CHAPTER 5 ECONOMIC IMPACT

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1 CHAPTER 5 ECONOMIC IMPACT Silverstone s economic value 5.1 Silverstone is an important economic asset for both Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, as well as the wider region. The economic impact of Silverstone is felt in a number of ways. It is a major tourist and leisure destination, both through its hosting of major international sporting events, including the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, the British round of the MotoGP Championship and other national and international motorsport series, and through other track activities including track days and driving experiences. 5.2 The existing economic impact of Silverstone is significant. The hosting of the British Grand Prix alone supports 85 full time staff and 4,650 temporary staff. The value of the Grand Prix to the local economy is substantial, encouraging spending in the region of 50 million. In addition to the local spending generated as a result of the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, in 2010 the circuit also began hosting the MotoGP British Grand Prix which is the equivalent event for motorcycles. While the MotoGP has a smaller attendance it has a similar format, being a three-day event with multiple race classes in addition to the main MotoGP race, which further drives local spending. 5.3 Silverstone is also an important employment location in its own right, with the existing Silverstone Technology Park already attracting motorsport-related, high-value engineering companies, demonstrating that the value of the circuit goes way beyond pure racing. The technology park already has approximately 58,000 sqm of employment floorspace (B1 and B2 use classes) and 1,500 jobs for motorsport-related businesses. 5.4 Silverstone plays a significant role as a catalyst and anchor for the Motorsport Valley business cluster. The global success of UK-based motorsport teams and their specialist suppliers of components and equipment, including most Formula 1 and World Rally Car teams, is exceptional. For many years the UK s Motorsport Valley business community has dominated much of world motorsport and it is still home to the world s leading cluster of high performance engineering and motorsport companies. The importance of Silverstone to this cluster is recognised by the many team constructors who have located their headquarters so close to the circuit and underlined by the fact that out of the 12 teams on the 2011 F1 grid, eight are based in the UK. British companies and teams are also involved at a high level across a range of other motorsport competitions, including endurance racing, rallying and touring cars. The cluster is estimated to generate approximately 6 billion in annual turnover and directly employs over 40,000 people, including 25,000 highly trained engineers. Please refer to the economic impact assessment, prepared by SQW, submitted in support of the planning application. 5.5 Silverstone shares a common desire with the local planning authorities and the economic agencies to encourage sustainable economic growth that builds on the key sectors of advanced technology and precision engineering, business services, logistics and manufacturing. Silverstone is located within a functional economic area with the potential to be a strong force in the business-led recovery of the national economy. 5.6 Silverstone benefits from excellent strategic transport links, including the M1, M40, A1, A43/ A45 corridor and the west coast and midland mainlines. The airports and the close proximity to London gives the South East Midlands region the global-facing business and research environment to support wider innovation and knowledge transfer. Silverstone is well placed to maximise this geographical advantage. Strategic economic context 5.7 The economic strategies of SNC and AVDC aim to encourage sustainable local economic growth that complements the existing settlements. In particular, the SNC economic strategy aims to protect existing communities by building on the commitments in the masterplans for Towcester and Brackley, attracting inward investment, and supporting the implementation of the Silverstone Development Brief. Similarly, the AVDC economic strategy recognises Silverstone Circuit as an asset of national and international importance and supports the of the motorsport technology business cluster and visitor economy at the circuit, as well as increasing the educational provision in the area. The strategy also supports the implementation of the Development Brief. 15

2 5.8 The masterplans for Brackley and Towcester set out how the towns will be renewed and regenerated. The Towcester Masterplan aims to maintain its status as a market town, while securing new, modern facilities and infrastructure, including a relief road. It included proposals for improving the town centre and sets out plans for new leisure, education, social and community facilities that the town needs to be successful. The Brackley Masterplan brings together plans for the key opportunity sites within the town, together with the proposed urban expansion including Radstone Fields and the Turweston employment area showing how Brackley might provide new homes and new jobs. Alongside this new housing and employment the masterplan sets priorities for improving town centre viability, movement, leisure and recreation, open space, education, health and community services. The Silverstone Circuit Masterplan will be complementary to the future growth of Brackley and Towcester. The employment and leisure uses proposed at Silverstone Circuit will be primarily motorsport-related, specialist knowledge sector industries, or require large or bespoke premises in a location with excellent links to the strategic highway network. The proposed will therefore not compete with the economic objectives of the Brackley and Towcester masterplans. Economic impact of the masterplan 5.9 The masterplan would achieve an economically sustainable future for the circuit. The circuit, and its ability to host top-level motorsport will remain the central focus. The other elements of the masterplan seeking to support this core aim and would allow the circuit to maintain investment for new facilities to secure the British Grand Prix at the circuit for the long-term The key objectives of the masterplan are to enhance and strengthen Silverstone Circuit as the centre of automotive and hightechnology excellence, to create opportunities for employment and sustainable economic growth, and to provide an attractive venue for cultural and leisure activities, in accordance with the approved Development Brief. Implementation of the masterplan will enhance Silverstone to create a state of the art destination offering some of the best facilities in the world for motorsport competitors, businesses and visitors alike The masterplan accords with the prevailing and emerging planning policy framework (see Appendix A) and the vision for the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), which is of a diverse and competitive knowledge economy with first class infrastructure and high growth, built on local private sector strengths, exports and job creation. The masterplan will create the right conditions for economic growth and will stimulate enterprise and innovation, to make Silverstone a key place in the UK to do business By bringing together businesses and their expertise, experience and know-how, Silverstone will be well placed to address key economic challenges in the current climate and become an attractive investment for global business. The masterplan will generate a critical mass of knowledge-intensive businesses and will encourage sharing of expertise and information to lever competitive advantage and help businesses to flourish The masterplan s mix of uses has been carefully considered to help deliver a diverse industry base, including distinctive specialist niches with high levels of knowledge intensity. Through the expansion of the technology park, Silverstone will become a showcase for British engineering excellence, automotive design and technological advancement. It will play an increasing role in the education and training of engineers, designers and technologists of the future by encouraging clustering of knowledgeintensive businesses, both large and small Higher and further education is a valuable part of any economy, and automotive and engineering courses and apprenticeships will be at the heart of sustainable growth at Silverstone. The provision of an educational campus will encourage linkages between businesses and academia through integration and information sharing, which will enable both businesses and higher education partners to develop higher skill levels and underpin economic growth Tourism forms a significant part of the national economy. Silverstone is one of the country s top visitor attractions and the Formula 1 British Grand Prix is one of the most revered events in the sporting calendar. Promoting the visitor economy and related jobs forms a key part of the masterplan vision. Silverstone s corporate hospitality and tourism potential will be unlocked by fostering closer links and encouraging visitor interaction with the circuit s motoring heritage through improved facilities, including a heritage centre. The ultimate aim is to make Silverstone a 365-days-a-year destination. The provision of three new hotels will help to achieve this aim, by encouraging visitors to remain overnight and increase their length of stay. It will also address a shortage of hotel accommodation in the wider area which has been identified in recent policy documents When fully implemented it is anticipated that the masterplan will lead to the net creation of approximately 4,837 new jobs within Aylesbury Vale and South Northamptonshire and will generate 16

3 an additional 210m per year for the local economy. Given that the site spans both Aylesbury Vale and South Northamptonshire, the economic benefits will be felt across both districts The masterplan will have a direct economic impact on job creation, and new business start-ups / expansion, and will attract high value inward investment to the area. The masterplan will also help to maintain Silverstone s position as a world-class motorsport venue hosting high-value events and supporting the 6 billion a year motorsport economy In addition to the direct and indirect, quantifiable economic impacts which in themselves are very significant implementation of the masterplan will have substantial wider economic benefits. These are not readily quantifiable because outcomes are dependent on a range of factors, including the new services and facilities offered by Silverstone businesses and how these contribute to the wider success of the local and regional economy. However, Silverstone is at the heart of a high value, knowledge-based and fast growing business cluster Motorsport Valley which extends across the whole of south central England. Growth at Silverstone will benefit the whole of this cluster because of the very strong and complex supply chains across it. At a time of slow economic growth nationally, and in the context of the government s desire to rebalance the economy towards export-oriented, high value manufacturing, the proposed at Silverstone is likely to have huge significance. 17

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5 CHAPTER 6 PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 6.1 This section of the statement considers the proposals against adopted and relevant emerging planning policies. It also provides a consideration of the likely environmental impacts of the proposals, and how these impacts relate to the adopted and emerging planning policies. A full planning policy analysis is provided in appendix A of this statement. 6.2 Given the scale and nature of the proposals, this proposal has also been subject to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The findings of the EIA are set out in the ES, which forms part of the application and gives full consideration to the likely environmental impacts of the proposals. This section provides an overview of the findings of the EIA, from a planning perspective. Site-specific planning policies 6.3 While overarching national and regional policies prevail, the site is also subject to a number of site-specific policies both within the adopted local plans for both districts and within emerging local frameworks. The site-specific policies in both authorities plans reflect the importance of Silverstone as a sporting venue, and the need to support this position both now and into the future. Appendix A provides a summary and table of all policies affecting the site. 6.4 In addition to the adopted and emerging plans for each local planning authority, the authorities have jointly prepared and approved the Development Brief, which provides strong and detailed support for the now proposed. While the Development Brief does not form part of the plan it remains a material consideration for the determination of this planning application and underlines the ongoing commitment of both authorities to Silverstone Circuit. Air quality 6.5 The principal air quality issues associated with the masterplan are the generation of dust emissions and vehicle emissions during the construction phase and road traffic emissions during the post-construction phase of the. An assessment of air quality impact has been undertaken by Hyder Consulting and this has considered existing and predicted future concentrations of key pollutants on and in the vicinity of the masterplan site. Road traffic emissions are the most influential source of existing air quality and therefore future road traffic flows have been taken into account when predicting the future baseline concentrations. 6.6 The assessment has demonstrated that there will be increased concentrations of emissions associated with construction vehicles on the A43 and Dadford Road and dust associated with construction activities, but that these effects will be a temporary and will not result in a significant impact once proven mitigation measures have been implemented. 6.7 The assessment of operational impact has been based on the projected traffic flows as set out in the Transport Assessment, which has demonstrated that for the majority of highways links within the study area, increases in traffic flow will not lead to an increase in emissions of nitrogen dioxide or particulates approaching the UKAQS objectives. The assessment has predicted an increase in emissions within an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in Towcester. This is an area where existing air quality has been shown to be in excess of the UKAQS. However, following consultation with South Northamptonshire Council it is agreed that air quality within this AQMA is predicted to improve when the Towcester A5 bypass is completed. The impact of operational traffic emissions associated with the masterplan is not predicted to be significant. Socio-economic effects 6.8 A key objective of the masterplan proposals is to create a wide range of employment, leisure and recreational opportunities. A socio-economic assessment has been undertaken as part of the EIA to present the predicted effects of the proposed in the context of existing baseline economic and employment conditions. The socio-economic assessment has been prepared by specialist consultants SQW and has involved a deskbased review of existing economic and employment information and statistics. This has presented baseline information at local authority, regional and national level such that respective indicators can be compared. The baseline assessment has determined that the economies of Aylesbury Vale and South Northamptonshire are performing well against regional and national averages, with relatively high levels of employment. Both local authorities do however have policy objectives focused on reducing the proportion of their working population that work outside the local area. 6.9 The predicted effects of the masterplan have been presented qualitatively and quantitatively for both the construction and post-construction phases of the. During the construction phase, the nature of employment will be more permanent than on many construction projects because of the 20-year timescale for masterplan. It is predicted that approximately 550 construction jobs will be created at any one time on the masterplan site. Once s on the masterplan site are occupied, the full is predicted to add 210 million per annum to the economies of Aylesbury Vale and South Northamptonshire. This is also predicted to increase the gross value added per head of population because there will be more high-value jobs retained within the local authority areas. Cultural heritage 6.10 Silverstone Circuit occupies an area where there are known areas of archaeological interest. Specifically, these relate to the remains of Luffield Abbey, which lends its name to one of the circuit s corners. Areas of land within the circuit are affected by crop marks, indicating potential areas of archaeological interest. Recent s at the circuit have also been subject to conditions requiring the completion of archaeological investigation in areas of interest. Those investigations have not recorded any features of interest As part of the EIA an assessment has been undertaken of the potential effects of the masterplan proposals on cultural heritage. The masterplan contains features dating from the prehistoric period through to the modern era although there are no scheduled monuments recorded within the site nor any recorded remains that would prove an absolute constraint to. There is a potential for the proposals to affect low value remains and the ES proposes mitigation in this respect (e.g. strip-plan and sample or a watching brief ). 19

6 6.12 There are several built heritage assets within the masterplan area, although none are listed. There are listed assets within the wider study area. None of these assets will be physically impacted by the proposals and any effects on setting will be negligible The grade I registered Stowe Park, which also gives its name to one of the circuit s corners is immediately to the south of the site. The setting of the Park within Silverstone Circuit is already heavily developed. Therefore the proposed will give rise to only a negligible change on the designated landscape which has a high value. Planting is proposed to restore historic park features on the site. The Silverstone Masterplan will not result in a significant impact on the historic landscape. Overall, no significant effects on cultural heritage are predicted. Landscape and visual impact 6.14 The proposals have been prepared following detailed analysis of the site and surrounding landscape to help establish the constraints and opportunities which have influenced the masterplanning process. These issues are linked with the broad landscape principles provided by the Development Brief. The objective of the landscape strategy is: integration with local rural context, creating a high quality celebrating the culture and heritage of motor sport, a robust framework of Green Infrastructure and achieving biodiversity gains across the site The detailed explanation of the landscape approach is set out in the DAS. This illustrates how the master plan addresses the wider landscape with significant areas of new planting protecting and reinforcing woodland and boundary planting. Within the ES the effect on the condition of the local landscape and the visual amenities of the area is assessed. Some local adverse impacts are identified as a result of the construction and operational stages of the masterplan. At the same time there are also a number of landscape related benefits that arise from the implementation of the scheme A primary objective is to create a high quality and this is described in detail in the design and access statement (DAS). The internal landscape of the site has to respond to the intense demands of the motorsport events. At the same time, the creation of a series of dynamic, flexible and contemporary spaces lies at the heart of the proposals References to the historic landscape features of the Stowe Park landscape and the Northamptonshire Ride are included in the landscape masterplan, with blocks of new woodland and avenues of semimature trees revealing layers of landscape history. Refer to the DAS for details. The landscape proposals work to protect, enhance and celebrate the site s heritage and form an essential part of the Silverstone Masterplan. Natural heritage 6.18 Although Silverstone Circuit is a heavily developed site and includes extensive areas of hard standing and built, it is an extremely large site, which includes significant areas of grassland and other potential habitats. There are no statutory designated areas of nature conservation interest within or adjacent to the application site. There are three non-statutory designated sites of nature conservation interest within the site itself. These will remain unaffected by the proposals and will be protected throughout the construction phase A survey based on extended Phase 1 methodology was carried out in June 2007, with check surveys undertaken in April 2010 and April 2011 to ascertain the general ecological value of the land contained within the boundaries of the site. Specific surveys for birds, bats, badgers, dormice, great crested newts and reptiles were conducted between 2010 and Figure 6.1: Concept landscape design 20

7 6.20 The areas within the application site that are to be affected by the are generally considered to be of low intrinsic value from an ecological and nature conservation perspective. Those habitats of greater value are to be protected and enhanced as part of the proposals Although there are some ecological constraints to the of the site, they can be addressed through the implementation of the safeguards and recommendations set out within the report submitted as part of the ES Moreover, through the sensitive design and habitat creation undertaken to date in creating the masterplan, and through the continued incorporation of these principles through the detailed design process, it is considered that the proposed will achieve ecological gains over and above the existing situation and improve the biodiversity of the local area as a whole. Noise and vibration 6.23 Motor racing, particularly at the highest level, where cars and motorcycles competing on the circuit are unsilenced, is an inherently noisy activity. There are already controls on the use of the circuit, which seek to control noise. The current proposals will not affect the use of the circuit for motorsport. However, it is important to ensure that the introduction of new built in and around the circuit will not exacerbate the situation through reflected noise. It is also important to ensure that the proposed will not give rise to additional noise or vibration that would have an unacceptable impact Noise and vibration impacts that are likely to result from the masterplan have been assessed in accordance with appropriate standards and guidance, using comparisons of absolute levels, changes in levels and contextual comparisons with the ambient noise climate and soundscape of the area Potential impacts, both within the masterplan site and externally in relation to existing receptors, have been identified in relation to construction (in particular the new A43 junction), traffic noise increases, building services plant noise, motorsport noise changes and musical entertainment noise Mitigation of these impacts has been identified, such that the residual condition will be, at worst, rated as slight, tending towards none and in some cases a slightly beneficial impact. In consideration of track noise impact, rather than offsetting slightly beneficial impacts on some receptors against slightly adverse impacts on others, mitigation recommendations have been made to address all potential adverse impacts. A full and detailed consideration of the likely impacts and proposed mitigation is provided in the ES. Water environment (including flood risk, foul and surface water drainage) 6.27 The site is located within Flood Zone 1 and there is low probability of fluvial flooding (annual probability of < 0.1 %). The risk of groundwater flooding has been assessed as low and there is no tidal flood risk at the site. The risk of flooding from surface water and artificial sources has been assessed as being medium. As a result of the and the associated increase in impermeable area flood risk could increase, unless surface water is managed appropriately. With the proposed mitigation it has been demonstrated that flood risk will not be increased on site, or to third parties. Refer to the Environmental Statement for details Surface water falling on the site could be contaminated by spills leaks of oil and fuel, and by other materials deposited on the drained surfaces and contaminated runoff could be released into the environment. With the proposed mitigation it has been demonstrated that the will have a negligible impact on water quality. Refer to the ES for details. Ground conditions 6.29 An assessment of the ground conditions has been undertaken through a site visit and desktop assessment, including a review of available records. The site is predominantly underlain by deposits of chalky boulder clay, over Bilsworth clay and limestone. The site is also interspersed with deposits of sand and gravel as well as made ground Prior intrusive investigations for at the circuit have revealed that the time taken for contaminants to travel from the surface to the base of the unsaturated zone is extremely long. It was shown that leachable concentrations of contaminants of concern will not result in risk to controlled waters if re-used anywhere within the planning boundary. Detailed quantitative risk assessment (DQRA) was undertaken which showed that based on risk assessment no remedial targets were required, ie no matter how high the concentrations of contaminants source there would be no impact on the groundwater on limestone. However, to protect the wider environment pragmatic remedial targets were proposed. No materials were present that exceeded these pragmatic targets hence no remediation was required The ground conditions chapter of the ES recommends that intrusive ground investigations and sampling are carried out prior to construction in order to confirm or deny the findings of the ground conditions assessment. In any event, the ES also contains a range of mitigation measures which will be put in place to ensure that no residual risk to either human health or the water environment will remain. Traffic and transport 6.32 Traffic and transport impacts are one of the key considerations for the proposal. The site is accessed from Dadford Road, which connects to the A43. The A43 is a major trunk road, linking Brackley with Towcester and Northampton. The A43 also serves as a link for traffic transferring between the M40 and M1 motorways The long-term transport vision for the area includes a number of road improvements, including to the A43 corridor. While the A43 around Silverstone has substantial capacity, there is potential for these proposals to facilitate further improvements. The length of time over which the will be carried out has necessitated a flexible, phased approach to transport provision and in particular highway mitigation In order to alleviate pressure on the junction between the A43 and Dadford Road, previous applications have focused upon improving the capacity of the junction, including the dualling of Dadford Road. During large events at the circuit, including the British Grand Prix, special traffic management measures are put in place to deal with the exceptionally high number of traffic movements over a short time. These measures will continue to be used for the large events which will be essentially unchanged from the current situation While these measures allow the road network to cope with the high levels of traffic associated with events over short periods, they are not suitable for use on a daily basis, because they involve the closure of the A43 in one direction. The transport assessment, included within the ES, provides detailed consideration of the likely impact of the proposals and the required mitigation measures The assessment shows that a first phase of, representing around a quarter of the total, will generally have a relatively low impact. Except for Dadford Road, itself adjacent to the site (in respect of which mitigation is proposed), traffic flow increases are not predicted to be significant and can be safely accommodated on the local highway network. Although there will be a limited increase in traffic in the local area, such as within Silverstone, Towcester and Whittlebury, most of this would be in the shortterm until the completion of the proposed Towcester bypass between the A5 and the A43. In the meantime, any impact will be managed through monitoring, appropriate route signage and increased staff awareness The assessment shows that the full Silverstone Masterplan would be likely to have substantial traffic flow increases in certain areas, particularly on Dadford Road adjacent to the site, but also on the A43 itself and the A5. The major flow increase will be mitigated as part of wider strategies for infrastructure improvement in the area. In particular, 21

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9 the future Towcester bypass and new A43 access for eastbound Silverstone traffic will remove the need for traffic to route through areas such as Whittlebury and Towcester. Contributions will also be made to wider strategies for the management of traffic in the Buckingham area. Traffic flow increases in other areas (including Silverstone village itself ) are predicted to be limited, and a longterm monitoring and review strategy will be implemented to allow a full assessment of any unforeseen impacts that might arise and further mitigation to be implemented, if necessary It has been demonstrated that the A43 dual carriageway can accommodate traffic generated by the completed masterplan since the existing peak hour traffic flow volumes on the A43 around Silverstone are well within the capacity of the road, with substantial levels of reserve capacity and traffic flows which only just warrant a dual carriageway standard A key principle of the transport strategy is to ensure the implementation of effective alternative choices to private car travel, which would have a real impact on travel patterns and behaviour. A comprehensive travel demand management strategy has been developed for the with a package of measures set out in the transport assessment Overall, the transport assessment has identified a co-ordinated, integrated and sustainable transport strategy for the site, within which can proceed on a phased basis, within the context of the wider transport strategy for the area As progresses, existing areas used for event parking will be displaced. Silverstone Holdings Limited is committed to re-providing that displaced event parking and a strategy is being produced for re-provision of displaced parking. It is anticipated that the re-provision will be achieved through one or more of the following options, which are currently being explored: new land acquisitions, leasing of land, park & rides and shuttle services. Whichever approach is chosen, displaced parking will be organised so that access on event days can continue unfettered and traffic problems are not caused elsewhere It will be possible to achieve the first 15-20% of the masterplan without affecting the current event parking areas. It will not therefore be necessary to implement any strategy for the re-provision of event parking until that level of is reached. In preparing the strategy, Silverstone Holdings Limited recognises the need to ensure that the strategy is robust, and is keen to work with the local community in preparing it to ensure that local concerns can be addressed. Services 6.43 The masterplanning process has involved a progressive engineering assessment for utilities and drainage infrastructure requirements to support the proposed. As a result of this assessment it is concluded that the existing utilities and drainage at Silverstone will require significant upgrade of the off-site capacity to enable the support to deliver the masterplan while maintaining good service to the residents of the village and surrounding areas. All statutory undertakers have confirmed that the required services upgrades are feasible All utilities and drainage upgrading off-site will be early procurement items to suit the proposed phasing and discussions will continue with the relevant providers to enable their network analysis, design, procurement and installation programming to be in sync with the masterplan. All utilities will be laid within phased infrastructure corridors allowing ease of connections for future plot s. Where local diversions are necessary, these will be planned to suit phasing requirements. Electricity 6.45 The Silverstone Primary Substation will be upgraded by Western Power Distribution while continuing to serve the local community and the circuit. The 33kV overhead cabling will be diverted below ground and new 33kV cables laid to support the upgrade in capacity. Distribution 11kv cabling circuits will laid from the Silverstone Primary Substation into the areas of to suit capacity requirements. Gas 6.46 Silverstone Circuit currently has no natural gas supply infrastructure. The source of sufficient supply is between 15 and 20km away and an intermediate, high pressure pipeline is required to support the proposals. Pressure reduction systems and distribution gas mains at medium or low pressure will be supplied for each plot. Water 6.47 The single water supply serving the Silverstone Circuit will be inadequate to support the future. Anglian Water has confirmed that a source of sufficient capacity is available off-site, requiring a suitably sized water main to be laid to the masterplan area. Infrastructure distribution mains will allow metered connections for individual s. Telecommunications 6.48 There are both underground and overhead telecoms routes within the area and some of these, including masts with microwave facilities, will require relocation or diversion to suit the masterplan. The off-site ducting capacity will be increased to suit individual service providers, The telecoms operators providing telecoms and or data services at Silverstone are BT, Vodafone, Orange and National Grid Wireless. The Police also use specific facilities for their communications locally. All operators will continue to be approached for integration and upgrading of their facilities to enable them to provide infrastructure services to support the growing demand being delivered by the proposals. Sustainability 6.49 In addition to those assessments undertaken as part of the EIA, sustainability has been at the very heart of the of the masterplan. The concept design has been heavily led by the sitewide sustainability strategy, green agenda and the objective to create a green environment for Silverstone. It is integral to the overall design of the masterplan and is evident in all aspects of the buildings, site layout, landscape and urban design. Silverstone Holdings Limited is aiming at the highest standards of sustainability in all aspects. The concept design for Silverstone Circuit identified the importance of linking landscape and creating a green Silverstone initiative to the landscape, thus embracing and nurturing the foundations of the site s sustainability strategy The masterplan has responded to sustainability in the following areas: Energy and carbon Adaptability and climate change Water Waste Materials and construction Transport Health and well-being 6.51 The strategy incorporating details of each of these areas is contained within a Sustainability Statement, submitted in support of this application. 23

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11 CHAPTER 7 CONCLUSIONS 7.1 Silverstone Holdings Limited is applying for outline planning permission for mixed use at Silverstone Circuit. The proposed includes employment floorspace, automotive display space, new spectator facilities, event spaces, hotels and an education campus. The proposals also include associated landscape works, infrastructure, demolition of existing structures and revised parking and access arrangements. 7.2 The proposed will have a direct economic impact providing approximately 8,400 new jobs in the newly created employment areas. The proposals will enable Silverstone to secure its position as a world-class motor racing circuit and host of the British Grand Prix, an event that brings over 50 million to the local economy and to maintain its position at the centre of the UK s 6 billion motorsport industry. 7.3 The proposals are an evolution of those contained within the Development Brief, which was jointly prepared by Aylesbury Vale District Council and South Northamptonshire Council and provides support for the vision of the future of Silverstone that these proposals will make a major contribution towards realising. 7.4 In addition to the Development Brief, the ongoing of Silverstone, including the provision of improved visitor facilities and new employment floorspace is supported through both adopted and emerging planning policy for both local planning authorities. This support recognises the stature of Silverstone as one of the country s top leisure and sporting destinations as well as an important employment site and one of the key pillars supporting the UK s motorsport industry. 7.5 In preparing this planning application, the proposals have been subject to an EIA, the findings of which are presented in the ES, which forms part of this application. The EIA considered the impact of the proposals on air quality, community economic and social effects, cultural heritage, landscape and visual impacts, land use impacts, natural heritage, noise and vibration, the water environment and traffic and transport impacts. 7.6 Where it has been identified that there is potential for the proposals to have an impact on the environment, suitable mitigation measures have been proposed. These have included sustainable drainage schemes to reduce the risk of flooding both on site and downstream. The proposals also include a significant improvement to site access from the A43, reducing the traffic impact of the proposals. 7.7 By bringing this forward, Silverstone will be able to support its recent and significant investment in the circuit and its facilities. The will transform the circuit and surrounding areas into a dynamic and exciting business and year-round venue which also provides facilities for racing which are on a par with the very best available elsewhere in the world. Overall, the ES demonstrates that the proposed will not give rise to any significant environmental effects which cannot be satisfactorily mitigated. 7.8 The proposed accords with the local plans. Moreover, there are no other material considerations which indicate that a determination should be made otherwise than in accordance with these plans. To the contrary, the proposal is also supported by other material planning considerations, including the Development Brief, national policy and emerging plan documents that serve only to reinforce the case for granting planning permission. SHL therefore respectfully requests that, based on the merits of the proposals, planning permission is granted. 25

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13 APPENDIX A PLANNING POLICY REVIEW PLANNING POLICY As a large site, Silverstone straddles the boundary between two local planning authorities Aylesbury Vale District Council in the south and South Northamptonshire Council in the north. The boundary between the two local planning authorities is also the regional boundary between the South East and East Midlands regions. Therefore in preparing proposals affecting the circuit, it is necessary to take into account two sets of plan documents. Silverstone Circuit Masterplan Development Brief The Silverstone Circuit Masterplan Development Brief (the Development Brief ) has been jointly approved by both South Northamptonshire Council and Aylesbury Vale District Council. While the Development Brief does not form part of the plan, due weight ought to be attached given that it was prepared, properly consulted upon and approved by each local authority. Published in February 2009, the Development Brief sets out the vision for the future of the circuit and provides a unified reference point on which to base the proposals. Produced by both authorities, with the involvement of Silverstone Circuit, the Development Brief is closely aligned with Silverstone Circuit s overall vision, as set out in section 2 of this statement and being taken forward through this application. The Development Brief recognises the pivotal role played by Silverstone in the of the motorsport engineering industry an industry in which the UK is the world leader, being the home to the majority of Formula 1 teams as well as top-level rally teams, and supportive businesses including engine and chassis suppliers in all areas of motorsport. The Development Brief includes a single vision masterplan setting out the image of future at the circuit, including employment, hotels, technology park, improved visitor and circuit facilities and an education campus. It is these proposals that this planning application now brings forward and the current proposals are substantially in compliance with the approved Development Brief. Aylesbury Vale District Council The current adopted planning policy for the site is contained within the Aylesbury Vale District Local Plan, adopted in January 2004 and the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South East region, the South East Plan (published in May 2009). In 2007, a number of the policies within the local plan were saved to allow for the production of the Aylesbury Vale Local Development Framework. Aylesbury Vale Local Plan Site specific policies The international importance of Silverstone and the impact that it has on both the motor racing industry and the local economy is recognised by the local plan. Policies seek to balance the need to develop the circuit and its facilities, with the need to protect the surrounding area, in particular the Stowe Area of Attractive Landscape and the rural setting of Aylesbury Vale. Policy RA30 endorses the improvement of motorsport and spectator facilities within Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit. The policy states that any proposals for new should be complementary to the main motorsport use of the circuit and should have particular regard to the following: The need to avoid serious additional disturbance to those who live in the area; The need to protect the rural and visual character of the countryside adjacent to the circuit; The need to avoid traffic increases and traffic routing unsuited to the total roads in the locality; and The archaeological significance of Luffield Priory. The proposals included in this planning application are complementary to the existing motorsport use of the circuit. They will facilitate and deliver further investment in circuit facilities and so maintain Silverstone Circuit s position at the pinnacle of global motorsport. The rural character of the surrounding countryside will be protected through the implementation of a landscape masterplan, designed to lessen the impact of the proposals on the surrounding areas. Further details of the landscape and visual impact and the landscape masterplan are contained within the Environmental Statement. The archaeological importance of Luffield Abbey has been considered and the impact of these proposals have been the subject of assessment through the cultural heritage chapter of the Environmental Statement. Other applicable planning policies Policy GP52 of the plan states that the council will seek to ensure that new does not dominate important long distance views of churches and other listed buildings. Policy GP60 of the plan seeks to protect historic parks and gardens by ensuring that proposals respect their distinctiveness. The presence of Stowe House and its landscape setting, to the south east of the circuit is therefore a key consideration, which has been taken into account in the landscape and visual impact and cultural heritage chapters of the Environmental Statement. Policy GP79 of the plan seeks to protect noise-sensitive uses from recreation or sport uses that generate noise. Policy GP95 also seeks to ensure that the impact of existing uses is not exacerbated by proposals. The motorsport use of the circuit is the primary source of noise. It is an inherently noisy activity, but one which is long established at Silverstone. The current proposals will not cause the intensification of motorsport activity of the site. The noise chapter of the Environmental Statement demonstrates that the proposed will not exacerbate the existing noise environment. Policy RA8 requires proposals to respect the landscape character of those areas identified in the proposals map as being Areas of Attractive Landscape. The land to the south of Silverstone Circuit is subject to this local designation. The majority of the proposed built is to the north and west of the circuit and within the circuit itself. The landscape masterplan has been developed to take into account the need to protect the areas to the south of the site. 27

14 Aylesbury Vale Local Development Framework Following the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government s announcement on 6 July 2010 that Regional Spatial Strategies had been revoked, Aylesbury Vale District Council took the decision to withdraw its Local Development Framework Core Strategy. This decision was made despite the document having reached an advanced stage in preparation, having been through public examination. While the withdrawal of the core strategy means that it carries no weight in the determination of planning applications, parts of it can give an indication of the council s future intentions. The proposed submission core strategy included a strategic employment allocation at Silverstone and recognised the strategic importance of Silverstone to the UK economy. South East Plan The South East Plan is the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) for the south east region of England, which the southern part of the site falls within. While the South East Plan was revoked along with all other RSSs on 6 July, it was reinstated following a successful legal challenge by CALA Homes and remains part of the plan. Due to the strategic, overarching nature of the South East Plan, and Silverstone s location on the periphery of the region, there are no site specific policies. Nonetheless the plan does contain policies which are supportive of economic in general and specifically supportive of nationally and regionally important economic sectors, of which motorsport is one. Policy RE2 seeks to support such sectors through the promotion of collaborative working and identification of key sectors. The policy also specifically requires local authorities to pursue policies that will help enhance local assets that can facilitate the of important sectors and clusters. Silverstone is a prime example of one such asset which has a clear and powerful link to the ongoing success of the UK motorsport sector. The current proposals, by supporting the circuit as well as providing new floorspace for motorsport-related businesses, and a new education campus, will support the sector in a variety of ways. South Northamptonshire Council The current planning policy for South Northamptonshire district is contained within the South Northamptonshire Local Plan, which was adopted in October A number of the policies were saved by direction of the Secretary of State in September 2007, in order to allow for the production of the West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy. South Northamptonshire Local Plan Site specific policies Silverstone is identified within the local plan under proposal RE1(I) as a site where planning permission will be granted for appropriate commercial or re, and under proposal RRC2(G) as a site where planning permission will be granted for appropriate recreation and tourism-related s. The specific, which may be considered suitable for Silverstone is set out in chapter 13 of the plan: site principles. In the part of the site principles section of the local plan that is concerned with Silverstone the importance of the site as a major motor racing circuit and a significant tourist attraction is recognised. The planning policy is supportive of which accords with the following principles: Any tourism or leisure which would be complementary or compatible with the use of the circuit for motorsport An upgrading of facilities within the circuit to as to meet the modern demands of the spectator, the participants and the aspirations of the operators Proposals for industrial or commercial directly connected with motor racing which needs to be located within the circuit Development proposals should not result in a significant increase in traffic which exceeds the limited capacity of the local highway network New must not result in any reduction of the circuit s ability to accommodate activities directly associated with or ancillary to motorsport, which should be regarded as the main function of the site Land within the circuit s ownership, north of the racetrack is included within a special landscape area, where opportunities will be limited. Small scale s, closely associated with existing buildings may be considered acceptable. The works proposed generally accord with these policies. They are to support upgrading of facilities, and to meet the modern needs of spectators and participants alike by improving the circuit s safety for participants while simultaneously improving facilities for spectators. The proposals also reflect the aspirations of the circuit s operators to underpin Silverstone s status as one of Britain s and the world s premier motor racing circuits. While it is stated in the principles for the circuit that the proposals should not result in an increase in traffic which exceeds the limits of the local road capacity, it should be noted that this policy was written before the construction of the A43 and the dualling of Dadford Road. All traffic visiting the circuit already benefits from the A43 Silverstone bypass, and the dualling of Dadford Road, neither of which were in place when the policy was written. The proposals also include junction improvements to relieve pressure on the A43 junction from which the circuit is accessed. Other planning policies Policy RC14 of the plan seeks to restrict the inappropriate growth of noisy sports within inappropriate areas, and in particular the special landscape areas. Silverstone is a long-established motor racing venue, where noise generation is largely unavoidable. These proposals do not involve an increase in noise generating activity at the circuit. West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy For the production of future planning policy documents, South Northamptonshire Council is part of the West Northamptonshire Joint Panning Unit. West Northamptonshire relates to Northamptonshire Borough, Daventry District and South Northamptonshire councils. The joint planning unit is responsible for preparing coordinated planning policy for this area. In February 2011, the joint planning unit published the Pre-submission Joint Core Strategy, the final stage in the preparation of the document, before it is submitted to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government for examination and ultimately adoption. While it is not yet part of the plan, the document gives an extremely strong and detailed picture of emerging planning policy. The document recognises the strategic role of Silverstone to the economy of Northamptonshire generally, and South Northamptonshire in particular, both as a major attraction and as an employment site in its own right. The importance of Silverstone is underlined by the inclusion of its success as one of the key elements of the Joint Core Strategy s vision for the future of West Northamptonshire. Policy E5 of the Joint Core Strategy makes a strategic employment allocation for the whole of the Silverstone site including provision for: 40 ha advanced technology park 25 ha of additional B1 / B8 employment 8 ha of tourism uses (including three hotels) 35 ha leisure / conferencing / exhibition / sports space 14 ha education campus (these areas include those parts of the site which are within Aylesbury Vale district). 28

15 The policy also requires proposals to demonstrate functional links with both Towcester and Brackley, in particular through sustainable transport links. While the Core Strategy has not yet been submitted for examination, it should be afforded some limited weight. The proposed by this application is therefore substantially in accordance with the provisions of emerging planning policy. As well as providing an appropriate level of on site, the proposals also include measures, as required by Policy E5, to include functional links to both Towcester and Brackley. East Midlands Regional Plan The current RSS for the East Midlands Region is the East Midlands Regional Plan, which was published in March As is the case with the South East Plan, the East Midlands Regional Plan remains part of the plan following CALA Homes successful challenge of the earlier revocation of RSSs. The regional plan does not contain any policies specific to Silverstone or the motorsport sector. However, it is generally supportive of economic growth. Policy 18 sets the general principles for economic growth, which include raising skill levels and developing high value manufacturing and innovative businesses. Motorsport is at the forefront of each of these aims, requiring highly skilled individuals, focussing on high value manufacturing and being highly innovative in ways which can benefit not just the sector itself but which can increasingly be used in alternative sectors. Policy 20 goes on to encourage the allocation of sites for employment which can support sectors that have local economic significance. Motorsport is a prime example of such a sector, which has a strong presence in the East Midlands and surrounding areas. National planning policy In addition to the Development Brief, local and regional planning policies which are considered above, regard has also been paid to national planning policy statements (PPS) and planning policy guidance (PPG). While these national level policies are reflected in local planning policies and the RSSs, regard has been paid to them in the preparation of this planning application. Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development (PPS1) sets out the Government s overarching planning policies on the delivery of sustainable through the planning system. It emphasises the key principles of sustainable, including sustainable economic. Of particular relevance to these proposals is Planning Policy Statement 4: Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth (PPS4). Policy EC2 of PPS4 encourages plan policies that support existing clusters and those which promote the expansion of clusters of high-technology and knowledge-driven industries. Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment (PPS5) is sets out the Government s planning policies on the conservation of the historic environment. It is relevant to the proposals, given the potential for archaeological interest relating to the former Luffield Abbey and the setting of Stowe Landscape Gardens. Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation (PPS9) sets out planning policies on protection of biodiversity and geological conservation through the planning system. The proposals have considered the policy implications in relation to protected species and notable habitats on the site. National planning policy for transport is set out in Planning Policy Guidance 13: Transport (PPG13). It seeks to achieve a sustainable mix of transport modes, and to ensure that proposals do not have an unacceptable traffic impact. It also requires transport assessments to be submitted for proposals which are likely to have significant transport implications. Planning Policy Guidance 17: Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation (PPG17) sets out the policies needed to be taken into account for planning applications involving open space, sport and recreation facilities. This policy supports the of sporting and recreational facilities where they do not undermine existing town centres. In this regard, the proposed at Silverstone Circuit will not compete with sport and recreational facilities in nearby centres, such as Towcester and Brackley. PPG17 also supports the improvement of recreation rights of way. A key part of the masterplan is the green circuit, which aims to better connect land in the vicinity of the circuit to the existing rights of way network. Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy (PPS22) sets out the Government s policies for renewable energy, which planning authorities should have regard to when preparing local documents and when taking planning decisions. The masterplan seeks to meet a significant proportion of its energy demand from renewable sources. The renewable energy options considered are set out in the Sustainability Statement submitted in support of the planning application. Planning Policy Statement 23: Planning and Pollution Control (PPS23) is intended to complement the pollution control framework under the Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 and the Pollution Prevention and Control (England and Wales) Regulations The Environmental Statement has assessed matters of pollution control where relevant. Planning Policy Guidance 24: Planning and Noise (PPG24) provides guidance on the use of their planning powers to minimise the adverse impact of noise. It outlines the considerations to be taken into account in determining planning applications both for noisesensitive s and for those activities which generate noise. Planning Policy Statement 25: Development and Flood Risk (PPS25) is concerned with the relationship between and flood risk. It, along with its companion guide, sets out the requirements for flood risk assessment and drainage to ensure that is neither at risk of flooding nor contributes to flood risk elsewhere. Emerging national policy The Draft National Policy Framework was published in July This is a key part of the Government s reforms to make the planning system less complex and to promote sustainable growth. It contains a strong presumption in favour of sustainable economic and is a material planning consideration in the determination of this application. 29

16 The following table highlights the range of national, regional and local planning policies which have been taken into account in the proposed masterplan. Policy Principle and Scheme Compliance National Policy Regional Policy Local Policy Emerging Policy South East Plan East Midlands Regional Plan 2009 Aylesbury Vale Local Plan South Northamptonshire Local Plan West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy Economy Promote direct employment generation PPS1 Delivering sustainable PPS4 Sustainable economic growth RE1 Contributing to the UK s Long Term Competitiveness RE6 Competitiveness and addressing structural economic weakness Policy 1 Regional core objectives Policy 18 Regional priorities for the economy GP69 Hotels and Motels RA29 Employment in the countryside RA31 Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit employment facilities E3 Existing employment uses RE1 Rural employment S7 Provision of jobs S8 Distribution of jobs Establish and support a new knowledge based cluster PPS1 Delivering sustainable RE1 Contributing to the UK s Long Term Competitiveness Policy 18 Regional priorities for the economy RA31 Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit employment facilities PPS4 Sustainable economic growth RE4 Human resource RE6 Competitiveness and addressing structural economic weakness Policy 20 Regional priorities for employment land Support the ongoing success of the UK s motorsport cluster PPS1 Delivering sustainable PPS4 Sustainable economic growth RE1 Contributing to the UK s Long Term Competitiveness RE2 Supporting nationally and regionally important sectors and clusters Policy 18 Regional priorities for the economy RA31 Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit employment facilities E3 Existing employment uses RE1 Rural employment RE6 Competitiveness and addressing structural economic weakness Natural environment Ensure that areas of archaeological potential are assessed, and any impacts mitigated PPS5 Planning for the Historic Environment BE6 Management of the historic environment Policy 11 Development in the southern sub-area Policy 26 Protecting and enhancing the region s natural and cultural heritage GP59 Archaeology and Ancient Monuments G3 General principles for EV24 Protection of important sites BN5 The historic environment Policy 27 Regional priorities for the historic environment Ensure that the important Stowe landscape does not suffer adverse impacts PPS5 Planning for the Historic Environment C4 Landscape and countryside management BE6 Management of the historic environment Policy 26 Protecting and enhancing the region s natural and cultural heritage GP60 Historic parks and gardens GP59 Archaeology and Ancient Monuments G3 General principles for EV28 Historic parklands BN5 The historic environment Mitigate possible negative effects on protected species / wildlife sites PPS9 Biodiversity and geological conservation NRM5 Conservation and improvement of biodiversity Policy 26 Protecting and enhancing the region s natural and cultural heritage Policy 29 Priorities for enhancing the region s Biodiversity G3 General principles for EV24 Protection of important sites BN2 - Biodiversity 30

17 Leisure and recreation Support Silverstone s role as an important international sporting venue PPG17 Sport and recreation PPG21 Tourism TSR2 Rural tourism TSR3 Regionally significant sports facilities TSR4 Tourism attractions Policy 42 Regional priorities for tourism GP84 Footpaths RA30 Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit leisure facilities RA4 Countryside recreation RC1 Large scale leisure and recreation RC3 Recreation facilities in the countryside RC14 Noisy sports E7 Tourism, visitor and cultural industries RRC2 Rural recreation and tourism Establish the circuit as a year-round venue, reducing reliance on a small number of events PPG17 Sport and recreation PPG21 Tourism TSR2 Rural tourism TSR3 Regionally significant sports facilities TSR4 Tourism attractions TSR5 Tourist accommodation TSR7 Priority areas for tourism Policy 42 Regional priorities for tourism RA30 Silverstone Motor Racing Circuit leisure facilities RA4 Countryside recreation RC1 Large scale leisure and recreation RC3 Recreation facilities in the countryside RC14 Noisy sports RRC2 Rural recreation and tourism E7 Tourism, visitor and cultural industries Transport and infrastructure Promote accessibility to jobs services and facilities by public transport, cycling and walking. PPG13 Transport T1 Manage and invest T2 Mobility Management Policy 43 Regional transport objectives Policy 44 Sub-area transport objectives Policy 45 Regional approach to traffic growth reduction Policy 49 Regional approach to improving public transport accessibility GP24 Car parking guidelines RA36 Rural transport RA37 New strategic road connections G3 General principles for T2 Development affecting the highway network IMP1 Implementation C1 Changing behaviour and achieving modal shift C2 New s INF1 Approach to infrastructure delivery B4 Transport improvements for Brackley Mitigate potential negative impact on road network through provision of new infrastructure PPG13 Transport CC7 Infrastructure and implementation T1 Manage and invest Policy 43 Regional transport objectives Policy 44 Sub-area transport objectives GP24 Car parking guidelines RA36 Rural transport RA37 New strategic road connections G3 General principles for T2 Development affecting the highway network IMP1 Implementation C3 Strategic connections INF1 Approach to infrastructure delivery T4 Transport improvements for Towcester B4 Transport improvements for Brackley Continue to ensure that the road network can accommodate major events at the circuit PPG13 Transport CC7 Infrastructure and implementation T1 Manage and invest TSR6 Visitor management Policy 43 Regional transport objectives Policy 44 Sub-area transport objectives GP24 Car parking guidelines RA36 Rural transport RA37 New strategic road connections G3 General principles for T2 Development affecting the highway network IMP1 Implementation INF1 Approach to infrastructure delivery Drainage Ensure that the proposals do not cause adverse impact to local residents in terms of foul drainage PPS25 Development and flood risk CC7 Infrastructure and implementation NRM1 Sustainable water resources and groundwater quality Policy 32 A regional approach to water resources and water quality G3 General principles for IMP1 Implementation INF1 Approach to infrastructure delivery NRM2 Water quality 31

18 Ensure that the proposals do not increase the risk of flooding downstream PPS25 Development and flood risk CC7 Infrastructure and implementation NRM1 Sustainable water resources and groundwater quality NRM4 Sustainable flood risk management Policy 35 A regional approach to managing flood risk G3 General principles for IMP1 Implementation BN7 Flood Risk INF1 Approach to infrastructure delivery Landscape Maintain and enhance the landscape character of the area C4 Landscape and countryside management Policy 31 Priorities for the management of the region s landscape. GP38 Planting and soft landscaping GP39 Existing Vegetation GP40 Black Poplars and rare trees GP91 Provision of amenity areas RA2 Coalescence of settlements RA8 Areas of Attractive Landscape G3 General principles for EV2 Development in the countryside EV7 Special Landscape Areas EV8 Coalescence EV21 Landscape features EV28 Historic parkland EV29 Landscaping schemes Noise Minimise noise emissions PPG24 Planning and noise NRM10 - Noise GP8 Protection of the amenity of residents Design GP79 Noisy sport and recreation GP95 Unneighbourly uses G3 General principles for RC14 Noisy sports Promote sustainable design principles PPS1 Delivering sustainable GP35 Materials and design details EV1 Design GP45 Safe and secure 32

19 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT APPENDIX B STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 1 INTRODUCTION 2 CONSULTATION ON THE DEVELOPMENT BRIEF 3 CONSULTATION STRATEGY 4 NOTIFICATION 5 FEEDBACK 6 CONCLUSION ANNEX A PUBLIC EXHIBITION MATERIAL ANNEX B LISTED OF CONSULTEES ANNEX C SUMMARY OF ISSUES RAISED AT THE PUBLIC EXHIBITION 33

20 34 SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT

21 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 1. Introduction This statement of community involvement (SCI) has been prepared by Terence O Rourke Ltd on behalf of Silverstone Holdings Limited (SHL). It explains the public consultation process carried out prior to the submission of an outline planning application. The planning application has been submitted jointly to Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) and South Northamptonshire Council (SNC). Prior to the submission of the planning application, a programme of public consultation was carried out in accordance with AVDC s and SNC s adopted SCIs (both adopted in 2006). The strategy for public consultation has sought to be inclusive, targeting local people, district and parish councillors, and key stakeholders. The broad strategy for public consultation was informed by early engagement with officers from both AVDC and SNC, and was refined through regular contact with officers. In addition to the consultation carried out specifically for the current planning application, the Silverstone Circuit Masterplan, which the application seeks to implement, was subject to extensive public consultation through the preparation of the approved Development Brief. Section 2 of this document sets out the consultation process carried out for the Silverstone Circuit Masterplan Development Brief. Section 3 describes the further consultation that has been carried out specifically to support the outline planning application. Section 4 details the methods of notification. A summary of the feedback received is provided in section 5. Section 6 is the conclusion. A sample of the visual material used at the public exhibition is provided in annex A. 2. Consultation on the Development Brief The Silverstone Circuit Masterplan Development Brief was prepared jointly by AVDC and SNC, with the involvement of SHL. Both councils approved the final version of the Development Brief in February The Development Brief is the starting point from which the current proposals have evolved. The current masterplan, which is the subject of the outline planning application, maintains the core principles set out in the Development Brief. The consultation carried out as part of the preparation of the Development Brief is therefore of great relevance to the current masterplan. A draft of the Development Brief and sustainability appraisal was published on 16 October A six week period of consultation was then carried out, ending on 26 November The document was published on both local planning authorities websites and hard copies were deposited at the councils offices, Towcester Library, Brackley Library and Brackley Tourist Information Centre. A public exhibition was held at St Michaels Church Rooms on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 October 2007 and was attended by 420 people. In order to publicise that exhibition, over 700 individual letters were sent, and over 1,500 summary leaflets were also distributed. During the consultation process, the following statutory consultees were involved: Environment Agency Natural England English Heritage National Trust Highways Agency Buckinghamshire County Council Northamptonshire County Council Garden History Society Civil Aviation Authority Northamptonshire Primary Care Trust Responses were also received from each council s officers in respect of landscape impacts, air quality, noise and contaminated land. A total of 130 responses were received, including those from the key consultees listed above, other local groups and members of the public. The consultation exercise for the Development Brief provided a valuable opportunity to identify issues surrounding the masterplan and, by extension the current proposals. As a result of the feedback received during the course of the consultation process a number of changes were made to the masterplan before the final version of the Development Brief was published. The most significant of these was the removal of an element of housing that had been included in earlier drafts and which was one of the main sources of objection. As well as shaping the Development Brief, the responses received during the consultation have assisted the preparation of the current masterplan. This has enabled key issues to be addressed through the design of the current masterplan. It has also informed the scope of the environmental impact assessment (EIA). 3. Consultation strategy The consultation strategy for the proposed masterplan was informed through the SCIs prepared by both authorities. Section 5 of Aylesbury Vale District Council s SCI, adopted October 2006, sets out the council s policy for involving the community in planning applications, including both the council s commitments and those for the applicant. In addition to the statutory requirements, the SCI sets out the indicative approach to consultation across three tiers of proposals. The tiers are: Tier 1: Applications which have issues of scale and controversy and 35

22 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT which are contrary to the adopted plan Tier 2: Applications broadly in accordance with the plan but with controversial elements Tier 3: Applications in sensitive areas or which are of a large scale or on a site where the council requires further consultation The broad approach for each tier is as set out in the table below. While the proposals within the outline planning application are clearly large scale, they are broadly in accordance with the adopted and emerging plans for both local planning authorities, which have all been subject to extensive public consultation, as well as having the benefit of an adopted Development Brief. The proposed therefore falls comfortably within Tier 3 under AVDC s criteria. Section 11 of SNC s SCI sets out the broad requirements for applicants to undertake a community involvement exercise in support of proposals. The SCI provides thresholds above which community involvement exercises should be carried out. The scale of Silverstone s proposals is clearly above any of these thresholds, meaning some form of consultation is expected. Approach Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Public meetings Public exhibition Surgery /workshop/consensus building exercise Parish/ Town Councils Other relevant groups Media AVDC website Planning aid The SCI also includes a consultation record pro-forma which allows the authority to track consultation carried out for proposals. This sets out the consultation exercises which may be considered suitable. They are: Circulate letter and statement in the locality explaining proposals with plans or diagrams Circulate specially prepared leaflet Arrange exhibition and invite local people Arrange press release/advertisement in local newspapers Arrange public meetings Arrange meetings with particular groups in the community Arrange a citizens workshop/forum The SCIs for both authorities also place general importance on the involvement of the public and key community groups in proposals. While the specific activities required by each authority vary slightly, the principle remains the same. Through early consultation with officers from both authorities, a suitable consultation strategy was prepared that would satisfy the requirements of both authorities. While it was not practical to undertake all of the actions suggested in each SCI, the applicant has sought to consult the public openly via a range of sources. These include: Series of meetings with parish councillors Public exhibition prior to the submission of the planning application Presentation to members of both local planning authorities Meetings with key consultees and planning officers Distribution of a letter providing an update on progress to stakeholders and those individuals/organisations who commented on the masterplan These activities are described in detail below. Meetings with parish councils Meetings were held with parish councils surrounding the circuit during April The parishes consulted were: Whittlebury (Meeting on 12 April) Syresham (Meeting on 12 April) Silverstone (Meeting on 12 April) Stowe (Meeting on 14 April) Lillingstone Dayrell (Meeting on 15 April) In addition to the above, Biddlesden Parish Council met with the team at the public exhibition as it was not possible to arrange a meeting prior to that date. At the meetings, members of the consultant team made an informal presentation of the proposals. This included an explanation of the evolution of the proposals from the initial masterplan contained within the Development Brief to the final masterplan included in the outline planning application. The parish council members were also provided with copies of the draft masterplan for reference. Public exhibition A public exhibition of the proposals was held on Friday 20 May 2011, between midday and 7pm and on Saturday 21 May 2011, between 10am and 4pm at Silverstone Church Rooms, Stocks Hill, Silverstone. The public exhibition included a display of the masterplan, which set out the rationale of the proposals, their history and evolution. The exhibition boards are reproduced in annex A of this document. The exhibition was attended by representatives of SHL and the consultant team. The team was on hand to explain and clarify the details of the draft proposals. Visitors to the exhibition were invited to provide comments and feedback either at the event or later by post or . Copies of the masterplan were later ed to any attendees who requested a copy to review in further detail. Presentation to members The proposals were presented to members of Aylesbury Vale District Council members on 9 May A presentation of the proposals to members of South Northamptonshire Council members was made on 12 May Each presentation was followed by a question and answer session, which allowed the members to raise any issues or queries. Meetings with key consultees and planning officers Planning officers and key consultees including The National Trust, English Heritage, Highways Agency and Environment Agency have been consulted from an early stage as the proposals have developed. Planning officers from both authorities have been involved in a number of project meetings, enabling any significant issues to be raised and addressed from an early stage. Meetings with other key consultees have been taking place in parallel in order to inform the assessment work that has been carried out for the EIA. A list of consultees is provided in annex B to this document. 36

23 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 4. Notification The public exhibition was publicised through adverts placed in The Brackley & Towcester Advertiser, the Buckingham & Winslow Advertiser and The Bicester Review on 13 May 2011 and 20 May An online advertisement was also placed on the website from 13 May The notice of the public exhibition was also provided to local parish councils for inclusion on parish websites and in parish newsletters, where practicable. Meetings with parish councils were arranged in advance at a convenient time for parish council members. A similar approach was taken with presentations to local members. Meetings with key consultees were arranged directly at a mutually convenient time and location. 5. Feedback Feedback from public exhibition The public exhibition was attended by a total of 188 people across its two days. On the Friday, 113 attended with 75 on the Saturday. A total of 33 comment forms were received either at the exhibition itself or later in the post. Additionally the consultant team at the exhibition kept notes of the issues raised by members of the public during the exhibition. The response received during the exhibition, and through the comments forms was split roughly evenly between support and objection, with 10 objections received and 9 comments in support. The remaining respondents offered comments. The comments received and issues discussed at the exhibition fell into the following broad categories: General principles Broad support was expressed for the employment provision and the vision of Silverstone Circuit becoming a year round destination and there was a general view that the masterplan had improved Further information requested in respect of phasing There should be greater detail of the sustainability elements of the proposals Traffic and access Overall traffic management for major events works well but is less effective for some of the smaller events Concern was expressed over the potential increase in daily traffic Queries over the location of a park and ride and the relocation of the temporary car parking areas General support for new access proposals, but with some concern over noise disturbance and light The green circuit needs to be opened to all Other impacts Noise from circuit recently this has been extending later into the evenings as well as through camping Foul drainage there is insufficient capacity locally and queries over how the current proposals would be accommodated Light pollution from the circuit and new Community uses Need for provision of shops and services The proposals include no provision for allotments, although these had previously been suggested Green circuit should be designed to accommodate horses and be drawn up in consultation with local running club Use of new leisure facilities should be opened up to village residents Feedback from meetings with parish councils In general the parish councils were supportive of the principle of the proposals, and the jobs that they would create. The following key issues were raised during the meetings: Noise from circuit on race days, plus light aircraft / helicopters and potentially increased noise (raised by: Silverstone, Stowe, Whittlebury & Lillingstone Dayrell) Flooding within villages and potential for this to increase (raised by: Syresham and Silverstone) Foul drainage (raised by: Silverstone) Protection of the landscape (raised by: Lillingstone Dayrell) Disruption to services during race weekends (raised by: Lillingstone Dayrell) Traffic pressure through villages (raised by: Silverstone and Stowe) Following the meetings with parish council members, all of the comments raised were passed on to the relevant specialists within the consultant team to ensure that they would be addressed in the planning application. Response to feedback On 23 June 2011 a letter was sent to those stakeholders invited to the exhibition and those people who attended and provided contact details, summarising the results of the consultation process. The letter was accompanied by a table setting out the key comments received in the various areas of interest. It also offered a response to each of those points, detailing how the masterplan responds to the points, or where consideration will be given to issues and suggestions raised. A copy of the table and covering letter is provided in annex C to this document. 6. Conclusion A programme of pre-application consultation has been undertaken in connection with SHL s proposals for the implementation of the Silverstone Circuit Masterplan. The consultation programme was carried out during April and May 2011 and comprised a public exhibition, meetings with parish councils, presentations to members of both Aylesbury Vale District Council and South Northamptonshire Council and ongoing meetings and discussion with officers from both councils as well as key consultees. The consultation process was advertised in the local press and through direct contact with individual parish councils. Meetings with key consultees and council officers were arranged on an individual basis. The public exhibition attracted a good attendance from the local area. The feedback from the consultation process showed a roughly even split between support for and objection to the proposals. Where an objection was expressed, this was generally based upon the likely impact of the proposals as opposed to a more fundamental objection to the principle of the. The issues which attracted the greatest number of comments were traffic, noise and foul drainage. These, as well as other issues raised over the likely impact of the proposals, are have been assessed in detail as part of the EIA. The consultation process carried out specifically for this application builds upon the extensive consultation which was carried out to support the approved Silverstone Circuit Masterplan Development Brief. The Development Brief was the subject of extensive public consultation, including the publication of draft documents for comment and a public exhibition. As an evolution of the proposals contained within the Development Brief, the current proposals benefit from that earlier consultation. The current proposals and the assessment of their impact reflect the comments raised both through the recent consultation process and the consultation on the Development Brief. 37

24 SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ANNEX A PUBLIC EXHIBITION MATERIAL INTRODUCTION 38 VISION OF THE SILVERSTONE MASTER PLAN Silverstone is recognised throughout the world as the spiritual home of Formula 1. It is a world-famous venue that has been inextricably linked with the first 60 years of the Formula 1 World Championship. Silverstone is currently the only venue in the UK that is capable of hosting the two British Grands Prix (F1 and Moto GP), is one of the UK s premier sporting venues, and is located in the heart of Motorsport Valley recognised globally as the UK s motor sport cluster. Through the master plan, the Silverstone group of companies intends to ensure that in an ever more competitive international context, Silverstone continues to develop and maintain its world leading role. Silverstone has played a fundamental role in the creation and of British motor sport and has consistently helped the industry to achieve success in virtually all categories of motor sport. The importance of Silverstone is recognised by the many Formula 1 team constructors and other support and associated businesses who have located their headquarters close to the circuit, and is emphasised by the circuit s key role in testing and performance. The vision is to enhance the site to create a state-of-the-art motor sport destination and leading business, education, leisure and entertainment venue offering some of the best facilities in the world for competitors, businesses and visitors alike. In an industry characterised by cutting edge technology, groundbreaking innovation and enviable engineering expertise, the attraction and economic potential of Silverstone is unparalleled. The existing advanced technology park is already attracting motor sport-related, high-value engineering companies and this, coupled with the hosting of major events, demonstrates that the value of the site in both employment and leisure terms goes way beyond that of pure racing. Silverstone will continue to be a centre of excellence for the UK s motor sport industry, providing cutting edge research and facilities and becoming a showcase for British engineering excellence, automotive design and technological advancement. UK continues to maintain its leading role in all aspects of motor sport and creating a thriving knowledge-intensive business cluster. The ultimate goal for Silverstone is to be a showcase to the world, providing a spectacular, safe and successful commercial operation of benefit to international motor sport, and a range of knowledge-intensive businesses. This will create a range of employment opportunities while respecting environmental concerns and providing a purpose-designed visitor destination. The master plan represents the vision for the next 20 years to create an exemplar. It includes the following key objectives: Maintain Silverstone as the home of British motor sport and racing WHERE WE ARE NOW Strengthen Silverstone as a centre of innovation and excellence by creating a more sustainable, mixed-use business community with a focus on motor sport in a thriving knowledge-intensive business cluster Create a that will complement the future growth of Towcester and Brackley N Development brief 2009 Woodland C1: Outdoor pursuits Create an exemplar with innovative, energy efficient and sustainable facilities Tech Park - built Create a that integrates well with the local environment and community and provides an attractive setting to locate and develop high-value enterprises Manufacturer Test Centre Build on Silverstone s excellent location within the national road network and develop sustainable transport and innovative access proposals New pit and paddock location Tech Park Outside BRDC ownership Hotel / conference, boulevard and serviced apartments Technical support services zone Business Park The Silverstone Hub and Welcome Centre with Grandstands Existing car parking Existing 4 wheel drive / Country leisure pursuit area Country leisure pursuit area Exhibition and conference zone / F1 paddock area New Grandstands and Hospitality New corporate Hospitality Education Campus Sport and Leisure Complex Existing BRDC areas New pit and paddock Showroom manufacture display zone Renewable Energy Area LPA boundaries Development Brief Boundary Silverstone Estates Ltd is consulting on the master plan to receive your views before an outline planning application is submitted. N Current master plan 2011 The master plan is substantially in compliance with the approved brief and does not significantly exceed the quantum for each land use proposed. Relatively minor changes have, however, been made to the layout and location of some land uses, which have been purposely designed to respond to identified constraints, maximise the integration of uses, improve circulation of pedestrians and vehicles, and to minimise visual impact. The approved brief plan and changes proposed by the current master plan are shown opposite to allow comparison. The Silverstone Master Plan Development Brief, approved by South Northamptonshire Council and Aylesbury Vale District Council in February 2009, sets out the strategic vision for future at the circuit, including an expanded technology park, new business units, an education campus and new supporting facilities. Silverstone will also play an increasing role in the education and training of drivers, engineers, designers and technologists of the future, helping to ensure that the... a world-class motor sport destination and leading business,... a world-class motor sport destination and leading business,... a world-class motor sport destination and leading business, education, leisure and entertainment venue with a brand that is education, leisure and entertainment venue with a brand that is education, leisure and entertainment venue with a brand that is synonymous with excellence and innovation synonymous with excellence and innovation synonymous with excellence and innovation Improve track-related facilities to modern Grand Prix standards, which will allow the circuit to continue hosting top motor sport events