Laurel hill sustainability statement april 2014

LAND AT LAUREL HILL

CRIBBS CAUSEWAY, BRISTOL SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT

PREPARED BY PEGASUS GROUP | BRS.4751 | APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014| BRS.4751

DICK LOVETT COMPANIES LTD PROPOSED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF LAND AT LAUREL HILL, CRIBBS CAUSWAY, BRISTOL

SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT DR ALANA O’NEILL MEI

Pegasus Group Pegasus House | Querns Business Centre| Whitworth Road | Cirencester | Gloucestershire | GL7 1RT T 01285 641717 | F 01285 642348 | W www.pegasuspg.co.uk Birmingham | Bracknell | Bristol | Cambridge | Cirencester | East Midlands | Leeds | Manchester

Planning | Environmental | Retail | Urban Design | Renewables | Landscape Design | Graphic Design | Consultation | Sustainability © Copyright Pegasus Planning Group Limited 2011. The contents of this document must not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of Pegasus Planning Group Limited.

SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

CONTENTS: Page No:

1.

INTRODUCTION

2

2.

PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT

4

3.

ENERGY EFFICENCY AND CO2 EMISSIONS

12

4.

MINIMISING WATER USE, SURFACE WATER AND FLOODING

12

5.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

23

6.

POLLUTION MANAGEMENT

25

7.

HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

29

8.

ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION

30

9.

TRANSPORT

31

10.

CONCLUSIONS

32

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

1.

INTRODUCTION

1.1

This Sustainability and Energy Statement is prepared by Pegasus Group on behalf of Dick Lovett Companies Ltd (the “applicant”) for the outline planning application for up to 110 dwellings on land at Laurel Hill, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol.

1.2

The site is located within the Northern fringes of the City of Bristol and located to the rear of the existing Dick Lovett car showrooms at Cribbs Causeway just to the south of The Laurels highway and comprises a number of grass fields.

1.3

The proposed site consists of 5.24 hectares (ha) and proposes the development into two building types, namely:

 2.56 ha for the development of 110 residential dwellings ranging from 1 bedroom to 5 bedroom of mixed tenure providing affordable dwellings; and

 2.7 ha for the development of a commercial building providing an extension to the existing Dick Lovett car dealership facility.

1.4

The residential area of the development is capable of delivering a wide range of dwellings to create a sustainable, inclusive and mixed community. The proposed size, mix and tenure of the dwellings are to be determined at Reserved Matters applications.

1.5

The purpose of this Statement is to demonstrate that the applicant’s development will achieve sustainability and energy conservation requirements relevant to local and national policies. The report is structured as follows:

 Section 2 discusses the planning context and policies which are relevant to sustainable development;

 Section 3 explains the strategy to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions for the proposed development and promote energy efficiency;

 Section 4 discusses water efficiency and surface water management;  Section 5 describes the construction materials response to sustainability;  Section 6 discusses the applicants’ approach to manage pollution during construction;

 Section 7 shows measures within the development for enhanced health and well-being;

 Section 8 discusses the ecology and biodiversity measures within the development;

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Section 9 discusses the transport assessment and mitigations measures proposed; and

 Section 10 concludes with the development’s sustainability response.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

2.

PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT

2.1

Sustainable development and its definition set out in Resolution 24/187 of the United

Nations

General

Assembly,

defined

sustainable

Development

as

“development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

2.2

The United Nations 2005 World Summit Outcome Document refers to the “interdependence and mutually reinforcing pillars” of sustainable development as economic development, social development and environmental protection.

2.3

Sustainable development approaches are incorporated within policy at all levels as set out below.

European

2.4

The 2009 Review of European Union (EU) Sustainable Development Strategy underlines that the EU has mainstreamed sustainable development into a broad range of its policies and includes:

 Renewable Energy Directive (2009) - The Directive on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (2009/28/EC), Renewable Energy Strategy (RES) Directive sets the objective of reaching 20% of the EU’s energy consumption through renewable energy sources by 2020. The UK Renewable Energy Strategy in 2009 indicates that delivering 15% renewable energy by 2020 is feasible through domestic action and could be achieved with the following proportion of energy consumption in each sector coming from renewables: around 30% of electricity demand, including 2% from small-scale sources, 12% of heat demand, and 10% of transport demand.

 Energy Performance Buildings Directive (adopted 2002 and recast

2010) - recast and adopted 19th May 2010 fixes 2020 as the deadline for all new homes to be “nearly zero energy” (2010/31/EU). This target is incorporated within the UK Building Regulations Part L: Conservation of fuel and power. The measure to determine a reduction in energy demand, the National Calculation Method (NCM), includes SBEM, thermodynamic models and the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP). These methods provide a rating through the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO 2) and are the national standard.

 Construction Products Regulation (2011) - The directive (305/2011

March 2011) lays down harmonised conditions for the marketing of construction products and replaces Construction Products Directive (89/106/EEC). The regulations came into force on 1 July 2013. The regulations harmonise the technical specifications across EU states and are incorporated within UK Building Regulations. Within the regulations are technical specifications which include point 7: sustainable use of natural resources.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Water Framework Directive (2000) - The Directive (2000/60/EC)

firstly set out authorities for water management (2003) then the economic and environmental characteristics of the areas (2004) and launched monitoring networks (2006). The implementation is through six-year recurring cycles, the first being 2009-2015. By 2010 the water pricing policies are introduced and provide incentives for sustainable water use through the “polluter pays” principle

 Revised Waste Framework Directive (2008) - The framework

Directive (2008/98/EC) entered into force on 12 December 2008. The revised directive provides a range of measures by means of comitology procedure (e.g. end-of-waste criteria for specified waste streams). This directive is aimed at businesses and other organisations which take decisions on a day-to-day basis about whether something is or is not waste (e.g. where the substance or object has a value or a potential use or where the decision is about whether waste has been fully recovered or recycled and has therefore ceased to be waste).

 Biodiversity Framework (2012) - This new strategy lays down the

framework for EU action over the next ten years in order to meet the 2020 biodiversity target.

The target responds to habitat change, overexploitation of natural resources, the introduction and spread of alien species and climate change where the EU halts the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of ecosystem services.

 2020 Strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth (2011) -

This strategy replaces the Lisbon strategy (2010) and is the growth strategy for the next decade. It sets three main priorities: smart growth – developing an economy based on knowledge and innovation; sustainable growth – promoting a more resource-efficient, greener and more competitive economy; and inclusive growth – fostering a high-employment economy delivering social and territorial cohesion.

National National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2.5

As set out within Paragraph 14: “At the heart of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is a “presumption in favour of sustainable development”…. which should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan making and decision taking”.

2.6

The 12 core principles set out in paragraph 17 set out the means by which sustainable development will be achieved through the planning system with further details set out within paragraphs 18 to 219.

The NPPF requires the

system to perform a number of roles:

 an economic role – contributing to building a strong, responsive and

competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right type is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth and innovation; and by identifying and coordinating development requirements, including the provision of infrastructure;

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 a social role – supporting strong, vibrant and healthy communities, by providing an increased supply of housing to meet the needs of the present and future generations; and by creating a good quality built environment, with accessible local services that reflect the community’s needs and supports its health and well-being; and

 an environmental role – contributing to protect and enhance our natural, built and historic environment, and, as part of this, helping to improve biodiversity, use natural resources prudently, minimise waste and pollution and mitigate and adapt to climate change, including moving to a low carbon economy.

2.7

As set out with paragraph 49, “housing applications should be considered in the context of the presumption in favour of sustainable development”.

2.8

In addition to the NPPF other national legislation incorporating sustainability includes:

 Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act (2004) - requires under paragraph 39 (2) “the person or body must exercise the function with the objective on contributing to the achievement of sustainable development”

 Climate Change Act (2008) – sets a legally binding target for reducing UK carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by at least 80% by 2050 (Part 1, Section 1 The Target for 2050, paragraph 1).

 Floods and Water Management Act (2010) – requires that in exercising a flood or coastal erosion risk function, an authority must aim to make a contribution towards the achievement of sustainable development. This act sets out sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS).

 The Localism Act (2011) – introduces greater powers for plan making at a local level (section 116) but this must be achieved within a general presumption in favour of sustainable development (as defined in section 14 of the NPPF).

 Building Regulations Part L the conservation of fuel and power (2013) and Part G sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency (2010) set compliance levels for new dwellings for energy and water consumption.

Local Context 2.9

The Local Development Plan for South Gloucestershire comprises the policies of the Adopted Local Plan: Core Strategy (December 2013) and the remaining saved Local Plan (2006) policies that were not replaced by the Core Strategy.

South Gloucestershire Local Plan: Core Strategy 2006-2027

2.10

The South Gloucestershire Local Plan: Core Strategy 2006-2027 was adopted in December 2013 and sets out the strategic approach to guide development within South Gloucestershire to 2027.

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2.11

The Core Strategy forms an overarching guide to promoting sustainable development within South Gloucestershire.

Paragraph 4.2 identifies three

overarching strategic objectives to facilitating sustainable development:

 Delivering sustainable communities  Improving health & well-being  Mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

2.12

Many of the policies within the Core Strategy adhere to sustainable development principles from a social, economic and environmental perspective.

Key Core

Strategy Policies include:

 Policy CS1 – High Quality Deign – This policy seeks to ensure new

development achieves high quality design levels. Point 8 highlights the need for design, orientation, location, windows, habitable rooms, lighting and soft landscape to be designed to promote energy conservation. The policy suggests that development that can demonstrate that it will outperform statutory minima (such as building regulation) in terms of sustainable construction will be considered a indicator of good design. It requires development to meet current building regulations.

It also encourages new residential developments over 10 dwellings to achieve full compliance with each code level (currently level 3 or above).

 Policy CS 4 – Renewable and Low carbon District Heat Networks – This policy requires developments of over 100 dwellings that are wholly or in part greater than 50dph to include renewable or low carbon heating or CHP generation; or connect to an existing renewable or low carbon distribution network or provide evidence that renewable and low carbon energy have been explored and are unfeasible.

 Policy CS4A – Presumption in favour of sustainable development –

Identifies the Council’s commitment to supporting sustainable development. Where proposals take a proactive approach to sustainable development will be supported.

 Policy CS9 – Managing the Environment and Heritage – Expects

development proposals to support and preserve heritage assets and environmental features. It specifically expects development to avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity, reduce risk of flooding, utilise materials and resources in a sustainable way and conserve landscape character.

 Policy CS15 – Distribution of Housing – Identifies the New

Neighbourhood at Cribbs/Patchway as an area to deliver 5,700 homes by 2027. This is subject to delivery of strategic infrastructure to support development.

 Policy CS18 – Affordable Housing – sets out a requirement for developments of over 10 dwellings to achieve a 35% affordable housing.

 Policy

CS24 – Green Infrastructure, Sport and Recreation Standards – Requires new development to contribute to the green infrastructure network of South Gloucestershire

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Policy CS26 – Cribbs/Patchway New Neighbourhood – Sets out key requirements for development in the Cribbs/Patchway neighbourhood area. It identifies the need for an area wide SPD to further guide development.

Cribbs/Patchway

New

Neighbourhood

Development

Framework

Supplementary Planning (Pre Adoption January 2014) 2.13

South Gloucestershire are currently consulting on a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) that seeks to co-ordinate the delivery of development objectives as

set

out

within

Policy

CS26

in

the

Core

Strategy

within

Cribbs

Causeway/Patchway. The SPD seeks sustainable development through:

 A strong new landscape and movement framework for the area,  Good physical connections with the surrounding area,  Healthy, lively and well connected communities with their own sense of identity,

 Distinctive and high quality public realm,  Local jobs, services and facilities, and a full range of dwelling types and tenures,

 Recognition of the history on the area.

2.14

The framework context with the NPPF is aligned through their requirement of “comprehensive development” to achieve sustainable development through four identified priorities, namely:

 Open space and natural assets – appropriately planned, designed and

managed, green and blue infrastructure (the network of natural and seminatural features, green spaces, outdoor sports facilities, play areas, lakes and rivers) has the potential to deliver a wide range of benefits from providing sustainable transport links, improving air quality and water quality, increasing biodiversity, giving a focus to a community, enhance peoples health and well-being, enhancing land values, and mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change.

 Integration and Ease of Access – community has ease of access to a

range of services and facilities to support their everyday needs. The development of this new neighbourhood provides the opportunity to maximise the sites connections and reconnect its surrounding, and to promote the most sustainable forms of transport.

 Strong Communities – provision of a vibrant, cohesive and robust community that are able to meet the diverse needs of all future residents and maximise personal and community well being and to create equal opportunities for all residents.

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 Health and Well-being – fair distribution of health, well-being and sustainability are important social goals so that every resident can participate equally in the benefits they provide from the neighbourhood.

2.15

In building on the priorities above, the SPD seeks demonstration through key principles as summarised below:

 Access and movement – sustainable modes of transport (walking, cycling and public transport) to be more convenient than car travel, through pedestrian and cycle routes, safe routes to school and identify railway way connections. Homezone principles and parking at the front of dwellings not by parking courtyards and cul-de-sacs. Creation of a walkable neighbourhood with permanent connections.

 Community Infrastructure – development of local centres and mixed

use areas with community space, future multi-use, services and facilities prioritising walking and cycling and public art.

 Green and Blue Infrastructure – protect and enhance key existing

natural landscape features and habitats, connected networks of multifunctional open space, sustainably integrated natural and man-made processes, improve accessibility, permeability and legibility to focus on sustainable transport, enhanced ecological value, high quality public and private landscapes, uesable, meaningful and maintainable open space.

 Land Use - housing to include 35% affordable provision, employment

enterprise vision areas, community infrastructure (e.g adult learning) and retention of heritage.

 Utilities and Renewable Energy - at planning stage ensure compliance

to building regulations and the potential for connection to a district heating scheme. At reserved matters stage prior to 2016 commit to Code for Sustainable Homes level 4, BREEAM very good or demonstrate how development out performs the building regulations. Maximise roof pitches orientation for passive solar gain, design of house types and potential to connect to district heating networks.

2.16

The review of current policy has determined that the context for sustainable development be based on:

 NPPF – ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development;  The Local Plan: Core Strategy 2013; and  Cribbs/Patchway New Neighbourhood SPD 2014.

2.17

The introduction of the NPPF responded to a desire to simplify and streamline the planning system and achieve sustainable development. The presumption in favour of Sustainable Development, is placed at the heart of the NPPF and set out within paragraph 14 and “should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan-making and decision-taking”.

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2.18

Within paragraph 15 of the NPPF “Policies in Local Plans should follow the approach of the presumption in favour of sustainable development so that it is clear that development which is sustainable can be approved without delay.

All plans should be based upon and reflect the

presumption in favour of sustainable development, with clear policies that will guide how the presumption should be applied locally”.

2.19

For sustainable development, these regulations are set out within the NPPF in paragraph 95, bullet 4; “when setting any local requirement for a buildings sustainability, do so in a way consistent with the government’s zero carbon buildings policy and adopt nationally described standards”. This paragraph has been key in determining Building Regulations as the nationally described standards. Consequently, all other voluntary housing standards (Code for Sustainable Homes, Lifetime Homes, Secured by Design, the London Housing Guide and local space standards) are undergoing a rationalisation through the Housing Standards Review (2013) 1.

2.20

Following the publication of the Ministerial Statement on 13 th March 2014 regarding

the

Housing

Standards

Review

Consultation,

note

states

“the

Government has decided that the most sensible way forward is for any necessary technical standards as far as possible to be consolidated into Building Regulations. The note states clearly that the Code for Sustainable Homes will be wound down and new standards introduced with specific reference as follows:

 Water – a new tighter level of water efficiency into Building

Regulations, to be set at 110l/person/day. This would be an optional higher level in addition to the current level of 125l/person/day which could only be applied in areas with specific local needs (such as water stress). This would be chosen by the local authority. Government is considering the best way to define areas of water stress to ensure this works in practice.

 Energy – we propose a “Building Regulations only” approach with

no optional additional local standards in excess of the provisions set out in Part L of the Regulations. In Budget 2013 the Government reaffirmed its commitment to implement the zero carbon homes policy for new homes from 2016. This will be achieved through a strengthening of energy performance requirements in Part L of the Building Regulations (incorporating carbon compliance, energy efficient fabric and services), and the delivery of allowable solutions.

1

DCLG. Housing Standards Review. Consultation. August 2013.

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2.21

The statement states ”the consultation made clear the Governments intention that planning authorities should only use standards emerging from the review process. The Government will issue a statement later this year when the new standards are published, which will explain how this policy will be implemented”.

The note continues: “this means that many of the requirements of the Code for Sustainable Homes will be consolidated into Building Regulations, which would require

substantial

changes

reconsideration of its role.

to

the

current

Code,

as

well

as

a

In the light of this, the Government thinks

that the current code will need to be wound down to coincide with the changes incorporating the new standards coming into force”.

2.22

In response to the Government announcements, the proposed scheme discusses sustainability issues in the remainder of the report, as follows:

 Energy and CO2 emissions;  Minimising water use and flood risk management;  Construction materials;  Pollution management;  Health and wellbeing;  Ecological Protection; and  Transport.

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3.

ENERGY EFFICENCY AND CO2 EMISSIONS

3.1

In recent years the average energy use within homes has been falling in response to both passive and active measures, namely:

 Passive – design and layout of dwellings through southerly orientation, location of open space, trees and landscape planting in response to solar gains and shading.

 Active - improvements within the thermal efficiency of dwellings and changes in technology for electrical appliances. response the Building Regulations Part L.

3.2

These changes are in

The UK legislation for reducing the energy demand of buildings, in line with the EU EPBD, is set out within the Building Regulations Part L: Conservation of Fuel and Power (2013). The Building Regulations Part L set maximum limits for carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from buildings and provide minimum efficiency standards for fabric and building services.

3.3

Building Regulations Part L1A, Conservation of Fuel and Power in New Dwellings (2013) require the design standards under schedule 1 – Part Conservation of Fuel and Power; namely: L1. Reasonable provision shall be made for the conservation of fuel and power in buildings by:

a) Limiting heat gains and lossesii. Through thermal elements and other parts of the building fabric; and

iii. from pipes, ducts and vessels used for space heating, space cooling and hot water services;

b) providing fixed building services whichi.

are energy efficient;

ii. have effective controls; and iii. are commissioned by testing and adjusting as necessary to ensure

they use no more fuel and power than is reasonable in the circumstances.

3.4

These new regulations (23, 24, 25, 25A, 25B, 26 26A, 27, 27A, 28, 29, 29A, 40 43- pressure testing, 44 - Commissioning) align with the implementation of the articles of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) through the

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calculation of energy performance ratings known as Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for dwellings2.

3.5

These new regulations retain the minimum energy performance requirements for buildings, termed the Target Emission Rate (TER) and the Dwelling Emission Rate (DER) which describes the estimated CO2 emissions per m2 for the building, as designed, for energy in use for heating, hot water and lighting. Additionally the regulations now include a Dwelling Fabric Energy Efficiency (DFEE) rate that must not be greater than the Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE), both expressed as kWh/m2/yr.

3.6

These regulations require the achievement of five criteria:

 Criterion 1 – Achieving the TER and TFEE rate - states that in

accordance with regulations 26 and 26A, the dwelling CO2 Emissions Rate (DER) and the Dwelling Fabric Energy Efficiency (DFEE) rate must be no worse than the Target Emission Rate (TER) and Target Fabric Energy efficiency (TFEE) rate calculated. The final DER and DFEE rate calculation produced must be in accordance with Regulations 27 and 27A and must be based on the building as constructed.

 Criterion 2 – Limits on design flexibility – required under paragraph

L1 (a)(i) of Schedule 1 and states that reasonable provision should be made to limit heat gains and losses through the fabric of the building and paragraphs L1 (b)(i) and (ii) require that energy efficient fixed building services with effective controls should be provided.

 Criterion 3 – limiting the effects of heat gains in summer - required

by paragraph L1 (a)(i) and L1(a)(ii) of schedule 1 and requires the limiting of the effects of solar gains in summer and heat losses and gains from circulation pipes.

 Criterion 4 – Building performance consistent with DER and DFEE

rate - requires that dwellings are constructed and equipped so that performance is consistent with the calculated DER and DFEE rate. The final calculation of the DER and DFEE is required to take account of any changes in performance between design and construction, and to demonstrate that the building, as constructed, meets the TER and TFEE rate required under regulations 26 and 26A. Hot water systems should operate for the purposes of fuel conservation as set out within regulation 44.

 Criterion 5 – Provisions for energy-efficient operation of the

dwelling - requires an owner’s manual for the building, fixed building services and their maintenance so that the building can be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and power than is reasonable in the circumstances.

2

Regulation 25B “Nearly zero-energy requirements for new buildings” will not come into force until 2019 at the earliest.

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3.7

SAP is the approved methodology required under EU EPBD for dwellings and provides Energy Performance Certificates (EPC). The methodology is used to evaluate the impacts of different dwelling types, their orientation and energy efficiency measures for the proposed development. In previous changes to the Building Regulations Part L, SAP has been upgraded from the original model (2001).

However, the introduction of the elemental approach means that the

model has been constructed for the 2013 changes.

3.8

SAP methodology provides the CO2 emissions rates as a TER and TFEE forming a notional building which has to be greater than the DER and DFEE to achieve compliance and sets elemental reference U-values for England as shown in the Appendix R reference table below.

Element or System

Value

Climate data Size and shape Opening areas (windows, roof windows and doors)

UK average Same as actual dwelling Same as actual dwelling up to a maximum for total area of openings of 25% of total floor area.

If the total area of openings in the actual dwelling exceeds 25% of the total floor area, reduce to 25% as follows: 1) Include all opaque and semi-glazed doors with the same areas as the actual dwelling (excluding any doors not in exposed elements, e.g. entrance door to a flat from a heated corridor).

2) Reduce area of all windows and roof windows by a factor equal to [25% of total floor area less area of doors included in 1)] divided by [total area of windows and roof windows in actual dwelling].

U = 0.18 W/m²K

External walls including semi exposed walls Party walls Floors Roofs Opaque door (<30% glazed area) Semi-glazed door (30%60% glazed area) Windows and glazed doors with >60% glazed area

Roof windows

Curtain wall

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U U U U

= = = =

0 0.13 W/m²K 0.13 W/m²K 1.0 W/m²K

U = 1.2 W/m²K U = 1.4 W/m²K Frame factor = 0.7 Solar energy transmittance = 0.63 Light transmittance = 0.80 Orientation same as actual dwelling Overshading same as for DER calculation (average if actual dwelling has very little or average overshading; same as actual dwelling if greater overshading) U = 1.4 W/m²K (Adjustment factor of +0.3 W/m²K applied to roof window as described below Table 6e; resultant U value = 1.7 W/m²K) Overshading factor 1.0 Other parameters as for windows Curtain walling to be treated as standard glazing and opaque wall with the same areas as the actual dwelling. When the total opening area exceeds 25% of floor area the glazed area to be reduced to 25% as for opening areas above.

U-value of opaque wall = 0.18 W/m²K U-value of glazing = 1.5 W/m²K (which includes an allowance of

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

Thermal mass Living area Number of sheltered sides Allowance for thermal bridging

Ventilation system Air permeability Chimneys Open flues Extract fans / passive vents Main heating fuel (space and water) Heating system Boiler

Heating system controls

Hot water system Hot water cylinder

Primary water heating losses Water use limited to 125 litres per person per day Secondary space heating Low energy light fittings Air conditioning

3.9

0.1 for thermal bridging within the curtain wall) Medium (250 kJ/m²K) Same as actual dwelling Same as actual dwelling 1 If the thermal bridging in the actual dwelling has been specified by using the default y-value of 0.15 W/m²K, the thermal bridging is defined by y = 0.05 W/m²K. 2. Otherwise the thermal bridging allowance is calculated using the lengths of junctions in the actual dwelling and the psi values in Table R2.

Note. Where the area of openings in the actual dwelling is > 25% of the total floor area the lengths of junctions in the notional dwelling remain the same as the lengths in the actual dwelling, even though window area is reduced as described for ‘Opening areas’ above.

Natural ventilation with intermittent extract fans 5 m³/h·m² at 50 Pa None None 2 extract fans for total floor area up to 70 m², 3 for total floor area > 70m² and up to 100 m², 4 for total floor area > 100 m² Mains gas Boiler and radiators Central heating pump 2013 or later, in heated space Design flow temperature > 45°C If gas or oil combi boiler in actual dwelling, instantaneous combi boiler; otherwise regular boiler Efficiency, SEDBUK(2009) = 89.5% Room-sealed, fan-assisted flue Modulating burner control No hot water test for combi boiler 1. For a single storey dwelling in which the living area is greater than 70% of total floor area, programmer and room thermostat; 2. For any other dwelling, time and temperature zone control.

And in all cases: Boiler interlock Weather compensation providing +3% boiler efficiency adjustment Heated by boiler (regular or combi as above) Separate time control for space and water heating If cylinder specified in actual dwelling: volume of cylinder in actual dwelling If combi boiler: no cylinder Otherwise: 150 litres If cylinder, declared loss factor = 0.85 x (0.2 + 0.051 V2/3) kWh/day, where V is the volume of the cylinder in litres Fully insulated primary pipework Cylinder temperature controlled by thermostat Cylinder in heated space Yes None 100% of fixed outlets None

The active measures typically focus on the role of renewable power generation as the solution for reducing consumption of fossil fuel generated power for dwellings.

This approach requires a technology solution through remote generation, near site generation or on-site generation.

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3.10

The driver for the technology approach originates in 2006 following the publication of the Stern Review (Economics of Climate Change) and lead to the Government ambition for buildings to be zero carbon by 2016.

The evidence

from the Review concluded that the benefits of strong, early action considerably outweigh the costs of climate change. The key scientific findings identified are:

 The stock of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is rising as a result of human activity.

 The current stock in the atmosphere is equivalent to around 445 parts per

million (ppm) CO2e compared to 280ppmn before the industrial revolution and have caused warming of 1 degree Celsius.

 Even if emissions did not increase, the stock of gases in the atmosphere

would reach double by 2050 – that is 550ppm CO2e and would continue to grow. As annual emissions are growing the 550ppm could be reached by 2035 and global temperature rise exceed 2oC.

3.11

By 2007, Stern had also stated: "Climate change is a result of the greatest market failure the world has seen. The evidence on the seriousness of the risks from inaction or delayed action is now overwhelming. We risk damages on a scale larger than the two world wars of the last century.

The problem is global and the response must be a collaboration on a global scale."3

3.12

The role of the Climate Change Act (2008) is to address this issue and reduce impacts of anthropogenic CO2 emissions by setting targets for the reduction of CO2 emissions up to 2025.

3.13

Since Stern, the link between sustainable development and climate change has become embedded and more recently the Copenhagen Accord (2009) included policy to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system, recognising "the scientific view that the increase in global temperature should be below two degrees Celsius" 4.

3.14

Reducing energy demand in residential developments can be achieved by focussing on the areas that deliver cost effective and resident friendly solutions.

The proposed development intends to be undertaken through a fabric first approach.

This provides in-built measures for improving energy efficiency that

are guaranteed to reduce the buildings energy demand over its lifetime. Limiting

3 4

Stern, N. Royal Economic Society (RES) public lecture in Manchester, November 2007.

Copenhagen Accord (2009)

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

the dwellings in-built energy demand through high quality design and material specifications provides long-term energy reduction at the site.

3.15

The use of renewable technology tackles the source of energy provision rather than energy demand. The fabric approach prevents the potential situation where maintenance and replacement or repair of on-site renewables does not occur and consequently the subsequent CO2 savings (throughout the lifetime of the technology) cannot be guaranteed.

3.16

Unfortunately for buildings the approach to reducing CO2 emissions has been singular and through “bolt-on” technologies. This technology approach is forced on development through assessment using the Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM and has costly outcomes for developers. The requirement of Code 4 is identified as £5,000 per dwelling by Home Builders Federation (EAC November 2013). Under Policy CS 4, the inclusion of renewable or low carbon heating of CHP generation have been explored and found unfeasible, as follows: Solar Farm

3.17

The average household consumption of electricity is approximately 4700kWh per year. In order to provide electricity to the 110 homes at Laurels Hill from solar renewables it’s estimated that a 0.5MW covering approximately 0.85ha would be needed at a 10-15% efficiency. The solar farm is not considered appropriate for the following reasons;

 An area of 0.85 ha of reasonably flat south facing land would need to be utilised, and there is no sufficient capacity within the development itself; and

 The life of a solar farm is approximately 25 years, which is considerably

shorter compared to the life of the development, therefore any carbon saving benefits would be limited to 25 years and not for the life of the development.

Roof Mounted Solar PV 3.18

According to the Energy Saving Trust5 the average domestic solar PV system is 4kWp and costs £6,000-£9,000 per dwelling (£660,000-£990,000 for the development). The provision of roof mounted solar panels is not considered appropriate for Laurel Hills for the following reasons:

5

Energy Savings Trust (2014) Generating Energy. http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generatingenergy/Choosing-a-renewable-technology/Solar-panels-PV APRIL 2014| AON| BRS.4571

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Less than 40% of the roof space can be utilised without interfering with the design and impacting in “vernacular design” integration 6 for the dwellings.

 The 25 year life of the panels will commit new residents to the repair and maintenance costs replacement;

associated

with

the

panels,

including

inverter

 Carbon savings will be secured for the life of the solar panels, not the life of the development.

Air-source Heat Pumps 3.19

Air source heat pumps (ASHP) extract heat from outside air to provide internal space heating through a heat exchanger and costs around £7,000-£14,000 per dwelling. Installation at Laurels Hill would incur an additional cost of £770,000£1,540,000 million and are not considered appropriate for inclusion for the following reasons:

 Installation of ASHP The coefficient of performance of the technology may lead to the failure to provide radiator temperatures (of conventional gas boilers).

 The technology provides low temperature heat to supplement the supply

rather than direct hot water and so an additional heat source is required to ensure adequate hot water for baths and showers.

Ground Source Heat Pumps 3.20

A ground source heat pump extracts heat from the ground through either horizontal or vertical (water filled) closed loops at similar temperatures to ASHP. The technology costs between £11,000-£15,000 per dwelling equating to £1,210,000-£1,650.000 million across the development.

The technology is

unsuitable for incorporation within the development for similar reasons to ASHP. District Heating Network 3.21

District heating networks provided through energy services company (ESCo) require a minimum of 500 dwellings to enable financial viability.

The site

proposes 110 dwellings so would be unviable to attract this investment.

3.22

It is proposed that the new dwellings and buildings at Laurels Hill will aim to provide CO2 emissions reduction for their lifetime by incorporating design, materials and services that do not require the occupants to undertake expensive

6

Government Response to the Environmental Audit Committee Report: Code for Sustainable Homes and the Housing Standards Review. March 2014.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

maintenance and repairs. This fabric first approach and CO2 emissions reductions for the dwellings are discussed below.

3.23

The dwellings within the site will seek to capture free energy through passive design measures, which could include:

 solar gains -

the dwellings are orientated to capture the solar gains during spring and autumn so preventing early use of space heating, whilst also being designed to maximise solar shading during summer months to prevent and reduce overheating. The window openings and eaves details allow for individual household control and management of these gains.

 thermal mass – the use of concrete floors and walls provide significant thermal mass to help reduce fluctuation in temperature during the day and also at night. This action enables the use of a stack effect to aid ventilation and also distribute heat.

3.24

The type of construction and U-values (thermal conductivity of each building element) describe the heat loss and gains for the dwellings and the subsequent CO2 emissions.

The elements used within the SAP calculations include external

walls, roof, floor, windows and doors. The performance of these elements can be improved beyond the minimum requirements set within Building Regulation Part L1A through:

 improved U-values to reduce heat loss through these elements;  reduction of air leakage and thermal losses through cold bridging by improved accredited construction details at junctions.

 enhanced construction detailing to further reduce leakage and losses through thermal bridging at junctions.

3.25

The minimum U-values set within Building Regulations Part L notional dwelling specification provide for the elemental approach are as follows:

 Walls – 0.18 W/m2  Floor – 0.13 W/m2  Roof – 0.13 W/m2  Openings – 1.0-1.4 W/m2  Air Permeability - <5 m3/m2/hr 3.26

To enable design flexibility, U-values are retained from 2010 edition (0.5 for floors, 0.3 for walls, 0.00 for party walls and 2.0 for windows, roof-lights and external doors, with air permeability at 10) to enable alternative approaches from above baseline through the incorporation of technology.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

3.27

SAP calculations have not been undertaken at this stage of the design so the proposed gains are demonstrated through a generic end of terrace house sized at 76m2.

3.28

The table below shows the different approaches achieved through the new elemental approach delivered by the new Building regulations Part L (2013) for elemental performing fabric, triple glazing and a relaxed fabric with waste water heat recovery.

Element External wall (W/m2K) Party walls (W/m2/K) Floor (W/m2/K) Roof (W/m2/K) Windows (W/m2/K) Air tightness (m3/hr.m2) Gas boiler Services TER (KgCO2/m2/yr) DER (KgCO2/m2/yr) TFEE (kWh.m2.yr) DFEE (kWh.m2.yr)

3.29

Elemental recipe 0.18

Triple Glazing 0.22

Relaxed fabric 0.26

0

0

0

0.13 0.13 1.4

0.16 0.13 0.09

0.19 0.13 1.4

5

5

5

89.5%

89.5% 18.72

89.5% WWHR 18.72

18.68

18.67

54.26 47.73

54.26 54.20

The energy efficiency of the building services is the next stage for energy demand reduction and includes:

 100% lighting through energy efficient light bulbs;  high energy efficient domestic appliances;  better heating controls for zoning and load compensation to reduce unnecessary wastage of heat; and

 A-rated gas fired condensing boiler with high efficiency.

3.30

It is anticipated that dwellings will promote energy efficiency within individual dwellings including being fitted with condensing boilers that are 89.6% efficient and

heating

controls

(load

compensator,

delay

start

stat,

programmer,

thermostatic radiator valves and time/temperature zone controls).

3.31

Proposed development will follow a fabric first approach rather than incorporate renewables technologies. It will fully comply with current Building Regulation 2013, including subsequent amendments where appropriate.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

4.

MINIMISING WATER USE, SURFACE WATER AND FLOODING

4.1

Building Regulations Part G sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency (2010)

set

compliance

levels

for

new

dwellings

for

energy

and

water

consumption. The requirements of G2 and Regulation 36 (1) are that reasonable provision must be made by the installation of fittings and fixed appliances that use water efficiently for the prevention of undue consumption. Regulation 36 requires: The potential consumption of wholesome water by persons occupying a dwelling to which this regulation applies must not exceed 125 litres per person per day, calculated in accordance with the methodology set out in the document “The Water efficiency Calculator for New Dwellings”, published in September 2009 by DCLG. This regulation (2) applies to a dwelling which is –

a) Erected; or b) Formed by a material change of use of a building within the meaning of regulation 5(a) or (b).

4.2

The table below sets out how households can reduce potable water use from the typical home to levels compliant with Building Regulations Part G. Technique Toilet flushing Taps Showers Bath Washing machine dishwasher Total per capita Outdoor Total per home

4.3

Typical home (l/d) 28.8 42.3 30 28.8 16.7 3.9 151 11.5 367

Water savings 125 l/d/capita 6.4% 7% 30% 2.1% 0.9% 0.2% 21% 20%

Household potable water consumption is split between hot water and cold water use as follows:

 Cold water (56%) – cold taps (22%), garden (1%), car (1%), toilet (22%), washing machine (9%), dishwasher (1%); and

 Hot water (44%) – hand washing (4%), bath (8%), shower (25%), bathroom hot tap (7%)7.

4.4

The development will aim to promote recycling of rainwater and reduce the amount of mains potable water used for external uses. Although details have not

7

Energy Saving Trust Values

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

been finalised, this may be achieved by providing a water butt within the garden, patio or communal space outside each dwelling. Additional technologies that may be considered include grey water recycling for toilet flushing.

4.5

As with energy efficiency and domestic recycling, water waste reduction advice can be provided to the residents within a comprehensive Home Users Guide which details how to make optimum use of the devices installed around the home.

4.6

As set out in the flood Risk assessment, the site will incorporate an attenuation pond in the south west corner to provide a sustainable urban drainage technology to assist with discharging surface water within the development.

4.7

Additionally, the inclusion of green spaces and porous surfaces reduces puddles and ponding and also captures the surface water into Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems within the landscape gardens.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

5.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

5.1

While a major planning consideration in construction, material selection is the external appearance of the buildings and it is important from a sustainability perspective that the developer seeks to minimise the environmental impact of the materials used over the lifetime of the building – from manufacture, to eventual demolition and disposal.

5.2

The development proposal has the potential to include a number of construction materials that are derived from recycled materials within the floors and walls for all dwelling types.

5.3

The use of recycled materials (e.g. crushed concrete from waste used for hardstanding) has zero embodied energy impact, other than that expended in their processing or transport. Their use will therefore be carefully considered and incorporated where feasible.

5.4

Timber used in the development for both basic and finishing elements will be sourced from sustainable sources (e.g. PEFC and FSC) wherever possible.

5.5

The design of the buildings will seek to avoid the use of CFCs or HCFCs in their insulation, air-conditioning and fire fighting proposals.

5.6

During construction the developer and its contractors will seek to reduce waste and maximise recycling opportunities by implementation of a Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP).

This SWMP process will be regularly monitored to

identify progress and ways to further improve diversion and to assist in the wider objective of diverting at least 50% of non-hazardous construction waste from landfill.

5.7

In summary, the building materials within the development will meet all the following criteria:

 Preference for the use of traditional and/or long-established materials that do not emit pollutants and have low embodied energy; 

Use materials that are stable, durable and appropriate;



Not use materials that contain heavy metals, biocides or known toxins such as lead or asbestos;



Make sure that mineral and other fibres are encapsulated;

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL



Use low or nil-formaldehyde-emitting materials;



Minimise the use of paints, using organic water-based or mineral paints wherever practicable;



Avoid harmful cleaning agents, solvents and smoke from open fire;



Implement a waste reduction strategy; and



Use local suppliers, where possible.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

6.

POLLUTION MANAGEMENT

6.1

The reduction of adverse effects on land, water and air are addressed through the design and operations of the construction and occupation of the development.

During construction, measures to reduce adverse impacts are discussed below.

Air Pollution and Quality

6.2

Locations sensitive to dust emitted during construction will be places where members of the public are regularly present. Residential properties close to the site will be most sensitive to construction dust.

6.3

The greatest potential for construction impacts is therefore likely to be from the initial phase of site preparation, and from the passage of vehicles travelling across unpaved ground during periods of dry weather. There is also the potential for dust emissions during the handling of dusty materials and the cutting of stone/concrete. Dust may also be tracked out of the site onto the adjoining road network. Any impacts would be of a localised and temporary nature.

6.4

The applicant will seek to minimise the negative impacts on air quality during construction through the following initiatives:

 Use of water-sprays to ensure that any unpaved routes across the site are maintained in a damp condition when in use;

 Use of consolidated surfaces close to residential areas;  Impositions and enforcement of a 5mph speed limit on unpaved ground;  Hard surfacing of the proposed new access road at an early stage of the works;

 Minimising any dust-generating activities on very dry or windy days;  Sheeting of all lorries carrying materials on and off site;  Locating of stockpiles as far from sensitive locations as possible, and provision of appropriate hoardings;

 Wherever practicable, off-road plant to use Ultra-Low Sulphur Diesel and be equipped with exhaust after-treatment;

 Regular cleaning of all paved areas on-site;  Use of a jet-spray vehicle and wheel wash for all vehicles leaving the site;  Regular use of a water-assisted dust sweeper on the access and local roads, as necessary, to remove any material tracked out of the site; and

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Use of water suppression during any cutting of stone and concrete.

Noise Insulation and Abatement 6.5

Noise pollution can be a problem for residents during construction, should some units become occupied before the whole scheme is completed. Given the large scale of the proposed development it is likely that this situation may arise occasionally.

6.6

The main phases identified as giving rise to the greatest potential for adverse impacts upon the existing residents are as follows:

 Construction of the main infrastructure and services  General construction activities; and  Vehicle movements.

6.7

Potential noise pollution of this type has been carefully considered by the applicant for the development.

The following will assist in managing noise to

acceptable levels:

 restrict working hours by the imposition of conditions attached to any planning permission to ensure that noise which has to be made will be during day/working hours; and

 construction techniques will favour quieter methods where practicable.

Waste 6.8

Waste reduction is a key principle of sustainable development.

The two main

waste issues for the developers to consider are:

 Domestic Waste: to reduce waste arising from new homeowners and incorporating various techniques for this.

 Construction

Waste: to reduce waste incorporating various techniques for this.

6.9

by

the

contractors

and

Adequate storage for recycling will be provided within all dwellings in accordance with the local authority contractors: typically waste will be segregated into two streams – general and recyclable waste.

6.10

The adoptable roads within the development will be built to a standard capable of accommodating recycling vehicles (RVCs) or where this is not possible waste collection points will be provided so that the collection team does not have to

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

transport two-wheeled containers more than approximately 10m to the RCV, to meet standard requirements.

6.11

Construction waste is a key element to be considered in achieving a reduction in all waste. It is estimated that some 40% of all waste is construction-related. It has also been shown on a number of housing sites that as soon as the issue of waste starts to be addressed, significant improvements follow quickly. There are two key elements to be considered:

 Appropriate construction methods and effective management; and  Re-use/recycling of materials on site.

6.12

The amount of waste materials arising from construction can be reduced by introducing regular audits to monitor and control site activities more closely, for example, reviewing materials ordering and site practices to prevent damage and cross-contamination. Surveys have found that detailed attention to the quantity of materials purchased and the way that these are offloaded, labelled and stored, can significantly reduce the amount of materials wasted. Wherever possible, the packaging and non-returnable pallets will be recycled or reused.

6.13

Construction operations generate waste materials as a result of general handling losses and surpluses. These wastes can be reduced through appropriate selection of construction methods, good site waste management practices and spotting opportunities to avoid creating unnecessary waste.

A Site Waste Management

Plan (SWMP) includes procedures to sort, reuse and recycle construction waste.

Implementing a SWMP will result in various benefits for the development, which include:

 Better control of risks relating to the materials and waste on the site.

“Good housekeeping” of waste improves site safety;

 Demonstrating compliance with the legislative framework;  A mechanism demonstrating to clients how waste is managed and minimised and how associated costs are controlled;

 A tool to aid compliance with various environmental management systems e.g. ISO14001.

 Compliance with contractual requirements from public and private sector clients;

 A system to help make cost savings by better managing the supply chain of materials, and their storage, handling, recovery and eventual disposal.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

6.14

Recycling of materials from the construction waste stream can provide valuable construction materials and relieves the existing pressure on landfill sites.

By

maximising the value extracted from these materials, and extending their life in this way, the demand for such materials from new sources is reduced and there is likely to be a long-term beneficial impact on conservation of mineral resources such as primary aggregate materials. It is envisaged that a comprehensive audit of the materials will be carried out by the developers in order to identify salvageable materials. Where materials can be reused in the construction of the scheme, they will be stored on site in order to reduce the transportation required and potential disturbances to local residents.

6.15

It is envisaged that the developer will register the project with the Considerate Constructors Scheme. This is designed to encourage environmentally and socially considerate ways of working, so as to reduce any adverse impacts arising from the construction process.

Under the Considerate Constructors Scheme, the

Applicant will be assessed in terms of being:

i.

Safe;

ii. Considerate; iii. Clean; iv. A good neighbour; v. Respectful; vi. Responsible; and vii. Accountable.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

7.

HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

7.1

The proposal will take a careful and considered approach to supporting health and wellbeing of future residents at Laurel Hill.

Proposals seek to create a high

quality, sustainable and vibrant mixed dwelling development that provides a safe and healthy living environment.

7.2

Enhanced tree and landscape planting, will support climate regulation benefits through shading and contributing to ambient temperature control. Additionally, the incorporation of existing site features are identified as contributing positively to support emotional wellbeing by creating a distinctive sense of place delivered through attractive and sensitive landscape design.

7.3

The proposed development responds to the human scale through the creation of distinct character areas, as follows:

 Henbury Trym – This area will include larger wider fronted properties

following a more fragmented building line. Dwellings should be orientated to overlook the open space to the south and set back to allow for planting and/or front gardens. Dwelling heights are predominately 2 storey with the occasional 2.5/3 storey in prominent locations where an increased height can be justified.

 Meadow Green – This area creates a sense of arrival within the scheme with dwellings orientated to overlook the green. Dwellings will include both detached and semi-detached properties and range between 2 and 2.5 storeys to assist legibility.

 Greenway – Properties are orientated to create a strong building line which provides surveillance along the proposed footway. Dwellings will be typically be semi-detached or include small terraces that will step down the slope.

 Neighbourhood Street – Dwellings within these frontages are typically narrow fronted semi-detached or terraced properties varying between 2 and 3 storeys in height (away from the site boundaries) to add variety in the street scene.

7.4

Each area contains a certain design element for aiding and making it distinct from other areas while sharing common themes that help integrate the proposals within the wider context.

7.5

The proposals will also ensure “Secure by Design” principles will be incorporated into the designs. This approach through high quality design, including features to deter crime and fear of crime, creates an integrated and safe place to live.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

8.

ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION

8.1

Proposed development will take a positive approach to supporting biodiversity and ecology across the site.

8.2

The development provides public open space through central green pocket park which is linked to the diverted public right of way which is proposed to form a unifying â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenwayâ&#x20AC;? through the site and into the protective open space along the border of the site.

8.3

Additionally, the development includes a series of private gardens in addition to the communal areas. These key spaces provide a place of quiet for the residents and also allow for diversity as they function as a multifunctional and connected green infrastructure for the scheme to connect to the near and far features within Cribbs Causeway.

8.4

These key spaces will provide wildlife habitat and support connectivity to ensure nature is brought into the urban fabric.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

9.

TRANSPORT

9.1

A key aim of local and national transport policy is to integrate land use planning and transport and to promote accessibility by non-car modes of transport. New developments should ensure that high quality provision is made for pedestrians and cyclists, and connections should be provided to public transport facilities. Car and cycle parking should be provided in accordance with relevant local standards, and be well designed and conveniently located.

9.2

Cribbs/Causeway and the Laurel Hill site are served by public transport. It is also within a sustainable location, close to services and facilities including the employment areas and shops associated with Cribbs Causeway.

9.3

A new vehicle access into the site will be located off Catbrain Hill and will involve the demolition of number 5 and 6. The removal of these properties will allow sufficient space to deliver an appropriate junction which has been designed by Entran and accommodates appropriate junction radii and displays.

9.4

Due to the size of the site a simple road hierarchy is proposed which includes formal adoptable roads which will provide direct on plot access to plots (in accordance with the CPNN SPD paragraph 5.5) and private drives. These private drives will adopt a homezone character. The road layout itself has been designed in order to create appropriately sized development parcels and where possible run along contour lines to enable development to drop down the existing topography without the need of excessive use of retaining walls within the public realm.

9.5

The existing public right of way which lies in a north south direction is proposed to be diverted along an enhanced green way which runs along part of the northern boundary, along the western boundary, and along part of the southwestern boundary before connecting to the existing wooden footbridge across the Trym. This route will then connect the existing public right of way running in an east west direction to the south of the Trym with the existing right of way to the north between the Cribbs Causeway centre and the residential development at New Charlton Way.

9.6

The new site access served off Catbrain Hill will also increase pedestrian permeability in the area and will include a designated footway within the site as well as highway improvements off site to Catbrain Hill to enhance pedestrian connectivity to the north.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

10.

CONCLUSIONS

10.1

This Statement has set out an approach which would enable the applicant to create a vibrant development based upon the cross-cutting planning policies.

These include an effective approach to both reduce CO2 emissions and to provide adaptability which should allow the development to respond to the predicted impacts of climate change. The proposal is designed to perform adequately throughout the lifetime of the development.

10.2

As set out in section 3, the CO2 emissions savings will be achieved through fabric energy efficiency measures, demonstrated by national calculations methods, enabling these savings to be achieved throughout the life of the development.

This approach reduces the risk of failure with bolt-on technologies that may fail and further risk that the occupiers may not undertake repairs.

10.3

As set out in section 4, SUDS will be used within the development as permeable paving.

Utilisation of sustainable water consumption technologies and devices

may be assessed and, if viable, incorporated within each unit, as follows:

 Water efficient taps;  Water efficient toilets;  Low output showers;  Flow restrictors to manage water pressure to achieve optimum levels; and  Water meters to all premises with guidance on water consumption.

10.4

The building materials strategy set out in section 5 will meet all the following criteria:

 Preference for the use of traditional and/or long-established materials that do not emit pollutants and have low embodied energy;

 Use materials that are stable, durable and appropriate;  Not use materials that contain heavy metals, biocides or known toxins such as lead or asbestos;

 Make sure that mineral and other fibres are encapsulated;  Use low or nil-formaldehyde-emitting materials;  Minimise the use of paints, using organic water-based or mineral paints wherever practicable;

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SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY STATEMENT LAND AT LAUREL HILL, BRISTOL

 Avoid harmful cleaning agents, solvents and smoke from open fire;  Implement a waste reduction strategy; and  Use local suppliers, where possible 10.5

A range of landscaped spaces and private gardens will be included in the development and ecological features created through planting and enhancement.

10.6

A waste management strategy for construction waste and recyclable waste for the dwellings is incorporated by the applicant. As set out in section 7 the development will address the two key issues, namely:

 Domestic Waste: to reduce waste arising from new homeowners and incorporating various techniques for this.

 Construction

Waste: to reduce waste incorporating various techniques for this.

10.7

by

the

contractors

and

Additionally, all occupants of the buildings will enjoy a high quality lifestyle. The buildings will be secure, well designed, environmentally friendly and adaptable to changing needs over the course of their life span.

10.8

Measures to reduce car use include safe links to public transport.

10.9

The overall development provides an inclusive community where sustainable development is at the forefront of the proposals. The development responds to the three pillars of sustainable development as follows:

 Economic role – the proposed development has the potential to provide employment through its construction and maintenance of the community.

 Social role – proposals will provide high quality dwellings appropriate to

social mix within Cribbs Causeway and also new residents to the community. The clustered design is punctuated with open spaces and private gardens enabling a cohesive community and increasing health and well-being.

 Environmental role – the green infrastructure captures the existing ecology and biodiversity within the locality, the buildings respond to climate change through reduced CO2 emissions from energy consumption, resource sensitive materials, water efficiency measures, waste recycling and pollution mitigation during construction.

10.10 The proposed development demonstrates that the development is “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

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