Policy FA1: Strategic Policy for Western Area

Bourne Leisure supports point (c) of Policy FA1 which states that in the Western Area, the Council will:
c) encourage the retention of existing and provision of more high quality visitor accommodation along the Seafront, the main arterial routes and close to other generators of demand.

However, the Company considers that it is important too, to promote tourism generally throughout the Western area, in order to achieve Objective 7b.

Policy FA1 also states that the Council will:
k) direct development to areas at the lowest risk of flooding and require site specific Flood Risk Assessments to be provided for development in areas at a higher risk as identified in the Strategic Risk Assessment- in the vicinity of Bulvehythe and West Marina and the Combe Haven River..";

In regard to point (k), Bourne Leisure would reiterate the comments made on supporting paragraph 5.23 i.e. that whilst Bourne Leisure accepts in principle the need for risk-based sequential and exception tests to be undertaken, full account should also be taken of: the specific characteristics and vulnerability of any existing or proposed land use; whether the residual risks of flooding to people and property are acceptable and can be satisfactorily managed; and whether the proposed development makes a positive contribution to reducing or managing flood risk.

The Company considers that this approach would be more effective, given the aims at paragraph 5.9 and within Policy FA1 to increase housing, employment and tourism in the area.