ENV41

Environment Policy 41

Environment Policy 41: The Department will require that archaeological evaluations be submitted prior to the determination of proposals affecting sites of known or potential archaeological significance. In cases where remains are affected but preservation in-situ is not merited, the Department will expect to secure excavations and/or recording in advance of construction work either by the imposition of suitable conditions attached to a planning permission or through a formal agreement entered into with the developer.

7.34 Existing Settlements

7.34.1 Every settlement in the Island has its own individual character and identity which needs to be conserved and enhanced. If such characteristics and qualities are not to be lost, any new development must be appropriate to the locale in terms of scale, siting, design, relationship with other buildings and land uses. Area Plans should identify important spaces within settlements, whether in the form of village greens, squares or areas which simply add to the attractiveness and interest of particular areas which have positive amenity value. It is important to the attractiveness and individuality of centres that over intensive development is avoided as well as the gradual merging of towns and villages in order to preserve a sense of identity and sense of place. In terms of existing settlements, in both rural and urban areas, new development will be expected to follow the following design principles. Development will need to:

1. be of a high standard of design, taking into account form, scale, materials and siting of new buildings and structures;
2. be accompanied by a high standard of landscaping in terms of design and layout, where appropriate;
3. protect the character and amenity of the locality and provide adequate amenity standards itself;
4. respect local styles; and
5. provide a safe and secure environment.

"Infill development(1)" (in the sense of filling a small gap in an otherwise built-up frontage) may be acceptable in built up areas, but the value of spaces between buildings should not be underestimated, even in small settlements.

"Backland development(2)" (which is development on the land at the back of properties) may also be acceptable in some circumstances, but only if satisfactory access can be achieved and if there is sufficient space to provide adequate amenity for both new and existing adjoining dwellings.

"Tandem development(3)" (consisting of one house immediately behind another, and sharing the same access) is generally unacceptable because of the difficulties of access to the house at the back, and the disturbance and lack of privacy suffered by the house in front.