Comment

Representation ID: 13592

Received: 18/03/2021

Respondent: Canal & River Trust

We understand that the existing site is vacant.
The site is supported above the Leeds & Liverpool Canal via a tall retaining wall. There is a risk that loading from new development could result in damage to this structure, which could result in land instability next to the waterway. To ensure that the Local Plan complies with the aims of paragraph 170 and 178 from the National Planning Policy Framework with regards to stability, we advise that this constraint should be identified in the Local Plan. We also advise that the development considerations should include the need for contextual information to demonstrate that the development will not result in land instability. Suggested text is provided below:
“Development will need to demonstrate that the retaining wall next to the Leeds and Liverpool canal can accommodate the loading from new development, and will not result in land instability”
At application stage, we advise that a survey of the wall by appropriately qualified person(s) may be required to fully ascertain that the final design can be supported by the retaining structure.
The rear of the site is very visible from the canal, and there is a risk that bin stores and other services located to the rear could detract form the character and appearance of the canal. To mitigate against this risk, we advise that the development considerations should include reference to the need to ensure that any service areas and bin stores are adequately screened from the canal.