Post Submission Main Modifications Core Strategy and Policies (DPD) and Site Allocations and Policies (incorporating IP-One Area Action Plan) (DPD)

Object

Representation ID: 24405

Received: 01/12/2016

Respondent: Martin Robeson & Partners Ltd (MRPP)

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

The Council entered the Examination having identified a need for some 15,000sqm of additional retain floorspace during the remainder of the Plan period. It proposed to accommodate all of this through the allocation of a single site; Westgate.

The Council has subsequently proposed various Main Modifications to both the Core Strategy and the Site Allocations document. Yet none address the fundamental requirement, set out in the NPPF, that development needs should be met (and specifically, that retail needs should be met in full). Indeed, the Council continues to promote only a single site, whilst at the same time deleting earlier references to the requirement for 15,000sqm of additional retail floorspace.

Modifications suggested in the full text.

Object

Representation ID: 24462

Received: 01/12/2016

Respondent: Martin Robeson & Partners Ltd (MRPP)

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

Tesco Stores Ltd has submitted a number of representations regarding the allocation of Site IP047 'Grafton Way', in particular criticising the lack of clarity regarding appropriate uses and their respective 'split', and also in respect of the Council's failure to sufficiently recognise the historic and future potential of the site for retail and leisure uses, not only to enhance existing provision, but also to ensure the viability and deliverability of the scheme itself. The Council is aware that the site is the subject of emerging proposals and that there continue to be positive discussions with the promoter. However, the Council is reminded that the site is a highly prominent, centrally located brownfield site, with the potential to achieve transformative regeneration of not just the site but the wider locality (note, the role of this site within the 'River and Princes Street Corridor'). The site has not been delivered for over 20 years, despite the current allocation in the 1997 Local Plan and therefore it is very important for the profile, economy and image of the Ipswich for this site to be delivered. Whilst the residential-led mixed use emphasis of the policy is supported, other main town centre uses necessary to bring about the transformation of this site (be it hotel, leisure, office or retail facilities) should also be supported, rather than having to face wider development management policies. The allocation policy should therefore remain flexible given the underlying objective is to ensure the allocation is fulfilled.