Appendix 3 – Parking Standards

Appendix 3 - Parking Standards The following standards have been taken from the Local Plan 2011-2026 and updated to take account of census data on car and van ownership as well as taking into consideration the latest update to the National Planning Policy Framework (December 2024). They cover standards for car parking, disabled parking, cycle parking, electric vehicles, and parking for powered two-wheelers. These standards have moved away from a ‘ minimum/maximum’ approach and will be applied as a ‘standard’ which may be adjusted upward or downward if robust evidence is provided. As such, the car parking standards should be taken as a starting point and the proposed scheme will be assessed accordingly. Appl icants should explain how the standards have been applied to their individual proposal and, where appropriate, how and why they have deviated from them. The expectation is that development will meet its own needs on -site by providing parking to this standard. In line with national policy and Hertfordshire County Council’s Local Transports Plans, there has long been an increased emphasis on encouraging the use of sustainable transport and reduce our reliance on car travel to reduce emissions, cut congestion and improve our general health and wellbeing. In combination with increasing sustainable travel options, small reductions in parking provision is a commonly adopted strategy to help implement this. Subsequently, modest reductions have been made in parking provision for residential development and some employment uses. Census data between 2011 and 2021 has shown that while there has been a small increase in the number of cars in the district (less than 5%), on average there is still just over 1 vehicle per household, so overall average car and van ownership has not increased significantly following additional dwellings being built during this period. We have also benchmarked our standards against neighbouring authorities with similar spatial patterns of development and found that the proposed standards to be around the average. The standards for car parking may be adjusted according to which sustainability zone the proposed development is located in. Zone Type Car parking provision Sustainability Zone 1 60% of indicative demand-based parking standard Sustainability Zone 2 80% of indicative demand-based parking standard Rest of District Apply full indicative demand-based standard The percentages of indicative demand -based standards identify the degree of restraint that will normally be applied to new development within each zone type. For example, a development requiring 10 parking spaces would be reduced to 6 parking spaces in Sustainability Zone 1, where 60% of the indicative demand-based standard would be acceptable. Similarly, this would be reduced to 8 parking spaces in Sustainability Zone 2 where 80% of the indicative demand-based standard would be acceptable. The sustainability zones are applied mainly within a 800m radius of a train station, where you might reasonably expect that car ownership will be a little lower. Rickmansworth as the principal town with a wide range of shops and services has a greater reduction applied, due to the dual sustainability benefits of being near a train station and a well serviced town centre. When compared to other local authority parking standards that apply similar parking reduction zones, Three Rivers is generally higher than average, providing less reduction than our neighbouring comparable authorities. This is mainly due to the fact that w hile broadly comparable, they do generally have larger, more densely developed main settlement centres with a wider range of facilities and public transport options. Car Parking Standards Use Class Description Car parking standards E(a) Retail and Foodstores F2(a) Shops selling essential goods which do not exceed 280sqm and there is no other facility within 1,000 metres Retail and Small food shops up to 500sqm gross floor area Food superstores/hypermarkets up to 2,500sqm retail floor area 1 space per 30sqm gross floor area 1 space per 18sqm gross floor area E(a) Retail Foodstores Food superstores/hypermarkets exceeding 2,500sqm retail floor area. Food retail parks. 1 space per 15sqm gross floor area 1 space per 14sqm (threshold 1000spm) below this figure to be decided in each case on individual merits (shared parking an overall reduction in provision, taking into account linked trips on site). E(a) Non-food retail Non-food retail warehouses with garden centres. Non-food retail warehouses without garden centres. 1 space per 25sqm gross floor area 1 space per 35sqm gross floor area E(a)Non-food retail (cont) Garden centres up to 4,000sqm gross floor area. Garden centres exceeding 4,000sqm gross floor area. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are known. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are not known. 1 space per 25sqm gross floor area Decided in each case on individual merits. Decided in each case on individual merits (shared parking and an overall reduction in provision, taking into account linked to trips on site). 1 space per 40sqm gross floor space (shared parking). E(c) Financial and professional services Sui generis (betting shops) Banks, building societies, estate agencies Betting shops. 1 space per 30sqm gross floor area. E(b) Restaurants and Cafés Restaurant/ cafés 1 space per 5sqm of floorspace of dining area plus 3 spaces per 4 employees. Sui generis (Drinking Establishments) Public houses/bars 1 space per 3sqm of floorspace of bar area plus 3 spaces per 4 employees. Sui generis (Hot Food Takeaways) Roadside restaurants Transport café Hot food takeaway shops (excluding fast food drive thru restaurants) Fast food drive thru restaurants 1 space per 5sqm of floorspace of dining area plus 3 squares per 4 employees. 1 lorry space per 3.5sqm gross floor area plus 3 spaces per 4 employees. 1 space per 3sqm of floorspace of public area plus 3 spaces per 4 employees. 1 space per 8sqm gross floor area. E(g)Business E(g)(i) offices E(g)(ii) research and development, high-tech/ E(g)(iii) light industry. 1 space per 30sqm gross floor area 1 space per 35sqm gross floor area B2 General Industry General industry 1 space per 50sqm gross floor space (1 lorry space per 200sqm) B8 Storage and distribution Wholesale distribution, builders merchants, storage 1 space per 75sqm gross floor area (1 lorry space per 200sqm) Use Class Description Car parking standards Business Parks Mixed E(g)/B2/B8 (unless heavily oriented to B8) for use where individual land use components are not known. 1 space per 40sqm gross floor area (1 lorry space per 200sqm) C1 Hotels and Hostels Hotels Hostels Small (single parent or couple with no children) Family (2 adults and 2 children) 1 space per bedroom (including staff accommodation) plus 1 space per manager plus 2 spaces per 3 staff minus spaces related to staff bedrooms plus 1 space per 5sqm dining area plus 1 space per 3sqm bar area plus 1 space per 5sqm public area in conference facility plus 1 space per 6sqm of public area in exhibition hall plus a minimum of 1 coach parking space per 100 bedrooms. 3 spaces per 4 units. 1 space per units. C2 Residential institutions Institutions/homes with care staff on premises at all times (excluding nursing homes, hospitals, residential schools, colleges or training centres). 1 space per 5 resident bed spaces plus Elderly persons residential and nursing homes. Hospitals 1 space per 2 staff non- resident (parking for resident staff to be based on general needs standard). 0.25 spaces per resident bed space plus; 1 space per 2 staff non- resident (parking for resident staff to be based on general needs standard). 1 space per 0.5 beds or to be decided on individual merits (including a full transport assessment and proposals in a green transport plan); special hospitals must be considered individually. Use Class Description Car parking standards C2 Residential institutions (cont) Education – halls of residence. 1 space per 2 full-time staff plus 1 space per 6 students (but with linkage to student transport plans where appropriate). C3 Residential General needs 1 bedroom dwellings 2 bedroom dwellings 3 bedroom dwellings 4 or more bedroom dwellings 1 space 1.5 spaces 2 spaces 2.5 spaces C3 Residential Elderly person’s accommodation. Retirement dwellings – no warden control, 1 or 2 bedroom (Category 1). Sheltered dwellings – warden control (Category 2) 1.5 spaces per unit including 0.25 visitor space. 0.75 spaces per unit including 0.25 visitor space. C4 Residential Houses in multiple occupation (i.e. separate households sharing facilities) 1 space per bedroom F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(e) Public halls/places of assembly (excluding D2) F1(f) Places of worship 1 space per 9sqmgross floor area or 1 space per 3 fixed seats plus 3 spaces per 4 staff members 1 space per 10sqm gross floor area F2(b) Halls or meeting places for the local community F2(b) Community/family centres 1 space per 9sqm gross floor area plus 1 space per full time staff member or equivalent E(f) Day centres E(f) Day centres 1 space per 2 staff members plus 1 space per 3 persons attending or 1 space per 9sqm gross floor area E(e) Provision of medical or health services Non- residential Institutions E(e) Surgeries and clinics 3 space per consulting room plus 1 space per employee other than consulting doctors/dentists/vets. Use Class Description Car parking standards F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions (Cont) F1(d) Libraries and miscellaneous cultural buildings (including F1(b) buildings for display of works of art, F1(c) museums and F1(g) law courts)Miscellaneous cultural buildings. 1 space per 30sqm gross floor area of freestanding development (otherwise assessed on merits). 2 spaces plus 1 space per 30sqm of public floorspace. F1 Learning and non-residential Institutions F1(a) Educational establishments (including residential). F1(a) Schools 1 space per full-time member of staff plus 1 space per 8 pupils over 17 years old plus 1 space per 20 pupils under 17 years old. F1 Learning and non-residential Institutions F1(a) Further education 1 space per 2 staff plus 1 space per full-time 15 students (2500sqm threshold). The standard for students attending an educational establishment, rather than full-time equivalent. E(f) Crèche, day nursery E(f) Nursery schools/Playgroups 1 space per 4 pupils. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are known. 1 space per 22sqm (threshold 1000sqm) below threshold to be decided in each case on individual merits: parking for individual land use components should be based on the standards set out in this appendix, but with an overall reduction in provision Sui generis (cinemas, concert halls, bingo halls, dance halls) Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are not known. to reflect linked trips on site (all parking should be shared and an overall reduction of 25% should form the starting point for discussion). 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) Sui generis (cinemas) Cinemas (including multiplexes) 1 space per 5 seats (1000sqm threshold) Use Class Description Car parking standards E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks F2(d) Swimming pools. F2(c) / E(d) Tennis/badminton E(d) Squash courts F2(d) Ice rinks E(d) Fitness centres/sports clubs 1 sp per 22 sq m (1000 sq m threshold) 4 spaces per court not to exceed 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) 3 spaces per court not to exceed 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) 1 space per 12sqm gross floor area of rink not to exceed 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness Ten pin bowling Indoor bowls 4 space per lane not to exceed 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) 4 space per rink not to exceed 1 space per 22sqm (1000sqm threshold) F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation Outdoor Sports Grounds with football pitches without football pitches 20 spaces per pitch 50 spaces per hectare F2(c) Outdoor sport or recreation Golf 18 hole golf course 9 hole golf course golf driving range golf course larger than 18 holes and/or for more than local use 100 spaces 60 spaces 1.5 spaces per tee To be decided in each case on individual merits Sui generis (Motor Trade Related) Showroom car sales Vehicle storage Hire cars Ancillary vehicle storage 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 1 space per 10 cars displayed. 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 2 spaces per showroom space or provision at rate of 10% annual turnover. 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 1 space per 2 hire cars based at site. 3 spaces or 75% of total if more than 3 vehicles. Workshops Tyre and Exhaust Part stores/sales Car wash/petrol filling station 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 3 spaces per bay (for waiting and finished vehicles) in addition to repair bays. 3 spaces per 4 employee plus 3 spaces for customers. 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 3 spaces for customers. 3 spaces per 4 employees plus 3 waiting spaces per bay or run in to row of bays (additional parking is required where a shop is provided). Passenger transport facilities Rail Stations/bus Stations To be decided in each case on individual merits. Sui generis (houses in multiple occupation, i.e. separate households sharing facilities, accommodating 7 or more occupants) 1 space per bedroom Sui generis (where specific use is not included as a description elsewhere in this appendix) To be decided in each case on individual merits Parking for Disabled Motorists The parking needs of disabled motorists shall be met in full irrespective of location i.e. where the zonal procedure results in on -site parking restraint, there shall be no corresponding reduction in disabled spaces. The minimum measurements of a disabled space provided off the highway should be 3.2m in width and 4.8m in length. Disabled spaces provided on the highway must comply with the requirements of Hertfordshire Highways Authority. Employment generating development (1) Up to 200 space car park (demand- based as calculated from above standards). (2) More than 200 space car park (demand-based as calculated from above standards). Individual spaces for each disabled employee plus 2 spaces or 5% of total capacity, whichever is greater. 6 spaces plus 2% of total capacity. Shops/premises to which the public have access/recreation. (1) Up to 200 space car park (demand- based as calculated from above standards). (2) More than 200 space car park (demand- based as calculated from above standards) 3 spaces or 6% of total capacity whichever is greater. 4 spaces plus 4% of total capacity. Residential General Elderly persons dwellings up to 10 spaces (demand-based as calculated from above standards) More than 10 spaces (demand-based as calculated from above standards). 1 space for every dwelling built to mobility standards (such as Lifetime Homes). 3 spaces 1 space per 4 spaces Cycle Parking Standards Cycle parking standards have been developed for each Use Class. It is recognised that cycle theft deters greater use and thus the type of cycle provision is important. The cycle parking standards differentiate between short and long term requirements. ‘Sheffield’ stands are satisfactory for short term cycle parking and supervised ‘cycle parks’ provide better weather and security protection for long term use. ‘Full time staff equivalents’ is the main parameter used to express long term cycle parking standards as this can be directly related to modal split targets. The long term standards relate to a modal split target of 10% by cycle, but should be adjusted (up or down) locally to accord with local targets and/or those set out in green transport plans. While it is questionable whether realistic estimates of employee numbers will always be possible at the planning application stage, available data on floorspace: worker ratios is inadequate for converting modal split targets to standards based on ‘gross floor area’ (an alternative parameter). Use Class Description Cycle parking standards E(a) Retail Foodstores F2(a) Shops selling essential goods which do not exceed 280sqm and there is no other facility within 1,000 metres Small food shops up to 500sqm gross floor area Food superstores/hypermarkets up to 2,500sqm retail floor area 1 short-term space per 150sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time. E(a) Retail Foodstores Food superstores/hypermarkets exceeding 2,500sqm retail floor area. Food retail parks 1 short-term space per 250sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time. E(a) Non-food retail Non-food retail warehouses with garden centres. Non-food retail warehouses without garden centres. Garden centres up to 4,000sqm gross floor area Garden centres exceeding 4,000sqm gross floor area. 1 short-term space per 350sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are known. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are not known. E(c) Financial and professional services Sui generis (betting shops) Banks, building societies, estate agencies Betting shops. 1 short-term space per 200sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff. Use Class Description Cycle parking standards E(b) Food and drink Restaurant/cafes 1 short-term space per 100sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time. Sui generis (Drinking Establishments) Public houses/bars 1 short-term space per 100sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time Sui generis (Hot Food Takeaways) Hot food takeaway shops (excluding fast food drive thru restaurants) Fast food drive thru restaurants 1 short-term space per 100sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time Sui generis (Hot Food Takeaways) Roadside restaurants Transport café 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time. E(g) Business E(g)(i) offices E(g)(ii) research and development, high-tech/ E(g)(iii) Light industry. 1 short-term space per 500sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff B2 General Industry General industry 1 short-term space per 500sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff B8 Storage and Distribution Wholesale distribution, builders merchants, storage 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff Business Parks Mixed E(g)/B2/B8 (unless heavily oriented to B8) for use where individual land use components are not known. 1 short-term space per 500sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff C1 Hotels and Hostels Hotels 1 long-term space per 10 beds plus 1 long-term space per 10 maximum staff on site at any one time C1 Hotels and hostels Hostels Small (single parent or couple with no children) Family (2 adults and 2 children) 1 long-term space per 3 units C2 Residential institutions Institutions/homes with care staff on premises at all times (excluding nursing homes, hospitals, residential schools, colleges or training centres). Elderly persons residential and nursing homes. Hospitals 1 short-term space per 20 beds plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty at any one time. Use Class Description Cycle parking standards C2 Residential institutions Education – halls of residence. 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff plus 1 long-term space per 3 students. C3 Residential General needs 1 bedroom dwellings 2 bedroom dwellings 3 bedroom dwellings 4 or more bedroom dwellings Houses in multiple occupation (i.e. separate households sharing facilities) 1 long-term space per unit (or per room if HMO) if no garage or shed provided. C3 Residential Flats 1 space per 2 units C3 Residential Elderly person’s accommodation. Retirement dwellings – no warden control, 1 or 2 bedroom (Category 1). Sheltered dwellings – warden control (Category 2) 1 short-term space per 3 units plus 1 long-term space per 5 units F1 Non-residential Institutions F1(e) Public halls/places of assembly (excluding D2) F1(f) Places of worship 1 short-term space per 200sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty F2(b) Halls or meeting places for the local community F2(b) Community/family centres 1 short-term space per 200sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty E(f) Day centres E(f) Day centres 1 short-term space per 200sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty E(e) Provision of medical or health services E(e) Surgeries and clinics 1 short-term space per consulting room plus 1 long- term space per 10 staff on duty at any one time. F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(d) Libraries and miscellaneous cultural buildings (including F1(b) buildings for display of works of art, F1(c) museums and F1(g) law courts) 1 short-term space per 100sqm gross floor area plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(a) Educational establishments (including residential). F1(a) Schools 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff plus: a) Primary School: 1 long-term space per 15 students. b) Secondary School: 1 long-term space per 5 students. Use Class Description Cycle parking standards F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(a) Further education 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff plus 1 long-term space per 5 students E(f) Crèche, day nursery E(f) Nursery schools/playgroups 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks Sui generis (cinemas, concert halls, bingo halls, dance halls) Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are known. Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are not known. On merit, depending upon mix of uses. Sui generis (cinemas) Cinemas (including multiplexes) Cinemas up to 500 seats: 1 short-term space per 20 seats plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty at any one time. Cinemas over 500 seats: 25 short-term spaces plus 1 short-term space per 100 seats in excess of 500 plus 1 long-term space per 10 staff on duty at any one time. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks F2(d) Swimming pools. F2(c) / E(d) Tennis/badminton E(d) Squash courts F2(d) Ice rinks E(d) Fitness centres/sports clubs 1 short-term space per 25sqm E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness Ten pin bowling Indoor bowls 1 short-term space per 3 lanes or rink plus 1 short-term space per 25 spectator seats plus 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff. F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation Outdoor sports grounds with football pitches without football pitches 1 short-term space per 10 players/participants at busiest period F2(c) Outdoor sport or recreation Golf 18 hole golf course 9 hole golf course golf driving range golf course larger than 18 holes and/or for more than local use 10 long-term spaces 5 long-term spaces 5 short-term spaces per 20/30 tee driving range Pro rata to the above Sui generis (Motor trade related) Showroom car sales Vehicle storage Hire cars Ancillary vehicle storage Workshops Tyre and Exhaust Part stores/sales Car wash/petrol filling station 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff. 1 long-term space per 10 full time staff plus 5 short-term spaces if shop included Passenger transport facilities Rail Stations Bus Stations 5 long-term spaces per peak period train 2 long-term spaces per 100 peak period passengers In addition to cycle parking provision it is also expected that shower and changing facilities are provided. If not built in as part of the normal facilities of a building (in schools and hospitals for example), commercial and institutional uses should consider providing a small room where people can change in private. Experience shows that such a facility will not only be used by cyclists, but other staff engaged in exercise activity during lunch breaks or after hours. For commercial and institutional uses, shower and changing facilities should be provided at a minimum rate of 1 locker per 10 persons and 1 shower cubicle per 50 persons. Proposals for a reasonable level of provision for fewer personnel will be assessed on their merits according to the location, use and travel needs of the personnel. Electric Vehicle Standards Electric vehicles are a sustainable mode of transport that contribute to a reduction in vehicle emissions. An electric vehicle is considered any road vehicle with a battery that is intended to be charged from mains electricity. National policy supports th e provision of electric vehicle recharging infrastructure with new development. Electrical vehicle standards have been developed for each Use Class, with a distinction between active provision and passive provision. Active provision: an actual socket connected to the electrical supply system that vehicle owners can plug their vehicle into. Passive provision: the network of cables and power supply necessary so that at a future date a socket can be added easily. EV charging points should adhere to the British Standards Institution’s Electric vehicles Accessible charging – Specification (PAS 1899:2022) or future equivalent. Use Class Description Electric vehicle parking standards E(a) Retail Foodstores F2(a) Shops selling essential goods which do not exceed 280sqm and there is no other facility within 1,000 metres Small food shops up to 500sqm gross floor area Food superstores/hypermarkets up to 2,500sqm retail floor area 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(a) Retail Foodstores Food superstores/hypermarkets exceeding 2,500sqm retail floor area. Food retail parks 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(a) Non-food retail Non-food retail warehouses with garden centres. Non-food retail warehouses without garden centres. Garden centres up to 4,000sqm gross floor area Garden centres exceeding 4,000sqm gross floor area. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are known. Non-food retail parks where individual land use components are not known. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(c) Financial and professional services Banks, building societies, estate agencies, betting shops. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 20% of spaces to be passive provision. Use Class Description Electric vehicle parking standards E(b) Food and drink Restaurant/cafes 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Sui generis (Drinking Establishments) Public houses/bars 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 20% of spaces to be passive provision. Sui generis (Hot Food Takeaways) Hot food takeaway shops (excluding fast food drive thru restaurants) Fast food drive thru restaurants 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 20% of spaces to be passive provision. Sui generis (Hot Food Takeaways) Roadside restaurants Transport café 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(g) Business E(g)(i) offices E(g)(ii) research and development, high-tech/E(g)(iii) light industry. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 40% of spaces to be passive provision. B2 General Industry General industry 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 40% of spaces to be passive provision. B8 Storage and Distribution Wholesale distribution, builders merchants, storage 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 40% of spaces to be passive provision. Business Parks Mixed E(g)/B2/B8 (unless heavily oriented to B8) for use where individual land use components are not known. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. C1 Hotels and Hostels Hotels 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 40% of spaces to be passive provision. C1 Hotels and hostels Hostels 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Small (single parent or couple with no children) Family (2 adults and 2 children) C2 Residential institutions Institutions/homes with care staff on premises at all times (excluding nursing homes, hospitals, residential schools, colleges or training centres). Elderly persons residential and nursing homes. Hospitals 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Use Class Description Electric vehicle parking standards C2 Residential institutions Education – halls of residence. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. C3 Residential 1 bedroom dwellings 2 bedroom dwellings 3 bedroom dwellings 4 or more bedroom dwellings 20% of all spaces to be active provision, the remaining 80% to be passive provision; Houses to have 1 charging point per house. C3 Residential Elderly person’s accommodation. Retirement dwellings – no warden control, 1 or 2 bedroom (Category 1). 20% of all spaces to be active provision, the remaining 80% to be passive provision. Sheltered dwellings – warden control (Category 2) F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(e) Public halls/places of assembly (excluding D2) F1(f) Places of worship 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. F2(b) Halls or meeting places for the local community F2(b) Community/family centres 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(f) Day centres E(f) Day centres 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(e) Provision of medical or health services E(e) Surgeries and clinics 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 20% of spaces to be passive provision. F1 Learning and non- residential Institutions F1(d) Libraries and miscellaneous cultural buildings (including F1(b) buildings for display of works of art, F1(c) museums and F1(g) law courts) 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. F1 Learning and n- on-residential Institutions F1(a) Educational establishments (including residential). F1(a) Schools 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Use Class Description Electric vehicle parking standards F1 Learning and non-residential Institutions F1(a) Further education 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(f) Crèche, day nursery E(f) Nursery schools/playgroups 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks Sui generis (cinemas, concert halls, bingo halls, dance halls Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are known. Places of entertainment/leisure parks for use when individual land use components are not known. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Sui generis (cinemas) Cinemas (including multiplexes) 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation F2(d) Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or ice skating rinks F2(d) Swimming pools. F2(c) / E(d) Tennis/badminton E(d) Squash courts F2(d) Ice rinks E(d) Fitness centres/sports clubs 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. E(d) Indoor sport, recreation or fitness Ten pin bowling Indoor bowls 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. F2(c) Outdoor sport and recreation Outdoor sports grounds with football pitches without football pitches 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Use Class Description Electric vehicle parking standards F2(c) Outdoor sport or recreation Golf 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Sui generis (Motor trade related) Showroom car sales Vehicle storage Hire cars Ancillary vehicle storage Workshops Tyre and Exhaust Part stores/sales Car wash/petrol filling station 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 20% of spaces to be passive provision. Passenger transport facilities Rail Stations Bus Stations 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. 20% of all spaces to be active provision, a further 30% of spaces to be passive provision. Powered Two-Wheeler Parking Standards Motorcycles comprise around 3% of all registered vehicles, and recent large increases in sales of mopeds and other commuter machines have resulted in further demand on existing motorcycle parking places, with indications that this trend will continue. As a guide, local authorities should set aside around 4% of the total stock of publicly accessible motor vehicle parking space for motorcycle use. Local authorities should also take steps to ensure that workplaces, new developments, and other parking not under their direct control, includes sufficient provision to ensure pressure is not simply concentrated on local authority provision. Powered two-wheeler parking should therefore be provided at approximately five per cent of the amount of car parking to be provided on a site. Each use needs to be considered on its merits. Parking Zones – Whole District: Sustainability Zone 1: Rickmansworth Station Sustainability Zone 2: Moor Park Station Croxley Green Station Chorleywood Station Carpenders Park Station Kings Langley Station Appendix 4 – Glossary Terms Definitions Accessible and Adaptable Dwellings Dwellings designed to meet the Building Regulations M4 standard, enabling adaptation to meet the changing needs of occupants over time. Active Frontages Ground floors where windows and doors face onto the street, avoiding blank walls and which enable people to see into and out of buildings. Active Travel Non-motorised travel, such as cycling and walking Affordable Housing Housing for sale or rent, for those whose needs are not met by the market (including housing that provides a subsidised route to home ownership and/or is for essential local workers); and which complies with one or more of the following definitions: ▪ Social Rent: meets all of the following conditions: (a) the rent is set in accordance with the Government’s rent policy for Social Rent; (b) the landlord is a registered provider; and (c) it includes provisions to remain at an affordable price for future eligible households, or for the subsidy to be recycled for alternative affordable housing provision. ▪ Other affordable housing for rent: meets all of the following conditions: (a) the rent is set in accordance with the Government’s rent policy for Affordable Rent, or is at least 20% below local market rents (including service charges where applicable); (b) the landlord is a registered provider, except where it is included as part of a Build to Rent scheme (in which case the landlord need not be a registered provider); and (c) it includes provisions to remain at an affordable price for future eligible households, or for the subsidy to be recycled for alternative affordable housing provision. For Build to Rent schemes affordable housing for rent is expected to be the normal form of affordable housing provision (and, in this context, is known as Affordable Private Rent). ▪ Discount market sales housing: is that sold at a discount of at least 20% below local market value. Eligibility is determined with regard to local incomes and local house prices. Provisions should be in place to ensure housing remains at a discount for future eligible households ▪ Other affordable routes to home ownership: is housing provided for sale that provides a route to ownership for those who could not achieve home ownership through the market. It includes shared ownership, relevant equity loans, other low-cost homes for sale (at a price equivalent to at least 20% below local market value) and rent to buy (which includes a period of intermediate rent). Where public grant funding is provided, there should be provisions for the homes to remain at an affordable price for future eligible households, or for any receipts to be recycled for alternative affordable housing provision, or refunded to Government or the relevant authority specified in the funding agreement. Ancient or Veteran Tree A tree which, because of its age, size and condition, is of exceptional biodiversity, cultural or heritage value. All ancient trees are veteran trees. Not all veteran trees are old enough to be ancient, but are old relative to other trees of the same species. Very few trees of any species reach the ancient life-stage. Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) Area designated by the council because they are not likely to achieve national air quality objectives for certain pollutants. Amenity The quality or the character of the living environment and elements that contribute to the overall enjoyment of an area, including privacy, peace and quiet, daylight and sunlight, access to outdoor space etc. Ancient Woodland An area that has been wooded continuously since at least 1600 AD. It includes ancient semi-natural woodland and plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS) Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) A report prepared by the council annually to monitor the performance of the Local Plan by assessing progress in meeting targets and requirements across a range of plan related topic areas. Archaeological Interest There will be archaeological interest in a heritage asset if it holds, or potentially holds, evidence of past human activity worthy of expert investigation at some point. Under the above definition, Areas of Archaeological Potential and Archaeological Priority Areas are often included. ▪ Area of Archaeological Potential: it refers to the areas which have been examined by the archaeologist and determined to likely to have archaeological interests with containing good evidence for the existence of archaeological remains. ▪ Archaeological Priority Area (APAs): it refers to a defined area where there is significant known archaeological interest or potential for new discoveries. APAs are used to help highlight where development might affect heritage assets. Article 4 Direction A direction made under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 which withdraws permitted development rights granted by that Order. Biodiversity The variability among living organisms from all sources, underpins all life on Earth. This includes diversity within species, between species and across ecosystems, representing the genetic makeup of plants, animals, microorganisms and the complexity of ecosystems. Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) It refers to the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan which is a 50-year vision for the wildlife and natural habitats of Hertfordshire and provides guidance on the protection, restoration and re-creating a sustainable level of biodiversity in the country. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) A requirement / approach that development delivers a measurable net gain for biodiversity of at least 10% from the existing baseline value of the site. It aims to make sure development has a measurably positive impact on biodiversity and contribute to improve habitats and ecological network. Biodiversity Metric A biodiversity metric is used to quantify the biodiversity value of habitats in "biodiversity units" to measure losses and gains, primarily for achieving mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain in developments. It assesses habitat size, distinctiveness, condition, and strategic importance to ensure environments are left measurably better after development. Blue Infrastructure Water-related features such as rivers, canals, wetlands and drainage systems, which form part of Blue and often Green Infrastructure. Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) An assessment that measures the sustainability of a new building including issues related to energy, health and wellbeing, innovation, land use, materials, management, pollution, transport, waste and water. Brownfield Land Previously developed land which is / was occupied by a permanent structure and any fixed surface infrastructure associated with it. Agricultural and forestry buildings are excluded. Building Regulations Government standards set for design and construction which apply to most new buildings and alterations to existing buildings in England and Wales. Built Environment Buildings and structures created by people and their relationship with streets, spaces and landscapes. Built-up Area Areas defined on the Policies Map where development is generally acceptable in principle. Circular Economy A model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended. In practice, it implies reducing waste to a minimum. When a product reaches the end of its life, its materials are kept within the economy wherever possible Climate Change Adaptation Adjustments made to natural or human systems in response to the actual or anticipated impacts of climate change, to mitigate harm or exploit beneficial opportunities. Climate Change Mitigation Action to reduce the impact of human activity on the climate system, primarily through reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Combined Heat and Power It is the simultaneous generation of useable heat and power (usually electricity) in a single process. It is a form of decentralised energy technology and typically installed on-site, supplying customers with heat and power directly at the point of use. Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) A planning charge by the council to raise funds from owners or developers of land undertaking new building projects in the district to support the provision of infrastructure needed to serve the development. Community, Leisure and Cultural Facilities These include, but are not limited to, village halls, community centres, sports halls, theatres, public halls, doctors and dental surgeries, faith facilities, post offices, public houses, schools and local shops. Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) An order issued by the government or the council to acquire land or buildings in the wider public interest, e.g. for the construction of a major road or to regenerate an area. Conservation Area Areas of special architectural or historic interest, where the character, appearance or setting is desirable to preserve and enhance. The impacts of new development upon the conservation area must be considered and permitted development may be restricted. Controlled Parking Zones An area where all on street parking is controlled and restricted by the council. Decentralised Energy Local renewable and local low carbon energy sources. Density A measurement of how intensively land is occupied by built development. For housing, this is often measured in dwellings per hectare. Designated Heritage Assets A World Heritage Site, Scheduled Monument, Listed Building, Protected Wreck Site, Registered Park and Garden, Registered Battlefield or Conservation Area designated under the relevant legislation. Designated Rural Areas National Parks, National Landscapes and areas designated as ‘rural’ under Section 157 of the Housing Act 1985. Development Plan The statutory Development Plan comprised of the Local Plan, Minerals and Waste Local Plan and any Neighbourhood Plans within the district. It is the basis on the determination of planning application in the district. District Centre A group of shops and some service outlets serving part of an urban area and providing a geographic focus for it, separate and smaller than the town centre, but with more variety than local centres. Edge of Settlement Locations adjoining larger settlements, used in the spatial strategy as areas where comprehensively planned development can be integrated with existing communities. Employment Land Land specifically used, allocated, or available for economic activities like offices, industry, warehousing, and distribution, crucial for local job creation and economic growth. These are identified and managed through the Local Plan to balance supply with demand for a range of business uses. Evidence Base It refers to the technical studies and background research that provides information on key aspects of social, economic and environmental characteristics of the district. This enables the preparation of a sound Local Plan meeting the objectives of sustainable development. Exception Test A test applied to sites with flood risk, when there are not enough suitable sites with lower or no risk of flooding available for use. The test is required to show that the sites with flood risk will be safe to develop and that any sustainability benefits of developing the site will outweigh the risk of flooding Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) An assessment of the likelihood of flooding to a site so that development needs and mitigation measures can be carefully considered. First Homes It refers to a specific kind of discounted market sale housing and should be considered to meet the definition of ‘affordable housing’ for planning purposes. Specifically, First Homes are discounted market sale units which: a) must be discounted by a minimum of 30% against the market value; b) are sold to a person or persons meeting the First Homes eligibility criteria; c) on their first sale, will have a restriction registered on the title at HM Land Registry to ensure this discount (as a percentage of current market value) and certain other restrictions are passed on at each subsequent title transfer; and, d) after the discount has been applied, the first sale must be at a price no higher than £250,000. It is the government’s preferred discounted market tenure and should account for at least 25% of all affordable housing units delivered by developers through planning obligations. Flood Zones Refers to the area of land which are mapped by the Environment Agency into flood zones. Flood Zone 1 is least likely to experience a flooding event and Flood Zone 3 has the highest risk. Functional Economic Market Area (FEMA) An area that is not constrained by administrative boundaries but takes account of how the economy works in a local area. This takes account of the relationships between where people live and work and how the regional economy links together. Green Belt An area of land which has been designated to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open; the essential characteristics of Green Belts are their openness and their permanence. Green Belt serves five purposes: a) to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas; b) to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another; c) to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment; d) to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and e) to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land. Grey Belt It refers to the land in the Green Belt comprising previously developed land and/or any other land that, in either case, does not strongly contribute to any of purposes (a), (b), or (d) of Green Belt. It excludes land where the application of the policies relating to the areas or assets* which would provide a strong reason for refusing or restricting development. *including habitats sites and/or designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); Local Green Space, a National Landscape, a National Park or defined as Heritage Coast; irreplaceable habitats; designated heritage assets; and areas at risk of flooding or coastal change. Green Infrastructure Networks of green space which are multifunctional and offer environmental and social benefits for the surrounding area. This can include parks and gardens, green corridors, natural areas, amenity spaces and allotments. Greenfield Land Land (or a defined site) which has never been built on before or where remains of any structure or activity have blended into the landscape over time. Gross Floor Space The total floorspace of the building measured to the outside of all external walls including staircase, lobbies, porches and circulation space. Gypsies and Travellers Persons of nomadic habit of life, encompassing specific ethnic minorities or cultural groups also including such persons who on grounds only of their own or their family’s or dependants’ educational or health needs or old age have ceased to travel temporarily or permanently, and all other persons with a cultural tradition of nomadism or of living in a caravan, but excluding members of an organised group of travelling showpeople or circus people travelling together as such. Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) An assessment which identifies any aspects of an emerging DPD / Local Plan that would have the potential to have a significant effect on certain designated wildlife sites (i.e. SACs, SPAs, Ramsar Sites) and begin to identify appropriate mitigation measures where such effects are identified. Heritage Asset A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. It includes designated heritage assets and assets identified by the council (including local listing). Historic Environment All aspects of the environment resulting from the interaction between people and places through time, including all surviving physical remains of past human activity, whether visible, buried or submerged, and landscaped and planted or managed flora. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) A property rented out to people who are considered to be at least three separate households and who have shared facilities such as kitchen and bathroom. Housing Mix The mix of different dwelling types, sizes and tenures of housing. Irreplaceable Habitat Habitats which would be technically very difficult (or take a very significant time) to restore, recreate or replace once destroyed, taking into account their age, uniqueness, species diversity or rarity. They include ancient woodland, ancient and veteran trees, blanket bog, limestone pavement, sand dunes, salt marsh and lowland fen. Lifetime Homes It refers to the standard homes designed with 16 adaptable features for flexibility, comfort, and accessibility, allowing people to live in them throughout all life stages, from raising a family to aging with mobility issues, with minimal costly adaptations, often required by UK planning policy for new builds to support diverse needs. Listed Buildings A building identified as being of special architectural or historic interest by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England. Listed buildings are graded I, II* or II with grade I being the highest and are included within the definition of “designated heritage asset” in the NPPF. Listing includes the interior as well as the exterior of the building and also any buildings or permanent structures, e.g. walls, within its curtilage that pre-date July 1948. Local Centres An area including shops and facilities for local people. Local Housing Needs Assessment (LHNA) It is a planning document that assessing housing needs of the district by type, size and tenure. Local Nature Reserves It refers to the legally designated area of land by the council, important for its local wildlife, geological features, or educational value, offering people chances to enjoy, study, and connect with nature close to home, ranging from woodlands and meadows to rewilded urban sites. Local Wildlife Site Refers to the non-statutory, locally designated areas recognized for significant wildlife value, identified by expert panels using scientific criteria, acting as crucial wildlife corridors and stepping stones within ecological networks, encompassing habitats like ancient woodlands, meadows, ponds, and even urban green spaces, important for biodiversity but managed voluntarily by owners with council’s support. Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) The Three Rivers Local Strategic Partnership is an umbrella partnership that brings together public and private organisations and community groups, allowing different initiatives and services to support one another so that they can work more effectively together. One of its main tasks is to prepare and implement the Sustainable Community Strategy. Local Transport Plan All local transport authorities are required to produce a Local Transport Plan. The Plan sets out the objectives and priority schemes for developing transport within the district. Locally Important Buildings Buildings, structures or monuments of local interest that contribute to the heritage, identity and streetscape of the district. Locally important buildings do not merit statutory listing under the Planning Act (1990), but they are considered to be of local architectural or historic importance. Main Town Centre Uses Retail development (including warehouse clubs and factory outlet centres); leisure, entertainment and more intensive sport and recreation uses (including cinemas, restaurants, drive-through restaurants, bars and pubs, nightclubs, casinos, health and fitness centres, indoor bowling centres and bingo halls); offices; and arts, culture and tourism development (including theatres, museums, galleries and concert halls, hotels and conference facilities). Major Development For housing, development where 10 or more homes will be provided, or the site has an area of 0.5 hectares or more. For non-residential development it means additional floorspace of 1,000m2 or more, or a site of 1 hectare or more, or as otherwise provided in the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015. Masterplan A type of planning brief outlining the preferred usage of land through illustrating the overall development concept that include urban design, landscaping, infrastructure, service provision, access, present and future land use and building form. Mixed-use Development A development that is comprised of different land uses, such as employment and residential uses. National Landscape Areas legally designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. National Described Space Standards (NDSS) Government defined standards set out in Building Regulations for the Gross Internal (floor) Area of new dwellings of any tenure at a defined level of occupancy as well as floor areas and dimensions for key parts of the home, notably bedrooms, storage and floor to ceiling height. National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) A document setting out the government’s main economic, social and environmental planning policies for England. The policies set out in the framework apply to the preparation of local and neighbourhood plans and to decisions on planning applications. Natural and Semi- natural Greenspaces Woodland, scrub, grassland, wetlands, open and running water, and open access land. Natural Flood Management Managing flood and coastal erosion risk by protecting, restoring and emulating the natural ‘regulating’ function of catchments, rivers, floodplains and coasts, by slowing and/or diverting the flow of water Nature Recovery Network An expanding, increasingly connected, network of wildlife-rich habitats supporting species recovery, alongside wider benefits such as carbon capture, water quality improvements, natural flood risk management and recreation. It includes the existing network of protected sites and other wildlife rich habitats as well as and landscape or catchment scale recovery areas where there is coordinated action for species and habitats. Neighbourhood Plan A plan prepared by a parish council or neighbourhood forum for a designated neighbourhood area. In law this is described as a neighbourhood development plan in the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Older People People over or approaching retirement age, including the active, newlyretired through to the very frail elderly; and whose housing needs can encompass accessible, adaptable general needs housing through to the full range of retirement and specialised housing for those with support or care needs. On-site Renewable Energy Collective term for domestic scale renewable energy generated by technologies such as solar thermal, solar photovoltaics and domestic wind turbines provided on the site of development. Open Space All open space of public value, including not just land, but also areas of water (such as rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs) which offer important opportunities for sport and recreation and can act as a visual amenity. Parks and Gardens Formal green spaces including urban parks, country parks, forest parks and formal gardens. People with Disabilities People have a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment, and that impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. These persons include, but are not limited to, people with ambulatory difficulties, blindness, learning difficulties, autism and mental health needs. Planning Obligation A legal agreement entered into under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to mitigate the impacts of a development proposal. Previously Developed Land (PDL) Please refer to ‘Brownfield Land’ Primary Shopping Area Defined area where retail development is concentrated. Priority Habitats and Species Species and Habitats of Principal Importance included in the England Biodiversity List published by the Secretary of State under section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006. Public Realm The space between and within buildings that is publicly accessible, including streets, squares, forecourts, parks and open spaces. Ramsar Sites Wetlands of international importance, designated under the 1971 Ramsar Convention. Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Includes energy for heating and cooling as well as generating electricity. Renewable energy covers those energy flows that occur naturally and repeatedly in the environment – from the wind, the fall of water, the movement of the oceans, from the sun and also from biomass and deep geothermal heat. Low carbon technologies are those that can help reduce emissions (compared to conventional use of fossil fuels). Riparian Area adjacent to a river or similar body of water. Rural Exception Site Small sites used for affordable housing in perpetuity in less sustainable locations not normally used for housing. Rural exception sites seek to address the needs of the local community by accommodating households who are either current residents or have an existing family or employment connection. A proportion of market homes may be allowed on the site at the council’s discretion, for example where essential to enable the delivery of affordable units without grant funding. Scheduled Monument Nationally important monuments usually archaeological remains, that enjoy greater protection against inappropriate development through the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Self-build and Custom Build Housing Housing built by an individual, a group of individuals, or persons working with or for them, to be occupied by that individual. Such housing can be either market or affordable housing. A legal definition, for the purpose of applying the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended), is contained in section 1(A1) and (A2) of that Act. Sequential Approach A planning principle that seeks to identify, allocate or develop certain types or locations of land before others. Setting of a Heritage Asset The surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced. Its extent is not fixed and may change as the asset and its surroundings evolve. Elements of a setting may make a positive or negative contribution to the significance of an asset, may affect the ability to appreciate that significance or may be neutral. Significance (for heritage policy) The value of a heritage asset to this and future generations because of its heritage interest. The interest may be archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. Significance derives not only from a heritage asset’s physical presence, but also from its setting. Site of Special scientific Interest (SSSI) Sites designated by Natural England under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Spatial Planning A term introduced to imply that wider factors than just the use of land or buildings have to be taken into consideration. A spatial plan will make clear that to achieve all its objectives other non-land use matters will be important - e.g. the provision of community, education, primary healthcare, transport, utilities or other services. Special Area of Conservation Areas defined by regulation 3 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 which have been given special protection as important conservation sites. Special Protection Areas Areas classified under regulation 15 of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 which have been identified as being of international importance for the breeding, feeding, wintering or the migration of rare and vulnerable species of birds. Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) An assessment on the likelihood of flooding in wider area, often local authority or a group of neighbouring authority areas, so a full picture of flood risks and mitigation measures can be considered against development needs. Strategic Housing and Employment Land Availability A key component of the evidence base which identifies constraints and opportunities for housing and employment and assesses the suitability, Assessment (SHELAA) deliverability and developability of sites. Such assessments are required by the National Planning Policy Framework Strategic Policies Policies and site allocations which address strategic priorities in line with the requirements of section 19(1B-E) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Supplementary Planning Documents Documents which add further detail to the policies in the development plan. They can be used to provide further guidance for development on specific sites, or on particular issues, such as design. Supplementary planning documents can be a material consideration in planning decisions but are not part of the development plan. Sustainability Appraisals (SA) An assessment of the economic, environmental and social impacts of plans and programmes. Its role is to promote sustainable development by assessing the extent to which the emerging plan, when judged against reasonable alternatives, will help to achieve relevant environmental, economic and social objectives. Sustainable Development Defined by the United Nations General Assembly as ‘meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’. In terms of planning, the National Planning Policy Framework states that sustainable development should be viewed in a social, economic and environmental context. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) Sustainable drainage systems control surface water run off close to where it falls, combining a mixture of built and nature-based techniques to mimic natural drainage as closely as possible, and accounting for the predicted impacts of climate change. The type of system that would be appropriate will vary from small scale interventions such as permeable paving and soakaways that can be used in very small developments to larger integrated schemes in major developments. Sustainable Transport Modes Any efficient, safe and accessible means of transport with overall low impact on the environment, including walking and cycling, ultra low and zero emission vehicles, car sharing and public transport. Target Emission Rate (TER) A standard for energy efficiency of a building expressed as kilograms of C02 per square metre. Town Centre Area defined on the council’s policies map, including the primary shopping area and areas predominantly occupied by main town centre uses within or adjacent to the primary shopping area. References to town centres or centres apply to city centres, town centres, district centres and local centres but exclude small parades of shops of purely neighbourhood significance. Unless they are identified as centres in the development plan, existing out-of-centre developments, comprising or including main town centre uses, do not constitute town centres. Transport Assessment A comprehensive and systematic process that considers and sets out transport issues relating to a proposed development, in the context of the vision for the scheme. It identifies measures required to support alternatives to the car such as walking, cycling and public transport, and to promote accessibility and safety, together with measures that will be needed to deal with the anticipated transport impacts of the development. Transport Statement A simplified version of a transport assessment where it is agreed the transport issues arising from development proposals are limited and a full transport assessment is not required. Travel Plan A long-term management strategy for an organisation or site that details how agreed sustainable transport objectives are to be delivered, which is monitored and regularly reviewed. Travelling Showpeople Members of a group organised for the purposes of holding fairs, circuses or shows (whether or not travelling together as such). This includes such persons who on the grounds of their own or their family's or dependants' more localised Travelling showpeople: pattern of trading, educational or health needs or old age have ceases to travel temporarily, but excludes Gypsies and Travellers as defined in ‘gypsies and travellers’. Tree Preservation Order (TPO) A mechanism for securing the preservation of single or groups of trees of acknowledged amenity value. A tree subject to a tree preservation order may not normally be topped, lopped or felled without consent of the council. Urban Sprawl The uncontrolled or unplanned extension of urban areas into the countryside. Water Stress When the amount of water being consumed exceeds the amount that is readily available for use it leads to water stress. Areas of water stress are determined by the Environment Agency. Wildlife Corridor Areas of habitat connecting wildlife populations. Wildlife Site A non-statutory designation for sites of substantive nature conservation, geological or geomorphological value, as identified in the ‘Habitat Survey for Three Rivers’ carried out by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. Windfall Site Sites not specifically identified in the development plan.