Scoping Document

4. Vision and measurable outcomes

4.1As noted in Table 1, Policy PM2 in the NPPF requires Plans to set out a positive vision, which is supported by no more than ten measurable outcomes. Together they should:

• Set out how the area should change over the plan period
• Set aspirational aims and objectives that are realistic to what the policies can genuinely shape and deliver
• Reflect longer term expectations extending beyond the plan period where appropriate
• Meet the identified needs of the area in a sustainable manner

4.2The vision and Plan will also need to consider and conform with the Spatial Development Strategy produced by the East Midlands Combined Authority. Future versions of the vision will consider this once the Spatial Development Strategy begins to emerge.

4.3We propose then that this chapter will provide the vision and measurable outcomes for the Plan which will meet the above requirements.

4.4At this early stage, we wish to seek views on what key priorities the vision and measurable outcomes should address. We have identified these by considering:

• National Planning Policies
• Relevant local priorities and context of the local area

4.5Each is taken in turn below and highlights key issues that need to be considered. From this we have then identified key themes and so priorities for the vision and outcomes.

4.6Based upon further information and your feedback, we will develop a draft vision which you will be able to view and comment on at the Plan content and evidence consultation.

National Planning Policies

4.7Considering the NPPF policies, we have identified several key matters that are relevant to the minerals plan for Nottinghamshire that the vision will need to address. These include:

• Securing a sufficient and timely supply of mineral resource to meet society’s demand
• Ensuring the maintenance of landbanks for aggregates and industrial minerals
• Safeguarding mineral resources and infrastructure for future use
• Promoting use of substitute, secondary and recycled aggregates
• Restoration to high environmental standards, at the earliest opportunity
• Protect and enhance the natural, built and historic environment
• Plan for the mitigation and adaptation to climate change
• Promoting sustainable methods of transport

Local context and priorities

4.8The vision must also be locally focused and ensure it meets local needs. To help understand what local factors are likely to affect mineral development in the future and what the key local priorities are for Nottinghamshire, we have:

• Undertaken a SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats) analysis
• Considered local priorities highlighted in each Councils Plan

SWOT analysis

4.9The below SWOT analysis looks at the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to mineral development in Nottinghamshire. By doing this analysis, this helps pinpoint what the future priorities for minerals in Nottinghamshire should focus on.

Strengths

• Established quarries and works, providing employment opportunities
• Established markets, both locally and nationally
• Established local links with operators and communities
• Award winning, biodiversity - led restoration practices

Weaknesses

• Mothballed and inactive sites
• Lack of sustainable transport infrastructure, such as wharves and railheads
• Idle Valley resource depletion for sand and gravel

Opportunities

• Wide range of good quality mineral resources available
• Planned growth in the area, including major infrastructure projects
• Delivering biodiversity priorities through restoration
• River Trent for barge transportation

Threats

• Slow economic growth
• Operators not working mineral resource
• Flooding of sites, preventing extraction
• Non-mineral development encroachment on sites and resources

Local priorities

4.10To also help ensure the vision captures local priorities, we have also looked at both Council’s Plan’s for 2025 – 2029. These Plans set out the future vision for both areas, which the Plan can reflect. We have highlighted the key priorities and aspirations from both plans below which minerals can play a part in.

Nottinghamshire Council Plan 2025 -2029

• Wanting to make roads safer
• Ensuring we listen to communities
• Make Nottinghamshire better for everyone
• Improving health of residents
• Investment that protects local environment

Nottingham City Council Plan 2025 - 2029

• Nottingham to be a flourishing, inclusive and sustainable place
• Celebrate heritage and improve infrastructure and champion sustainability
• Provide safe and affordable housing

Key priorities for the Vision

4.11From the NPPF, SWOT analysis and consideration of the Council’s Plans, we have identified the following priorities which we have grouped into themes which we think the vision should include. These are shown in Figure 1 below.

4.12We want to hear your views on these themes and whether they are appropriate for the Plan. Your thoughts and further evidence gathering will help us develop the draft vision and measurable outcomes, which you will be able to comment on at the next consultation stage.