Policy EN4: Conservation and Enhancement of Landscape

Southern Water is unable to support Hastings Local Plan as sound. We believe that Policy EN4 is not consistent with national planning policy, in particular paragraph 152 of the National Planning Policy Framework.

Paragraph 152 suggests that economic, social and environmental consideration should be given in respect of sustainable development.

We are concerned that, in its current form, policy EN4 could unduly restrict development of essential utility infrastructure Hastings District. Whilst we appreciate the desire to conserve the landscape, there are certain limited circumstances when it is necessary to build on such land. For example: when a pumping station would be required to serve new development and there is no other land available. In these circumstances, the benefit of development may outweigh any detriment to the landscape.

Paragraph 152 suggests that mitigation or compensation should be considered where adverse impacts are unavoidable.

Rother District Council (RDC) support the inclusion of adopting a joined up approach with RDC to the use and management of land between Ivyhouse Lane and Rock Lane, to secure improvements in association with development in the locality. This approach is in line with Policy HF1: The Hastings Fringes, in the Rother District Council Proposed Submission Core Strategy (incorporating focused amendments).