, including property conversions, within or near these centres will need to consider noise from established commercial units and premises. The 'agent of change' principle will therefore apply (Policy DM9.3.7).

6.45 Any development proposal for town centre uses outside the retail/ commercial centres will be subject to sequential testing, impact assessment, and will be expected to demonstrate that there is a need for the proposed development, it would not harm the objectives of safeguarding the vitality and viability of the City Centre, District Centres, Neighbourhood and Local Centres, would be accessible by a range of sustainable transport options, and would not have a significant impact on the local transport network and local parking provision. This includes proposals within retail parks for example, and where a development proposal within a retail park (Table DM6.4c) is acceptable in principle, it will be expected to demonstrate that it satisfies the requirements of DM6.4.5. In such cases, sustainable access, public realm and urban greening enhancements will be encouraged, ensuring attractive and safe pedestrian and cycle routes are provided into and through the retail park.

6.46 The Council recognises the role street markets can play in adding to the vitality and viability of the City Centre and will seek to maintain and enhance street market provision within the City Centre Primary Shopping Area. Proposals for street market provision outside of this area will be considered on its merits.

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 6

Strategic Objective 7

Strategic Objective 8

Strategic Objective 10

Strategic Objective 11

Strategic Objective 18

Strategic Policy SP6: Securing a Thriving Local Economy

6.47 Tourism, together with leisure, cultural and creative industries, is an important part of Southend's identity and of its economy with a strong traditional day visit offer attracting an estimated 7 million daytrips per year. The Southend Culture Vision recognises that the city's cultural and creative industries have significant employment and wealth generating capacity, and the ability to create a step change, retaining and attracting new visitors to Southend. There was also over 200,000 overnight trips in 2022Destination Research – Economic Impacts of Tourism Southend 2022 with opportunities to grow this sector and encourage longer and overnight stays.

6.48 Destination Southend (2020-2050) highlights that significant investment in recent years have provided firm foundations for a stronger and broader tourism offer that supports jobs, growth and communities across the city. It seeks to raise the profile of Southend, attracting investment and reinvestment into the city, and broadening its appeal. The Economic Impact of Tourism, Southend (2022) reports that tourism related jobs accounted for 16% of the city's total employment in 2022, and while the tourism market continues to recover following the covid pandemic, the number of day trips and overnight stays have been increasing to near pre-pandemic levels.

6.49 The Central Seafront Area will continue to be the primary focus for the further enhancements of tourism, cultural, leisure and recreational attractions and facilities in accordance with Strategic Policy SP2, with the aim of promoting Southend as a major vibrant visitor resort and destination (see also Southend Central Neighbourhood Policy N5b). The City Centre also plays an important role in Southend's appeal, with shops, food and drink and leisure provision, and there may be opportunities for this role to be further enhanced (see Policy N5a).

6.50 There are other areas of the city that provide a focus for leisure and tourism too. Leigh-on-Sea is a visitor destination in its own right, based on the appeal of Leigh District Centre and Old Leigh as an historic centre and an active working fishing port ('Leigh Port' – home to traditional fishing industries) (see Neighbourhood Policy N2). Shoeburyness's offer is that of a coastal park with a range of quality natural, cultural and heritage assets. Improving and promoting the green space offer of Shoeburyness and its beaches for leisure and recreation, together with the heritage and cultural offer of places like Shoebury Garrison, will be promoted (see Neighbourhood Policy N9). Proposals to enhance and improve tourism facilities in these locations will need to be sensitively designed and establish a clear relationship with the seafront.

6.51 The city benefits from a range of cultural facilities and events, including the Pier, theatres, art galleries and museums. The city's cultural offer is recognised for the role it can play in attracting visitors, and supporting regeneration, including through events at key venues including the Pier, Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre, as well as pop-up uses in vacant shopfronts for example. The Council will encourage the provision of space for cultural and creative industries as part of development proposals, particularly within the Central Seafront and City Centre, to contribute to regeneration and further consolidate its visitor offer (see also Policy DM6.4).

6.52 The city is home to a range of attractive parks and open spaces, including woodland and nature reserves. These provide an important part of the Southend's visitor offer, and informal recreational use of the foreshore and estuary takes place along almost the entire length of the seafront. Indeed, their leisure function has happily co-existed with nature conservation principles and values and has done so for many years.

6.53 Growth in tourism needs to consider impacts on the natural environment and local communities, including through increased car trips and congestion, which can in turn have an impact on air quality and how the highway network operates. This can lead to parking difficulties, which can affect the local environment, and residents and visitors experience of the area. It remains essential to grow tourism in a sustainable way, to balance regeneration, tourism and recreational opportunities with biodiversity and natural resourcesSouthend Seafront includes a number of important environmental designations including Benfleet and Southend Marshes Ramsar Site; Benfleet and Southend Marshes Special Protection Area; Southend-on-Sea Foreshore Local Nature Reserve. , and the needs of local communities. The provisions of Policy DM8.4: Southend Foreshore and DM10.4: Parking Standards (as well as Policies N5b: Central Seafront area and N5d: Southend Central Car Parking) will be applied to ensure an appropriate balance is struck.

6.54 There is a need to prioritise hotel and visitor accommodation within key areas, where such development can deliver greatest benefit. The central seafront area, and wider City Centre, will be the main focus for the city's tourism offer, complemented by appropriately located hotel and visitor accommodation in Southend Central neighbourhood and locations with good access and a clear and strong relationship with the seafront, where required.

6.55 Hotel and visitor accommodation will be prioritised within the 'Key Areas', particularly within the Southend Central neighbourhood, as set out in Policy Table DM6.5. The expansion of the airport and associated business parks will help support hotel development that is directly associated with the airport's operations. To ensure new visitor accommodation is in sustainable and accessible locations, the Council will expect development proposals for visitor accommodation to relate well with the city's strategic routes and distributor roads. Outside of these areas, further hotel development will be discouraged as this would compete for a share of market, and would undermine potential growth in the Key Areas, having a detrimental impact on sustainable tourism and economic growth in the city.

6.56 The loss of visitor accommodation could have an adverse impact on the resort character and economy within Southend. The Council will protect sites used, or last used, for visitor accommodation within the 'Key Areas for Visitor Accommodation in Southend' (as defined in Policy Table DM6.5a) unless non-viability can be demonstrated. Regarding meeting the requirements of Policy DM6.5.7(a), applications for change of use will need to be accompanied by:

• Proof of marketing for sale - for a continuous period of at least 1 year at a competitive price taking account of current trading performance and condition (Appendix 6, Part A, sets out the information to be provided in relation to marketing);
• Evidence of business performance – including, details of occupancy and achieved occupancy rate data for the last year along with accounts to explain how the business is performing in line with levels of occupancy typical of industry/ destination norms; and
• Evidence of professional management – this includes details of marketing and business plans for the last year to demonstrate investment plans and attempts made to attract business.

6.57 The Council will encourage an open book approach and may seek independent advice, funded by the applicant, to test the veracity of any viability assessment. This verification will assess the accuracy and robustness of the matters listed above.

6.58 It is recognised that for smaller 'lifestyle' businesses, commercial viability is more difficult to test. In such cases proof of marketing for sale with specialist and local agents at a realistic price may be sufficient on its own. The Council will be flexible in its approach and have regard to all material considerations at the time of the application. In all instances the level of information required should be agreed with the Council prior to submitting a planning application.

6.59 A short term let, or short stay accommodation, is a property or room that is rented out for a short period of time, usually ranging for one or two nights to a few weeks. While short term lets can play an important role in supporting the local visitor economy, a high concentration of short term lets in coastal destinations, like Southend, can have an adverse impact on the availability and affordability of homes for local people, as well as having a potential impact on the character and amenities of established residential areas, for example through noise disturbance or additional parking pressure.

6.60 The previous Government consulted on introducing a requirement that planning permission be sought for short term lets where these are to be used as such for over 90 days per yearFollowing a change in UK government in 2024, the outcomes of this consultation have not yet been published and further announcements may be forthcoming., and proposed introducing a register for short term lets in an area. In order to manage any potential impacts of short term lets, Policy DM6.5.8 sets out policy criteria for their management, seeking to ensure that – where planning permission is required for the development of a short term let, or change of use to a short term let from an existing residential use, consideration is given to any impact this would have on local housing supply, and whether such a use – or collection of uses – would lead to impacts on the character and amenity of an area, particularly in terms of noise, parking stress, and any associated impacts on the local highway network.

The key issues to be addressed to ensure Southend's spatial vision is realised are:

• Ensuring buildings and places are well designed, cherishing our coastal identity and the unique character of our neighbourhoods;
• Celebrating Southend's rich heritage, supporting the regeneration and transformation of the City Centre as a thriving commercial centre, resort and residential area;
• Conserving and enhancing Southend's built heritage, with new buildings and spaces that respect and complement local distinctiveness;
• Ensuring Southend's neighbourhoods provide homes that are adaptable and flexible to meet the needs of people at all stages of their life.

Strategic Objective 11

Strategic Objective 12

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 14

Strategic Objective 15

Strategic Objective 16

Strategic Objective 17

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Planhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents, particular under the heading 'Facilitating good design, healthy living and built heritage'.

7.1 High quality, innovative design that optimises the use of land is a fundamental part of creating and maintaining successful and sustainable places that are safe, attractive and distinctive – places where people will want to live, work and visit. Southend is a collection of neighbourhoods that have grown together over time to create a substantial conurbation. Each of the neighbourhoods in Southend (see Neighbourhood Policies) has its own characteristics and priorities. Well-designed buildings, streets and spaces can enhance positive elements of local character, built and natural heritage, by responding appropriately to context, providing for accessible and inclusive places that contribute to local identity and well-being, helping to foster a sense of identity.

7.2 An important part of this is the concept of the 'complete neighbourhood', which is based around the idea of complete, compact and connected neighbourhoods where everyday essentials and services are within a convenient walking or cycle distance providing multiple benefits, including improving health and wellbeing (e.g. by, encouraging active travel), boosting local economies, increasing opportunities for social connections, and helping with tackling climate change.

7.3 Good design will be the basis of development proposals, and a comprehensive context appraisal should inform the design process (Policy DM7.1). Development proposals must provide effective and efficient use of land. In line with Policy SP2, the primary focus for regeneration and growth in Southend will continue to be Southend Central Area, which includes the City Centre (as a sub-regional centre), and the Central Seafront area (as the focus for major resort facilities), and in addition appropriate regeneration and growth will be focussed at: the seafront, Fossetts, Shoeburyness, London Southend Airport and environs, and within the Priority Urban Areas of the District and Neighbourhood Centres, A13 Key Passenger Transport Corridor, and the main Employment Areas (for employment related development).

7.4 Through its Design and Townscape Guide SPD1, the Council has for many years promoted high-quality, well-designed development and spaces in Southend, development that draws from local distinctiveness, providing a practical basis for achieving designs that enhance local character, the quality of an area and the way it functions. As a predominantly urban area with an ambition for regeneration and growth, Local Plan policies for Southend that provide a focus on urban design are necessary to ensure that growth happens in a sustainable way, optimising the use of land.

7.5 Our streets are multi-functional and a key element of how a place works. The design of a development must seek to encourage active travel, including walking and cycling, consideration of vulnerable road users, and the use of sustainable transport modes by creating safe and accessible entrances and routes, and include blue and green infrastructure, including tree planting and landscaping, where practical for sustainable drainage, aesthetic appeal, and to assist in mitigating against the impacts of climate change.

7.6 Design Codes set out clear expectations for design quality, beauty and sustainability. They provide a set of illustrated design requirements that provide detailed and specific guidance for the development of a site or area. Design codes/ design guidance for Southend will be developed alongside the Local Plan as appropriate and will support the implementation of policies relating to design matters in relevant neighbourhoods and/ or sites as appropriate. The Council's existing design guidance can be found within SPD1 Design and Townscape Guide and SPD3 Streetscape Manual.

7.7 Design Review is a formal process that can be put in place to review, and subsequently make recommendations on, development proposals, and this is usually most successfully undertaken early in the design process, at pre-application stage before the scheme is finalised. It provides an opportunity for Local Planning Authorities and applicants to work with independent experts to discuss proposed developments and to seek to reach an understanding on particular matters, supporting Local Planning Authorities in approving high quality, innovative design. Early pre-application discussion should take place with the Council for strategic-scale development (e.g. sites of 50 or more residential units and/ or 5,000sqm of non-residential floorspace) and sensitive sites with complex issues (e.g. heritage assets where substantial changes are proposed), to ensure a high standard of design is successfully achieved. Design Review Panels should be used as part of this process, where appropriate.

7.8 Public art is created for the public, whether it is situated on public or private property, it is visible from the public realm. Public art installations that generate tourist opportunities, attract new visitors, increase the length of the tourist season and offer opportunities to create a critical mass of projects linked with the regeneration of the City Centre and Central Seafront, will be encouraged. To successfully integrate public art into its setting and enable engagement with the local community, it is important that it is considered at the early stages of the design process.

7.9 Public art can come in a variety of forms, from bespoke innovative lighting, paving design, street furniture, landscaping, murals, play equipment, or works of art incorporated onto building elevations or within spaces where they are visible to pedestrians. What is important is that all public art is of the highest design quality and craftsmanship, wherever possible using sustainable or recycled materials, and collaboration with local artists is encouraged. Attention should also be given to its maintenance once it has been installed to ensure that it can continue to be enjoyed now and in the future. Development proposals of 50 or more residential units, and/ or 5,000sqm of non-residential floorspace will be expected to provide public art as part of the scheme, or a financial contribution towards it.

7.10 Southend is a densely populated urban city where the predominant land use is residential. Give the urban characteristics of Southend and limited land resources, it is important the existing land is used in an efficient and effective manner that contributes to the sustainable objectives and spatial strategy set out in Policy SP1, whilst protecting and positively promoting a high quality of life and standard of amenity for the city's residents, including within the areas identified for regeneration and growth (Policy SP2) .

7.11 Tall buildings are defined, for the purposes of the Local Plan, as buildings that are substantially taller and/ or bulkier and out of scale with the prevailing built form of the surrounding area, and/ or have a significant impact on the skyline of Southend. This will differ across the city.

7.12 The development of tall buildings is one way of increasing density in an area. However, the development of tall buildings requires careful consideration, including identifying appropriate locations. Southend City Centre and the Central Seafront area have been identified as having potential for tall buildings given the prevailing character and scale of parts of these areas, and in recognition of its status as a sub-regional City Centre.

7.13 Advertisements must be proportionate to the building/ structure to which they relate and should follow the principles set out in Policy DM7.4. Shopfronts have an important function both within and outside of the city's retail/ commercial centres, contributing to local character and distinctiveness, providing an active and attractive frontage to a building. Where shopfronts are recognised as making an important contribution to the character and appearance of an area, through their historic and/ or architectural merit, the Council will protect them – and such shopfronts are recognised locally as Frontages of Townscape Merit (non-designated heritage assets), and in some cases as Locally Listed Buildings. In other cases, where there are good examples of historic shopfronts, these must be retained wherever possible.

7.14 Developments should ensure that the requirements for storing waste and for storing recyclable materials are considered at the outset of the design process and must discuss this at an early stage with the Council to ensure compatibility with local requirements. Planning applications must include a strategy for the minimisation and collection of waste and recycling and must provide sufficient and accessible space for waste storage and collection within developments that does not adversely impact on the street scene and local amenity.

7.15 Development proposals should positively enhance and integrate with the historic environment to ensure that it continues to play an important role in promoting local character and distinctiveness. The city's designated and non-designated heritage assets are of heritage significance and an irreplaceable resource that should be appropriately conserved to ensure that they can continue to be enjoyed now and for future generations. Each type of heritage asset will be managed in a manner appropriate to its significance. Additional non-designated heritage assets may be identified through the planning process and will be recorded and managed accordingly.

Strategic Objective 12, Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 15, Strategic Objective 17

Strategic Policy SP4, Strategic Policy SP7

Strategic Policy SP8, Strategic Policy SP9

7.16 This policy sets out the approach to ensuring good quality design is achieved within the city that responds successfully to and enhances local character. The design of the built and natural environment is central to successful place making and the creation of complete neighbourhoods that provide places in which people want to live, work and visit. The Council will continue to require good quality, well-designed developments that both integrate with and respect and enhance the city's existing built form, and its historic and natural environment, having regard to local design guidance (including SPD1).

7.17 There are several elements to this, including ensuring that development responds positively to local character through: its architectural approach; layout and siting; responding to the urban grain of the site and surrounding area; use of materials and detailing; scale and massing; and use of landscaping. When well managed and maintained, development can make a positive contribution to a local area and can achieve this by considering potential impacts early in the design process, including how communal spaces, waste and recycling storage, and public/ private/ communal spaces are designed and managed.

7.18 Being a densely populated urban city, the provision of outdoor amenity space that benefits from attractive landscaping, is an important part of achieving sustainable growth and regeneration in Southend, playing a central role in the health and wellbeing of residents, assisting in responding to a changing climate, contributing to urban greening and biodiversityOpportunities to enhance the biodiversity and urban greening offer of a site could include: the use of green walls and roofs, roof gardens, tree planting, border planting, native hedgerows, and considering the types of planting used, e.g. planting suitable for a coastal environment, tolerant to drought, suitable for pollinators. Opportunities for incorporating bug/ bird boxes to encourage wildlife, as well as identifying where sites could be linked through the green grid should also be considered., providing multi-functional, accessible space that encourages active lifestyles and helping to mitigate flood risk. This is important across all sites, with opportunities to incorporate trees to contribute to the city's tree canopy (Policy DM8.5). Well-designed and situated landscaping and trees can soften a new development, offer privacy and provide an enhanced outlook, as well as providing a wildlife habitat. Consideration must be given to the retention of existing trees and landscape features within a site, and the integration of these into the design.

7.19 Our streets accommodate movement and provide access to and from a range of buildings and facilities, contributing to their lighting and ventilation, as well as providing a route for utilities, drainage and street lighting, trees and landscaping, and often providing space for vehicles to be stored. They are multi-functional and due consideration must be given to all elements of their use and functionality.

7.20 Street furniture, hard and soft landscaping (including tree planting), public art and boundary treatments, are all an important part of the design and function of our streets. An over-concentration of street furniture, uncoordinated palette of materials, or an overdominance of vehicles and lack of landscaping can have a negative impact on the quality of a place and how it is experienced by users.

7.21 Where relevant, the Council will work with developers, landowners and infrastructure providers to put in place development or planning briefs/ masterplans to ensure policy requirements and well-designed developments are delivered on key sites, ensuring that the use of land is sustainably optimised, minimising the impact on existing communities.

7.22 It is important that the distinct character of Southend's neighbourhoods and places is respected, whilst accommodating growth. The level of growth may depend on the existing character, form and function of an area, but local character can grow and evolve through densification without having significant impacts. Development proposals must successfully integrate with streets and spaces around them, having regard to the urban grain of a site and surrounding area, as well as providing active frontages that promote opportunities for natural surveillance and avoiding blank facades. This should be considered at an early stage in the design process to ensure the development links to the local and wider area. Along the seafront, new development should be appropriate to local character and context, in accordance with the seafront character zones (Policy Table DM8.4).

7.23 Amenity refers to well-being and takes account of factors such as privacy, overlooking, outlook, noise and disturbance, the sense of overbearing, pollution and daylight and sunlight. Such considerations apply equally to proposals to extend and/ or alter existing buildings as they do to new developments. High quality development will provide a positive living environment for its occupiers whilst not having an adverse impact on the amenity of neighbours. Protection and enhancement of amenity is essential to maintaining people's quality of life and ensuring the successful integration of development into existing neighbourhoods.

7.24 Adequate provision for private/ communal amenity space must be made within a development; the form this takes can vary, but it should be of useable size and integral to the development. The Council's requirements for residential amenity space provision are set out within Policy DM5.5. The agent of change principle (Policy DM9.3.7) will apply to proposals for new development in proximity to an existing use/ uses which may be adversely impacted by the new use. This requires the person or organisation responsible for change to manage its impact – measures proposed to mitigate adverse impacts will be secured as part of any planning permission.

7.25 The internal and external layout of a development should consider safety, accessibility and inclusivity, taking account of all potential users in its design. Thought should be given to prioritising pedestrians and cyclists, vulnerable road users, and enabling accessibility to public transport to provide opportunities for active travel.The layout of a development should also make adequate provision for access, servicing, communal storage and circulation.

7.26 When designing parking layouts, consideration must be given to the creation of clear and logical spaces that are safe, secure and accessible, accommodating pedestrian routes into and out of the development (including connections with existing routes), cycle parking and the inclusion of landscaping and tree planting to soften these spaces as appropriate. Consideration should also be given to turning spaces, to ensure parking areas are usable and adequately accommodate vehicles. See Policy DM10.3: Parking Standards.

7.27 Developments must be safe and secure and take account of crime prevention and community safety in line with mandatory Building Regulations. This will require consideration to be given to layout to allow for effective natural surveillance and supervision of public areas. Public areas should be clearly visible from adjoining buildings and the design and landscaping must provide for: clear sightlines on public routes (paths, cycleways etc); the use of lighting; and should not create unnecessary concealed or negative/ unusable spaces. Consideration should also be given to the Secured by Design principles in this regard.

7.28 Good urban design requires a partnership approach, and the Council will encourage applicants to engage in pre-application discussions with the Local Planning Authority, local community and stakeholders, as appropriate, at an early stage to help gain a better understanding of proposals and to ensure any issues or concerns can be resolved as part of the design process, prior to submission. The pre-application process will also define the scope of drawings and reports to be submitted with a planning application, and under the provisions of the Local Government Act 2003 the Council will normally make a charge for pre-application adviceFurther information on pre-application can be found in the Council's adopted Statement of Community Involvement.. Strategic developments/ sensitive sitesThis may include, for example, proposals that involve substantial changes to a heritage asset. will engage with the Council at an early stage in the design process, prior to a planning application being submitted, and consideration should be given to the use of Design Review Panel to further influence positive design outcomes. Where appropriate, Planning Performance Agreements, could also be considered.

7.29 The design of the spaces between buildings, both private and public, is a key component in successful place-shaping. Development proposals can make a positive contribution by ensuring a building has active frontages; encourage walking and cycling and use of public transport by creating attractive, safe and accessible entrances/ routes (and connecting to existing routes); give consideration to vulnerable road users; contribute to biodiversity and greening through landscaping and tree planting. Consideration should also be given to mitigating flood risk, and incorporating sustainable drainage, including use of good quality permeable materials.

Strategic Objective 12

Strategic Objective 14

Strategic Policy SP7

7.30 This policy sets out the approach to securing the long-term sustainability of Southend as a significant urban area, building on its City status. To realise this, there is a need to sustainably optimise the potential of the city's land and buildings while responding successfully to local character and context and securing well designed buildings and places. Given the urban characteristics of Southend, it is essential that existing land is used in an efficient and effective manner that contributes to the strategic objectives of the Local Plan, whilst protecting and positively promoting a high quality of life and standard of amenity for the city's residents. Development is prioritised in the existing urban area, with a focus on utilising previously developed land first.

7.31 A design-led approach to the density of development is necessary to balance the efficient use of land with the promotion of local distinctiveness. Proposals for higher density development than the prevailing built form should ensure that the use of a site is sustainably optimised, considering potential impacts of the proposed development on the amenity and character of the surrounding area, including local facilities, transport networks, and public open space. When well-designed and informed by local context, development can have multiple benefits, including regeneration of vacant/ poorer quality sites, enhancing local architectural quality, as well as benefitting from links to existing shops, services and local public transport, walking and cycling routes.

7.32 Strategic Policy SP2: Spatial Strategy sets out how regeneration and growth will be distributed within the city to deliver sustainable regeneration. The primary focus for growth will be Southend Central area (including City Centre and Central Seafront area), followed by Seafront; Fossetts; Shoeburyness; London Southend Airport; and other priority urban areas, which include District and Neighbourhood Centres; A13 Key Passenger Transport Corridor and Employment Areas.

7.33 Where required, a Design and Access Statement must set out: the rationale for the proposed density, in particular its impact on the capacity of the site to meet other necessary policy requirements, and how it relates to local physical and environmental characteristics; its relationship to surrounding buildings (including how it responds to the rhythm/ grain and massing of existing buildings) and occupiers; the sustainability of the location, or its potential to be made sustainable, in terms of accessibility, transport and infrastructure capacity, and provision of, or proximity to, local servicesWith reference to the Council's Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study, 2020..

7.34 Backland development refers to the development of land to the rear of existing buildings, whilst infill sites are development sites on the street frontage between existing buildings. The Council recognises that backland and appropriate infill sites have contributed to the delivery of housing in Southend. Nevertheless, a balance needs to be struck to ensure that development does not intensify the use of a site to such an extent that it causes a detrimental impact for its intended occupiers, neighbours and the surrounding area. It is also necessary to consider the relationship of the site to the surrounding area in terms of its impact on local character and urban grain, ecology and the general environment. The Council will therefore resist backland and infill development where any of these matters are detrimentally affected.

7.35 The 2021 Census highlights that the biggest population increase in Southend between 2011 and 2021 has been in older age groups; there was a 12% increase during this period in people aged 65 years and overThe biggest increase was seen in the 70-74 age group, and there were also notable rises in the 50-54 and 55-59 age groups over this period.. Population projections indicate that the proportion of older people in Southend is expected to rise further in the future (Southend's older population is expected to grow at a higher rate than the average for EnglandHousing LIN, Southend Housing Needs Assessment: Housing and Accommodation for Older People (2022).) and the Southend Housing Needs Assessment: Housing and Accommodation for Older People (2022), estimates a net need for additional housing for older people; 50% of this estimated need could be met through the provision of mainstream housingi.e. housing that is designed for and accessible to older people even if it is not designated for older people..

7.36 Many of Southend's older residents want to remain living in their own home and community as long as possible within accommodation that helps them to feel safe and secure, and the Housing Needs Assessment (2022) highlights that older people who are interested in moving to meet their housing needs are seeking a range of housing types, e.g. smaller houses and bungalows, as well as flats, indicating a preference for bungalows across tenures, related to a desire to live in what is perceived to be accessible accommodation.

7.37 There is a growing pressure in Southend to redevelop bungalow dwellings for higher density housing schemes. However, with the projected increase in the older population in Southend who do not require specific care assistance and seek to remain in their home/ live independently, conserving a stock of bungalow dwellings can contribute to this, as this house type, being single storey, often detached and on a larger plot size than other types of housing, is the most suitable and adaptable as a person's physical and social needs change, providing opportunity for a home across a persons' lifetime, including for families. There are several streets within Southend where the prevailing character is for single storey dwellingsSouthend Borough Wide Character Study, 2011.. The nature of these streets and the presence of bungalows is a distinctive feature of Southend and as such this local distinctiveness and type of accommodation should be conserved to meet the needs of the city's population, allowing residents to continue to live within their own homes and community as their needs change. Where there are areas of bungalows which create a consistent scale and defined character, this might easily be broken through insensitive development, including an increase in height. However, in more mixed areas, where a bungalow is clearly part of a varied scale, redevelopment to a larger house which respects the character and scale of the area, may be possible, having regard to Building Regulation M4(2) and other relevant Local Plan policies, including Policies DM5.5 and DM5.7.

7.38 Alterations and additions to an existing building is a common way of adapting existing building stock to the changing needs of a household, business or other use, and can provide additional residential units and/ or commercial floorspace. A well designed and well-integrated extension can complement and even enhance a property, whereas a poorly designed addition can easily destroy the original character and have a detrimental effect on the street scene. Where opportunities exist to use the 'airspace' above existing residential or commercial premises, this form of upward extension must be well designed, be consistent with the prevailing height and form of neighbouring properties, integrate with the existing building and surrounding area, and ensure safe access and egress for all residents. Permitted development rights relating to airspace development are not applicable to Listed Buildings/ Conservation Areas, and any development proposals affecting heritage assets must have regard to Policy DM7.6.

Strategic Objective 12

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 14

Strategic Policy SP7

7.39 This policy sets out the Council's approach to locating and managing the development of tall buildings within the city. Tall buildings are defined, for the purposes of this policy and the Local Plan, as buildings that are substantially taller and/ or bulkier and out of scale with the prevailing built form of the surrounding area, and/ or have a significant impact on the skyline of Southend.

7.40 The National Design Guidewww.gov.uk/government/publications/national-design-guide emphasises that proposals for tall buildings (and other buildings with a significantly larger scale or bulk than their surroundings) require special consideration, and that well-designed tall buildings play a positive urban design role in the built form. They act as landmarks, emphasising important places and making a positive contribution to views and the skyline. Policy DM7.3 recognises that well-designed tall buildings, where appropriately located, can contribute to regeneration and growth, providing opportunities for residential intensification in sustainable locations, while contributing to local character and distinctiveness and providing opportunities for good design and the use of well-considered materials.

7.41 Development proposals for tall buildings will however require special consideration, including location, context and siting, impact on local character, views and sight lines, and composition – how they meet the ground and the sky. Environmental impacts, such as sunlight, daylight, overshadowing and wind tunnels are also important considerations. All these factors would need to be resolved, to the satisfaction of the Council, when considering a development proposal for a tall or large building. Tall buildings, and other high density urban developments, should also consider long-term management requirements, such as for the renewal of cladding systems.

7.42 Historic England guidanceTall Buildings: Historic England Advice Note 4 (2022) highlights that when planning for tall buildings it is important to avoid or minimise impacts upon the significance of heritage assets. The impact of any development proposal involving a tall or large building within, or within the setting of, the city's historic environment and designed and non-designated heritage assets (including the impacts on any views of these assets), will therefore be carefully considered by the Council in its decision-making process.

7.43 The policy identifies key areas for the focus of tall buildings within the city. Tall/ large buildings will be focussed in the City Centre and Central Seafront areaWhere a development proposal is situated on the seafront, regard should be had to Policy Table DM8.4 Seafront Character Zones. (see Southend Central neighbourhood), and the criteria set out in Policy DM7.3, and other relevant local plan polices, including DM7.6: Heritage, will be met, to ensure high standards of design are achieved and the tall building successfully integrates with its surroundings. Local design guidance should be referred to when designing a tall/ large building in Southend.

7.44 Southend Central is already the focus for a significant cluster of tall buildings, particularly in the core of the City Centre, at Queensway, and along parts of Victoria Avenue. Some of the tall buildings along the seafront, outside of the Central Seafront area, by virtue of their bulk and massing, have resulted in a loss of historic urban grain and character and are often constructed in locations which do not necessarily require a significant landmark, or do not constitute a positive and distinctive landmark feature. Along the seafront therefore, tall buildings should normally only be brought forward in the Central Seafront area, subject to the provision of Policy DM7.3. Elsewhere, there are several residential tower blocks, mainly in the central and eastern parts of the city. These are typically the product of public sector housing development in the 1960s and are located amongst conventional low-rise development. Such areas are generally low-rise and therefore would be sensitive to additional tall buildings.

7.45 Outside of the City Centre and Central Seafront area, appropriate locations for tall/ large buildings will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with consideration given to existing character and context, including the scale and height of existing buildings and proximity to other tall/ large buildings, urban grain, proximity of the proposed building to heritage assets and their setting, including consideration of any impact the proposed development may have on views of these assets, and subject to the policy criteria set out in DM7.3.

7.46 Development proposals should consider visual impacts, including long, mid-range and immediate views of the building. Consideration should be given to the design of the top of the building to ensure it makes a positive contribution to the skyline in long range views from all sides, and attention paid to the form and proportions of the building and how this impacts mid-range views of the building, while considering the base of the building, and its relationship with the street, ensuring it maintains a pedestrian scale and an active frontage, contributing to a functional and attractive public realm. Tall and large buildings provide the opportunity to create landmarks and destinations, bringing people together and providing opportunities for urban living, while strengthening local character and distinctiveness, and this should be addressed within development proposals, complementing, not compromising key views.

7.47 Architectural quality and the safety and energy efficiency of materials in all tall and large buildings in the city must be of an exemplary standard, ensuring that the appearance of the building is maintained throughout its lifespan, making a positive contribution to local character. This must also include consideration of any external lighting, which will be energy efficient and designed to minimise glare and sky glow, regarding the amenity of nearby residents, and designated and non-designated heritage assets and their settings (and of views of these assets).

7.48 The internal elements are also important – entrances, access routes and ground floor uses must be designed and sited to allow for peak time use. Paying particular attention to the design and use of ground floors, providing for active uses, entrances and fenestration will ensure their successful integration into the street scene. The serving, maintenance and building management arrangements must be considered at the start of the design process, ensuring that these are clearly defined, considering any potential impact on communities such as service charges or management responsibilities. This will be detailed in a management plan. The principles of sustainability, as set out in Policies SP9 and DM9.1, will form the basis of development proposals as tall and large buildings have a significant role to play in improving building performance, reducing energy consumption, water management and sustainable materials selection, as well as offering potential for on-site energy production such as combined heat and power (CHP) infrastructure.

7.49 The provision of amenity space, both private and public, will be an important element of the design. There are a range of opportunities for providing this, such as courtyards, enclosed winter gardens, play spaces, roof and podium terraces, and well-proportioned balconies that provide enough space for people to sit out and enjoy their space, with consideration given to their privacy. There may be opportunities to provide access to public spaces within buildings and there must be clear delineation between private, shared and public spaces, helping to ensure residents use and value the spaces created for them. The quality of the surrounding public realm is also important to the successful integration of a tall building, creating a sense of place, ease of movement, and of security. Legibility and way-finding, particularly for high density development, can make an important contribution to how people navigate their way around, and their ability to connect to surrounding facilities and services.

7.50 While high density does not necessarily need to mean high-rise, tall and large buildings can form part of a planned approach to regeneration and growth, providing for new homes and optimising the use of sites in the urban area, which are well-connected by public transport and benefit from good access to services and amenities, and providing connections to the existing network of streets and spaces. Opportunities for promoting a mix of uses, which are appropriate to the setting and location, must be considered where this could provide on-site facilities that reduce the need to travel. Applicants will be required to demonstrate the developments proximity to existing public transport infrastructure and include a travel plan that clearly describes the measures that will be implemented to reduce car use by occupants of the building, encouraging opportunities for active travel.

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP7

7.51 This policy sets out the Council's approach to managing advertisements, including advertisement hoardings and shopfronts, where advertisement consent is required. While some advertisements benefit from deemed consent where certain criteria are met, the Local Planning Authority has control over advertising which does not meet these criteria, in the interests of amenitythe potential impact on the appearance of a building(s) or structure(s) and on the surrounding street scene, with regard had to any potential impact on those features which contribute to local character and context (e.g. architectural or historic features). and public safetythe potential impact on road users, including pedestrians, and on crime prevention and protection.. For planning purposes, an 'advertisement' is defined in section 336(1) of The Town and Country Planning Act (1990) as amended"any word, letter, model, sign, placard, board, notice, awning, blind, device or representation, whether illuminated or not, in the nature of, and employed wholly or partly for the purposes of, advertisement, announcement or direction, and (without prejudice to the previous provisions of this definition) includes any hoarding or similar structure used or designed, or adapted for use and anything else principally used, or designed or adapted principally for use, for the display of advertisements." and the display of advertisements is subject to a separate consent process within the planning system, as set out in the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007 (as amended).

7.52 Appropriate advertisements and signage can be important to the local economy and provide information for the public, and when well designed and sited can add visual interest. However, advertisements can have a disproportionate impact on the local environment. A proliferation of signs and adverts can create a cluttered and incoherent appearance and therefore need to be carefully controlled to ensure that there isn't a detrimental impact. In many cases advertisements are located within or close to the highway, and as such public safety and movement must also be protected. Advertisement hoardings can take the form of large billboards, large signboards, and hoardings or shrouds around building sites. They can have a significant impact on the amenity of an area, as well as public safety, given their size and positioning.

7.53 Shopfronts have an important function both within and outside of the city's retail/ commercial centres, contributing to local character and distinctiveness, providing an active and attractive frontage to a building.

7.54 The Council will consider the cumulative impacts of advertisements where consent is required, ensuring that this is not to the detriment of amenity and public safety, or to the character and appearance of an area. Where advertisement consent is required, the Council will ensure that the criteria set out in Policy DM7.4 are met and that advertisements are kept to a minimum. Advertisements/ signage must be proportionate to the scale of the building or structure on which it is fixed and must not extend over any window or other architectural features.

7.55 Temporary advertisement hoardings/ shrouds may be acceptable around building sites where it is demonstrated that they would enhance the street scene during the worksIn accordance with Class 8 of The Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations 1992 (as amended), advertisement hoardings will not be displayed in the City's Conservation Areas (Class 8(1) and (7)) or listed buildings. .

7.56 Shopfronts must be designed to complement and enhance the building and local environment. Planning permission will be required for new/ replacement shopfronts materially affecting the external appearance of a building. Principal elevations and return frontages, must provide active frontages – enabling visibility into the unit and avoiding areas of blank and inactive space. Shopfronts must reflect the scale and character of the building to ensure they integrate well. Whilst large and garish signs, internal illumination, and over proportioned shopfronts may initially draw attention to a particular shop, they impinge on and dilute architectural details, impacting local character and distinctiveness, and will not normally be considered acceptable. Illuminated advertisements and signage can also lead to light pollution, and energy efficient lighting options, where illumination is deemed acceptable, will be encouraged. Security shutters can also have a detrimental impact on a shopfront, and in cases where shutters are considered appropriate, the Council will encourage the use of punched security shutters/ grilles which retain visibility into the window and are well integrated with the shopfront.

7.57 Any alteration to a shopfront which forms part of a listed building will require listed building consent. The Council will normally expect original and existing shopfronts in listed buildings, within Conservation AreasFurther guidance on shopfront design can be found in relevant Conservation Area Appraisals www.southend.gov.uk/conservation-areas/conservation-area-character-appraisals, in Locally Listed Buildings, or a Frontage of Townscape Merit, to be retained especially where they are part of the special character of the building, and street scene. Proposals to upgrade unsympathetic shopfronts in historic buildings will be encouraged. In most cases, an accurate replica of the original shopfront will be most appropriate.

7.58 Where it is proposed to replace a shopfront through change of use, and this is agreed in principle, any replacement frontage must complement the existing building, and adjoining properties, particularly in terms of alignment and proportion and reflect it's intended use.

Strategic Objective 13

Policy SP7

7.59 Southend City Council, as a Unitary Authority, is both a Waste Collection and Waste Disposal Authority. As Waste Collection Authority it has powers to require residents to present their waste in the receptacles it specifies and at a specified frequency. This policy sets out the approach to waste management in the city.

7.60 How waste is managed is a key challenge. There are national targets and drivers that the Council must meet regarding waste management and therefore it is important to ensure that all developments requiring planning permission contain suitable space for the storage of waste in its various forms before its removal or provide infrastructure on-site to safely use particular waste streams (i.e. composting of food/ garden waste). This will increasingly minimise the amount of waste that is deposited to landfill, encouraging re-use and recycling, and improve the quality of the environment.

7.61 Poor waste management can negatively affect the quality of the local environment leading to issues such as an increased prevalence of fly-tipping, have an impact on health and safety, on highway users, and on neighbouring development. It is therefore important to ensure all development has adequate storage space to contain waste, including separate storage for recyclable material, and an off-street storage space. This space should be of a sufficient size to encourage the re-use of unwanted goods and maximise recycling opportunities. Refuse and recycling storage should be integral to the development, not an afterthought, and form an early part of the design process to ensure that any potential impacts are adequately addressed. Development proposals should also consider the opportunity to minimise waste from development, considering the principles of the circular economy (Policy SP9 and DM9.1).

7.62 All waste producers are responsible for managing their own waste and must not allow waste to escape onto, or store their waste on, the Public Highway for the Council to collect. The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 (CNEA 2005) sets out penalties for depositing waste on the public highway, or an any land that is open to the air. Space for the safe storage of recyclables and waste should comply with the CNEA 2005, Policy DM7.5 and associated guidance as set out in the Council's Waste Storage, Collection and Management Guide for New Developments (2019)https://www.southend.gov.uk/downloads/file/3105/waste-storage-collection-and-management-guide-for-new-developments-2019 or subsequent document.

7.63 All development proposals (including extensions and change of use) must have due regard to the Council's Waste Storage, Collection and Management Guide for New Developments (2019), or subsequent update, which sets out the expectations of the Council in terms of planned storage and collection of waste and recycling. This should be read alongside Policy DM7.5 and other relevant guidance. New development must make sufficient provision for waste management and promote designs and layouts that secure the integration of waste management facilities without having an adverse impact on the street scene.

7.64 It is expected that waste collection and storage requirements, including separate space for storage and collection of recyclable materials, will be an integral part of the design of a development and achieved in ways that do not compromise quality of place. Development proposals will demonstrate the type and quantity of recycling and waste which is likely to be produced by the building and how it will be stored and collected. A 'Developer Checklist' is provided within the Council's Waste Storage, Collection and Management Guide for New Developments (2019), or subsequent updates, and must be referred to when designing a new development.

7.65 When preparing a Recycling and Waste Management Strategy to accompany a planning application this must outline an assessment of the types and quantities of household waste which will be created by occupiers of the development, an identification of the waste storage and collection requirements for the completed development (waste separation and storage also needs to be considered at the places where waste may be created with an emphasis on ensuring adequate space is provided for temporary storage until collection), an assessment of how waste storage and collection arrangements have been integrated into the overall design; details of any other waste management requirements; and whenever possible the submission of a written intent to minimise waste created, the segregation of recyclable elements for waste created during the building process and how the recycling of such waste will be undertaken.

Strategic Objective 11

Strategic Objective 12

Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Policy SP7

7.66 Southend has a rich and diverse range of heritage assets that draw links with the past, help us to understand historic patterns of development, contribute to local character and distinctiveness, and help to create a sense of place. This policy sets out the approach to managing and celebrating the historic environment in Southend.

7.67 A heritage asset can be a building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance that merits consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. Heritage assets can be designated or non-designated. Designated heritage assets include those that are designated under relevant legislation, such as a Scheduled Monument, Listed Building, or Conservation Area. Non-designated heritage assets include those that are identified by the Local Planning Authority, which include for Southend: Locally Listed Buildings, Frontages of Townscape Merit, and non-designated sites of archaeological importance. See Table DM7.6 for an overview of the categories of heritage assets in Southend.

7.68 The Council will, through the planning process, consider the significance of all sites and areas identified as having heritage value and a balanced judgment will be made having regard to the scale of any harm or loss to the significance of the asset and its setting (the surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced). The significance of a heritage asset can be harmed or lost through alteration or demolition of the asset, or development within its setting. As heritage assets are irreplaceable, any development proposals affecting a heritage asset must include a Heritage Statement.

7.69 Heritage assets form an important part of Southend's identity, providing us with links to the past and the city's evolution. Designated heritage assets benefit from statutory protection, and any development proposals affecting them must have due regard to relevant legislation and national policy and guidance, in addition to the criteria set out in Policy DM7.6 and other relevant policies within this Local Plan, and its supporting evidence base. Where marketing evidence is required to clearly demonstrate that no viable use of a designated heritage asset can be found, this should be provided in accordance with Appendix 6, Part A.

7.70 In some cases, what may be considered to be the most viable use of a designated heritage asset is not the most appropriate in terms of ensuring the assets' continued conservation, and a balance may need to be struck to achieve a positive outcome that allows for the continued use of the building whilst not causing undue harm to its significance.

7.71 Non-designated heritage assets contribute significantly to Southend's historic character, as recognised locally, and this will be a material consideration for all planning applications affecting them. Where a development proposal involves more than one type of heritage asset, relevant policy criteria must be addressed accordingly.

7.72 Heritage assets of archaeological interest may be identified as part of the decision-making process when considering a development proposal for determination, for example following archaeological investigations. Although a lot of Southend has been previously developed, there are still areas of archaeological interest where there is potential for new finds. Several areas have been identified as having potential for the discovery of such assets, and this will be considered when determining development proposals in (Policy Table DM7.6a). Any additional areas that are subsequently considered to exhibit significant archaeological potential must be assessed in line with national legislation, policy and guidance and the criteria set out in Policy DM7.6.

7.73 All development proposals affecting heritage assets will be supported by an appropriate level of detail (in accordance with their significance) that includes a description of the significance of the asset and an analysis of the impact of the proposed development on the asset and its setting. Development proposals that are considered to cause substantial harm to, or loss of, designated heritage assets and where this harm is not justified, will normally be resisted. Where a development proposal is situated along the seafront, due regard should be had to Policy Table DM8.4: Seafront Character Zones.

8.1 The key issues to be addressed to ensure Southend's spatial vision is realised are:

• 9 Green Flag Parks, 4 Blue Flag beaches
• 90% of residents visit a park or green space once a week or more, and 80% of residents are satisfied with Southend's parks and open spacesSource: SCC Residents Perception Survey 2021 https://yoursay.southend.gov.uk/southend-residents-perception-survey-2021;
• Larger parks all have Green Flag awards, but quality and recreation value of parks and open spaces vary, with some parks and play spaces in need of improvement and renewal;
• The Council is embarking on a programme of play equipment improvements
• Access to local open space varies across the city and there are opportunities to improve quantity, quality and access as part of new development to expand and improve the city's 'green grid' as shown indicated on the Key Diagram;
• There are quantitative deficiencies within the City Centre and surrounding neighbourhoods, and access can be reduced by major roads or railway lines forming barriers to movement;
• Tree canopy cover varies widely across the city, and urban heat stress is becoming an increasing problem affecting residents' health and wellbeing;
• Southend experiences surface water flooding events which are worsened by the extent of impermeable surfaces;
• There are sites of international and national importance for nature along the foreshore, including Two Tree Island and Gunners Park, and at Belfairs Woods and Golf Course, while other areas in the City Centre have more limited access to nature;
• Approximately 14% of the land area within Southend is designated as Green Belt comprising of over 580 hectares.

Green Infrastructure (GI) is a network of multi-functional green and blue spaces and other natural features, urban and rural, which is capable of delivering a wide range of environmental, economic, health and wellbeing benefits for nature, climate, local and wider communities and prosperity. (National Planning Policy Framework, 2024).

Strategic Objective 17

Strategic Objective 18

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Plan, particular under the heading 'Enhancing the natural environment'.

8.1 Policy SP8 sets out the Council's strategic priorities for protecting and enhancing the green infrastructure network and Green Belt around Southend. The policy seeks to protect green and blue spaces and create multi-functional green infrastructure with spaces for nature, recreation and social interaction. Better connections between Southend's different parks and open spaces will be created to promote active travel through walking and cycling, linked to the priorities in the Local Walking and Cycling Strategy. Where there are gaps in access to green space, these are described in the relevant neighbourhood section and opportunity areas identified. Each neighbourhood contains at least one park or open space of 7 hectares or greater in area which provides a variety of facilities, often with a visitor catchment beyond the local area, for example Priory Park, Chalkwell Park or East Beach.

8.2 Blue spaces also form part of the Green Infrastructure network in Southend, which includes waterbodies, ponds, estuaries, the coast and the sea. Within Southend the seven miles of foreshore provide an important recreational resource for residents and visitors. The King Charles III England Coast Path long distance trail route extends the length of the Southend foreshore and provides access to the coast as a natural resource, as well as a national Sustrans cycle route.

8.3 Policy DM8.2 designates land within Southend as Protected Green Space as identified on the Policies Map. This designation comprises a range of different land uses and types of green space, including (list not exhaustive):

• Neighbourhood Parks – parks of at least 7 hectares in size containing facilities such as cafes, fishing lakes, play space and sports courts and toilets, serving a neighbourhood and city-wide need;
• Local Parks and amenity space – smaller parks and areas of informal green space of at least 0.4 hectares, serving a local need, often with fewer or no facilities;
• Green Corridors – active travel routes with extensive green landscaping that also act as an ecological network e.g. Prittle Brook, Victory Path;
• Natural and semi-natural green space – areas with nature conservation value.

8.4 Southend does not have any large "district natural green space" 100 hectares or greater or "sub-regional greenspace" 500 hectares or greater. However, Country Parks at Hadleigh in Castle Point Borough Council and Cherry Orchard in Rochford District Council currently provide this function for Southend residents.

8.5 A new country park to the north of Southend, and potentially extending into Rochford, is proposed as part of the SEEPark concept jointly developed by the South Essex local authorities, furthering a long-held ambition set out in the Core Strategy (2007) to create a major new green space for Southend's residents in this part of the cityhttps://www.southessex.org.uk/news/more-than-a-park-vision-for-south-essex-estuary-see-park-announced. This would better connect the urban area of Southend with the rural fringes of the Roach Estuary by linking up existing rights of way and providing greater public access to green space, forming part of the wider sub-regional SEEPark. This may also provide an opportunity for additional burial space as part of the wider green infrastructure network, to meet Southend's needs for the plan period and beyond (see Policy DM4.1).

8.6 The Local Plan Refining the Options consultation (2021) sought views on whether a number of the most significant green spaces should be designated as Local Green Space in accordance with NPPF paragraph 107, which sets the qualifying criteria. Whilst this suggestion did receive some support in the consultation, there were also indications that having a two-tier policy approach to green space would lead to confusion about the purpose and status of green spaces without the benefit of the designation. Consequently, it is not intended to take this policy approach forward in Southend's Local Plan, which will continue to apply the "Protected Green Space" designation.

8.7 Southend contains several roads with a wide grassed central reservation within the highway, including Highlands Boulevard, Southchurch Boulevard and Thorpe Hall Avenue. These often include large mature trees, and provide a valuable amenity resource for residents, making a significant contribution to the city's tree canopy. The dual function of these roads as highway and ecological resource will continue to be promoted and their strategic importance as part of the city's green grid recognised.

8.8 Some areas of existing green space have potential to be released for other land uses, ensuring that any development would secure a net gain in biodiversity and include an element of improved quality green space. These include Elm Road (reference HEA137) and George Street (reference HEA135) in Shoeburyness. These sites are set out in the relevant site allocation tables in the neighbourhood chapter 12. Where these sites are proposed for development, some public open space will form part of the overall scheme.

8.9 Overall there will be a net gain of 19 hectares of land designated as protected green space on the policies map, compared with the current adopted Local Plan.

Strategic Objective 16

8.10 The majority of open countryside and woodland surrounding Southend is designated as forming part of the wider Metropolitan Green Belt stretching north as far as the southern outskirts of the urban area of Chelmsford and westwards to the edge of London.

8.11 Land within Southend was first designated as forming part of the Metropolitan Green Belt in the early 1980's as part of the Essex County Council Interim Green Belt. These principles were incorporated into the adopted Essex Structure Plan in the early 1990's and detailed boundaries delineated and established in the adopted Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan (March 1994). The Green Belt designation has checked the unrestricted growth of London and prevented the coalescence of towns and cities in South Essex.

8.12 The Government attaches great importance to Green Belts. The fundamental aim of Green Belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open, the essential characteristics of Green Belts are their openness and their permanence (NPPF paragraph 142). The Green Belt serves five purposes:

a) to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;

b) to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;

c) to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;

d) to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and

e) to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land (NPPF paragraph 143).

Western periphery of city

• land at Belton Hills/Two Tree Island west of Leigh on Sea;
• land west of Tattersall Gardens, Leigh on Sea;
• land at Belfairs Woods;

Northern periphery of city

• land at Green Lane, Eastwood;
• land at Warners Park;
• land north of Eastern Avenue;
• land to the north of Southend (Royal Artillery Way/Bournes Green Chase); and
• land at Friars Park, Shoeburyness.

8.14 These areas of green belt are predominantly small parcels of land and/or land protected by nature conservation designations. The exception is an extensive area of land to the north of Southend (Royal Artillery Way/Bournes Green Chase) which is predominantly in agricultural use. This area has been the subject of representations from landowners and agents as part of the preparation of the Southend New Local Plan who are seeking to develop the land to provide a new neighbourhood to the north of Southend with a mix of uses, including housing and associated services, transport connections, infrastructure and new parkland. This could potentially incorporate additional green belt land to the north of the site situated within the neighbouring Rochford District to create a large development. If the option of a new neighbourhood was taken forward in the next stage of the Local Plan, then this would result in the de-designation of Green Belt in this area (Please provide comments concerning this within section 3b).

8.15 The other exception is a small pocket of land north of Eastern Avenue (17.2 hectares) that is identified in the Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan (1994) as being designated as Green Belt but which is separated from the wider Metropolitan Green Belt by other designated land allocations .This isolated tract of green belt land is as a result of a legal challenge to the Borough Local Plan in the mid 1990's in relation to land at Fossetts Farm on the northern periphery of the city. The Borough Local Plan originally designated land at Fossetts Farm and Eastern Avenue as forming part of the wider Metropolitan Green Belt. However, following the submission of a legal challenge by the landowner, the proposed land designations at Fossetts Farm were quashed in the High Court.

8.16 As a result, Southend on Sea Borough Council sought to re-establish the Council's original intention to designate the land at Fossetts Farm as forming part of the wider Metropolitan Green Belt in the publication of the 'Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan Second Alteration'. However, following a public inquiry, the Inspector recommended that land at Fossetts Farm should be designated as 'Safeguarded Land' outside the green belt for future development needs. The Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan Second Alteration was adopted in 1997 and in accordance with the Inspectors recommendations, land at Fossetts Farm was designated as 'Safeguarded Land'. This situation resulted in a small parcel of land to the south of Fossetts Farm and north of Eastern Avenue, identified as green belt land in the original Southend on Sea Borough Local Plan, being isolated from the wider Metropolitan Green Belt.

8.17 Given the isolation of land north of Eastern Avenue from the wider Metropolitan Green Belt, not surprisingly the green belt studyRochford District and Southend on Sea Joint Green Belt Study, LUC, London, February 2020 identified that the land made a weak contribution to the stated purposes of the green belt. To rectify this anomaly, it is proposed to delete the current isolated green belt designation at Eastern Avenue from the emerging Southend New Local Plan. There are also a small number of very minor amendments to the Green Belt boundary to take account of identified anomalies.

Strategic Objective 16

Strategic Objective 17

8.19 The NPPF recognises the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services and the importance of green infrastructure in achieving sustainable development and influencing determinants of health and wellbeing. Green infrastructureThe definition of Green Infrastructure includes blue infrastructure including the sea, rivers and lakes. (GI) provides a range of environmental, social and economic benefits. Provision of accessible green infrastructure including amenity and play space, 'play on the way' spaces that provide informal opportunities for play on green routes, local growing sites and safe routes for walking and cycling can encourage regular physical activity, improve community cohesion and mental health and wellbeing.

8.20 The city's GI network also plays a vital role in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Open space, trees, soft landscaping such as green walls and roofs, and water features can reduce the urban heat island effect making the built environment more comfortable during the summer months. It also provides shade, reduces air pollution and allows surface water and carbon to be stored increasing biodiversity and contributing to making places more attractive for visitors and investors.

8.21 Policy DM8.2 requires development proposals to protect existing green infrastructure, including public open space and address quantitative and qualitative deficiencies where development opportunities arise. The key areas of focus for new and enhanced green infrastructure are the City Centre and adjacent neighbourhoods, which lack sufficient local green space within walking distance of homesSouthend and Rochford Settlement Role and Hierarchy Study 2020 Southend Central Area Profile, and the opportunity for a new country park. This would be a landscape-scale green space created to serve new and existing residents.

8.22 Major development proposals should include a Green Infrastructure plan (which may be part of a Design and Access Statement) setting out how the development will deliver the GI policies, proposals and development requirements in development plan policies and local design codes. GI delivered in major developments should be managed, maintained, and monitored for a minimum of 30 years. Green Infrastructure elements of proposals should be multi-functional, for example providing public open space while meeting requirements for sustainable urban drainage and urban greening factor, providing co-benefits for people and for nature.

8.23 The Council will continue to invest in quality improvements to the main public parks and open spaces and seek to provide additional green infrastructure where resources are available, including through external funding and partnership with other public and private bodies. Priorities for GI investment will be set out in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan.

8.24 Relevant developments will be required to meet the statutory 10% biodiversity net gain (see Policy DM8.5).

Strategic Objective 16

Strategic Objective 17

8.25 The Urban Greening Factor is a tool that evaluates the quantity and quality of urban greening provided by a development proposal. It aims to accelerate the greening of urban areas and results in well planned and high-quality interventions that add to a multi-functional green infrastructure network.

8.26 The central area of Southend, including the City Centre and Central Seafront will be the continued focus for civic, cultural and commercial activity, where a substantial proportion of planned residential growth in Southend to 2040 is expected to come forward. Aside from one or two notable examples such as Warrior Square and Prittlewell Square, the High Street and its environs is severely lacking in green infrastructure, and previous public engagement has confirmed that residents strongly support the need for urban greening to enhance the character of the City Centre and make it a more attractive and welcoming place.

8.27 Urban greening can also provide climate change resilience. The Southend Heat Stress Strategy (2022) found that parts of Southend, including the City Centre and adjacent neighbourhoods lack green and blue infrastructure, which results in a higher average day and nighttime temperatures. This can contribute to increased levels of surface water run-off, causing localised surface water flooding issues, and higher temperatures are a risk factor for the health of vulnerable residents, including children and older people.

8.28 Southend is a densely developed area with limited opportunities for new green space. However, there will be opportunities to create green space where new development is proposed, including enhanced public realm, as well as improving connections between green spaces through soft landscaping, tree planting, green roofs and walls, and better signage and way finding. Such small interventions can make a significant impact as part of the wider network and can also provide a means of enhancing biodiversity on urban and brownfield sites.

8.29 Policy DM8.3requires major developments to demonstrate how they have integrated urban greening into their proposals. The aim is to secure a measurable increase in green and blue infrastructure. Increasing the amount of permeable surface will aid surface water run-off, and reduce heat stress, as well as creating a more attractive place, with benefits for the environment, local residents, and local businesses.

8.30 The Urban Greening Factor (UGF) is a tool to evaluate the quantity and quality of urban greening and compares the amount of greening proposed against a target score. The Surface Cover Types and Factor Scores are set out in Appendix 9.

8.31 Different types of greening measures are categorised by surface types with a factor score assigned to reflect their relative quality. The UGF assigns a factor score to each surface type as a proxy for naturalness and functionality. Better quality surface types can achieve a higher UGF score without increasing the overall footprint of greening. As Southend has an urban character, a score of 0.4 for predominantly residential development, and 0.3 for predominantly commercial development is considered appropriate. This approach has been endorsed by Natural England, and the surface cover types are consistent with Natural England proposed weightingshttps://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5846537451339776. For mixed-use developments the land use class with the largest square meterage surface area can be used to determine the target score and if necessary, advice can be sought from the local planning authority.

8.32 A review of major developments granted planning permission indicates that a measurable increase in urban greening would be technically feasible with only minor adjustments to scheme design. The Urban Greening Factor tool can be used to inform pre-application discussions and highlight opportunities to increase green and blue infrastructure as an integral part of the proposals, providing wider environmental, social and economic benefits.

Strategic Objective 7

Strategic Objective 10

Strategic Objective 15

Strategic Objective 18

8.34 Southend's residents benefit from their close relationship with the River Thames, and the seafront is a major tourism and leisure resource. The offer ranges from informal recreation along an extensive promenade, to major tourism attractions within the Central Seafront area, including the Grade II listed Pier, theme park, arcades, and cafes, while water sport activities are present along the length of the foreshore. The entire foreshore is also important as a habitat for bird species, with five internationally designated sites for nature conservation covering the intertidal part of the Thames Estuary. These sites support a wide range of bird species, providing overwintering feeding grounds.

8.35 As such, the complex range of activities taking place within and adjacent to the foreshore must be considered in a holistic manner to ensure that environmental and heritage assets are protected without adverse impact on their purpose and integrity.

8.36 By 2050 there is likely to be 59% more winter rainfall and once a century sea level events could become annual events by 2100.Thames Estuary 2100 (TE2100) - GOV.UK Significant lengths of the seafront and adjacent homes and business premises are protected from tidal flooding by sea defences. The Central Seafront area in particular includes areas at higher risk of surface water flooding when periods of heavy rainfall coincide with high tides and where gravity discharge to tide via drainage outfalls is constrained or tide-locked. The 'riverside strategy' approach advocated by the Environment Agency aims for upgrades of coastal defences to be integrated into wider development and enhancement of the riverside.

8.37 The National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England (2020)https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management-strategy-for-england--2 aims to better manage the risks and consequences of flooding from rivers, the sea, groundwater, reservoirs, ordinary watercourses, surface water and sewers and coastal erosion and making greater use of nature-based solutions that take a catchment-based approach to both floods and droughts. The Southend-on-Sea Shoreline Management Plan (2019) provides a strategy for the next 100 years, to maximise the reduction of coastal flood and erosion risk to properties and infrastructure at significant or very significant risk of flooding as a result of climate change, in support of the Essex and Suffolk Shoreline Management Plan (2010) and Thames Estuary 2100 Plan (TE2100) (2012) and subsequent reviews.

8.38 The c2c line runs between Hadleigh and Leigh through Hadleigh Marshes, through an area at risk of tidal flooding. The TE2100 Plan's preferred tidal flood risk management policy for the Hadleigh Marshes policy unit is to maintain flood defences at their current level, accepting that the flood risk will increase. The Council will seek to ensure, in collaboration with Network Rail, railway operators (currently C2C), the Environment Agency and other partners, the continued resilience of this vital transport route during the plan period and beyond, taking into account the long-term impacts of climate change. The TE2100 Plan's preferred tidal flood risk management policy for the Leigh Old Town to Southend-on-Sea policy unit is to take further action to keep up with climate and land use change so that flood risk does not increase. Southend-on-Sea City Council will work with the Environment Agency and other partners to implement the capital works required.

8.39 The Council is not responsible for planning beyond the coastal mean low water mark. However, all developments providing sea-based activities (such as jet skiing, surfing, or boat facilities) or with a potential impact on the marine environment, including above mean high-water springs should take account of the South East Marine Plan, in line with the principles of integrated coastal zone management.South East Inshore Marine Plan (June 2021) https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/60f6f6dde90e0764ccfbd836/FINAL_South_East_Marine_Plan__1_.pdf

8.40 Water recreation has increased in popularity in Southend, particularly since the covid-19 pandemic, and the Estuary is used by local groups and individuals and visitors for a variety of water sports all year round, including yachting, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, and jet-skis. There is also a segregated cycle path along most of the seafront (with shared space in some of the busiest sections), and the England Coast Path, a signed walking route along the foreshore providing almost continuous public access along the coastline.

8.41 The historic environment plays an important role in the development and continued success of Southend as a coastal destination, beginning with the establishment of Royal Terrace in the Georgian period, and improved access by rail for day trips during the 19^th Century to visit the seafront, amusements, and the Grade II listed Pier. There are several Conservation Areas (CAs) adjacent to the 7-mile length of the seafront from the working port at Leigh Old Town CA to the former military Shoebury Garrison CA, each with their own unique character.

8.42 The continued regeneration and sustainable development of Southend's foreshore is a key objective of the Local Plan (Strategic Objective 10), including making more effective connections between Southend High Street and the seafront. The Council's tourism and cultural strategies also seek to promote other parts of the seafront, including East Beach and Old Leigh as visitor destinations, as well as the Central Seafront area. Leigh Port is an active fishing port and centre for maritime activities, and supports the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors. It remains an ambition to enhance the condition of the Cinder Path between Old Leigh and Chalkwell Station, part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network and more recently the England Coast Path, as a route for pedestrians and cyclists (see also Policy N2: Leigh Neighbourhood).

8.43 The cumulative (or "in combination") impact of growth is being addressed through the Essex Coast RAMS partnership, to alleviate pressure on designated habitats. New housing in the area is likely to increase the level of disturbance because of the additional visitor pressure on coastal sites. Developers will therefore need to pay a tariff if their new development is within a 'Zone of Influence' around a designated site. The Essex Coast RAMS Supplementary Planning Documentwww.southend.gov.uk/local-planning-framework/essex-coast-rams sets out the justification for the tariff and the range of mitigation measures that will be taken.

8.44 Some housing schemes, particularly those which are large in scale or located close to a designated Habitats site boundary, may need to provide extra bespoke mitigation. The local planning authority, with advice from Natural England, will consider the mitigation requirements for such development proposals on a case-by-case basis.

8.45 Proposals that may affect the foreshore area should be in accordance with the provisions of Policy DM8.4, taking account of the complex range of factors affecting the coastline and its use.

8.46 The TE2100 Planwww.gov.uk/government/collections/thames-estuary-2100-te2100 advocates a 'Riverside Strategy' approach which emphasises the importance of partnership working on development and coastal management, to achieve multiple benefits for the environment and for people. This is particularly important in Southend where an appropriate balance must be struck between protecting environmental assets and achieving coastal resilience, and the tourism role of the coast as an economic driver. The Riverside Strategy will be produced for Southend in support of Policy DM8.3 which will provide clear guidance for any development affecting the Foreshore. Development proposals within areas at risk of flooding must take account of the most up to date Strategic Flood Risk Assessment with reference to Policy DM9.4.

8.47 The historic character of the seafront will be conserved and enhanced. New development should be appropriate to local character and context, in accordance with the seafront character zones set out in Policy Table DM8.4 (and as defined on the Policies Map).

8.48 Applications where RAMS applies will be refused if a RAMS mitigation payment has not been paid or secured as part of a legal agreement. Applicants can also provide mitigation themselves, but they will need to show the Council and Natural England that their proposed measures will fully safeguard the habitat from the impact of their development.

Strategic Objective 4

Strategic Objective 16

Strategic Objective 17

8.49 The UK has lost almost half its biodiversity since the 1970s,www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/news/2019/october/the-state-of-nature-41-percent-of-the-uks-species-have-declined.html and sits near the bottom of the Biodiversity Intactness Index. It is the lowest of any G7 nationwww.nhm.ac.uk/discover/news/2020/september/uk-has-led-the-world-in-destroying-the-natural-environment.html and in the bottom 10% of all countries globally, with only 50.3% of its biodiversity remaining. Southend is densely urbanised, and land and buildings make up approximately 42% of the entire city (this includes private gardens and the intertidal area). Quantitative evidence about loss of natural habitat in Essex is hindered by a lack of systematic data collectionEssex Biodiversity Net Gain – Evidence for Need (ECC Place Services) (2024).

8.50 The Environment Act (2021) introduced a mandatory requirement for at least 10% biodiversity net gain (BNG) to be achieved for qualifying developments which require planning permission. BNG aims to create new habitat as well as enhancing existing habitat where new development occurs, to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before the development took place. It can help mitigate climate change using "nature-based solutionsNature Based Solutions can include protection, restoration or management of natural and semi-natural ecosystems and the integration of nature in and around cities. www.naturebasedsolutionsinitiative.org/what-are-nature-based-solutions" to address wider environmental problems such as flooding, water quality and reducing carbon emissions, and achieve greater resilience to extremes of weather including heatwaves and flooding. Increased biodiversity can also contribute towards place-making, creating greener neighbourhoods that are more attractive to live, work and do business and enhance health and wellbeing.

8.51 Biodiversity net gain will support the delivery of the Essex Local Nature Recovery StrategyDraft Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy, contributing to the formation of the England-wide Nature Recovery Network, a national network of wildlife rich places to increase and restore nature. Southend's Biodiversity Action Plan 2013www.southend.gov.uk/downloads/file/3557/local-biodiversity-action-plan-report-2013 identifies the priority species and habitats for protection and enhancement.

8.52 In England, biodiversity net gain is required under a statutory framework.www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/30/schedule/14/enacted Qualifying developments will be deemed to have been granted planning permission subject to the condition that the biodiversity gain objective is met ("the biodiversity net gain condition"). Some exceptions apply, including for householder development, permitted development and self-build/custom build. Applicants are advised to check the Planning Practice Guidancewww.gov.uk/guidance/biodiversity-net-gain for more information.

8.53 The focus for biodiversity gains in Southend is to protect and enhance the city's existing green infrastructure network and create opportunities to better connect individual parks and open spaces with green corridors to create an enhanced biodiversity network.

8.54 To achieve biodiversity net gain, applicants are expected to:

• Use the latest available DEFRA Biodiversity MetricBiodiversity Metric www.gov.uk/guidance/biodiversity-metric-calculate-the-biodiversity-net-gain-of-a-project-or-development to assess the biodiversity value of the site, and identify relevant assets;
• Determine the impact of development options on the biodiversity value of the site, using the Mitigation Hierarchy;
• Establish a design solution that delivers the greatest biodiversity net gain and enhances the ecological network;
• Submit detailed solutions that demonstrate how Biodiversity Net Gain would be delivered.

8.55 The requirements for biodiversity net gain will apply to development projects, or components of projects, as far as the low-water mark, including the intertidal zone. Projects, or components of projects, in the marine environment beyond the intertidal zone are not included within the scope of the mandatory requirements for biodiversity net gain. Protected species, protected sites and irreplaceable habitats will be dealt with in accordance with relevant legislation and licensing regimes, but they must also be taken into account as part of wider biodiversity considerations. The mandatory biodiversity net gain process is additional to existing requirements for Environmental Impact Assessment, Strategic Environmental Assessment, and Habitat Regulations Assessment. There are opportunities to align reporting so that efforts are not duplicated.

8.56 The biodiversity gain condition is a pre-commencement condition: once planning permission has been granted, a biodiversity gain plan must be submitted and approved by the Council before commencement of development. Submission of a draft biodiversity gain plan with the planning application, whilst not legally required, will assist in demonstrating prior to consent where and how the measures will be implemented and secured. The biodiversity gain plan must include the minimum national information requirementsPlanning Practice Guidance, Biodiversity Net Gain (paragraph 011) www.gov.uk/guidance/biodiversity-net-gain#para11.

8.57 When evaluating biodiversity gain plans the Council will be seeking to ensure that proposals have applied the Mitigation Hierarchy and provides good outcomes for nature, not just achievement of the percentage BNG. Proposals will also need to demonstrate that they provide a long-term benefit to biodiversity that is compatible with other site uses such as recreational space or sports pitches. Proposals should be informed by the Essex Local Nature Recovery Strategy and any Southend specific biodiversity evidence.

8.58 Where off-site habitat measures are required, applicants must provide UK habitat assessment surveys to agree a baseline metric of the existing offsite habitats, conform to BNG CIEEM/IEMA/CIRIA- Good Practice Principles for Development and seek to deliver strategic BNG as close as feasible to the impacts of the development. The Defra Biodiversity Metric trading rules should also be observed.

Strategic Objective 17

8.60 Individual trees form a network that makes an essential and positive contribution to the city's green infrastructure. There are approximately 30,000 trees within the Council's highways, parks and gardens, and more are located on private land including residential gardens. In October 2019 the canopy cover of the entire city was measured at 12%, below the UK average of 17% and slightly lower than the average canopy cover of coastal towns at 13.7%. The Woodland Trust also provide a Tree Equity Score UK Map which takes into account a range of six equally weighted climate, health and socio-economic variables to identify priorities for tree planting to contribute towards achieving Tree Equity.

8.61 Tree coverage varies significantly across the city, from a high of 23.3% in Belfairs Ward, to just 8.5% in Westborough Ward. This reflects the extensive woodland in Belfairs Woods and Golf Course compared with the very urban nature of wards such as Westborough where hard surfaces are the predominant ground material (see Figure DM8.6).

8.62 Trees provide significant benefits for our physical and mental health and wellbeing by providing a sense of place and access to nature, for biodiversity, provision of shade and cooling, and help to alleviate surface water flooding by offsetting heavy rainfall.

8.63 The Council's Tree Policy sets a target to increase the tree canopy in the city from 12% to 15% by 2030. This is equivalent to a 20% increase in tree canopy cover in Southend and would cover an area the size of 150 football pitches. It is an ambitious target for the city which will be achieved by the Council acting in partnership with local businesses, community groups and residents.

8.64 Many of the existing stock of trees within the city were planted during the peak growth of the settlement, from the late 19^th century to the post war growth of the 1950s. Careful management of the existing stock and careful selection of appropriate species for each location will be necessary to achieve the desired increase in canopy cover.

8.65 Policy DM8.6 seeks to protect the existing stock of trees within the city and increase the tree canopy cover as opportunities arise through new developments. Developers should set out proposals to plan, plant, and manage trees within new developments, and agree how they will be funded, including through developer contributions and other mechanisms such as Biodiversity Net Gain.

8.66 Existing trees on site should be protected and retained wherever possible, with any losses compensated using the CAVATwww.ltoa.org.uk/resources/cavat methodology. This provides a capital asset value for amenity trees which reflects their value as essential natural capital. Of particular note for the Southend context, the CAVAT methodology (amongst several other factors) assigns a greater weighting to trees within areas of greater population density, reflecting the size of the community that experiences benefits provided by the tree.

8.67 Trees may also be subject to a Tree Preservation Order and/ or be located within a Conservation Areawww.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas which means that consent is usually required for works to such trees (including cutting down, topping, lopping or uprooting). Advice should be sought from the local planning authority to establish if consent is required. When granting planning permission, the Council may also where appropriate, use planning conditions to provide for tree retention and planting.

8.68 New streets should be tree lined, in accordance with the expectations of the NPPF. Major residential and non-residential development should be designed to contribute towards the tree canopy cover target.

8.69 The right tree should be planted in the right place. Where trees are proposed to be planted as part of a development proposal, advice should be sought from the Council's arboriculture officer to ensure that the species is appropriate for the site character and condition and taking account of future maintenance requirements, for example, tree age, height and root spread of future trees, and soil type. The impact of climate change on average temperatures and rainfall levels in the future will also inform the selection of tree species.

8.70 There are constraints to tree planting within built up areas, including underground services. Within new highway schemes or other hard landscaping projects, special planting techniques which allow adequate soil volume to be available and avoid tree roots damaging the hard surface should be used. http://www.tdag.org.uk/trees-in-hard-landscapes.html

8.71 Additional planting should be included wherever opportunities arise, using creative solutions including the provision of planters, green roofs and walls, rain gardens and other sustainable drainage measures as appropriate.

9.1 Human induced climate change over the last century has caused widespread adverse impacts to nature and people, beyond natural climate variability, and there is high confidence that beyond 2040, climate change will lead to numerous risks to human and natural systemsIPCC, Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation, Vulnerability www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/.

The key issues to be addressed over the plan period and beyond are:

• Coastal, river and surface water flooding from high rainfall and rising sea levels will require a whole catchment approach to flood risk management;
• Continuing sea level rise is expected to require maintenance and renewal of coastal defences;
• Extreme rainfall events may lead to a reduction in water quality through release of pollutants;
• A growing population increases demand for water supply within an area of high water stress and water scarcity;
• Rising temperatures will increase heat stress particularly within high density areas lacking green infrastructure, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups such as older people, and low-income households;
• Existing homes, non-domestic buildings and private transport are the primary sources of carbon emissions generated in SouthendCarbon emissions in Southend https://democracy.southend.gov.uk/documents/s54687/Report%20of%20Exec%20Director%20Neighbourhoods%20and%20Envt.pdf;
• Most of Southend is already built up so retaining the embodied carbon in existing buildings and re-using construction and demolition materials will reduce levels of waste and generate fewer additional carbon emissions from construction;In a Circular Economy, products and materials are kept in circulation, for example through processes such as maintenance, reuse, refurbishment, remanufacture, recycling and composting.
• Limited capacity for large scale wind or solar power generation, due to the densely built-up character of the city, and the environmental designations along the foreshore which protect internationally important bird species;
• Emissions from petrol and diesel vehicles impact on local air quality, particularly within the two air quality management areas.

Strategic Objective 10

Strategic Objective 15

Strategic Objective 18

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Planhttps://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents, particular under the heading 'Planning for climate change'.

9.2 Planning must ensure that the development and use of land contributes to the mitigation and adaptation to climate change. Climate resilient development can significantly increase the adaptive capacity of places, providing multiple co-benefits for health and wellbeing and ecosystem services, such as reducing obesity, asthma and premature deaths due to pollution, protection of wildlife and enhancement of existing blue and green infrastructure assets. It also has benefits for the economy and social inclusion, such as security of energy supply through increased energy diversity, reduced fuel cost and employment possibilities.

9.3 Southend-on-Sea City Corporate Plan 2024-2028 highlights some of the environmental challenges Southend faces in the future, including an ageing built environment; environmental instability; the poor quality of our air; and risks of natural flooding and coastal erosion. The Plan's outcomes include to "build a resilient city to tackle effects of climate change." The Council will work with partners to improve water quality and make Southend a national exemplar for flood and coastal erosion risk management.

9.4 Southend needs to be able to adapt to a changing climate in the following ways:

• Our infrastructure will need to be maintained and renewed, and built to higher specifications where appropriate such as raising sea defences;
• Taking into account climate change projections for sea level rises and increased rainfall, we will need to review our flood zone mapping to ensure new development, particularly housing and other vulnerable uses (e.g. healthcare) that have to be located in areas of flood risk is resilient for the long term
• Increasing green and blue infrastructure coverage in areas of heat stress to reduce day and night ambient temperatures and health impacts on vulnerable groups;
• Supporting nature, creating resilient local habitats for our native species and supporting woodland creation and management for carbon sequestration;
• Creating new energy efficient and adaptable buildings for the 21^st century by minimising carbon emissions and addressing the retrofitting challenge;
• Decarbonising the transport network and providing more opportunities for active travel;
• Reducing carbon emissions from waste and energy networks.

Strategic Objective 15

9.5 Essex is already classified as a seriously water-stressed areawww.gov.uk/government/publications/water-stressed-areas-2021-classification, and existing water resources need to be managed carefully. Essex is one of the driest places in the country, and by 2050, Essex may have a water shortage of almost 150 million litres every day, with climate change and population growth exacerbating water shortages, and impacts on the environment.

9.6 Looking ahead, our winters will continue to be a lot wetter and summers a lot drier. The Essex Water Strategywww.essex.gov.uk/news/2024/new-water-strategy-essex identifies three main ways to address the projected shortfall in water supply: reducing demand for water, changing land use for water, and developing new sources of water supply. Southend does not have the land resource to influence additional water supply, but through the Local Plan developments can make more space for water through nature-based solutions to sustainable drainage (Policy DM9.4) and urban greening measures (Policy DM9.3), and new developments can include water efficiency measures to reduce demand for mains water and increase domestic waste water recycling.

9.7 The average number of litres used daily per person in Essex households is 152.3 litres. Part G of the Building Regulationshttps://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a80092540f0b623026911f3/BR_PDF_AD_G_2015_with_2016_amendments.pdf allows for local authorities to adopt an optional higher water efficiency standard per household of 110 litres per day in new dwellings, within in areas of high water stress. Southend adopted the optional higher standard of water efficiency in the Development Management DPD (2015), and this is being implemented in new developments. Policy DM9.1 requires residential development to incorporate water efficiency measures that limit internal water consumption per household to 110 litres per day (including external water consumption), maintaining the existing policy requirement.

9.8 The Planning and Energy Act 2008 specifically allows the setting of energy efficiency standards that exceed the energy requirements of Building Regulations. Requirements should be 'reasonable'.

9.9 Approximately 90% of existing housing in Southend (and at least 30% of Council stock) is below Energy Performance Rating (EPC) C. To meet the government's net zero target by 2050, these properties will need some form of retrofitting to increase their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from this sector. This means that new build homes should be as energy efficient as possible, avoiding expensive retrofitting once properties are built, and providing savings on heating bills for future residents.

9.10 The government is proposing to update Part L of the Building Regulations to achieve more energy efficient homes, to be known as the Future Homes and Buildings Standard (FHS). Its aim is to ensure that new homes built from 2025 will produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than homes built under the current Building Regulations. The government consulted on two options for implementing the FHS in December 2023The Future Homes and Building Standards: 2023 consultation www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation and the new standard is intended to come into force from 2025.

9.11 The Essex Climate Action Commission commissioned evidence on behalf of all the Greater Essex local authorities to demonstrate that building to net zero in operation would be technically feasibleEssex Net Zero Policy Study www.essexdesignguide.co.uk/climate-change/essex-net-zero-policy-study/, financially viableNet Zero Carbon Viability and Toolkit Study, Essex Design Guide www.essexdesignguide.co.uk/climate-change/essex-net-zero-evidence/net-zero-carbon-viability-and-toolkit-study/ and legally justifiedEssex Open Legal Advice Energy Policy & Building Regulations, Essex Design Guide www.essexdesignguide.co.uk/climate-change/essex-open-legal-advice/essex-open-legal-advice-energy-policy-and-building-regulations/. A proposed "Local Standard" would use an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) metric that would measure the expected and actual 'in-use' energy efficiency of the actual buildings proposed, with a focus on fabric first to ensure the buildings are as energy efficient as possible, for example in their orientation, design, and building materials used. This option would go beyond current building regulations.

9.12 By contrast, the FHS would be based on a target carbon emission rate (TER) which describes a typical property e.g. 3 bedroom semi-detached, rather than the projected and actual energy efficiency savings that could be achieved on a particular site.

9.13 The recommended policy requirements for the Essex 'local standard' are set out in Table DM9.1a below.

9.14 Southend Core Strategy Policy KP2 promotes on-site energy generation, with at least 10% coming from renewable options and/or decentralised renewable or low carbon sources. Both policy options will require a significant uplift in use of renewable energy generation on development sites to achieve new low or zero carbon homes.

• Policy Option 1 – "Future Homes and Buildings Standard (FHS)" – The notional property based on the TER incorporates renewable energy generation including a heat pump rather than a gas boiler, and photovoltaic (solar) panels are included on low and mid-rise homes but not on blocks of flats of over 15 storeys https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/657733b8095987001295de11/The_notional_buildings_for_dwellings_2025_consultation_only.pdf.
• Policy Option 2 "Local Standard" – includes a specific requirement for on-site renewable energy as set out in Table DM9.1a, based on the predicted annual energy use of the building/s. A typical property would incorporate a heat pump and probably some solar panels to provide on-site renewable energy. Where 100% on-site renewable energy generation cannot be achieved, a contribution would be expected to off-set the remainder to a local net-zero energy fund for use in retrofitting existing public housing stock and other community assets.

9.15 The "Local Standard" is intended to be taken forward by individual Essex local authorities as they review their local plans, providing a consistent policy approach and more certainty for developers in relation to the standards expected in new developments.

9.16 The Essex wide evidence indicates that it is technically feasible for a building to generate sufficient renewable energy to match or exceed its predicted annual total energy use, and in most cases across Essex financially viable for most larger brownfield sites.

9.17 The carbon emissions used to extract and transport raw materials, and the manufacturing of those materials are also known as embodied carbon. In a circular economywww.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview, products and materials are kept in circulation through processes like maintenance, reuse, refurbishment, remanufacturing, recycling and composting. A circular economy could reduce global carbon dioxide emissions from building materials by 38% in 2050, by reducing demand for steel, aluminium, cement, and plastic. Current Building Regulations do not address embodied carbon. The UK Green Building Councilhttps://ukgbc.org/our-work/topics/advancing-net-zero/embodied-carbon/ is advocating the regulation of embodied carbon in the construction process to help the industry progress toward net zero carbon goals.

9.18 The Essex Embodied Carbon Policy Studywww.essexdesignguide.co.uk/climate-change/essex-embodied-carbon-policy-study/ provides the technical evidence to support the development of a consistent planning policy approach towards reducing embodied carbon emissions from new development in Essex. The study provides technical modelling and cost analysis to support the policy recommendations, as set out in Table DM9.1b below.

Energy Efficiency

9.19 New buildings are required to comply with requirements 1 to 5 as set out in Policy DM9.1, to be demonstrated through an Energy Assessment, using the 'net zero spreadsheet' from Essex Design Guide.www.essexdesignguide.co.uk/media/2941/report-2-essex-net-zero-policy-summary-policy-evidence-and-validation-requirements-july-2023.pdf

9.20 Information should be submitted prior to occupation to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the LPA that the building or development has been built to the approved design and energy standards. Further guidance will be set out in supplementary guidance or design code.

9.21 A guide to meeting net zero specifications for six common residential typologies is available here.www.essexdesignguide.co.uk/media/2984/10560-irb-xx-xx-t-os-5101-essex-nz-specifications.pdf

9.22 Where it is not technically possible to match on-site renewable energy with annual average energy demand, off-setting may be required to enable the development to achieve policy compliance and will be secured by planning obligations.

Embodied Carbon

Strategic Objective 15

• The UK currently uses approximately three times more energy than the electricity grid can produce, the balance being met by fossil fuels such as gas.
• There is limited capacity within Southend for large scale wind or solar power generation, due to the densely built-up character of the city, and the environmental designations along the foreshore which protect internationally important bird species.
• The electricity grid in Southend is constrained, due in part (at least) to its coastal location at the very edge of the electricity grid and an increasing population will lead to increased demand for power, along with transition from gas boilers for domestic use during the plan period.
• There is limited potential for local heat networks within the existing built-up area of the city due to lack of space for heating plant or energy centreshttps://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5abccf5f40f0b6026d7ecefb/HNIP_What_is_a_heat_network.pdf
• Micro-generationMicrogeneration of renewable energy is often permitted development and therefore may not require planning permission, although it is advisable to check before installing anything. within individual development sites, including solar panels, and air or ground source heat pumps could make a significant contribution to renewable energy generation within Southend.
• Local or community energy (battery) storage can help to ensure local energy resilience and harness local renewable energy generation.

Zero carbon developments achieve no net emissions by reducing carbon emissions by on-site, inclusion of renewable energy generation and balancing any imports with exports to the National Grid to achieve a zero balance. Low carbon developments are similar but generally achieve at least a 50% reduction in the energy use of new buildings. Making more effective use of energy resources including the potential for renewable energy generation on site is a high priority for Southend in order to transition away from fossil fuels and towards zero carbon.

9.24 Compared to the national average Southend benefits from a higher-than-average amount of sunlightwww.utilitybidder.co.uk/blog/solar-sunlight-index/ with solar power providing a good option to harness this. Community batteries are increasingly being seen as a way of harnessing local renewable energy generation from solar and micro-wind turbines and enabling the sharing of more solar within the local area, including to households without solar, and help to overcome a lack of local network capacity. Local battery storage can help to regulate voltage on the network and improve network quality and resilience and enable carbon emission reductions by storing renewable energy and making it available at times of peak demand, reducing the reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

9.25 The REMeDY projectDeveloped with Innovate UK REMeDY Project (netzeroremedy.uk) developed by Southend-on-Sea City Council's climate team and partners, promotes the use of communal heat networks, a mix of communal solar panels and battery storage and potentially communal wind, to deliver low carbon heat and power. This approach is best suited to denser new build, flatted residential developments, where space is limited for heat pumps. It identifies local heat network priority areas in the City Centre and Westcliff.

9.26 Nearly a fifth of carbon emissions in the city are from transport (industries and households)Southend Council - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure for new development Supplementary Planning Document (2021), and action to help address carbon emissions arising from the use of petrol and diesel vehicles is expected to have positive local effects; supporting the use of electric vehicles is a key part of this. There are already a number of charging points for electric vehicles across the city, available for the general public to use for a fee. However, with the number of electric vehicles increasing, and in the context of the UK's net zero emissions targets, there is opportunity to enhance the provision of electric vehicle charging across Southend, and public charging points will be encouraged in appropriate locations, such as City, District, Neighbourhood and Local Centres, and where they serve a local need.

9.27 The Council will work in partnership with energy service companies, property owners and other partners with the objective of delivering decentralised and low carbon energy within the city where possible. Community projects to increase local energy resilience will be encouraged.

9.28 Where development takes place on greenfield sites, and at scale, there will be much greater opportunity for on-site renewable energy generation and supply, and applications will be required to demonstrate that this has been considered as an integral part of the development.

9.29 Developments of 50 or more residential dwellings will be expected to demonstrate that they have explored the potential benefits of delivering heat through an energy masterplan. Being able to connect to a heat network at a future date means that the development would be optimally designed to connect to a district energy network upon construction or at some point afterwards.

9.30 Since 2021 Southend has applied its Supplementary Planning GuidanceSouthend Council - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure for new development Supplementary Planning Document (2021) to achieve provision of electric vehicle charging spaces in new residential and commercial development. This has succeeded in increasing the amount of charging spaces in the city, and the requirement has been incorporated into Policy DM9.2.

Strategic Objective 15

9.32 Contaminated land has the potential to pose a risk to the environment or to people. The urban nature of Southend means that most development will be built on previously developed (or brownfield) land. Some brownfield land may have previously been in industrial or commercial use and therefore potentially affected by contamination, requiring where appropriate further investigation as to the existence, nature and extent of any contamination. Redeveloping contaminated land does however provide opportunities for remediation to negate any threats to human health and the environment.

9.33 There has been a history of movement of the cliffs along the Thames Estuary frontage, which are often steeper than the natural stable gradient for the materials of which they are composed. This has ranged from small scale slumping to major rotational and transitional movements, such as that in the vicinity of Prittlewell Gardens in 2002 which led to the relocation of the Southend Bandstand from its cliff top location to Priory Park. The cliffs, if not maintained, over a significant period of time, are likely to naturally degrade to a stable profile which would continue to slump and move northwards. This would have a significant and detrimental effect on the built environment, and thus measures are required to prevent and/ or reduce the movement, or where possible accommodate it.

9.34 Pollutants from road transport, industry and burning wood and coal in domestic open fires and stoves can affect air quality through emissions released into the air and can constitute a major public health risk. There is also often a strong correlation between poor air quality and less affluent areas.https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/reports/cat09/0701110944_AQinequalitiesFNL_AEAT_0506.pdf

9.35 Levels of air pollution along the A127 road corridor are a particular concern and have led to the designation of two Air Quality Management Areas at the Bell junction and Victoria Avenue/East Street junction, where action to reduce transport related emissions is being focussed. The potential impacts of major developments on air quality, and developments within AQMAs, should therefore be properly assessed and mitigation provided where appropriate.

9.36 The Water Framework Directive Regulations 2017 provide a framework for managing the water environment in the UK, to protect and enhance water quality, both surface and ground water. Any developments with potential to affect water quality will need to demonstrate that there will be no deterioration in quality as a result of the proposals and should contribute to achieving an improvement in water quality.

9.37 In a dense urban area where land uses are changing over time and mixed uses are becoming more widespread, existing residents and businesses can be adversely affected by new development. The agent of change principle places the responsibility for mitigating noise and other nuisances on the new development. For example, where residential properties are proposed close to existing noise-generating uses such as pubs and clubs, theatres or sporting facilities, applicants will need to use sensitive design to avoid unacceptable impacts and ensure the continued success of established premises, for example by soundproofing new residential properties, or paying for soundproofing for existing noise-generating businesses. Conversely, if a new noise-generating use is proposed close to existing noise-sensitive uses, it should be designed to protect existing residents or other users from noise impacts.

9.38 Where land is redeveloped, developers and landowners must ensure it is safe for future occupiers, through effective remediation, removing the source of contamination. Proposals to redevelop sites that are potentially contaminated, or could be affected by nearby sites, will require the developer to carry out an investigation to establish the existence, nature and extent of any contaminating substances, in accordance with best practice guidance.

9.39 Where there is reason to suspect that contamination may be present, for example due to former uses of the land, and the proposed end use is vulnerable, such as homes, schools, children's play areas, or allotments, a Phase 1 Desk Study report must be submitted with the planning application. Depending on the outcome of the Phase 1 Desk Study, a Phase 2 (site investigation) report and Remediation Statement may also be required in support of the application.

9.40 A Contaminated Land Assessment must be carried out by a competent person and in accordance with the code of practice on investigation of potentially contaminated sites BS 10175:2011+A2:2017 https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/investigation-of-potentially-contaminated-sites-code-of-practice-code-of-practice. Where appropriate planning conditions will be used to require remediation works to be carried out. Potential land contamination issues should be raised at an early stage and the scope of any site investigation works should be agreed with the Local Planning Authority in writing. It is the responsibility of the developer to ensure that the land is safe for the intended use. The full implications of building on unstable land must be considered at an early stage in the development process, and appropriate mitigation measures agreed prior to a planning application submission.

9.41 Proposals within or likely to affect the two AQMAs will be required to submit an Air Quality Assessment. Proposals for major development should ensure, in consultation with Anglian Water, that there is adequate capacity in foul water infrastructure to accommodate the proposed development to prevent the deterioration in current water quality standards and thus ensure the objectives of the Water Framework Directive are not compromised.

9.42 Where the agent of change principle applies, noise and other impact assessments should be submitted where appropriate and should relate clearly to the specific local circumstances of the application site and environments, identifying all relevant noise receptors, taking into account the nature of the proposal, and considering ongoing and longer-term mitigation of noise impacts by means of a noise management plan. Where significant adverse impacts are identified as a result of the assessment, an application is likely to be refused.

Strategic Objective 10

Strategic Objective 15

Strategic Objective 18

9.43 The city has areas at risk from flooding, which lie within Flood Zones 2 and 3, where new development should be avoided. The Central Seafront area and City Centre are also subject to surface water flooding, as indicated in the SFRA and Environment Agency online mapping, and this can coincide with high tides and periods of heavy rainfall to cause more complex flooding events. This can lead to sewer flooding and environmental pollution, including impacts on water quality. It is therefore important to take a whole catchment approach to flood risk management, taking into account all sources of flooding and the lifetime impacts of climate change on all sources of flood risk.

9.44 The New Water Strategy for Essex (2024)www.essex.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2024-03/Water%20Strategy%20for%20Essex%20March%202024.pdf outlines the current and future water issues facing Essex. There is likely to be sufficient water capacity to accommodate growth until at least 2040. However, by 2050 new sources of water supply are likely to be needed in the East of England. Anglian Water are the sewerage provider for Southend. Due to historic reasons a large element of the system is based on combined sewers (i.e. surface water and sewerage discharge into the same pipes). This causes issues with the capacity of the pipes at times of peak flow as well as contributing to problems with meeting the Water Framework Directive, in particular for bathing water. Adding new connections to existing combined sewers exacerbates existing problems.

9.45 The Anglian Water Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan (2025-2050)www.anglianwater.co.uk/SysSiteAssets/household/about-us/dwmp/dwmp---technical-report-1.pdf includes a range of scenarios to take account of climate change and a variety of growth projections. The Council and developers will need to work closely with Anglian Water with respect to the sewerage network, to ensure there is adequate capacity in foul water infrastructure to accommodate the scale of growth as set out in the range of growth scenarios presented, to prevent the deterioration in current water quality standards.

9.46 NPPF requires that Local Plans should reduce risk from coastal change by avoiding inappropriate development in vulnerable areas. The Shoreline Management Plan (SMP)https://environment.data.gov.uk/shoreline-planning/shoreline-management-plan/SMP8 sets out a sustainable management approach for the Southend coastline over a 25-year period. The overall intent of the SMP is to sustain and support the viability of the seafront related tourism and commercial activities and protect the communities living along the coastline. This means a continuation of the current management approach that seeks to hold the current alignment where there are defences. Although the integrity of defences is at risk of erosion, holding the line is necessary to sustain the viability of Southend as a seaside resort.

9.47 The Essex and South Suffolk SMP has a policy of "Hold the Line" for the Southend on Sea management unit through the short, medium and long term periods to 2105. The management intention from the SMP is that "the current line will be held throughout the duration of the SMP. The standard of protection will be maintained or upgraded. Economic case could be challenging, and a partnership approach may be needed to maintain defences. Hold the Line at Two Tree Island is driven by presence of historic waste facilities."

9.48 Sustainable drainage measures (SuDS), such as permeable surfaces, rain gardens and ponds, reduce the risk of surface water flooding. Sustainable drainage solutions can be integrated with public realm enhancements and green infrastructure to reduce surface water run-off and provide more attractive places. The Council will work closely with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water as well as developers to deliver appropriate solutions.

9.49 The Catchment to Coast projectCatchment to Coast: www.catchmenttocoast.uk/ aims to test innovative methods of tackling flooding and coastal erosion, including enhancing and regenerating saltmarsh at Two Tree Island and improved sustainable drainage measures at Marine Parade, incorporating nature-based solutions and integrated water management where possible to become more resilient to climate change impacts.

9.50 The risk of flooding in Southend will be managed by ensuring that individual developments that have to be located in areas of flood risk are safe and flood resilient and, in the longer term, implementing a strategic shoreline defence to protect the city as a whole. Policy DM9.4 seeks to direct new development away from areas at highest risk of flooding, and to design developments to be more resilience to flood events. By tackling flood risk, developers and businesses will have confidence to invest in, and people to live in, the City Centre, securing sustainable economic growth. New defences can also be integrated into the cityscape and within new developments. It is important that developments connect appropriately to water and wastewater infrastructure, incorporate sustainable drainage wherever possible, and take account of infrastructure easements.

9.51 Sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDs) are designed to reduce the potential impact of new and existing developments with respect to surface water drainage discharges. SuDS try to replicate natural systems and use cost effective solutions with low environmental impact to drain away dirty and surface water run-off through collection, storage, and cleaning. Integrating green and blue infrastructure into new developments, at all scales, will be the default approach. This is necessary to manage surface water within the catchment of Southend in a pro-active manner, considering the inter-connected nature of sources of flooding within the city.

9.52 Policy DM9.4 will ensure that development in one part of Southend will not have an adverse effect on residents and business elsewhere in the city. SuDS should replicate natural systems and use cost effective solutions with low environmental impact to drain away surface water run-off through collection, storage and cleaning. The type of SuDS measures for a particular site should be informed by specific catchment and ground characteristics, taking a landscape-led approach. SuDS should form part of the design at an early stage to secure the most appropriate solution and should be integrated into the site layout proposals prior to undertaking any other site masterplanning, to ensure proposals are practical and feasible.

9.53 SuDS should be designed in accordance with the Non-statutory technical standards for sustainable drainage systems (2015) and guidance in the SuDS Manual (2015) published by Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA). Please also refer to the Susdrain website (www.susdrain.org) for more information.

9.54 The design target will be to limit the discharge of the site run-off to green-field levels wherever possible. It may be found that this standard is not achievable, but any derogation will have to be approved by the organisation managing the receiving water system. For main rivers and ordinary watercourses this will be the Council, and for public surface water sewers Anglian Water. Detailed guidance will be produced to support the policy, demonstrating how nature-based solutions can be implemented within the Southend context, illustrated by real life examples from local projects such as SARCC, Catchment to Coast project, and the Cool Towns projectwww.southend.gov.uk/protecting-environment-emergencies/climate-change-2.

9.55 It should be noted that SuDS must receive planning approval before construction is commenced and:

• for extensions and other single property developments the owner or developer will remain responsible for maintaining the system in good working order;
• for developments above single property scale, once the Council, as the Lead Local Flood Authority, is satisfied it has been constructed to an appropriate standard, the Council will adopt the SuDs for maintenance.

Strategic Objective 14

9.55 As a unitary authority, the Council is the local Minerals and Waste Planning Authority (MWPA) with the responsibility to make Local Plans. Essex is one of the largest producers in the UK for sand and gravel resources, used in construction and for roads. Existing allocated sites within the Essex Minerals Local Plan Review 2014 contain sufficient mineral resources to support current needs within Essex and outside the county (including Southend). Essex's current mineral provision at a rate of 4.31 million tonnes per annum accommodates the fact that Southend is unlikely to be able to provide any minerals for its growth and development needswww.essex.gov.uk/minerals-waste-planning-policy/minerals-local-plan.

9.56 There has been a clear reduction in the amount of mineral permitted for extraction in Greater Essex over the last 20 years.Greater Essex LAA 2025 - Greater Essex Local Aggregate Assessment 2025 This follows a national trend. At the end of 2020, Greater Essex (including Southend and Thurrock) had sufficient permitted reserve and allocations to meet minerals supply and demand. The Essex Minerals Local Plan is under review and will consider both an appropriate plan provision figure for extraction to 2040, and potential additional sites for extraction. None of the 52 candidate sites submitted for consideration to date are in South Essex.

9.57 Southend's mineral resources consist of brick earth and are predominantly located under agricultural land to the north of the city and just beyond the city boundary in the district of Rochford, but there are no active brickworks in the Southend or Rochford areas. Following large-scale rationalisation in recent years, the UK brick industry is now dominated by five large manufacturers, each of which operates several highly automated production units and other factories. There are some smaller brickworks in north Essex, serving mainly specialist or local markets, including for the construction and restoration of buildings, but there is no extraction of brickearth within Essex at the present time. Although the mineral resources in Southend are not currently worked, minerals are a finite resource and can only be worked where they are found. It is therefore important to make best use of minerals of local and national importance, as there may be potential to extract this resource economically at some point in the future. Policy DM9.5 therefore provides for the safeguarding of mineral resources, and requirement for prior extraction to be considered where other necessary development might sterilise valuable mineral resources.

9.58 Some areas of agricultural land are proposed to be designated for a mix of land uses, ensuring that any development would secure a net gain in biodiversity and include an element of improved green space. These sites are set out in the neighbourhood chapter 12. Please refer to the Prittlewell and Fossetts Neighbourhood sections for more information.

9.59 Existing waste management infrastructure at Stock Road and Temple Farm will continue to be safeguarded, to comply with NPPF, National Planning Policy for Waste, and adopted Essex and Southend Waste Local Plan (2017).

9.60 The South East Marine Plan (2021) includes policies safeguarding wharves and ports from the encroachment of incompatible development that may comprise the ability of these marine facilities to receive aggregate from marine-won mineral. The nearest facilities are within Thurrock and outside the plan area. The Essex MWPA's Wharf Baseline Capacity Study (2020) concluded that there is currently no means to justify a reduced land-won allocation through a reliance on increased marine-won aggregate landings. Licences to explore and extract marine won aggregates are within the remit of the Crown Estate, and outside the responsibility of Mineral and Waste Planning Authorities.

9.61 Developments should avoid loss of minerals resources including best and most versatile agricultural land. Developments with the potential to affect safeguarded minerals resources will be required to demonstrate that there will be no unacceptable harm to these assets, and that prior extraction is not practicable. Policy DM9.5 sets out the criteria that developers will need to meet to demonstrate this. When determining planning applications, great weight should be given to the benefits of mineral extraction, including to the economy.

A CITY THAT IS CONNECTED AND SMART

10.1 The transport connectivity of Southend is dictated by the geography of the area, the city being located on a peninsula at the mouth of the Thames Estuary with a predominantly east – west transport corridor.

• The strategic highway network serving Southend is provided by the A127 and A13/A1159, with links to the London orbital M25 and Dartford River Crossing, and A130 to Canvey Island and to Chelmsford;
• Two railway lines link the city to London and the national network, namely the c2c line to London Fenchurch Street and the Great Eastern main line to London Liverpool Street, which provide links to the Elizabeth Line at Shenfield and High-Speed Rail at Stratford;
• There are nine railway stations within the local authority area while Southend Airport station is just outside within Rochford District;
• London Southend Airport is partly located in the city with much of the runway and infrastructure within neighbouring Rochford District;
• North-south links exist but are limited, especially by public transport;
• Bus services operate on a commercial basis, with frequent services on key corridors and with more limited services elsewhere;
• Congestion on the road network impacts on the local economy and tourism industry and the ability to re-allocate road space to other users including cyclists and buses;
• There are significant variations between neighbourhoods, although generally car ownership is low across the city with just over one car per household;
• A comprehensive network of attractive linked corridors is required to encourage people to walk and use their bikes more and become more active and promote inclusive access;
• Provision of electric charging points is limited.

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Objective 21

Strategic Objective 22

Strategic Objective 23

Strategic Objective 24

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Plan, particular under the heading 'Providing for a sustainable transport system'.

Figure SP10:Transport and Connectivity

10.2 The physical location of the city and its geography present both challenges and opportunities. Opportunities to improve the strategic network linking the city to the rest of the country require that a strategic approach is taken with partners and operators. Working with bodies such as Transport East and the A127 Task Force will be essential to ensuring that enhancements to the network are pursued and new approaches are considered.

10.3 The densely developed nature of the city limits the amount of change that the existing road infrastructure can satisfactorily accommodate. Proposals such as grade separated junctions on the A127 would be prohibitively expensive and very difficult to deliver within an urban environment. Making the most effective use of existing infrastructure will therefore be essential. The use of electric and hydrogen fuelled vehicles will help to reduce vehicle emissions, and provision of re-fuelling infrastructure to enable this will be essential. Enhancing the level of bus provision and connectivity through improved transport hubs (and potentially through Park-and-Ride/Rail where feasible) would help to achieve changes in how people travel and provide sustainable solutions. They will however require a fresh look at how the existing infrastructure could accommodate such facilities through the Local Transport Plan (LTP) and relevant studies.

10.4 The Bus Service Improvement Plan 2024-2029 identifies Key Corridors for bus services and Mobility Hubs which will be linked together by frequent, high quality bus services, building upon the strengths of the commercial bus network, and providing links to local rail services, cycle parking and electric vehicle charging close to everyday shops and services. Mobility hubs will be prioritised at Leigh Station, City Centre (Southend Central and Southend Victoria Stations), Shoeburyness Station, Southend Hospital, Thorpe Bay Station, and London Southend Airport Station.

10.5 Co-ordinated provision of new and improved walking and cycling routes and facilities, especially to neighbourhood and local centres, will be essential if the ambition of connected neighbourhoods is to be achieved. It will be an important element in improving health and wellbeing and reducing emissions and highway congestion around the city. The emerging Southend-on-Sea Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) sets out where improvements will be prioritised.

10.6 Significant technological innovation is expected to occur within the lifetime of the Local Plan. Digital technology, both in its own right but also as an enabler of new transport solutions. This covers everything from co-ordination of traffic signals to management of autonomous vehicles; the use of drones for cargo deliveries and "air taxis" for moving people in the future.

10.7 The Policy reflects the approach that developments which generate a significant amount of movement should be situated in sustainable locations. Sustainable locations are defined as sites which minimise the need to travel, such as the City Centre, and also takes advantage of the opportunities to utilise and enhance public transport and both the cycling and walking network. Consequently, it is considered appropriate that large retail, commercial, employment or leisure developments should be concentrated in locations where existing transport infrastructure can sustain such developments for the long-term, or where new developments can unlock opportunities to provide new services to both the new development and surrounding neighbourhood.

Strategic Objective 17

Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Objective 21

Strategic Objective 22

Strategic Policy SP10

10.8 Sustainable Transport in Southend plays a key role in supporting economic growth, reducing carbon emissions, promoting equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life and health. Sustainable transport management will provide a number of benefits that contribute towards sustainable development such as:

• Reducing emissions and contribution to climate change;
• Improving health through better air quality and making walking and cycling an attractive alternative to the use of private motor vehicles;
• Helping equitable access to services for all, not putting those who cannot or do not own a car at a disadvantage; and
• Reducing congestion on the road network from car travel, which can have benefits for the economy.

10.9 New Development often generate additional traffic and can require new access requirements. The location of development and the intensity of the usage are the two crucial variables that will ultimately determine whether developments are sustainable in terms of the local or regional transport network. Therefore, developments, if positioned in sustainable locations, can provide tangible opportunities to improve the wider transport network. New Development should endeavour to minimise the need to travel and maximise the use of sustainable transport modes, especially given the compact nature of the city.

10.10 Improvements to active travel networks can contribute to improving the health of the population; enabling the creation of attractive complete neighbourhoods.

10.11 This policy will encourage modal shift, particularly to public transport, cycling and walking which will subsequently reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants and the use of private motor vehicles.

10.12 To promote sustainable development, the Policy further supports the national policy objectives of identifying and pursuing opportunities to promote walking, cycling and public transport use; providing for high-quality walking and cycling networks particularly with respect to 'complete neighbourhoods'; and ensuring that the design and access arrangements of new developments give priority first to pedestrian and cycling movements. The Council's Design SPD and national guidance, such as "Active Design" produced by Sport England, and Manual for Streets, should be followed.

10.13 The emerging LCWIP identifies Southend City Centre, Westcliff-on-Sea, Shoeburyness, Eastwood, Leigh (London Road), Leigh Broadway, Prittlewell Chase, Southchurch and Thorpe Bay as areas which contain a high density of trip attractors, providing opportunities for improving the pedestrian experience in terms of safety, attractiveness, comfort, directness and coherence. The highest potential areas for cycle growth in the city, based on existing cycle flow data and key points of interest such as town centres, hospitals and workplaces are Central Southend, Westcliff and Leigh, where short, medium and long-term route improvements can be focussed, providing safer and more attractive cycle routes, generally on quieter, more lightly trafficked roads.

10.14 Developments* should be supported by a Transport Statement or Transport Assessment. The current thresholds are set out in Council's Validation checklist. Comprehensive information should be provided to support submissions.

10.15 The Southend-on-Sea LTP seeks to tackle congestion by promoting active travel. It places greater emphasis on travel plans and by the incorporation of other sustainable travel modes to influence people's travel behaviour towards more sustainable alternatives. Applicants will need to agree appropriate sustainable travel measures with the Council prior to a planning application submission. A travel plan and arrangements for its monitoring will be required for any proposal where the Council considers it necessary, based on the potential individual or cumulative impact of the proposal on the area.

10.16 The overall aim is to limit the growth in traffic congestion as part of an overall package to make other more sustainable forms of transport more attractive. Developments should mitigate transport impacts according to the following hierarchy:

• reduce overall travel demand;
• minimise mode share by private car;
• seek to spread or time shift demand away from peak hours as well as considering off-peak effects;
• offset residual impact through highways improvements, which must be achieved with no adverse impact on highway safety or to users of sustainable modes.

Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Policy SP10

10.18 Southend has a strategic objective to improve accessibility, connectivity, sustainability, and ease of movement to, from and within the city. Strategic Policy SP10 sets out the framework for ensuring business as usual despite new development. This policy provides further requirements to ensure the continued safe and efficient movement of the network.

10.19 It is important for Southend to be able deliver new homes and jobs for its growing population, although this growth should not overly interfere with the day-to-day prosperity and function of the city's centres, employment areas and transport network. Deliveries during construction can contribute to congestion, as can servicing and deliveries when the building is operational. Innovative solutions such as the implementation of last mile deliveries by foot, cycle or zero emission vehicles will be supported.

10.20 While onsite, major development can require large amounts of deliveries and servicing, these activities require the use of heavy construction vehicles and often result in disruption on the network. Site phasing must be undertaken in order to reduce the impact of these activities on the network. Equally, the servicing of operational facilities, especially out of hours, requires careful consideration.

10.21 Development can mitigate disruption to existing residents and businesses by providing off street servicing space where practicable or implementing freight reduction measures can ensure that deliveries and servicing requirements do not have a negative impact on the road network. This is particularly important for high density residential or commercial developments in the Southend Central neighbourhood and City Centre, and on the strategic highway and bus routes within Southend.

Strategic Objective 12, Strategic Objective 13

Strategic Objective 14, Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Objective 21, Strategic Objective 22

Strategic Policy SP10

10.22 Southend is a densely populated city, and the demand for travel in Southend is expected to increase as the city realises its regeneration and growth ambitions, and as a result of changing lifestyle choices. The Southend Local Transport Plan (LTP) seeks to tackle congestion by placing greater emphasis on travel plans and by the incorporation of other smarter choice measures Managing car parking space provision can actively encourage more sustainable choices to be made in respect to the need to travel and the choice of mode.

10.23 Given the interrelationship between Southend and neighbouring districts both in terms of travel to work patterns and shopping and leisure trips, Southend's parking standards have been developed to take account of parking standards developed at County levelEssex Planning Officers Association (EPOA) Parking Standards, as well as local factors. This includes consideration of accessibility in setting standards, the importance of electric charging facilities, integrating parking as part of the wider design process and changes in the size and type of vehicles. Applying parking standards, where appropriate, will enable the Council to provide clarity and certainty for developers and residents. This is supplemented by Policy DM7.1: Design Quality and Public Realm and the Design and Townscape Guidance SPD, and any other subsequent design code/ guidance, in respect to the design and layout of parking areas and cycle parking facilities, and consideration of context.

10.24 The Southend LTP seeks to promote sustainable travel options, focussing initially on journeys to the City Centre, and linking reductions in on-street parking provision to the promotion of public transport, walking and cycling. Parking standards set a requirement for the City CentreWithin Southend Central neighbourhood, analysis of 2021 census data highlights that car ownership is significantly lower for residents living in and around the City Centre than in other areas of the city. Overall car ownership in 2021 was 1.16 per household (1.4 per house; 0.8 per flat) across the city but varied between neighbourhoods with Southend Central 0.8 cars per household (1.1 per house; 0.6 per flat). The development of the Parking Standards therefore reflects this., continuing the approach set out in the Council's Development Management Document. This recognises that the City Centre has good public transport options and have services and facilities within walking distance making sustainable travel a realistic alternative for many people without compromising viability.

10.25 See Appendix 10 for full list of parking standards. The parking standards as set out in Appendix 10 apply minimum standards to residential ('trip-origin') development as well as other land uses to ensure that a sufficient level of parking is provided within new development. However, these standards may be applied flexibly where it can be demonstrated that residential development is proposed in a sustainable location with frequent and extensive links to public transport (such locations have easy access to education, healthcare, food shopping, and employment opportunities, and have direct and easy pedestrian access to more than one means of public transport which offers frequent services, such as train stations and bus stops), particularly within the most sustainable areas of Southend Central neighbourhood, and where the rigid application of these standards would have a detrimental impact on local character and context. In addition, reliance upon on-street parking will only be considered appropriate where it can be demonstrated by the applicant that there is on-street parking capacity.

10.26 Garages are often an important feature of a residential development and are multifunctional in that they are used for both car parking and general storage. Garages need to be large enough to accommodate a modern, family sized car, cycles and some storage and therefore internal dimension below 7.0m x 3.0m will therefore not be considered or counted as a parking space.

10.27 Parking standards should not be considered in isolation but as an important component of high-quality design. It is essential that parking is considered at the earliest stages of design so that cars doesn't visually dominate the development and issues such as sustainable drainage and landscaping (as appropriate) are satisfactorily incorporated in the design. This will require that a number of different approaches to how parking is provided depending on the location and scale of development.

10.28 There is significant potential to increase the level of cycling in Southend. This will help reduce congestion, contribute to zero carbon ambitions and improve the health of users. Provision of safe, good quality and secure cycle parking both at origin and destination will be an important element of achieving this.

10.29 Provision should be made for the parking needs of the whole range of highway users, including those with mobility difficulties. This includes blue badge holders and those with mobility scooters. A move towards low emission transport will require good quality recharging facilities for electric vehicles where regard should be had to Policy DM9.2 Energy.

10.30 A "Park and Ride/Rail" site and a location to transfer goods to enable low emission "last mile delivery" may come forward within the plan period. This will be considered within the LTP. Key criteria for their consideration are set out in the policy.

10.31 A parking strategy should be produced by developers as part of the wider transport assessment for larger developments. These would form an important context for consideration of individual applications.

Strategic Objective 1

Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Objective 22

Strategic Policy SP10

10.33 Southend benefits from a "metro quality" of service on its rail corridors. The C2C line provides around four trains per hour east-west to seven stations across the south of the city and onward to Basildon and London Fenchurch Street. The Greater Anglia line from Southend Victoria to London Liverpool Street provides access from Southend through to London Southend Airport and onto Stratford and London Liverpool Street. The city's railway stations perform an important role in supporting complete and accessible neighbourhoods.

10.34 The two railway lines operate in isolation to each other with a half mile gap between Southend Central and Victoria stations along the High Street in the City Centre. While all the stations operate effectively there are opportunities for improvements, especially to the two central stations. Southend Central station in particular is somewhat hidden from the High Street and has a poor external environment, particularly to its forecourt fronting Clifftown Road. While there is some level of bus interchange at most stations it is only at Southend Victoria that this is particularly effective.

10.35 Southend Central and Southend Victoria railway stations are key gateways to the city and are integral to the sustainable development of Southend Central neighbourhood, including the City Centre. The rail stations of Leigh, Thorpe Bay, Shoeburyness and at London Southend Airport have also been identified as mobility hubs, which are places in a community that can maximise shared transport and interchange with public transport and active travel in spaces designed to improve the public realm for all.

10.36 How this will be developed for specific stations would require development of site-specific considerations. Opportunities to improve the accessibility, environment and interchange at stations will be given positive consideration, especially where they facilitate more effective integration with other sustainable modes.

Strategic Objective 1, Strategic Objective 3

Strategic Objective 20, Strategic Policy SP10

10.38 Telecommunications, whether by full fibre to properties or by cellular data (such as 5G) are essential to the economy and transport systems. However, the networks do have locational needs and physical impacts that need to be addressed through the planning system.

10.39 Digital infrastructure is a constantly evolving technology. This policy seeks to provide for the two main forms of digital communication: cellular communications that require equipment be placed on buildings and masts to relay signals, and 5G (and in future, 6G) that requires a denser network of cells to function, thus a need for more equipment, often at greater height.

10.40 Telecommunications also have a role in providing real time transport information. Bus stops and shelters provide real time service update, and signage also indicates public parking capacity within the City Centre.

10.41 Not all telecommunications development requires planning permission as set out by the relevant legislation, but where planning permission or prior approval is required, the provision of Policy DM10.5 apply.

10.42 Full fibre relies on underground networks. City Fibre have already installed a new network throughout Southend. To maximise the benefits of this it is essential that any new premises are constructed in such a manner that enables easy access to the network, thus avoiding additional costs at a later stage for retrofitting. Permitted development rights have been altered nationally to facilitate this for residential uses, but the same principle of easy access should apply to all uses.

10.43 The Council will consider a range of impacts in determining applications, including cumulative impacts. Visual impacts are likely to be most common. Because of the potential site-specific impacts in a very densely populated urban area, the Council encourages the use of designs tailored to the locality rather than the use of standard models, and pre-application discussions are encouraged in order to resolve any issues.

• There has been an airfield on the current site for over 100 years and during the 1960's Southend airport was the 3^rd busiest in the UK
• The airport straddles the administrative boundaries of Rochford District Council and Southend City Council
• London Southend Airport is a key economic asset and local employer with 87% of employees living in the SS postcode area (covering Southend, Rochford, Castle Point and Basildon).
• A Joint Area Action Plan (JAAP), prepared with Rochford District Council, sets out the current planning framework to 2031 for London Southend Airport and its environs.
• In 2019 the Airport attracted over 2.1 million passengers as well as freight and General Aviation users. Covid had a significant impact with passenger numbers dropping by over 90%, but these are predicted to recover and exceed pre-covid levels by 2026-27.
• The Vulcan Aircraft XL426 is preserved at the Airport.
• A Section 106 legal agreement and associated documents control impacts of the airport, including total air traffic movements and noise flight preferential routes. A summary can be found here – London Southend Airport Operational Controls Summary Table

Strategic Objective 5

Strategic Objective 15

Strategic Objective 20

Strategic Objective 22

Strategic Objective 23

Key supporting documents that underpin the policies are available on the Council's Evidence Documents | Southend Local Plan

11.1 London Southend Airport is a key regional transport hub providing a gateway to Europe and helping to generate important economic investment and jobs in Southend and south Essex. The airport lies partly in Southend-on-Sea and partly in the District of Rochford and both Southend and Rochford Councils are relevant planning authorities.

11.2 As part of the Airport's expansion and development plans in 2010, Southend Council considered very carefully how best to achieve an appropriate balance between encouraging airport development and economic growth; while adopting tough measures to protect residents as much as possible from the environmental impact of aircraft movements, particularly at night.

11.3 Regular passenger flights to European destinations commenced from the airport in April 2012, after planning permission for the runway extension was granted in April 2010. At that point new controlsThe controls are set out in two planning agreements (s.106 agreements) which can be accessed on the Public Access pages of this website under application reference 09/01960/FULM. The controls are replicated in leases which can be obtained from the Land Registry. came into effect, these impose much more stringent controls on flights, and especially night time movements. Compliance is monitored by the Airport Consultative CommitteeThe Airport Consultative Committee (ACC) meets each quarter and is comprised of representatives from local authorities, community groups and airport users under the provisions of the Civil Aviation Act 1982 (Section 35) and has no executive powers.. The new controls included the following important restrictions:

• the number of possible night flights per month has been reduced from more than 900 to 120;
• the night period has been increased from 6 hours to 7.5 hours;
• strict noise controls have been introduced on aircraft operating from the airport;
• night time passenger flights are generally restricted; and
• there is now a runway preference scheme to restrict the number of take offs and landings over the south west, Leigh-on-Sea area.

11.4 In addition, a Frequently Asked Questions document has been prepared, together with a clear summary of the new controls Operational Controls Summary Table.

11.5 Southend-on-Sea City Council, together with Rochford District Council, jointly prepared and adopted the Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan (JAAP) in 2014. This followed permission for the extension of the airport's runway, seeking to maximise local economic benefits of the growth through the vision of an area that realises its potential as a driver for the sub-regional economy, providing significant employment opportunities and ensuring a good quality of life for its residents and workers. The JAAP established the following objectives to achieve this:

• maximising the economic benefits of a thriving airport and related activity;
• ensuring good connectivity to the development area by all modes of transport, with appropriate improvements to sustainable transport and the highway network;
• ensuring a high-quality public realm and environment for residents and workers;
• seeking maximum return on public investment through attracting inward investment; and
• developing efficient use and upgrading of existing employment land resources.

11.6 The JAAP sets out how the airport is expected to grow in a sustainable manner up to 2031 and includes policies covering both development within the curtilage of the airport itself, and that of designated employment sites within the surrounding designated area, which were to deliver over 100,000 m² of employment floorspace and 5,000 additional jobs. These jobs contribute to the delivery of the jobs totals for Rochford District Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council – the apportionment to each district is based on a 50-50 split of the overall jobs total to be provided within the JAAP areaJAAP 2014 Policy E1 – General Development Considerations.

11.7 Whilst the intervening years since the JAAP's adoption have seen the emergence of a range of unforeseen impacts on the airport (e.g. COVID-19 pandemic and more recent socio-economic impacts), over time the airport and adjacent employment sites have experienced substantial growth and development, guided by the JAAP policies.

11.8 The JAAP continues to provide a relevant long-term vision for the Airport and its environs. The Airport's growth to date has helped to deliver additional jobs alongside substantial new infrastructure. This has included a new business park, state of the art air traffic control tower, runway extension, railway station, passenger terminal and associated on-site hotel facilities. It has also witnessed new and improved bus routes and supported successful funding bids for capacity improvements to the local road network.

11.9 In 2019/20, the Airport served approximately 2.1 million passengers which was an increase of around 43% from the previous year, and a doubling of 2017 numbers. Whilst the Airport has been deeply affected by economic circumstances during and following the pandemic it remains well-placed to grow in the future and is predicted to recover and exceed pre-covid levels by 2026-27.

11.10 Planning permission for the Airport limits the number of air traffic movements to 53,300 per year with around 37,000 movements taking place in the 2019-20 financial year. Whilst the use of larger aircraft could allow passenger movements to increase, any longer-term growth aspirations beyond 53,300 movements a year would require a new planning framework and agreement. This framework would need to weigh up the various benefits and challenges presented by the Airport's growth, including the strong economic benefits alongside air quality, traffic, climate change and noise considerations. It should also consider recent Government aviation policy and related guidanceAviation policy framework - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) (2013); Beyond the horizon the future of UK aviation (publishing.service.gov.uk) (2018); Overarching aviation noise policy - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) (2023); Flightpath to the future: a strategic framework for the aviation sector - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) (2022), including:

• to make the best use of existing runway capacityBeyond the horizon the future of UK aviation (publishing.service.gov.uk);
• to ensure the aviation sector makes a significant contribution towards reducing global emissions and achieving Net Zero;
• to ensure communities surrounding airports share in the economic benefits and adverse impacts such as noise are mitigated wherever possible;
• to limit and where possible reduce the number of people significantly affected by noise;
• that Government, local authorities and airports should work together to improve air quality.

11.11 The Government is clear that the local planning application process is equipped to deal with applications for airports to increase passenger caps by fewer than 10 million passengers per annumBeyond the horizon the future of UK aviation (publishing.service.gov.uk) (2018), and is supportive of airports seeking to expand. Local authorities must consult fully and judge such proposals on their individual merits, taking careful account of all relevant considerations, particularly economic and environmental impacts, along with proposed mitigation.

11.12 The Airports National Policy Statement (2018), although focused on building strategic aviation hub capacity at London Heathrow, contains a useful set of assessment principles and impacts in Chapters 4 and 5, many of which are generic and apply to all airport expansion proposals. These include:

• climate change adaptation and carbon emissions;
• pollution control and environmental protection (including air/water quality);
• noise;
• health;
• accessibility;
• surface access;
• resources and waste management;
• landscape and visual impact;
• community engagement;
• skills; and
• flood risk

11.13 Any future proposals to extend or adapt Southend Airport in respect of its aviation and ancillary activities should have regard to these principles.

11.14 Since the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic on its operation and use, the Airport now has long-term plans to increase passenger numbers beyond pre-pandemic levels. The gradual return of flights and passenger numbers indicates a recovery is underway as witnessed by the significant increase in destinations from three to fifteen, a return to year-round flying, a successful transition of ownership and the return of airline partner easyJet as part of a multi-year deal which will see three based aircraft on-site from the summer of 2025.

11.15 A return to growth is likely to have a range of both positive and negative impacts on the local area and any growth beyond the current agreed operating limits will need careful management through the planning system. Expansion on the site brings opportunities for direct and indirect local employment (including enhancing skills and training), for increased infrastructure investment, and in improving local sustainable transport connectivity, using the Airport site as a 'hub' for different modes of transport. However, it also brings a risk of issues such as air and noise pollution, traffic congestion and increased carbon emissions.

11.16 The Council will continue to work with partners to realise the airport's economic potential as the aviation industry recovers, whilst having regard to local amenity and environmental issues. The JAAP, along with the established forums for dialogue between the airport and relevant partners and stakeholders (i.e., the Airport Consultative Committee, Airport Transport Forum, Community Noise Forum, Airport Liaison Group and Transport Liaison Group), will enable the Council to regulate the operation of the airport through balancing noise and environmental issues with residential amenity.

11.17 In the longer term, the Council will work with the Airport, Rochford District Council, Essex County Council and other partners to develop an appropriate planning framework to replace the JAAP, should this be deemed necessary. It will also work constructively with partners to ensure a robust and up-to-date suite of monitoring documents is in place to manage Airport operations, including any changes to the existing Section 106 agreement.

11.18 In accordance with the existing Section 106 agreement, the Council will continue to work with the airport and other local authority partners to improve and promote sustainable travel opportunities for both staff and visitors at the airport. Opportunities to further enhance the airport's role as a sustainable, multi-modal transport hub, acting as an interchange of bus, rail and active travel routes for the wider area and to improve surface access to the Airport, will also be explored.

11.19 In the event that planning permission was sought to grow the airport prior to a review of the JAAP, the Council would expect this to have regard to Policy SP11 and be in conformity with an up-to-date joint Airport MasterplanAviation Policy Framework (publishing.service.gov.uk) (2013). Annex B contains guidance on the content of master plans, airport transport forums and airport surface access strategies. published by the operators of London Southend Airport and adopted by Rochford District Council and Southend City Council.

11.20 There are two elements to safeguarding at London Southend Airport.

• Public Safety Zones (PSZ's) are triangular areas located at the end of runways as defined in the DfT Policy Paper "Control of development in airport public safety zones" (updated October 2021). PSZ's restrict new development such as housing and employment within the designated area.
• Airport Safeguarding Zones are intended to make sure that there isn't a conflict between new development above a certain height and the safe operation of aircraft, including any impacts on radar, instrument landing systems and air traffic control equipment. As Local Planning Authority the City Council consults the Airport on applications that meet the defined locational and elevational criteria and are set out in Safeguarding maps.

12.1 As with any city, Southend is not a single homogenous place. Rather, it is a collection of separate and distinct places or neighbourhoods which have grown together over time to create a substantial conurbation. The Local Plan has sought to consider the issues facing the different neighbourhoods of Southend. Profiles for each of the neighbourhoods are available here: https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/evidence-documents

12.2 Within the following chapter of the Local Plan, each of the nine neighbourhoods is presented, setting out their context and key issues, key facts, a vision for the neighbourhood, map and neighbourhood policy, together with a table of potential site proposals, as applicable.

12.3 The neighbourhood policies are set out in the following sections:

• Eastwood (Policy N1) (Site Proposals Policy N1i)
• Leigh (Policy N2) (Site Proposals Policy N2i)
• Prittlewell (Policy N3) (Site Proposals Policy N3i)
• Westcliff (Policy N4) (Site Proposals Policy N4i)
• Southend Central
  • City Centre (Policy N5a) (Site Proposals Policy N5ai)
  • Central Seafront area (Policy N5b) (Site Proposals Policy N5bi)
  • Central Area surrounding residential areas (Policy N5c) (Site Proposals Policy N5ci)
  • Central Area Car Parking (Policy N5d)
• Southchurch (Policy N6) (Site Proposals Policy N6i)
• Fossetts (Policy N7) (Site Proposals Policy N7i)
• Thorpe Bay (Policy N8)
• Shoeburyness (Policy N9) (Site Proposals Policy N9i)

https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Eastwood%20Area%20Profile%20Nov%202020.pdf

• Eastwood is suburban in character on the north-west fringes of the city. It is a relatively modern part of Southend, principally featuring post-war buildings. A substantial part of Eastwood is laid out to cul-de-sac style residential development, in contrast to the classic grid structure that defines large parts of the city.
• The style and format of buildings varies significantly but includes chalet style houses and more substantial properties in the 'Nobles Green' area. Eastwood is a relatively low-density part of Southend and is well served by public open space, including at Eastwood Park, and nearby within Rochford District Council, Cherry Orchard Way Country Park and Edwards Hall Park. There are opportunities to enhance active travel, promoting access through the neighbourhood, including to open and green spaces.
• The neighbourhood is bounded to the south by the A127 and to the north by open countryside, designated as forming part of the Metropolitan Green Belt within Rochford District.
• Rayleigh Road is home to a number of retail/ commercial centres, providing a range of local shops and services. It also provides a main transport corridor and bus route linking Eastwood with the City Centre and Rayleigh to the west. The retail/ commercial centres at Rayleigh Road may offer potential opportunities for residential intensification, with flats above shops, and would benefit from public realm enhancements and urban greening. In addition to these centres, there are larger format supermarkets at the junction with Progress Road and at Western Approaches retail park.
• There are frequent east-west bus routes focussed along Rayleigh Road, however the nearest stations at Leigh and Rayleigh (in neighbouring Rochford district) are some distance away, compounded by a lack of public transport connections, running north/ south – there is opportunity to enhance north/ south public transport connections, improving connectivity with Leigh-on-Sea railway station, connections to the City Centre and to the Airport.
• Eastwood is home to two employment growth areas at Progress Road and Comet Way, which offer potential for intensification and regeneration for employment uses, and several industrial/ business estates at Airborne Close, Airborne Industrial Estate, Aviation Way, and Laurence Industrial Estate, that provide local job opportunities.

12.4 Eastwood will be a sustainable suburban area interspersed with mature parkland connected by enhanced cycle and pedestrian links, and a quality public realm, which will improve connections within the existing urban area and to the surrounding countryside. The vibrant retail/ commercial centres on Rayleigh Road will continue to serve the local community, well served by buses, connecting the neighbourhood with Southend City Centre and Rayleigh, and providing opportunity for new homes and commercial enterprise, including living above shops.

12.5 Residents will benefit from good access to shops, services, local jobs, and public transport. The neighbourhood will benefit from improvements to existing local play areas, providing opportunities for play and recreation for children and young people. The employment areas aligning the A127 will offer local job opportunities, focussed at: Progress Road, Comet Way, Airborne Close, Airborne Industrial Park, Aviation Way, and Laurence Industrial Estate. These areas will benefit from enhanced access.

12.6 The local plan designates land for particular purposes, such as to protect valuable green space and key employment areas. The plan also includes site proposals that identify specific sites for particular uses. This process ensures that land is utilised effectively and strategically and will guide development decisions on future planning applications across the city. See Appendix 2 and accompanying Policies Map for more information.

localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Leigh Area Profile Nov 2020.pdf

• A large neighbourhood, comprising distinctive areas emphasised through the change in character from south to north.
• To the south is a vibrant district centre, centred on the hilltop overlooking Leigh Old Town (a traditional working marine fishing port and visitor destination) and estuary. Residential areas extend out from this, including more tightly planned, often terraced housing close to the district centre, with more semi-detached/ detached housing to the north, east and west of the neighbourhood. Elsewhere the neighbourhood is home to neighbourhood and local centres, and there are opportunities to enhance access to these.
• There are two railway stations, Leigh-on-Sea and Chalkwell, adjacent to the coastline. There is opportunity to enhance bus access to/ from Leigh station, including through the neighbourhood to Eastwood and London Southend Airport.
• There is not a dominant residential type in the north of the neighbourhood, with a mix of terraced, semi-detached housing and bungalows, together with some areas of housing estates in public ownership. The character and layout are quite different to the south of the neighbourhood, which generally has a more formal layout.
• London Road (A13) is the key passenger transport corridor, with shops and services, including flatted developments, and is accessible for many residents. Prittle Brook Greenway provides a well-used green pedestrian and cycle route through the neighbourhood and beyond.
• A key issue affecting southern parts of Leigh, particularly the more tightly planned terraced streets around the District Centre, is pressure for on-street parking, compounded by sub-division of single, family dwellings, and pressures from visitors, as well traffic congestion on key routes, particularly around and leading to Leigh Broadway.
• Green/ open spaces include Belfairs Wood, Park and Nature Reserve, Blenheim Park, and Chalkwell Park, complemented by smaller areas of well-used green space including Leigh Library Gardens, Bonchurch Park, Danescroft Park, and the green spaces at Belton Way, Marine Parade and Leigh Marshes. There is access from the south-west of the neighbourhood to Two Tree Island Nature Reserve and through to Hadleigh Country Park. There are several children's play areas across the neighbourhood, although quality of provision varies. The south of the neighbourhood (within Leigh ward) has opportunities to enhance the tree canopy, with canopy cover currently under 10%.
• There are a range of schools in the neighbourhood, with opportunities to enhance access by foot and bike.
• There are four Conservation Areas in the south of the neighbourhood, all of which make a positive contribution to the sense of place.

12.7 Leigh will continue to be a vibrant and accessible neighbourhood, with goods and services within easy reach for residents. Leigh District Centre will remain the focus for everyday activity and will benefit from an enhanced public realm and measures to help mitigate traffic and visitor parking. This will be complemented other Neighbourhood and Local Centres, and businesses along the A13 London Road.

12.8 The A13 London Road will remain the Key Passenger Transport Corridor, with an enhanced public realm and a focus for residential growth, providing well-designed buildings that optimise the use of land, providing opportunities for active ground floor uses and residential uses above ground floor. Residents will benefit from good access to shops and services and public transport. Connectivity between the north and south of Leigh neighbourhood will be improved, including enhanced bus access to Leigh-on-Sea and Chalkwell railway stations, and to London Southend Airport and Eastwood.

12.9 The neighbourhood's heritage assets will be conserved and enhanced, including Leigh, Leigh Cliff, Leigh Old Town and Chapmanslord Conservation Areas. The traditional character of the seafront, including historic and natural assets, will be protected and enhanced. Leigh Old Town will maintain its important function as a working port, tourism and leisure destination, balancing this with the conservation of the protected estuary environment and Conservation Area, and residential amenity. Landscaping and public realm improvements, including enhanced pedestrian/ cycle connections along the coastal path, will help to mitigate the impact of cars/ parking within the Old Town.

12.10 The quality of the urban realm within the neighbourhood will be improved, making it more attractive for active travel, particularly around retail/ commercial centres and schools. Opportunities to provide urban greening and enhance biodiversity will help improve air quality, increase climate resilience, and provide for an improved quality of life for residents.

12.11 The local plan designates land for particular purposes, such as to protect valuable green space and key employment areas. The plan also includes site proposals that identify specific sites for particular uses. This process ensures that land is utilised effectively and strategically and will guide development decisions on future planning applications across the city. See Appendix 2 and accompanying Policies Map for more information

https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Prittlewell%20Area%20Profile%20Nov%202020.pdf

12.12 Prittlewell's heritage assets and green spaces continue to play an important role in defining its character. Parks and open spaces, and connections between them, have been enhanced, together with play area provision, and landscaping and tree cover increased as part of improvements to the wider green infrastructure network. Walking and cycling links, including connections to Prittle Brook Greenway and with neighbourhoods to the east, are improved.

12.13 Air quality will be improved, particularly within the Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) at the Bell and West Road/ East Street junctions of the A127 and at Cuckoo Corner, through design and landscape mitigation, that enhances the quality of the environment and mitigates the impact of traffic. The impact of the road network on the character and setting of heritage assets has been mitigated wherever possible.

12.14 Victoria Avenue (A127) continues to play an important role as the primary distributor, and passenger transport corridor, providing access to the City Centre and Central Seafront, and connections to London Southend Airport. Southend University Hospital continues to serve the local and wider area, served by a range of travel options, including bus services, and improved opportunities for walking and cycling.

12.15 The economic role of London Southend Airport is supported and improved surface access for all transport modes will serve the Airport and London Southend Airport Railway Station. The employment areas of Priory Works and Thanet Grange continue to be protected for employment uses to support local employment opportunities. Opportunities for residential growth are focussed around passenger transport corridors, allowing for sustainable access.

12.16 The local plan designates land for particular purposes, such as to protect valuable green space and key employment areas. The plan also includes site proposals that identify specific sites for particular uses. This process ensures that land is utilised effectively and strategically and will guide development decisions on future planning applications across the city. See Appendix 2 and accompanying Policies Map for more information.

https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Westcliff%20Area%20Profile%20Nov%202020.pdf

12.17 Westcliff will continue to be a vibrant and accessible neighbourhood, with goods and services and local employment within easy reach for residents. Its community and cultural assets will be protected and strengthened. Westcliff District Centre at Hamlet Court Road remains the focus for everyday activity, along with the Neighbourhood Centre at London Road/ West Road, complemented by Local Centres and businesses along the A13 London Road. The A13 will remain the Key Passenger Transport Corridor, with an enhanced public realm, and will be a focus for residential growth, providing well designed buildings that optimise the use of land, with opportunities for active ground floor uses and residential uses above.

12.18 Its heritage assets will be conserved and enhanced, including Hamlet Court Road Conservation Area, providing a focus for heritage-led regeneration and enterprise. The traditional character of the seafront, including historic and natural assets, will be protected and enhancedDevelopment along the seafront will have regard to Policy DM8.4 and Policy Table DM8.4: Seafront Character Zones..

12.19 The quality of the urban realm within the neighbourhood will be improved, making it more attractive for active travel, particularly around retail/ commercial centres and schools, and to facilities and services outside the neighbourhood, for example, Milton Gardens, Chalkwell Park and Priory Park. Opportunities to provide urban greening and enhance biodiversity will help improve air quality, increase climate resilience, and provide for an improved quality of life for residents. Opportunities will be sought to provide new and enhanced public open space and play facilities.

12.20 The local plan designates land for particular purposes, such as to protect valuable green space and key employment areas. The plan also includes site proposals that identify specific sites for particular uses. This process ensures that land is utilised effectively and strategically and will guide development decisions on future planning applications across the city. See Appendix 2 and accompanying Policies Map for more information.

https://localplan.southend.gov.uk/sites/localplan.southend/files/2021-08/Southend%20Central%20Area%20Profile%20Nov%202020.pdf

12.21 Southend Central is characterised by two distinct entities, the City Centre (which includes the High Street) and the Central Seafront area comprising the city's main tourism facilities and leisure offer. It is also home to surrounding residential areas, including Sutton Road, Clifftown, Milton and Shorefields. These distinct areas are shown on Figure N5.i, and the policy framework is set out in Policies N5a, N5b and N5c respectively, with Policy N5d setting out the approach to car parking management in Southend Central Area. Proposed site allocations and opportunity areas are presented in Policies N5ai, N5bi, and N5ci.

12.22 Southend City Centre is a sub-regional retail and commercial centre, traditionally dominated by comparison shopping including two retail malls ('The Victoria's Centre' and 'The Royals') at the northern and southern ends of the linear pedestrianised High Street, which form part of the City Centre Primary Shopping Area. There is a continuous link through to the Central Seafront area, via Pier Hill. It is also the principal public transport hub for the city and includes two railway stations (Southend Central and Southend Victoria) and the bus station/ travel centre interchange at Tylers Avenue/ Chichester Road.