4.52

Policy A11 needs to be removed from the plan.
Policy A12 should be removed from the plan for the same reasons.
An assessment on the impact of traffic along the stretch of the A259 between Fishbourne and Southbourne should be carried out.

The site at Policy A11 does nothing to support the rural economy or allow the local community to thrive. There is a proposed 3rd village hall as part of the development which is neither wanted or needed and allotments which were specifically argued against at the planning consultation stage. The development in the plan proposed for the A259 corridor will exacerbate local traffic congestion and put a strain on the already overwhelmed sewerage system, strategic road network and resources such as the village shop and oversubscribed Dr surgery.

Revise use of word 'essential' in this paragraph to 'important' in alignment with the NPPF para 85

Not consistent with NPPF paragraph 85. NPPF requires that in the circumstances described (i.e. development meeting business/community needs beyond existing settlements) it is IMPORTANT to ensure sensitivity to surroundings, does not have an unacceptable impact on roads etc. The Local Plan modifies this requirement in its use of the word ESSENTIAL rather than important.

As set out in the accompanying letter, we ask that the particular needs and character of the Goodwood Estate, particularly the husbandry over centuries which has created the landscape which the plan seeks to protect, are recognised, ideally as a specific policy, through the local plan and its need to evolve for the wider public good of economic growth and environmental protection, is maintained and enhanced. Areas subject to policies A16 and A17 should not be viewed in isolation from other parts of the Estate

The Goodwood Estate lies beyond any settlement boundary although it is close to the settlement of Westhampnett and the northern edge of Chichester. It is a major economic driver in the district as well as being a large, rural business. The special characteristics and role which the Goodwood Estate exhibits should be reflected in the local plan.

Much of the Estate lies within the National Park, but that part remaining in Chichester District has the greatest potential for economic growth as well as decline through ill-placed adjoining development (see Policy A9 and Map 9a).

There is often misplaced conflict between development proposals and other policies of the local plan which seek to protect the environment. We acknowledge and welcome the policies introduced to assist the Estate (policies A16 and A17) but there is a risk those policy areas will be viewed in isolation form the rest of the Estate with which it should be integrated if the plan is to truly assist and protect the Estate and its economic value to the District (and beyond).

WGPC supports this statement.