St Athan. Aerospace Business Park. Sustainability statement

Transcription

1 St Athan Aerospace Business Park Sustainability statement

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3 Aerospace Business Park, St. Athan Sustainability Statement May 2009 Atkins Ltd Longcross Court 47 Newport Road Cardiff CF24 0AD Telephone +44 (029) Fax +44 (029) Notice This report was produced by Atkins Limited for the Welsh Assembly Government for the specific purpose of St Athan Aerospace Business Park Sustainability Statement. This report may not be used by any person other than Welsh Assembly Government without Welsh Assembly Government s express permission. In any event, Atkins accepts no liability for any costs, liabilities or losses arising as a result of the use of or reliance upon the contents of this report by any person other than Welsh Assembly Government. Document History JOB NUMBER: DOCUMENT REF: Final SM/AG AG MH/CW JS Draft post client comments SM/AG AG AG/MH JS Draft Report SM/AG AG CW JS Revision Purpose Description Originated Checked Reviewed Authorised Date /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc

4 Contents Section Page Glossary of Terms/Abbreviations 4 1. Introduction Background Description of Proposed Development Delivering Sustainable Development Scope of Sustainability Statement Approach to preparation of Sustainability Statement General Approach Application of Sustainability Appraisal Framework Development of Sustainability Supporting Statement including Sustainability Checklist Sustainability Appraisal of Aerospace Business Park Masterplan Introduction Initial Site Assessment Site Layout and Density [SO 1, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 13, 16 and 17] Transport and Movement [SO 2, 3 and 13] Energy Conservation and Efficiency [SO 1, 4, 5 and 6] Low/Zero Carbon Energy Sources and Systems [SO 5] Energy Efficiency and Material Choice [SO 6] Street Lighting [SO 7] Water Conservation and Sustainable Drainage [SO8] Waste Management and Land Quality [SO 9] Landscape, Trees and Ecology [SO 10 and 11] Social [SO 12, 14 and 15] Economic [SO 12, 15, 16 and 17] Design Principles VoGC Sustainability Checklist 52 List of Tables Table Assessment Scale 18 Table Summary of Results 19 Table VoGC Sustainability Checklist 52 List of Figures Figure [phase 1] /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 2

5 Figure [phase 2] 9 Figure [phase 3] 10 Appendices Appendix A Development of Sustainability Appraisal Framework 76 Appendix B Sustainability Appraisal of the ABP Masterplan 89 Appendix C Consultation Workshop Findings 107 C.1 Consultation Workshop 108 List of Tables Table A.1 - Key Issues and Opportunities 77 Table B.1 Sustainability Appraisal of Masterplan 90 Table C.1 Summary of Workshop Findings based on the Welsh Assembly Government Sustainable Development Integration and Appraisal Tool 109 List B.1 - Sources /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 3

6 Glossary of Terms/Abbreviations Term/Abbreviation ABP BREEAM CIBSE DDA DTC MoD MRO NAR PS SAR SPG SS UDP VoGC Foreign objects and debris Global Warming Potential Ozone Depletion Potential Trombé walls WwTW Explanation Aerospace Business Park Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers Disability Discrimination Act Defence Training College Ministry of Defence Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Northern Access Road Planning Statement Southern Access Road Supplementary Planning Guidance Sustainability Statement Unitary Development Plan Vale of Glamorgan Council Items that, when misplaced or caught by air currents normally found around aircraft operations (jet blast, rotor or prop wash engine intake) cause damage to aircraft systems or injury to personnel. Measure of how much a given mass of greenhouse gas is estimated to contribute to global warming. Relative amount of degradation to the ozone layer that a chemical compound can cause A sun-facing wall built from material that can act as a thermal mass (such as stone, metal, concrete, adobe or water tanks), combined with an air space, insulated glazing and vents to form a large solar thermal collector. Waste Water Treatment Works /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 4

7 1. Introduction 1.1 Background This Sustainability Statement (SS) has been prepared to support an application by the Welsh Ministers for planning permission for proposed development at the existing military base at St Athan. The document has been developed to accord with the requirements of The Vale of Glamorgan Council (VoGC) Supplementary Planning Guidance: Sustainable Development issued in The SS is a requirement of the VoGC for applications for planning permission This statement forms one of a series of documents prepared in support of the planning application. These include the Statement in support of the planning application, referred to hereafter as the Planning Statement, abbreviated to PS. This SS should therefore be read in conjunction with the PS and the plans and supporting documentation to which the PS refers. 1.2 Description of Proposed Development The proposed development is described in the PS as: Development at and adjoining the aerospace business park, including: the erection of new and replacement buildings, airfield operational facilities and structures; the provision of access roads, hardstandings and other infrastructure; security fencing; landscaping and ecological works; garage for Rose Cottage; all associated building and engineering operations; and related highway improvements In addition to the above, the PS states that: The proposed Aerospace Business Park (ABP) development is focused on the existing military base at St Athan. New northern and southern access roads will be created and improvement works to existing highways are proposed as follows: an improvement (within highway limits) of the junction between Cowbridge Road and the B4265 at St Athan; an improvement of the B4265 at Gileston to Old Mill, just east of St Athan; an improvement of the existing A4226/B4266 junction at Waycock Cross on the north-western edge of Barry The PS indicates that the application is principally for outline planning permission, but also seeks detailed planning permission for certain of the proposed highway and highway improvement works. Those for which detailed permission is sought are: the Northern Access Road; and the proposed improvement at Gileston to Old Mill /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 5

8 Phasing The PS describes the development of the site in 3 phases, as follows: Phase 1: 2014 Phase 1 development will take place up to 2014 and will comprise: - Construction of new hangar N1 on ABP North, on an area of land that is currently unoccupied and, therefore, relatively readily developed. - However, the provision of the new hangar would mean that the existing compass swing would need to be replaced, and this would be re-provided on land at ABP South. - Concurrent with new hangar N1 would be the provision of a new on-wing engine testing facility at ABP South. - A replacement fire training facility would be provided at ABP South. - Some existing buildings would be reused in the short term and there is potential for some infill non-runway related development, such as at ABP North. - Part of the new road infrastructure within ABP North would be provided. - The Adour test unit would be relocated to ABP South. - Aircraft vehicle parking would be relocated to ABP South. Phase 2: 2020 Phase 2 development would take place up to 2020 and would comprise: - ABP South would be developed, with the provision of hangar S1. - Batslays Farmhouse would be refurbished and extended to provide an ABP administration centre. - The SAR would be constructed. - Hangar N1 would be constructed in ABP North. Phase 3: 2028 Phase 3 development would take place up to 2028 and would comprise: - It is assumed in this phase that the aerodrome would move to licensing by the CAA. This would require the demolition, or reduction in height, of a number of existing buildings to comply with safeguarding requirements. These include: existing hangars 383, 385 and 406 at ABP South, and the Air Traffic Control tower and fire station at ABP North. - A new Air Traffic Control tower and fire station would be provided on ABP North. - The development of ABP North would be completed with the provision of two further hangars N3/4 and N /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 6

9 - Further non-runway infill development is proposed on ABP North. - Further development is proposed at ABP South, some non-runway related, but with three small aircraft hangars of approximately 12 m in height to replace hangars 383, 385 and 406. The development will necessitate the demolition of a number of existing buildings and other structures and this will take place progressively over the phases of development In addition to the above, the planning application is supported by substantial illustrative and explanatory material. The SS has been prepared with reference to the proposed characteristics of the development as it is described within the planning submission package, with the spatial context for the development set by the masterplan, produced by WYG Planning & Design, The assessment of the sustainability performance of the ABP masterplan and findings presented in this SS make reference to the phases described in section Specifically, these phases are illustrated in the following figures: 21 [phase 1]; 22 [phase 2]; and 23 [phase 3] These are reproduced as Figures in this SS for reference /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 7

10 Figure [phase 1] /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 8

11 Figure [phase 2] /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 9

12 Figure [phase 3] /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 10

13 1.3 Delivering Sustainable Development UK There is international commitment to delivering sustainable development. The UK s shared framework for sustainable development 1 has interpreted the Brundtland Report s definition of sustainable development: development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, via four key priority areas: Sustainable Consumption and Production; Climate Change and Energy; Natural Resource Protection and Environmental Enhancement; and Sustainable Communities. Wales Sustainable Development is seen as the 'central organising principle for Government and the wider public sector in Wales, 2 under the sustainable development scheme prepared by the Welsh Ministers as part of the responsibilities conveyed through the Government of Wales Act 2006, section 79. The Consultation on a new Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales 3 has interpreted sustainable development as: In the context of Wales, sustainable development means enhancing the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of people and communities, achieving a better quality of life for our own and future generations. This must be done in ways which promote social justice and equality of opportunity, and which enhance the natural and cultural environment and respect its limits - using only our fair share of the earth s resources and sustaining our cultural legacy. Sustainable development is the process by which we reach the goal of sustainability To achieve forms of development that are more sustainable than previous projects, proposals must strike an acceptable balance between maximising resource and energy efficiency; minimising environmental impacts; delivering social benefits; and supporting a healthy economy. This is also reflected in the One Wales: One Planet consultation document (November 2008), which states within the Vision that: Within the lifetime of a generation [the Welsh Assembly Government] want to see Wales using only its fair share of the earth s resources, and where our ecological 1 Scottish Executive, Welsh Assembly Government, Northern Ireland Office, HM Government 2005, The UK s shared framework for sustainable development, 2 Quotation from One Wales: One Planet: Consultation on a new Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales Summary document November Welsh Assembly Government November 2008, One Wales, One Planet: Consultation on a new Sustainable Development Scheme for Wales, /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 11

14 footprint is reduced to the global average availability of resources 1.88 global hectares per person, with each Spatial Plan Area making its full contribution...to achieve this goal over a generation, we will need to reduce by two thirds the total resources we currently use to sustain our lifestyles The land use planning process therefore offers the opportunity to deliver substantial progress towards achieving the Welsh Assembly Government Sustainable Development priorities. In order to achieve this goal, the Sustainable Development Scheme Consultation sets the following targets: 80-90% reduction in use of carbon-based energy to build on existing 3% per annum reduction target in Wales and ambitions to make all new buildings zero carbon buildings and to move to producing as much electricity from renewable sources by 2025 as consumed; Move towards becoming a zero waste nation. This will build on our stated goal of achieving 70% recycling of municipal waste by 2025; Travel less by car, and create a stronger connection with local economies and communities; Source more of our food locally and in season; and Do all this in ways which make us a fairer society, building on our commitments to tackling child and fuel poverty Additional targets derived from planning policy guidance are included within the Sustainability Appraisal Framework developed for this SS, further details of which are included in this section and Appendix B As stated previously, the Welsh Ministers have a duty to promote sustainable development through the Sustainable Development Scheme required under Section 79 of the Government of Wales Act (GOWA) The development of ABP, as a Welsh Assembly Government promoted and owned site, must demonstrably deliver on the government objectives for sustainable development, providing an exemplar of how the concepts and theory can be translated into practical and deliverable solutions Other Welsh Assembly Government Guidance that has been considered and adhered to as part of the development of this SS is referenced with the sustainability objectives that have been developed for the site and are presented in section 2 of the SS. Vale of Glamorgan Council Policy 2 of the VoGC Unitary Development Plan (UDP) encourages sustainable practices in all development proposals. This cites the following approaches to development as favourable: /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 12

15 Proposals which contribute to energy conservation or efficiency, waste reduction or recycling; pollution control; biodiversity and the conservation of natural resources; Proposals which are located to minimise the need to travel, especially by car and help to reduce vehicle movements or which encourage cycling, walking or the use of public transport; The reclamation of derelict or degraded land for appropriate beneficial use; and Proposals which improve the quality of the environment through the utilisation of high standards of design As amplification to the contents of Policy 2, VoGC has produced Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) on Sustainable Development. This seeks to encourage a holistic approach to construction and reduce the impact of development during its lifetime, placing a requirement on applicants to consider and demonstrate the manner in which sustainability has been incorporated into scheme development. 1.4 Scope of Sustainability Statement The Statement has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the VoGC Sustainable Development SPG and aims to demonstrate how the policies of the Welsh Assembly Government will be delivered by this project. The SPG requires that all Statements of Sustainability address the following: Site layout and density; Transport and movement; Energy conservation and efficiency; Low/zero carbon energy sources and systems; Low embodied energy material and resource efficiency; Street lighting to minimise pollution; Water conservation and sustainable drainage; Waste management; and Landscape, Trees and Ecology The SS comprises a written explanation of the sustainability principles and characteristics of the proposed development. This is supported by a completed Sustainability Checklist in the format required by the VoGC SPG, which is presented as Table /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 13

16 2. Approach to preparation of Sustainability Statement 2.1 General Approach The preparation of the SS has been informed by the following process, which has been developed from the general principles of the established methodology for conducting Sustainability Appraisal 4 (SA), incorporating Strategic Environmental Assessment 5 (SEA), of development plans. As outlined below, this approach encompasses the requirements of the SPG, building upon them to create a broader sustainability analysis based on the specific sustainability considerations of the site, as well as wider sustainable development guidance The approach comprises the following sequential stages: Development of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework based on: - Review of Policies, Plans and Programmes; - Identification of Key Issues and Opportunities through Baseline Analysis; - Application of Welsh Assembly Government Sustainable Development Integration and Appraisal Tool; - Final Framework for Assessment; Assessment of the ABP masterplan against the Sustainability Appraisal Framework ; and Development of Sustainability Supporting Statement (this document) The principal tasks under each of the stages are outlined in this section. Development of Sustainability Appraisal Framework In order to assess the characteristics of the ABP masterplan in terms of its potential ability to achieve sustainable development, it was necessary to develop a framework of objectives, indicators and targets for use as an appraisal tool. The development of this Sustainability Appraisal Framework involved an examination of the key issues and opportunities of the site, as well as analysis of a wide range of common sustainability themes contained within relevant planning and sustainability plans, policies and guidance. Plans, Policies and Guidance Considered The key guidance in the development of this SS is the VoGC Sustainable Development SPG. The guidance does not, however, cover social and economic 4 Local Development Plan Manual, Welsh Government Assembly (June 2006) Planning: Delivering for Wales Programme 5 Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents, Guidance for Regional Bodies and Local Planning Authorities, ODPM, November /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 14

17 aspects of sustainable development. As such, various other plans, policies and guidance have been considered; common themes are reflected in the final sustainability objectives and decision aiding questions. The full list of guidance reviewed to inform the development of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework includes: 1. VoGC 2006, Sustainable Development SPG; 2. VoGC Dec 2007, LDP Initial Sustainability Appraisal Report, Sustainability Appraisal Framework ; 3. Welsh Assembly Government Jan 2008, Wales Spatial Plan Update Sustainability Appraisal/Strategic Environmental Assessment (SA/SEA); 4. Welsh Assembly Government Dec 2008, Sustainable Development Integration and Appraisal Tool; 5. Building Research Establishment 2008, BES 5052: ISSUE 2.0 BREEAM Industrial 2008 Assessor Manual; 6. Welsh Assembly Government, November 2008, Green Jobs for Wales: Consultation; 7. Welsh Development Agency 2005, Creating Sustainable Places; and 8. ARENA Network & Groundwork Wales , Green Dragon. 9. Welsh Assembly Government July 2008, Further Consultation on Planning for Climate Change. Identification of Key Issues and Opportunities through Baseline Analysis The starting point for the assessment of the sustainability performance of the ABP was the site analysis, which was used to determine the local sustainability issues and opportunities. Desk-top review of the outputs from a comprehensive programme of site work (extending over several years of development and preparatory work at the St Athan site) and analysis of policies, strategies and plans applicable to the St Athan site and environs informed the definition of the current baseline conditions The composite Environmental Statement of the St Athan Defence Training College (DTC) and ABP site produced by Entec (2009) was used to derive some key issues and opportunities for the site. The examination of these key issues and opportunities, supplemented by the review of the plans, policies and guidance listed above, contributed to the development of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework. This is presented in tabular form as background information in Appendix A of the SS. Consultation and Application of Welsh Assembly Government Assessment Tool The Welsh Assembly Government Sustainable Development Integration and Appraisal Tool was applied to the masterplan separately, before integration into /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 15

18 the Sustainability Appraisal Framework. In order to provide an opportunity for ideas for refinements and enhancements to the sustainability performance of the ABP, this was undertaken as a workshop exercise attended by the design and sustainability team and representatives from the Welsh Assembly Government. The full list of attendees is provided in Appendix C The purpose was to review the key features of the ABP masterplan in relation to the Welsh Assembly Government sustainability objectives. Within the same meeting, consultation was undertaken resulting in modifications to the masterplan, which were incorporated into the design in March Framework for Assessment The development of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework involved the amplification of the sustainability objectives to create a full framework for assessment that amalgamates the requirements of Plans, Policies and Guidance considered, incorporating decision aiding questions and associated targets. These also reflect the key issues and opportunities identified through the baseline analysis to ensure that local sustainability considerations are addressed through the masterplan (see Appendix A). This approach reflects the best practice of established SA/SEA process in drawing together common sustainability themes and therefore goes beyond the requirements of the SPG, thus enabling a thorough and integrated analysis and outcome The final list of sustainability objectives incorporated into the Sustainability Appraisal Framework and used for the ABP masterplan assessment is listed below. Text in square brackets demonstrates where the requirements of the VoGC SD SPG have specifically been met. Numbers in curved brackets refer to the source references used to derive the objectives in addition to the SPG, as listed above in paragraph To use land effectively and efficiently and improve its quality (2,3); 2. To reduce air and noise pollution (2,3); 3. To maintain the transport user hierarchy 6, providing easy and safe movement for all modes of transport, especially pedestrians and cyclists, and connect to existing routes beyond the immediate development [SPG: Site Assessment; Site Layout and Density; Transport and Movement] (1,2,5,7); 4. To reduce energy demand [SPG: Site Assessment; Site Layout and Density; Energy Conservation and Efficiency] (1,3,7); 5. To ensure the potential for the generation of low and zero carbon energy technologies is maximised [SPG: Site Layout and Density and Low/Zero Carbon Energy Sources and Systems] (1,3,9); 6 DfT, Manual for Streets, /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 16

19 6. To ensure the use of low embodied energy materials and resource efficiency in all development [SPG: Low Embodied Energy Material and Resource Efficiency] (1,3,7); 7. To minimise street light pollution [SPG: Street Lighting to Minimise Pollution] (1); 8. To reduce the risk of flooding, pollution to watercourses, and water consumption [SPG: Water Conservation and Sustainable Drainage] (1,3,7); 9. To implement the waste hierarchy [SPG: Waste Management] (1,2,7); 10. To protect and enhance the important character of the surrounding landscape and reduce visual impact [SPG: Site Assessment; Landscape, Trees and Ecology] (1,2,3,7); 11. To protect and enhance the ecological value of the site and surrounding areas [SPG: Site Assessment; Landscape, Trees and Ecology] (1,2,3,7); 12. To maintain, promote and enhance the range of local facilities [SPG: Site Assessment] (1,2); 13. To promote and provide services to maintain healthy communities [SPG: Site Layout and Density] (3); 14. To protect and enhance Wales diversity, local distinctiveness and cultural and historic heritage [SPG: Site Assessment] (2,3); 15. To increase opportunities to build the Welsh education and skills base (3); 16. To encourage a vibrant and diversified economy (3,4,8); and 17. To provide for a diverse range of local job opportunities (2,4,6) The final framework for assessment is presented with the assessment of the ABP masterplan in Table B.1 in Appendix B. This includes the decision aiding questions and the targets associated with each of the sustainability objectives within the framework. The decision aiding questions, derived from the plans, policies and guidance, were used to provide specific criteria against which to assess the sustainability performance of the ABP. 2.2 Application of Sustainability Appraisal Framework Section 3 details the results of the Sustainability Appraisal of the ABP Masterplan. The appraisal was undertaken using the Sustainability Appraisal Framework The masterplan was assessed relating to the three phases of development, as set out in the PS: Figure 21 [phase 1]; Figure 22 [phase 2]; and Figure 23 [phase 3] /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 17

20 2.2.3 For ease of cross-reference, these are shown as Figures The assessment was undertaken using the scale in Table 2.1. A significant effect was defined, in terms of direction of changes measured against the objective, where effects were deemed to be moderately or strongly positive or negative (>+ or <-). Table Assessment Scale Score Significance +++ strongly positive (significant) ++ moderately positive (significant) + slightly positive? effect unknown/unable to be predicted at this stage 0 no effect/not relevant; - slightly negative -- moderately negative (significant) --- strongly negative (significant) Further information that supports the masterplan was also used to inform the appraisal. This included the following: Capita Symonds: , Ecological Mitigation Strategy , Aerospace Business Park Travel Plan; and , Defence Technical College and Aerospace Business Park - St Athan: Transport Assessment. Entec UK Limited: , Environmental Statement. Metrix/Welsh Assembly Government St Athan Home of the Defence Technical College and Aerospace Business Park , Metrix St Athan Economic Impact Assessment: Draft Report Parsons Brinckerhoff Ltd: , RAF St. Athan Groundwater Remediation Position Statement , Land Quality and Remediation Strategy Report Aerospace Business Park (ABP) MOD St. Athan Metrix 2009, Infrastructure: Waste Strategy /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 18

21 Mott MacDonald 2009, Updated Demand Study for development at the Aerospace Business Park at St Athan WYG, 2009, ABP Planning Statement Table 2.2 summarises the results of the sustainability appraisal for the three phases. Detailed results are presented in Appendix B. Overall; the assessment has predicted significantly positive effects against most of the sustainability objectives. The key features of the results of the appraisal indicate that the masterplan for the Aerospace Business Park at St Athan will contribute to sustainable development, as further discussed in section 3. Table Summary of Results No Sustainability Objective Sub- topic Phase To use land effectively and efficiently [and improve its quality] To reduce air and noise pollution To maintain the transport user hierarchy, providing easy and safe movement for all modes of transport, especially pedestrians and cyclists, and connect to existing routes beyond the immediate development [SPG: Site Assessment; Site Layout and Density; Transport and Movement] 4 To reduce energy demand [SPG: Site Assessment; Site Layout and Density; Energy Conservation and Efficiency] 5 To ensure the potential for the generation of low and zero carbon energy technologies is maximised [SPG: Site Layout and Density and Low/Zero Carbon Energy Sources and Systems] 6 To ensure the use of low embodied energy materials and resource efficiency in all development [SPG: Low Embodied Energy Pedestrians Cyclists Public Transport Private Motor Vehicles Energy Demand /- +/ BREEAM /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 19

22 No Sustainability Objective Sub- topic Material and Resource Efficiency] 7 To minimise street light pollution [SPG: Street Lighting to Minimise Pollution] Phase To reduce the risk of flooding, pollution to watercourses, and water consumption [SPG: Water Conservation and Sustainable Drainage] 9 To implement the waste hierarchy [SPG: Waste Management] 10 To protect and enhance the important character of the surrounding landscape and reduce visual impact [SPG: Site Assessment; Landscape, Trees and Ecology] 11 To protect and enhance the ecological value of the site and surrounding areas [SPG: Site Assessment; Landscape, Trees and Ecology] 12 To maintain, promote and enhance the range of local facilities [SPG: Site Assessment] 13 To promote and provide services to maintain healthy communities [SPG: Site Layout and Density 14 To protect and enhance Wales diversity, local distinctiveness and cultural and historic heritage [SPG: Site Assessment] 15 To increase opportunities to build the Welsh education and skills Water Conservation Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) Internal storage Waste management scheme /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 20

23 No Sustainability Objective Sub- topic base 16 To encourage a vibrant and diversified economy 17 To provide for a diverse range of local job opportunities Phase Development of Sustainability Supporting Statement including Sustainability Checklist The results of the appraisal, in line with the requirements of the VoGC SPG are summarised in section 3. In order to cross-reference these results with the results of the sustainability appraisal in Appendix B, the relevant Sustainability Objectives from Table B.1 (the Sustainability Appraisal Framework) are numbered in brackets next to the SPG topic headings The results of the appraisal are also set out in a tabular format, as a sustainability checklist, in section 4 of this SS to reflect the requirements of the VoGC SPG /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 21

24 3. Sustainability Appraisal of Aerospace Business Park Masterplan 3.1 Introduction The masterplan proposals for ABP have been assessed against the sustainability objectives; and the design process has integrated key considerations arising from the assessment process In line with the requirements of the Welsh Assembly Government in respect of the promotion of sustainable development, as outlined in section 1, the following analysis demonstrates how the masterplan will contribute to sustainable development, incorporating the headings outlined in the VoGC SPG. As the process of developing Sustainability Objectives led to the addition of further objectives, this section also includes additional headings over and above those required in the SPG. This has enabled a more thorough demonstration of the ability of the masterplan to contribute to sustainable development. Under each of the headings taken from the SPG, the relevant Sustainability Objectives (SO) are listed, which link to the assessments in Appendix B. 3.2 Initial Site Assessment The PS outlines the history of the St Athan site, determining its usage to date as follows: MoD St Athan officially opened as RAF St Athan in 1938 and was used initially by the No. 4 School of Technical Training, a fighter group pool, the School of Air Navigation and a maintenance unit. During World War 2 the station was used for training ground and air crew and housed over 14,000 people. Over time, it developed into the RAF s major maintenance base for aircraft under the aegis of the RAF and DARA and, latterly, DSG The majority of the site is already owned by the Welsh Ministers. According to the PS: Much of the land within the application site is already owned by the Welsh Ministers. It comprises either land that the Welsh Ministers hold on a long lease from the MoD, or other land in which the Welsh Ministers have acquired a freehold interest. Where land within the application site is not already owned by the Welsh Ministers, the Welsh Ministers propose to acquire that land (or rights to carry out the development) either voluntarily by negotiation or compulsorily using the compulsory purchase powers contained in the Welsh Development Agency Act 1975 (as amended) and the Acquisition of Land Act /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 22

25 Before submitting the planning application, the applicant has served statutory notices under section 65 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) on all known owners and agricultural tenants, and has advertised the application Current uses on the site are outlined in the PS as follows: The application site comprises land that is in two principal uses: The majority of the site is previously developed (or brownfield ) land within the former military base. This part of the site contains the runway and a large number of hangars and other buildings. These are currently in a variety of uses military and civil and some are disused. The remainder of the site is mainly agricultural land, in four different locations, as follows: - land to the north, which is required for the construction of the Northern Access Road; - land to the south, at Batslays, which is required for both the development of the ABP and for the Southern Access Road; - land at Gileston to Old Mill, which is required for realignment of the B4265; and - land at Waycock Cross, which is required for highway junction improvement As a development prospect, the site therefore offers the following advantages: A brownfield site, already in operation as an airfield and centre of aerospace excellence, serving South East Wales and beyond; Established infrastructure comprising a combination of walking, cycling, rail and road networks, supporting existing residential, military and civilian business activity at the site; Physical and functional connections to the neighbouring communities of St Athan, Llantwit Major and Rhoose, with wider connections to Barry, Cardiff, Bridgend and beyond; Opportunity for beneficial redevelopment, intensification and consolidation of built development of the only site in South Wales with substantial development land adjacent to an operational runway; Adjacent to the proposed DTC, which will offer enhanced community, leisure and recreation facilities, as well as delivering a complementary set of training to the ABP proposal; Centrally located to establish a collaborative approach to training and business development in conjunction with major universities in South Wales /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 23

26 Cardiff, Glamorgan and Swansea all of which have an excellent engineering pedigree; and Environmental assessment work has identified bespoke mitigation and concluded that the site can be subject to further development without compromising environmental thresholds On the basis of the above, the site proposed for the development of ABP is considered to represent a sustainable choice The combination of social and economic advantages to the selection of the St Athan site is a more acceptable prospect in broad environmental terms than alternatives, which predominantly focused on delivering the DARA/DSG and ABP development on a greenfield site adjoining Cardiff Airport. 3.3 Site Layout and Density [SO 1, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 13, 16 and 17] The site layout and density presented on the masterplan for ABP has been the product of several years collaborative development work and represents the culmination of the most effective and efficient elements of numerous iterations of proposals. There is an existing operational runway of 1825m in length on an axis, with a disused cross-runway at right angles. The runway will continue in operational use throughout the development of the ABP and is an integral part of the masterplan. There are complex aeronautical regulatory constraints that have to be taken into account in the design and layout of the masterplan, whether under the existing licensing as a government aerodrome in military use (JSP 554) or potential future civilian licensing by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) (CAP 168 and CAP 772 in particular) The final site layout has been developed around the aeronautical and general movement requirements and to reflect the environmental context of the proposed development. It optimises sustainable use of the site in delivering the accommodation and level of development identified through demand work as being necessary for viable economic operation of the ABP. The masterplan layout has been formulated taking the following key elements into consideration, further detail of which is provided in the paragraphs that follow: Orientation of buildings; Development mix; Development density; Operational, user and visitor safety; and Environmental enhancement /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 24

27 Orientation of Buildings Building orientation has been determined based on the following guiding principles: Maximised retention of existing buildings for continued operation and/or redevelopment in situ; Creation of efficient clusters of buildings to minimise impermeable surfacing associated with aircraft movement and storage and maximise infrastructure efficiency; Use of building orientation to aid screening of visual impact, noise attenuation and deliver a sense of enclosure and delineation between aircraft and general circulation within the site; and Maximised opportunities to achieve passive solar gain and natural daylighting All new buildings on site will be required to meet Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) Excellent standards. BREEAM Industrial (2008) requires consideration of the following design principles in relation to building orientation: LE1 Reuse of land Where evidence is provided to demonstrate that the majority of the footprint of the proposed development falls within the boundary of previously developed land... In the case of refurbishment, the credit can be awarded by default where no new building work or infrastructure is being constructed as part of the refurbishment. Development Mix The development mix has been generated through comprehensive demand work and from actual enquiries received by the Welsh Assembly Government (PS). A schedule of the full mix of buildings is provided in support of the planning application. The following represent key features of the mix in relation to sustainability considerations: Comprehensive analysis of the operational requirements of the runway by aerospace specialists has identified the minimum requirements in terms of runway usage including fire cover, Air Traffic Control and bulk fuel storage. In all cases, land take for these essential facilities has been minimised and location optimised; Based on the findings of economic forecasting work, aerospace specialists have advised on the specification and optimum location of the MRO requirements including compass swing, engine running checks, taxiways, aprons and runway configuration. These are reflected in the masterplan; Hangar sizes have been determined based on an analysis of forecast demand for different aircraft types, accommodating the maximum size of /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 25

28 aircraft that can use the runway, as well as offering a selection of smaller hangars, which will be flexible in their use; Office and ancillary accommodation reflects a combination of conversion and new build. The application of BREEAM Very Good and Excellent standards, respectively, will secure the delivery of flexible and adaptable accommodation, potentially supporting a rich mix of commercial development types across the site In addition to the development within the ABP site boundary, it is important to place the proposals in their wider context. The DTC site is adjacent to ABP and consequently, when considered as a whole, the proposed development mix will deliver commercial development space; aerospace business space; education and training facilities; residential new build and conversion; community facilities; and sports, leisure and recreation facilities. Furthermore, the physical and functional connections to the neighbouring communities of St Athan, Llantwit Major and Rhoose will support a richer and more varied development mix and strengthened catchment for local services and facilities at the sub-regional level. Development Density The density of development has been maximised across the ABP site within the confines of what is acceptable for aeronautical regulations and to minimise the visual impact of the development. This has culminated in the following key features: The area north of the runway is generally a higher density than land to the south of the runway and comprises a range of large hangars. The density on this site is 2,082 sq m per hectare. This reflects the context of neighbouring military development, which is relatively dense; and the presence of the Super Hangar, which is a strong and recognisable precedent for building type in this part of the site; The area south of the runway is generally a lower density at 971 sq m per hectare (based upon the area excluding the Newt zone) due to the presence of airfield facilities including the compass swing, bulk fuel installation and engine running and fire training facilities. Operational, User and Visitor Safety The site includes an operational airfield, which will be subject to military and/or civilian airfield regulations. Consequently, the site will be enclosed by security fencing and access/egress will be via manned security controlled points at the northern and southern boundaries of ABP Movement within the site will be strictly controlled, particularly within the runway strip. Waymarking will be used to aid legibility of the site, using a consistent approach to signing that differentiates between modes /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 26

29 It is envisaged that visitors to the site, which could include school groups on educational visits, will be accompanied at all times. This is necessary to ensure the safety of visitors and operation of the airfield Pedestrian safety is further discussed under Transport and Movement. Environmental Enhancement and Sense of Place As outlined in the PS, one of the aims of the St Athan project is: To achieve the comprehensive redevelopment and regeneration of the St Athan site as a whole The comprehensive redevelopment and regeneration of the site, will lead to the creation of a high quality business park Through the delivery of a modern aerospace centre, contemporary designs will respond to the landscape and existing built environment, enhancing areas of existing built development that may otherwise fall into disrepair. Building design will accord to the design principles detailed in the PS, and create a unified approach to development in the masterplan area, which will reinforce the vision and contribute to a sense of place Local character will also be reflected through the creation of attractive gateways to the site, which may include public artworks, as well as a public art scheme to enhance the boundaries of the site. The public art strategy may also include an off-site project, which would be undertaken in consultation with the local community, linking them to the new development and helping to create a sense of local ownership. Further information about the Public Art Strategy can be found in the PS, which outlines potential locations that offer opportunities for public artworks as: - The new entrances from the B4265 and their associated landscaping. - The use of coloured finishes on hangars and other metal-clad structures, looking at how shape, pattern and texture can affect the appearance of the buildings. - Boundary markers/ wind-activated artworks, using the open windswept nature of the site to best advantage. - Commissioned craft items for the Batslays Farmhouse site, providing individually made furnishings for the administration centre and meeting rooms. - Off-site project, with an artist working with the nearby St Athan community, to develop a project that links them to the new development Objectives for the landscape strategy 7 for the site include retention of existing vegetation where possible to reduce the visual impact of the development in terms of prominence in the local landscape. In addition, the existing site boundary 7 Entec UK Limited Environmental Statement. Metrix/Welsh Assembly Government St Athan Home of the Defence Technical College and Aerospace Park /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 27

30 vegetation will be supplemented where possible, to deliver a greater degree of visual screening and support biodiversity It is envisaged that some amenity space for employees will be provided within the site, in the Batslays administrative centre area, which might include break-out space with seating. Nearer to the gateways to the site, landscaping could be provided for a similar purpose Extensive habitat management is proposed for mitigation in respect of great crested newts, dormice, reptiles and bats. Best working practices will be employed, which will reduce potential effects on otters, breeding birds and badgers. This includes a combination of on and off-site works, although the majority will be outside and adjacent to the site boundary, creating an exemplary strategy. Therefore, there will be no net loss in biodiversity. In addition to this, proposed ecological enhancement beyond current base levels includes the management of watercourses and creation of resting areas and artificial holts for otters (Ecological Mitigation Strategy). 3.4 Transport and Movement [SO 2, 3 and 13] Sustainability considerations require the implementation of the transport user hierarchy 8, wherever possible. This advocated that transport and movement proposals and strategies should accommodate users in the following order of priority: 1. Pedestrians; then 2. Cyclists; then 3. Public transport users; then 4. Specialist service vehicles (e.g. emergency services, waste etc); and finally 5. Other motor traffic The Travel Plan 9 provides a comprehensive approach to accessibility to the site, taking the user hierarchy into consideration. This holistic approach encompasses the ABP site along with the DTC, to maximise benefits from potential schemes. Pedestrians and Cyclists The improved access arrangements in terms of the new Southern Access Road should reduce traffic congestion at the northern access point by dividing traffic according to whether the destination is north or south of the runway. This will improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as reducing the need for general traffic to cross the runway in order to access the land to the south, as is currently the case. Furthermore, junction improvements will improve safety, as 8 Welsh Assembly Government, Communities and Local Government and Department for Transport 2007, Manual For Streets, 9 Capita Symonds 2009, Aerospace Business Park Travel Plan /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 28

31 well as limiting the potential effects of commuter traffic on the settlements surrounding the St Athan Airfield Safe movement of aircraft through the ABP has necessarily been prioritised. This places restrictions on the movements of pedestrians and cyclists, in the interests of safety. Key features of the masterplan in this aspect are set out to follow. Pedestrians It is anticipated that the ABP will directly employ approximately 2,300 people from the local area. With the Travel Plan in place, an increase of 10% for walking and cycling modes is desired. As part of the Travel Plan, a new foot and cycle connection will be made along the proposed Northern Access Road to improve accessibility of the site by these modes for those commuting to the site. This features as part of the Travel Plans for the DTC and ABP development Any pedestrian route that may need to be closed for safety reasons as a result of the ABP proposal will be replaced or safeguarded through appropriate diversion, to ensure that pedestrian links are maintained. Drawing /PA/100 in the ABP Travel Plan show existing footpaths and, where required, their rerouting. Pedestrian routes affected are summarised in the PS 10 as follows: Southern Access Road: The proposed bridge is a direct replacement for the existing sub-standard bridge spanning the railway, which currently provides vehicular and pedestrian access to Higher End. This is proposed to be diverted by way of the new bridge. Provision for pedestrians will be made by means of a new footway and a pedestrian phase within the traffic signal control. The footway will also provide pedestrian access from the eastbound and westbound bus stops incorporated within the B4265 realignment. Vehicular access to Higher End is maintained from a junction with the SAR, and it is intended that the existing sub-standard railway bridge is demolished upon completion of the SAR. Vehicular access to the property known as Seaview and the access track to the south is to be provided by way of a priority junction between the existing and realigned B4265. This route also provides the proposed diversion of the registered footpath. St Athan junction improvement: the proposals incorporate footpath diversions and a pedestrian phase within the signal controls to maintain pedestrian access to the relocated bus stops. Gileston to Old Mill improvement: The line of the registered footpath crossing from north to south is proposed to be maintained by the inclusion of steps in the proposed batter, and the provision of an alternative route via the redundant length of B4265 (the lay-by). 10 Further information relating to the potential closures of footpaths and their replacements can be found in the Aerospace Business Park Travel Plan (2009) /ABP Sustainability Statement.doc 29