Draft Bradford District Local Plan - Preferred Options (Regulation 18) February 2021

Object

Representation ID: 3536

Received: 22/03/2021

Respondent: Climate Action Menston

Housing Distribution - Menston

We have already fulfilled the target for new build for Menston, and we should not be building any more large housing developments on greenbelt or infilling existing green spaces within the village.

As mentioned, modern methods of construction, whether using conventional or unconventional materials, should be encouraged where they can prove their effectiveness in reaching zero Carbon. The construction of the building should also be as low carbon as possible. This would require a major reduction in the use of concrete, and alternative forms of foundations where ground conditions permit.

Support

Representation ID: 3600

Received: 22/03/2021

Respondent: Climate Action Menston

Climate Action Menston supports the Environmental Policy but it does not go far enough, requiring more positive wording indicating the need to reach zero carbon emissions, and stronger support for renewables.
Housing Standards need to insist on net zero or negative emission dwellings now, or costly, invasive refurbishment will be needed within a decade. We agree that the design of buildings, using solar gain and passive house approaches with high levels of insulation are vital.

Support

Representation ID: 3605

Received: 22/03/2021

Respondent: Climate Action Menston

The biodiversity crisis calls for a bolder approach: all verges should be wild flower meadows; 30% of every council owned open space should be allowed to be wild, with minimal human intervention; “Wild Belts” or derelict areas within the city should be rewilded to provide wildlife corridors; the public should be educated about why wild areas are necessary.
The design of the energy infrastructure should be compatible with conversion to micro-grids.
All buildings should have habitats for wildlife built into them eg swift bricks, and every flat roof should be covered in living plants. This would help reduce water runoff as well as providing habitats for insects and nectar for bees.
Flood risk needs to be emphasised further.

Support

Representation ID: 3621

Received: 22/03/2021

Respondent: Climate Action Menston

In future commuting will be much less prevalent, with many people working partially from home. Consequently local facilities must be improved to provide not just flexible office services but also a more vibrant local area so people don’t need to travel into city centres. All new developments should be required to provide local hubs including cafes and shops so fewer journeys are needed and cars are unnecessary. Along with much more provision for safe cycling and walking, car clubs should be widespread, reducing the need for multiple car ownership.