Central Lincolnshire Local Plan: MOD, RAF Scampton and Design

This focus on the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan draft consultation looks at the MOD, RAF Scampton and Design, both in their own way having an impact on the character of Central Lincolnshire. 

Large areas of Central Lincolnshire have been used for MOD purposes throughout the last century and the military presence has brought, and continues to bring, many benefits, particularly to the economy. Many of these sites are also essential for maintaining the defence and security of the country and so are of national importance.

Central Lincolnshire covers the three council areas of City of Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey with a strategic planning partnership made up of the two district, city and county councils

Policy S83 provides a clear framework for the re-use of suitably located MOD sites which are surplus to MOD operational purposes.  These sites often present a significant opportunity for new housing, economic development and/or regeneration and this policy seeks to manage and influence these opportunities as they arise.

The biggest change to the Local Plan in terms of MOD sites, is the inclusion of the RAF Scampton policy.

Whilst the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the MOD have yet to dispose of the site, regular dialogue continues between these organisations, West Lindsey District Council and the community.

Design has always been a key factor in planning policy and following a number of Government initiates design and design principles have come into sharp focus.

The Draft Local Plan looks at Design and Amenity and sets out how Central Lincolnshire will assess development in terms of good design.  Taking a holistic approach, it is recognised that to design successful places, all development should meet the aspiration for quality and sustainability.

A fundamental part of achieving high quality sustainable design, and ultimately high quality sustainable places, is the need to develop a thorough understanding of the local character and the qualities which contribute to local distinctiveness.

Policy S52 provides a clear set of standards and considerations under the ten design themes detailed in the Government’s National Design Guide.  These are:

Developers are required to demonstrate how these design themes have been considered telling the story behind the scheme and explaining how the policy matters have been addressed within their development proposals in supporting evidence submitted with their planning application.