SHAPING THE FUTURE OF COLESHILL 2015-2030
2
For the first time, the Localism Act 2011 gives local people an opportunity to have a
FOREWORD
real influence in shaping the place where
BY CHAIRMAN BILL RICHARDS
they live and work - over the next fifteen
This document is Coleshill's first Neighbour-
years.
hood Plan.
Neighbourhood Plan was tmade precisely for
It reflects the opinions of the
The decision to create a Coleshill
people of Coleshill and sets out proposals to
that reason.
It incorporates details of the
safeguard the future of our town.
For the
type of development people would like to see
first time in Coleshill's history, residents will
in the town - and also which features and
have had a real opportunity to guide the
services should be protected.
planning and development of the environment in which they live.
Coleshill's Neighbourhood Plan has been constructed from the evidence base provided
In 1207, the Town of Coleshill received a
by local people when completing their ques-
Royal Charter from King John.
tionnaires.
This gave
The Steering Group’s task has
authority for regular markets to be held in the
been to identify and include your proposals
parish. In September 2007, Coleshill resi-
in a strategy, which will allow our community
dents and friends enjoyed a wonderful day of
to develop in an individual and sustainable
medieval celebration on the Croft to mark the
way.
800th anniversary of that award. Our surveys have shown that people like livMoving ahead to 2014, North Warwickshire -
ing in Coleshill because it does have a
our planning authority - adopted a Core
friendly atmosphere and unique identity - and
Strategy which set out planning policies for
they really want to retain that 'community
the next fifteen years.
feeling'.
In that paper,
The Royal Charter will have its
Coleshill is described as a 'Market Town in
900th anniversary in 2107. When that time
the Green Belt'. So eight centuries after re-
arrives, let us hope that this and subsequent
ceiving its charter, Coleshill is still recognisa-
Neighbourhood Plans will have helped to
ble as that same market town within clear
protect Coleshill's historical boundaries and
historical boundaries.
ensured that Coleshill is still recognisable as
a 'Market Town in the Green Belt'. National and local regulations do allow local residents to comment on planning applications where they live.
However, it has al-
Bill Richards, Chairman
ways been much more difficult for communi-
Coleshill Neighbourhood
ties to affect and direct broader policies of
Plan Steering Group
planning within their own locality.
emphasis on the promotion of local
CONTENT COLESHILL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
producers and goods 28
TCLENP4: Support any plans for the conversion of upper floors of retail units into residential uses
2)
Foreword by Bill Richards
29) TCLENP5: Support better public
3)
Content
transport links to Coleshill from near-
5)
User Guide
by towns and
6)
The Origins of Coleshill’s Neighbour-
Transport section)
villages (covered in
hood Plan 7) 8)
Introduction: a note from the Steer-
30) Economy: Industrial & Commer-
ing Group
cial Local Economy- Employment
Our Town: a brief introduction
and Businesses within Coleshill.
10) Coleshill: the character of the town 16) PrĂŠcis
31) ICLENP1: Identify new employment opportunities and protect existing jobs
17) Housing Section: our main issues and areas of focus 18) HNP1: Support the 275 new dwell-
32) ICLCNP2: Support the current Industrial Area 33) ICLENP3: Review of the office ac-
ings for the town as approved in the
commodation available against local
NWBC Core Strategy
need
22) HNP2: Integrate new housing into Coleshill 23) HNP3: Provide a greater range of social & shared ownership housing
34) Transport : our main issues and areas of focus Transport and Pedestrian Move-
24) Economy: our main issues and areas of focus Town Centre Local Economy 26) TCLENP1: Support Coleshill Town
Centre 27) TCLENP2: Keep the traditional style and scale of shop fronts whilst allowing some flexibility in materials. 28) TCLENP3: Support a regular market
ment 35) TPMNP1: Improving safety and reducing congestion formed on the High Street and Cross Roads.
36) TPMNP2: Improve parking facilities and regulations to support viability of Town Centre 37) TPMNP3: Improve pedestrian access and safety to/through High
day with the town, supporting the
Street and new housing develop-
current localised markets, with an
ments'
4
CONTENT COLESHILL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
37) TPMNP4: Improve vehicle move-
58) Summary of the main points 62) Photo Credits 64) Closing Statement: the im-
ment across and in vicinity of Cole
portance of Coleshill’s Neigh-
End Bridge
bourhood Plan
40) Environment: our main issues and areas of focus
The History of Coleshill
41) ENP1: Preservation of Existing Conservation Area 42) ENP2: Preservation of Existing Green Open Space 43) ENP3: Creation of Cycle Parking Fa-
Coleshill Town Hall was completed on 28th November 1925 by John Sumner and officially opened by newspaper magnate Sir Edward Iliffe
cilities and New Cycle Paths
MP on 17 June 1926. The hall was
44) ENP4: Preservation and Enhance-
established partly from public sub-
ment of Public Footpaths 45) ENP5: Land to be Reserved for Extension of Cemetery 46) ENP6: Preserve Current Flood Pre-
scription and had trusts in place to ensure its use for community purposes throughout its 20th century life.
vention Measures 47) ENP7: Support enhancements to Coleshill Memorial Park 48) ENP8: Replanting of the Coleshill
The hall was used by the local magistrates, sitting for Petty Sessions. Where they had such summary jus-
corridor with natural woodland to en-
tice at their disposal, should they
hance the natural buffer between
deem an offence not serious enough
the town and the national road net-
to refer to a higher court. Typically it
work
would be applied in cases of drunk-
48) ENP9: Protection of Views into
enness or vagrancy.
Coleshill Source: Coleshill Town Council web49) CIL: Community Infrastructure Levy 56) Coleshill’s Services
site
NPQ: Neighbourhood Plan Question-
USERS GUIDE COLESHILL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
Key
naire CIL: Community infrastructure Levy CNPQ: Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire
We have tried to make Coleshill’s Neigh-
bourhood Plan as user friendly as possi-
WCC: Warwickshire County Council
ble, quotes, facts and additional information has been colour coded as follows:
NPPF: National Planning Policy Framework
Have Your Say! Quotes taken
Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Steering
directly from our questionnaires
Group. Chair: Bill Richards
Facts and Historical information
Members: Derek Axe, Barry Gascoigne,
about Coleshill
Maureen Gascoigne, John Hoyle, David Simkin, Mike Walpole, Kirsteen Wootton.
Statistical information from the
Coleshill Town Cllr. Adam Richardson.
questionnaire responses.
Administrator: Zoe Hillcox (Deputy Town Clerk, Coleshill) Kate Shtrezi
Supporting information from ex-
Town Planning Adviser: Dominic Moore
ternal bodies such as NWBC
(Ascension Planning) Special thanks:
Lorraine Fox (Meridian
Additional explanation from the
Travel) and Stuart Tait (formerly Coleshill
steering group to sup port some
School).
proposals Glossary NWBC: North Warwickshire Borough Council CNPSG: Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
Members of Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
6
June there was a NP exhibition in the Town
THE ORIGINS
Hall and posters around the town, invited members of the public to call in. The steering
COLESHILL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
group even toured Coleshill on a open-
Coleshill Town Council became interested in
topped bus with members of Town Band to
the opportunities which the Localism Act ap-
encourage people to complete their ques-
peared to offer, early in 2012. This interest
tionnaires. Coleshill Post published a four-
was reinforced at a meeting with MP Dan
side NP centre pull-out insert.
Byles who urged all councils in North Warwickshire to take advantage of this initiative
In the beginning of 2014, the task of collating
to promote greater community influence on
the information from completed question-
local planning issues.
naires was ongoing and with the help of a Government grant, in April 2014, Ascension
By mid 2012, five Town Councillors were ap-
Planning, a Coleshill Company, was appoint-
pointed to move things forward. In Septem-
ed to advise the Group.
ber, a presentation was made to representatives from a wide range of local organisa-
Several draft NP's have been produced
tions inviting them to participate, the first full
through 2015 but the end result is a plan
Steering Group meeting took place in July
which we believe truly reflects the evidence
with Cllr. Bill Richards as Chair and formal
from the community it represents. The con-
registration with NWBC followed in October.
sultation process has now began in earnest and to enable us to reach out to Coleshill as
In the remainder of 2012, local Press agreed
a whole the Coleshill Post will publish in it’s
to support with coverage.
November 2015 issue a four page insert in-
Love Coleshill,
Coleshill School and Father Hudson's Socie-
viting local residents to make comments.
ty showed interest and wanted to be involved. NP information to be included on TC
Please see appendix 1a to 1l for more infor-
website.
mation and a timeline of events.
In early months of 2013, leaflets and posters
promoting NP were designed and published and in June and July 2013, Steering Group members delivered questionnaires to every household in Coleshill.
Drop-off points ar-
ranged throughout town.
Survey Monkey
system opened for on-line responses.
On
the morning of 20 June and evening of 21
As part of that, North Warwickshire Borough
INTRODUCTION A NOTE FROM THE STEERING GROUP
Council was required to register a Local Plan - a Core Strategy - which translates these policies into a North Warwickshire
The Localism Act 2011 gives local commu-
setting and within which the Coleshill Neigh-
nities the option to develop a Neighbour-
bourhood Plan Steering Group have had to
hood Plan. Coleshill Town Council decided
work.
to accept this challenge and a Steering
Group was established. The Plan must re-
Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan used the in-
flect the views of the local community and
formation you supplied to create a more de-
will only be registered when it has passed
tailed strategy for the town which encour-
public consultation and independent inspec-
ages responsible development, yet protects
tion. More importantly, a local referendum
those features which make it unique.
will be held and all people on Coleshill's
It reflects your wishes, and aims to support
electoral roll will be invited to vote for its ac-
appropriate growth and innovation while
ceptance.
protecting our natural and historic environment.
In 2012, the Government published a new National Planning Policy Framework docu-
It seeks to support a strong and a healthy
ment (NPPF) which set out its planning poli-
community with a planned longer-term
cies for England and how these are ex-
housing policy and access to local services
pected to be applied.
which reflect community need.
It replaces a national policy document of
This is Coleshill's first Neighbourhood Plan.
over 1000 pages with a new framework of
It hopes to guide development here for up to
around 50 pages, simply written with a clear
fifteen years, subject to occasional review
objective of allowing you back into the plan-
when circumstances change.
ning process. Photograph of Steering Group The aim is to provide a framework in which
residents and their councils can produce their own distinctive neighbourhood plans which reflect the needs and priorities of their communities while keeping to the general policies and basic standards set out in the NPPF.
Members of CNPSG 2015
8
by Georgian townhouses and a fine medieval
OUR TOWN A BRIEF INTRODUCTION
church. This historic inheritance is reflected in the
Coleshill is a former Iron Age and Roman
many listed buildings and in the two conser-
settlement at the heart of England, just eight
vation areas with the Town boundaries.
miles east of Birmingham city centre as the crow flies.
Coleshill is still recognisable as a ‘greenbelt
market town’ in the local plan: the High By the time of the Domesday Survey of
Street continues to service the locality with a
1086, the Manor of Coleshill was substantial.
range of small shops, businesses, a number
In 1207 the town received a charter from
of public houses, public and private sector
King John which granted market town status,
service facilities, and two hotels.
probably recognition of significant economic activity already taking place in the village.
The conservation area forms a small historic enclave within a larger linear settlement of
It runs north to south along the lines of its
mostly mid to l ate 20th century housing de-
original medieval layout, separated from the
velopment - part of Birmingham’s post-war
West Midland conurbation on its west and
overspill. To the north of the river at Cole
north sides by a green corridor in which run
End and Grimstock Hill, housing is accompa-
the River Cole, a band of meadowland, three
nied by a large industrial estate.
motorways and part of the projected route for the HS2 high speed rail route.
Please see appendix 2a for a timeline od
Coleshill’s history. To the east is the River Blythe and the North Warwickshire green belt. Nearby, further north, lies Hams Hall, a na-
Church Hill Farmers Market
tional rail freight terminal and distribution park. Birmingham International Airport and
the National Exhibition Centre lie to the south. Architecturally, and despite the efforts of
2011 Census
1960s town planners, Coleshill still displays
Coleshill has 6481 residents and
a variety of buildings which vary greatly in
3019 dwellings
type, size and age. The centre is dominated
Coleshill in relation to North Warwickshire and the rest of the UK
10
COLESHILL THE CHARACTER OF THE TOWN During the neighbourhood plan process a common theme was repeated: Coleshill is a good place to live, still has a recognisable and individual identity, and is a friendly com-
munity.
Have your say!
“ The town has an identity and these (sic) who live in the town have a sense of belonging. The centre has a number of buildings which give it a rich sense of past and add measurably to the environment of those who currently live there”
Traditional shop frontages on Coleshill’s High street
Design and Development Development must contribute to the character of Coleshill as a whole in order for the town to grow in a sustainable and recognisable manner. New developments should be compatible, complement and enhance the character of the individual area and its surroundings. This will be especially important
within the conservation area and established These aspects of our town need to be pro-
housing areas.
tected and enhanced. It is hoped the proposals set out here will achieve this and preserve the town’s character.
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses
Any new developments, particularly of hous-
61% of Coleshill residents who
ing, should enhance and sustain Coleshill’s
responded to the Neighbourhood
market town character, in addition to being of
Plan Questionnaire like Coleshill’s
good quality. More detail on this is provided
friendly people, community spirit,
in the housing section.
history and the character of the town.
However, different parts of Coleshill have
New development must also support the
their own local strengths and styles. Any
town centre as the focus of activity and the
Design and Access Statements (to accom-
location which attracts residents and visi-
pany planning applications) should include a
tors.
site appraisal which identifies opportunities and constraints for development and deHave your say!
sign.
“It is my hometown and oozes with historical meaning”.
The stocks on Coleshill’s Church Hill
This reflects the concerns of residents about the quality and design of new developments, the density of future housing, car parking facilities and impact on the landscape. These items are picked up later in this plan.
The History of Coleshill
These concerns are not limited to residents and there is considerable guidance on good
Coleshill was granted a market charter by King John in 1207, alongside Liverpool, Leek and Great Yarmouth.
design in the National Planning Policy Framework and the core strategy of North
Warwickshire Borough Council (NWBC). The design of any future developments as
During the era of coaching and the turnpike trusts, Coleshill became important as a major staging post on the coaching roads from London to Chester, Liverpool and Holyhead. At one point there were over twenty inns in the town. The Coleshill to Lichfield Turnpike dates from 1743.
amended by the plan should be taken into account by NWBC and the Town Council in determining planning applications. Historic Character
Most of Coleshill’s history and character is concentrated in the Conservation Area introduced in 1969 and extended in 1980. The character of the town is one of our most im-
Source: Coleshill Town Council website
portant and protected assets. The boundary of the current conservation area broadly corresponds with the extent of built
12
development as it existed in the late 19th
close connection and the amazing views of
and early 20th century.
open countryside from the edge of the town. North Warwickshire Borough Council stated
It forms a small historic conclave with a large
in October 2014 that no planned green belt
number of listed buildings within a larger line-
review was due to take place within the next
ar settlement comprising mostly mid-late
three years. However, it should be noted that
20th-century housing development, part of
this can be reviewed by NWBC as develop-
Birmingham's post-war overspill. To the north
ment pressure increases within the borough.
of the river housing is accompanied by large industrial estate.
Development should ensure that the views into the town from the neighbouring country-
Any development proposals which may af-
side are maintained and where new develop-
fect a listed building or its surroundings must
ments can be seen from approaches to the
be given very careful consideration at the de-
town they should be in scale with surround-
sign stage. Historically correct materials and
ing buildings.
proportions should be an intrinsic condition Have your say!
of any such design and where appropriate new buildings must contribute positively to the historic character of the area.
What do you like about Coleshill? “The Town is not too large so there is a good sense of community. It is separated from the urban sprawl of Birmingham by
fields and the motorways. It has a town centre with most of the necessities for everyday living and attractive buildings. This makes it a pleasant place to live.�
Cottages and the site of the old mortuary on Parkfield Road/Sumner Road junction
Countryside Boundaries Coleshill has a close connection to the surrounding countryside, particularly to the east and the south of the town. We value this
Cole End Bridge, Coleshill
Georgian Coleshill
It is a great asset to the town - it is the home
In addition to protection of our local area, its
of the Coleshill's Civic Society and houses
essential that any development within the
the Heritage Centre and archive room.
town or surrounding area should be carried out in a manor not detrimental to the historic
Coleshill's pillory are displayed on the front
vales of the area and to ensure that these
of the building.
developments do not have a lasting impact on our heritage.
The Old House is a small Georgian town
house attached to the Market Hall. It is a The centre of Coleshill, at the heart of the
three storeyed building with a stucco façade.
conservation area, is Church Hill. Historical-
It is very plain in appearance, but internally
ly this has been the most prestigious part of
there are many fine Georgian features. It is
the town - and by definition the area most in
currently home to EDS Solicitors.
need of protection. There are a number of featured buildings. The original Old Market Hall was converted to its present use by the Digby family in the latter part of the 19th Century.
Have your say! “The Georgian 'feel' to the place. To keep the High Street as an example of Georgian architecture [and before] and use facades if needed for future development to retain its 'look' The wall around the church and the gravestones in the immediate vicinity of the church.� The Star Inn, now HSBC
14
Devereux House is a fine town house built at
played an important part in Coleshill's coach-
the beginning of the 18th century. It was oc-
ing history. A large front door has replaced
cupied by six generations of the Barker fami-
the arch which originally gave coaches ac-
ly, who practised medicine until 1884.
cess
Old
Bank
House
is
rare
in
style
to
the
stabling
yard
behind.
in
The access to the High Street from Church
Coleshill. It has a large number of architec-
Hill allows little space for manoeuvre. Cur-
tural features and was always the home of
rently vehicles are only permitted to turn left
notable townsfolk. The Coleshill Civic Socie-
onto the High Street is permitted. Larger ve-
ty was formed to ensure the future of this im-
hicles have to wait until both sides of the
pressive three storey building.
High Street are free from traffic before attempting this.
The Old Grammar School is an imposing 18th century building adjoining the churchyard, looking down Church Hill.
Have your say!
By the
Georgian period, the Grammar School had
“(Preserve) the green areas and his-
been in existence for several centuries. The
torical buildings in the High Street
school was closed in 1956, and the building
and surrounding roads, such as the
is currently used as office accommodation.
beautiful Georgian Houses.�
St. Peter and St Paul’s Church is at the top of Church Hill.
Its steeple stands high
against the sky line and is the most notable
symbol of our town. There is a much-loved war memorial adjacent to the road and the stone wall marking the boundary of the churchyard is weathered and splendid. Entrance to the church is from Church Hill and lines of cars for weddings and funerals regularly take advantage of the wider, safe ac-
cess to the church. The Swan Hotel is situated on the High Street facing up Church Hill. A fine Georgian building in the heart of the town. Built at the beginning of the 18th century, it
Old Bank House as it stands in Church Hill now
Coleshill’s Conservation area maps, the conservation area is marked in pink. Reproduced kindly with permission from NWBC
16
ues to act as a business and employment
COLESHILL
hub for the surrounding area as well as provide a safe environment for local residents
OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
and visitors. The main area of focus for the Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan – Precis
proposals are the development of strategies
Our overall aim is to ensure the sustainable
to combat the increasing traffic numbers es-
growth of Coleshill while protecting our his-
pecially on the High Street and Green Man
toric assets and ensuring the town is a safe
crossroads, increase pedestrian safety in
and attractive place to live. Through our ex-
and around the town.
tensive consultations the plan identifies four main areas of enhancement and protection
Environment
for the town and its residents.
Coleshill is an historic Market town and residents are very proud of its heritage. There is
Economy
much to protect and preserve. The same
A strong local economy is essential to pre-
can be said about the Town's parks and
serve and enhance Coleshill as a focal point
open spaces. There are also a number of
for business activity and employment in the
public footpaths and the area around the
area. This applies to the High Street and the
River Cole which need to be inspected and
Industrial Estate. The variety of local shops
maintained. The proposals set out look to
and amenities were consistently high on the
preserve and enhance these precious areas
list of why people liked living in Coleshill.
and where possible ensure a lasting legacy
However, our commercial community is hav-
for future generations while maintaining the
ing to contend with competition from the in-
historic importance of the town.
ternet and large stores. In order to promote and enhance the local economy a number of
Housing
proposals have been developed, including
NWBC has been set a target of new homes
attraction of new retail offerings into the
to achieve over a fifteen year period by the
town, maintaining our historic shop frontag-
Government. The total figure put forward
es providing additional parking within the
and approved by NWBC for Coleshill is 275
High Street area and promotion of develop-
new dwellings. The proposals set out in the
ment / diversity of the Industrial Estate.
housing section of this plan will ensure that the right mix and quality of dwellings are
Transport
brought forward, local residents and their
A good transport system is key to supporting
families are given the opportunity to access
the
of
any affordable housing and any future hous-
Coleshill. It will ensure that Coleshill contin-
ing needs are on sites identified by the town.
sustainable
economic
growth
permission will also be given for the remain-
HOUSING OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
ing 89 dwellings within the town on the preferred sites as stated in their Core Strategy (see page 20)
This section explains the housing policies
Objective
that will apply to Coleshill for the period of
The overall objective of this chapter is to
the NWBC housing allocations in the Core
support the allocation of land for NWBC’s
Strategy.
plans for 275 new dwellings (set in 2014), and to ensure that the current housing needs
The number of new housing for the town ful-
within Coleshill are realised.
fils the numbers requires by NWBC core Strategy. However it should be noted that
The following proposals set out to achieve
NWBC have advised that this figure could be
this.
revised. Should this be the case any additional housing sites should be discussed with Coleshill Town Council.
Housing in Coleshill At present there are 3019 dwellings (March 2015) within the town boundaries this comprises:
New housing in Stanhope Way, Coleshill
137 Local authority 113 Housing association 2769 Private properties Source: NWBC See appendix 3a
Current Position: North Warwickshire Borough Council have already given planning permission for 186 new homes in Coleshill (as of March 2015) detailed below. It is anticipated that planning
New Housing at the old Father Hudson’s Home site, Coleshill
18
HNP1: Support the 275 new dwellings as approved in the NWBC Core Strategy
NWBC Site Allocations point 5.30
Current housing data shows that (see page 17)– there is a high level of home ownership
Since the 1st of April 2011 there are
and correspondingly low proportions of social
currently 186 units with valid extant
and privately rented accommodation. Please
planning consent or allocated within
see appendix 3b for more information.
Coleshill.
At present there is a shortage of one and two
There is a need to identify a mini-
bedroom properties within the town and con-
mum of approximately 100 units,
cerns have been raised about the affordabil-
with some flexibility of delivery built
ity of housing, especially for young families
into reflect the settlements primary
and younger single occupiers.
position in the settlement hierarchy. The town is tightly constrained by the
Following discussions with NWBC, a figure
current Green Belt boundary and op-
of 2745 new dwellings was agreed. This
portunities for further redevelopment
would be spread over a number of sites and
of sites within the current develop-
support the continued sustainable growth of
ment boundary are limited. Never-
the town.
theless, the potential of further redevelopment sites coming forward is
The latest housing developments within the
expected to deliver the housing
town have focused on larger family homes
needed.
and have ignored the requirements of local residents and their families. There appears to be little concern to cater for local demand, however it is hoped the other proposals in this section address this issue. Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire responses:
When asked their thoughts on 40% of the 275 being affordable housing 32% thought that this figure was too high New housing developments in Birmingham Road, Coleshill
31% thought the figure was about right or too low
Coleshill as outlined in NWBC site alloca-
fice space in the town centre does not have
tions document 2015
an adverse economic impact on the vitality and viability of the town centre or its charac-
5.27 Coleshill is one of the three Market
ter.
Towns and lies to the west of the Borough
Total amount of housing units to be pro-
surrounded by Green Belt. The town’s histor-
vided = 275
ic core continues to reflect its medieval plan
5.30 Since the 1st of April 2011 there are
form, whilst architecturally the town displays
currently 186 units with valid extant planning
a considerable variety of buildings varying in
consent or allocated within Coleshill, of
size, type and date. The built character of
which 17 have so far been completed and
the historic core is dominated by town and
others under construction. There is a need
three storey Georgian townhouses and its
to identify a minimum of approximately 100
fine medieval church. This rich historic in-
units, with some flexibility of delivery built in
heritance is reflected in the many listed build-
to reflect the settlements primary position in
ings and two conservation areas within the
the settlement hierarchy. The town is tightly
town. Since 2008 it has had its own railway
constrained by the current Green Belt bound-
station with a bus interchange.
ary and opportunities for further redevelopment of sites within the current development
5.28 The town has a reasonable choice of
boundary are limited. Nevertheless, the po-
service and facilities with recent develop-
tential of further redevelopment sites coming
ment of a new retail store on the land off
forward is expected to deliver the housing
Park Road providing Coleshill with additional
needed.
retail facilities. The site is close to but outside of the Town Centre Boundary.
5.31
There is a small shortfall of sites
within Coleshill to deliver the housing re5.29 A site off Coventry Road, Coleshill
quirement. There are a number of small
owned by the Father Hudson’s Society is
brownfield redevelopment options available
one of the key development sites in Coleshill
as ‘reasonable alternatives’ that could come
and is currently under construction. A num-
forward over the plan period and address the
ber of other brownfield redevelopment oppor-
shortfall but currently have constraints that
tunities are available to address the housing
preclude their allocation. It is expected that a
need and further opportunities may also
level of windfall development will also come
arise as a result of permitted development
forward and help address the shortfall.
right changes for commercial office space to residential. This situation will need monitor-
Kindly reproduced with permission from
ing in order to ensure loss of commercial of-
NWBC.
20
Coleshill - Site Allocations as outlined in NWBC Site Allocation Plan 2015 The following are the sites the Borough Council propose as allocations.
Site allo- ADDRESS cations code
Size (ha)
NET HOUSING FIGURES
ISSUES & SITE MENTS IDENTIFIED
REQUIRE-
COL1
Land at Grimstock 2.13 Hill, Lichfield Road, Coleshill
15
Highway oppose access off A446. Site topography will limit housing potential. Maintain subject to access off Trajan Hill/Norton Road only. Trial trenching for archaeological impact recommended.
COL3
Land off Park 0.93 Road, Coleshill
25
Only Leisure Centre and Police station confirmed as available in near/mid future.
COL5
Land off High 0.16 Street, Coleshill
3
Site has partial consent. Although no STA objection, parking issue and access to rear of existing properties will need to be addressed. No.PAP/2012/0547 3 units. Agent has indicated potential for redevelopment of whole site may be forthcoming.
COL6
Land at Blythways, Coleshill
39
Not available at this moment in time. Longer term potential. Use higher density as edge of town centre site at 40per ha. Sensitive design solution will be required to address proximity with the Conservation area. Trial trenching for archaeological impact is also recommended.
TOTAL SITES
OF
1.30
PROPOSED
Kindly reproduced with permission from NWBC.
82
Coleshill - Site Allocations Map as outlined in NWBC Site Allocation Plan 2015
Kindly reproduced with permission from NWBC.
22
HNP2:
Integrate
new
housing
into
New dwellings may cause additional de-
Coleshill
mand on local services such as education
All proposals for new housing must ensure
and health provision.
that they are well integrated with the existing town. This can be achieved in a number of
Therefore, any new developments should
ways.:
provide sufficient financial benefits to support any additional demands on local ser-
Good quality design that compliments
vices through S.106 and/or the Community
the immediate environment and the
Infrastructure Levy (CIL). See page 54.
character of Coleshill through the development of a specific housing design guide for Coleshill
Provide a mix of housing types and appropriate densities
Imaginative use of open space to connect new development with existing housing sites and, where possible, access to public transport.
Provide a range of types of housing across all tenures including more af-
Have your say! “I have been trying to purchase a house for the last year in Coleshill but prices are too high and there are not enough homes suitable for first time buyers especially now you need such a big deposit. This is a shame as I have grown up in Coleshill and would like to stay here.”
fordable housing for Coleshill (i.e. 3 bed houses and more affordable starter homes)
A Note from the Steering Group
In any future relaxation of the Green Belt, the preservation of Coleshill as a medieval hill-top linear market town must be given high priority. In order to preserve its historic footprint any future significant development should have a focus in South East Coleshill, which is already well served by an Academy, Primary school and Leisure Centre but has little housing.
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses
The most popular sites put forward for housing developments Coleshill were: Father Hudson's (allocated)
Police Station & Leisure Centre Brownfield/industrial sites on station road. A total of 51% of respondents wanted these sites build upon.
HNP3: Provide a greater range of social & shared ownership housing Have your say! As far as is achievable, the level of social housing should be in line with NWBC Strategy which aims for 40% in new developments (greater than 10 dwellings). This could be extended to include socially rented and
shared ownership agreements.
“We need more accommodation for older people as people live longer but find it hard to look after (their) house because of its size...by moving out of the house it allows Coleshill to keep evolving”
This category of housing should
be well integrated with market housing and be visually indistinguishable from the market housing.
Questionnaire Responses
be of a type, size and tenure that meets specific local needs.
It should also be noted that the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Committee have an aspiration for all future allocation of social housing to first be offered to existing residents of Coleshill followed by those with a definitive link to the town.
While the ‘wider’ need for social
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan
housing
Warwickshire
across
North
is accepted,
the needs of the Coleshill residents should also be taken into account in regard to this matter. New housing developments at the old father Hudsons Homes, Coleshill
43% of Questionnaire respondents thought that 40% affordable housing was about right for new developments within Coleshill or too low with only 20% believing this figure was too high.
24
To ensure the continued growth of the town,
ECONOMY OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
a number of proposals have been developed.
Town Centre Local Economy
The High Street is key to supporting and en-
The following section focuses on the local
hancing the local economy within the town.
economy for Coleshill, and puts forward a number of proposals to support local busi-
nesses, current employment areas and future employment opportunities. Within the
Have your say!
town a strong local economy is a key factor for the preservation and enhancement of Coleshill and surrounding areas.
“Coleshill High Street is a jewel worth preserving...”
Objective: The main objectives of this section is to explore ways in which Coleshill can maintain
For many years the High Street shops pro-
and enhance a vibrant local economy, fo-
vided the day to day needs for the local com-
cused on the High Street and industrial area.
munity and included several butchers, bakers, greengrocers and two small supermarkets. With the decline in public transport, es-
Love Coleshill
pecially from the outlying villages, and an
“Love Coleshill was formed to combat the effects of the arrival of Morrison’s supermarket on the high street shops. Competition potentially meant a reduction in income for these business and could even have spelt closure for some so we decided to launch a campaign to promote local loyalty in the hope that the high street would remain popular and well used, promoting our members and organising events that would bring people to the town”.
increase in car ownership, shopping habits have changed.
Marie Stephenson from Love Coleshill. Please see appendix 4a Coleshill High Street circa 1958
The emergence of out-of-town shopping centres, internet shopping and large superstores within a 10 mile radius of Coleshill has resulted in a decline in the number of independent shops in the High Street. In the NPQ responses the amount and variety of local amenities were top reasons why
people like living here. Residents were vocal in support for the preservation of these amenities and the character of the High
Love Coleshill French Market
Street. In particular there was support for the protection of independent retailers and a bet-
late night opening at Christmas, shop win-
ter mix of eateries.
dow competitions and themed markets. This organisation is best placed to further promote the town centre with support from
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire responses
44% of Coleshill’s residents are concerned about lack of parking access to the High Street in in Coleshill. 45% want better parking. 40% feel that there is insufficient car parking with 15% wanting the leisure centre land to be used as a car park.
Coleshill Town Council.
Have your say! When asked if Coleshill has sufficient car parking: “Sore subject… there used to be! This is one of the reasons my employer is moving.”
However, the lack of suitable parking in and
around the High Street is seen as having a
The proposals detailed overleaf have been
major impact on the local economy.
developed from the responses in the NPQ and will ensure that the vibrant heart of the
Love Coleshill has been formed to bring
town is maintained and where possible ex-
shops and businesses together to promote
panded.
the town and organise events to encourage people to shop locally. These have included
26
TCLENP1: Support Coleshill Town Centre The best way to maintain the health of Coleshill’s shopping centre is to encourage new retail development on the High Street. It’s important to make sure that people actually live and work in the town centre and this can be assisted by promoting residential us-
es – especially above shops. Sign Posts in Coleshill The historic setting of the Town centre makes it virtually impossible to accommodate larger shopping units and there are few opportunities
to
extend
existing
shops.
Coleshill is a small town and developments outside the centre might be seen as a threat to the vitality of the High Street.
Coleshill Community Partnership The Coleshill Community Partnership is a local charity that supports many aspects of life in and around Coleshill. The aims of the partnership are:
In order to retain the shopping function of the
To provide the general public with access to services, information and advice
To work with local people and businesses to improve the local skills base and access to the local employment market.
To promote and improve the local population’s health and wellbeing.
To support business to grow and develop to create a vibrant economy, based on a broad range of industries, to create high quality and well-paid jobs for local people.
retail frontages on the High Street, the introduction of non-retail uses such as offices, building societies and restaurants should be monitored. The quality of the town centre is
dependent on retail frontages so it is important to retain and enhance them. Residential use of accommodation on the upper floor levels above existing shops should be encouraged, as long as it does not adversely affect the viability of ground floor
shop use. This is further demonstrated on page 28.
Helen Whittaker, Development Manager, Coleshill Community Partnership. Please see appendix 4b.
TCLENP2: Keep the traditional style and scale of shop fronts, whilst allowing some flexibility in materials. Any alterations to buildings within the town centre / High Street must take into consideration the sensitive nature of the area and must be in keeping with the character and
local distinctiveness of the area, All planning applications dealing with any alterations to buildings within the conservation area and/or new developments must take into account the traditional style and historic character of the town.
Traditional Shop Frontages on Coleshill High Street
Any planning decisions made by NWBC should respect the historic importance of the
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan
traditional style within the town centre and
Questionnaire responses
should also give appropriate consideration to current and future uses and their require-
48% want to protect the historic
ments.
and natural features of Coleshill Have your say!
“Specifically we would like to see the area along the banks of the River Cole, the church, croft, the Memorial Park area and the farm land to the east of Coleshill protected. In terms of buildings, the whole of the character of the High Street and Coventry Road should be protected.”.
42% Want to maintain the tradition-
al shop frontages 40% Want to protect the High Street Shops 30% want to protect the buildings/ High Street & historical architec-
ture
28
TCLENP3: Support a regular market day
the retail units have first or second floor are-
with the town, supporting the current lo-
as. At present these spaces are used for ei-
calised markets, with an emphasis on the
ther storage or other ancillary uses.
promotion of local producers and goods. If a regular additional market day can be re-
Should any proposals be brought forward to
established within the town, this would have
develop these upper floor spaces into appro-
the potential to draw more people from
priate residential uses, these plans should
neighbouring areas into the town and thus
be supported and encouraged.
could increase the economic viability of the High Street and local retail facilities.
An increased residential offer and subsequent presence of residents along the High
Coleshill’s Markets Regular markets are still held in Coleshill 800 years after it was granted market status.
Country Markets are in the Parish Rooms every Friday. Antiques fair is held in the Town Hall monthly (every third Saturday). Farmers Market (4thFriday).
monthly
Street has the possibility to further increase the use of local businesses and the prospects of the High Street.
NWBC Site Allocations Plan R1: RETAIL POLICY Protect existing/current retail uses within the Core Shopping frontages and Neighbourhood Centre shopping parades to restrict further loss to non-retail uses such as hot food
Providing better footfall in, and along, the
takeaway, estate agents or other
High Street, will ensure the protection of ex-
A2 (Non Deposit-taker) and A3 us-
isting retail uses within Coleshill town centre
es unless clear evidence is availa-
and to restrict further loss to non-retail uses
ble justifying the loss and change
such as hot food takeaways. Any future de-
of use and that there will be no ad-
velopment which could have a detrimental
verse impact on the retail choice
impact on the vitality of the town centre will
and availability in the frontage/
not be permitted.
centre.
TCLENP4: Support any plans for the conversion of upper floors of retail units into residential uses Along Coleshill High Street the majority of
NWBC Site Allocations draft submission June 2015
However, it should be noted that any development proposals as above should include
A Note from the Steering Group
suitable access and not compromise the viability of existing uses .
We would like to encourage the use of empty space above retail units to
This idea was discussed with and supported
provide additional residential accom-
by NWBC and the Neighbourhood Plan
modation. This would help bring life
steering group at a joint meeting on 7th May
into the centre of the town, particularly
2015 as detailed in appendix 4c.
in the evenings and at week-ends.
This proposal would support High Street and
October 2015
create a more vibrancy especially after normal business hours. TCLENP5:
Support
better
public
transport links to Coleshill from nearby towns and villages (covered in Transport section). This Neighbourhood Plan supports the continuation and enhancement of local public transport services. These services provide essential links to and from Coleshill to neighbouring towns and villages. Offices and Accommodation in Coleshill High Street North Retail to residential On the conversion of upper retail floors for residential use: Good idea but consider where the residents would enter the building, if you are protecting the shop fronts you do not want to create another entrance at the front, will they have to enter through the shop or from a back entrance? NWBC meeting 7th May 2015 See appendix 4c
Within the local area, Coleshill is seen as a retail and service centre for smaller outlying villages. The preservation and enhancement of the public transport supports the vitality of Coleshill High Street and provides the oppor-
tunity for local people to move with ease within relying on private motor vehicles. Unfortunately bus service 115
has been
cancelled, please see appendix 4d For an explanation from Council.
Warwickshire County
30
Industrial & Commercial Local EconomyEmployment
and
Businesses
within
Coleshill As stated in the introduction to this section, one of the main areas of local economic activity and thus employment is the Coleshill Industrial Estate situated to the North of the town. This area is serviced by the Coleshill
Parkway Rail Station and provides the majority of employment within the town. The success or failure of this area has major
Coleshill Parkway, Coleshill
knock on effects for Coleshill and this plan seeks to support the area while taking into account the possible impacts on the local
Have your say!
roads.
What could be done
to improve
Coleshill’s public transport and encour-
It will be vital to protect existing employment
age people to use it?
land within the industrial estate from changes to other non-employment uses.
“That all bus companies are covered by one of the National Express Trav-
Objective
elcards. I recently considered giving up
In addition to supporting the main retail area
my car and travelling to work bus bus.
of Coleshill in and around the High Street,
The quickest route is 777 and 900 how-
this plan also seeks to ensure the current
ever, it would have involved buying 2
and future employment and business oppor-
bus passes and made it too expensive.
tunities are supported.
Additionally the 777 stops running at 7.00 from International. This bus also
The following proposals aim to support the
serves several major employers - the
current local employment and business with-
NEC, the Airport, Birmingham Business
in Coleshill and where appropriate support
Park and Hams Hall and these run op-
future employment opportunities.
erations which either run 24hrs a day, or have early/late shift which can't be accessed.�
ployment use. Proposals to upgrade or reColeshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire responses: The Neighbourhood Plan should encourage:
develop existing employment buildings will be supported as long as there are no adverse impacts on the amenities of surrounding areas, and that pedestrian, public transport and vehicle access are not compromised.
Shops & retail
45%
Community Services &
37%
recreation
Large numbers of Coleshill’s working population commute outside the town to the larger, adjacent employment centres. Likewise, a large percentage of the people employed
Light industrial &
29%
manufacturing
in Coleshill travel in from the surrounding area. Without more opportunities for more social and affordable housing in the town, this balance is unlikely to be affected.
Have Your Say!
The opening of Coleshill’s Parkway Rail Station has made the Town more attractive
Which areas are best suited to business development in Coleshill?
to people who commute to Birmingham in particular.
“Areas bordering the current industrial estate and abandoned farm buildings e.g. on the way to Bacon’s End island.”
ICLENP1: Identify new employment opportunities and protect existing jobs Employment opportunities are vital to secure a sound economic future for Coleshill. Current employment sites will be protected and supported by the neighbourhood plan. Sites outside the town centre – primarily on the Industrial Estate – should remain in em-
Coleshill’s Industrial Estate from St. Peters and St. Pauls Church Tower circa 1960
32
ICLCNP2: Support the current Industrial Area
Have Your Say!
The main employment hub within the town When asked about local rail service:
is the Coleshill Industrial estate. This area comprises of a mix of office (B1), general
Overall a reliable service at a premium price, offset by no parking charges, poor facilities at the station particularly in the cold weather. Due to the overcrowding in Coleshill and Water Orton I have seen a number of people pass out on the train, personally I’m not too fussed about a seat but being carted like cattle isn’t a great start to the day. What’s needed
a ticket price freeze, improvements to the “metal shelter” for the bad weath-
industrial (B2) and warehouse / distribution (B8) uses. It is essential for the viability of the town that any potential growth within this
area is supported, so long as it does not impact on other existing issues e.g. increased HGV traffic along the High Street. The identified industrial area should continue in its current format for employment opportunities and support future enhancements to current industrial units where the impact on local traffic issues are limited.
er and finally extra carriages. Response
from
a
commuter
at
Coleshill parkway, see 4e.
Coleshill’s Industrial Estate from St. Peters and St. Pauls Church Tower 2015 Coleshill’s Industrial Estate
ICLENP3: Review of the office accommodation available against local need
NWBC on the redevelopment of
Most office space is situated in the Town centre
and
on
the
industrial
office spaces
estate.
Some units are purpose-built but others are based in converted buildings. At present there is no shortage of office accommodation with some space already being considered
for conversion to residential use. Where appropriate this should be supported.
“Have a policy of “we actively encourage the redevelopment of office space back to residential”. Look closely at parking, amenities and if the empty shops are suitable for residential. However be aware that if you are converting office space to residential will
However, any proposals for development of office accommodation into residential will need to include clear evidence of both local
local shops lose out on business i.e. the office workers who buy lunch every day.”
need for the proposed residential use against the need for employment / economic use.
NWBC 7th May joint meeting. Please see appendix 4c
It should be noted, that until May 2016, there are permitted development rights for a change of use from B1 office accommodation into residential uses.
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses: What types of site should be allocated to develop business opportunities? Brown Field (industrial)
41%
Existing buildings
26%
Greenfield (undeveloped land) 1%
Coleshill House offices to let
34
TRANSPORT OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
Transport and Pedestrian Movement. A good local transport network is vital in supporting and encouraging the sustainable growth of Coleshill and to ensure that the town continues to act as a local hub for the surrounding area. This section of the plan sets out a number of proposals to improve local transport and pedestrian links, improve the safety of these links and provide options for moving in and around the town for both residents and visitors. The responses to the NPQ highlighted a number of issues that need to be tackled to improve links with in the town. These focused on reduction of congestion, improved parking, greater public transport options and better sustainable methods of transport.
A Note from Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group It is a widely held belief in Coleshill that through east – west traffic volumes are increasing and that ideas are needed to resolve this. One idea worthy of consideration is a proposal to make use of Faraday Avenue at Hams Hall. Faraday Avenue could be continued, skirting to the north of Shustoke Reservoir and the adjacent railway line, before joining
the B4098 Nuneaton Road. This route would not only avoid Shustoke village and the notorious Coleshill High street cross-roads, it could also remove traffic from other local villages and provide more direct access to the motorway system at Dunton Island. July 2015
Objective The main objective of this section will be to set out a number of proposals to improve the transport and pedestrian links and safety for local residents and visitors to the town.
Articulated Lorries, Trucks and Vans over 7.5 tonnes use Coleshill’s Ancient Bridge illegally to access the Industrial Estate
TPMNP1: Improving safety and reducing congestion formed on the High Street and
NWBC Core Strategy
Cross Roads. This proposal addresses a number of different highlighted issues (CNPQ):
Reduce sheer volume of traffic espe-
cially at peak times within the town
Improve pedestrian safety
Improve appropriate traffic flow through the town
A number of solutions have been presented to meet the objective. Discussions with relevant Highways Agencies and North Warwickshire Borough Council have ensured that the following local policies are in line and in support of the NWBC Core Strategy and future highway plans.
NW21 Transport Opportunities ments
will
for be
securing sought,
improveparticularly
through the A5 Strategy and the re-use of
redundant
railway
lines/corridors
where appropriate. The traffic implications and impact of growth in adjoining area and from development related to High Speed rail will need to be addressed and mitigated through
encouraging
sustainable
transport solutions and measures, including traffic calming and access constraints on the rural road network. NWBC Core Strategy 2014
Impose restrictions on HGV use on cross roads, Blythe Road, Birmingham Road, High Street and Church Hill during peak travel hours
Construction of more appropriate pedestrian crossing
Feasibility study for the construction of Eastern By pass via Faraday Avenue in Hams Hall (linked to future HS2 devel-
opment. It is vital that no future developments in Coleshill or the surrounding areas should have an adverse impact on the cross roads or the associated local roads.
Coleshill’s Crossroads and confusing road signs
36
TPMNP2: Improve parking facilities and
In collating the information received from the
regulations to support viability of Town
Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire
Centre
the issue of increased parking and parking
The issue of parking featured highly in the
regulation was seen as one of the top issues
responses to the CNPQ and is seen by
facing the residents of the town. Following a
many in the town as a block towards improv-
review of these issues a number of solutions
ing the viability of the High Street and the
have been identified and future viability will
town as a whole. This is demonstrated in a
need to be carried out:
number of ways:
Parking located in wrong areas (access to and viability of High Street)
Increase number of weekend parking
way
system
Construction of pick up/drop point on Packington Lane for school use. Love Coleshill
The High Street faces lots of difficulties but the main one is parking.
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses
on
officers for the town
Increase safety in and around secondary school
one
Introduction of Parking enforcement
spaces
a
Sumner Road with echelon parking
Limited availability of long stay parking (no regulation)
Introduce
Marie Stephenson, love Coleshill See Appendix ???
What areas of traffic cause you concern? Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan 44% Parking access to the High Street
Questionnaire Responses
31% Volume of traffic especially at peak times
44% are concerned about lack of parking
30% Traffic Management on High Street & HGV’s on Station Road
31% want improved pedestrian and cy-
access to the High street.
cle routes. 26% want better footpaths and pedestrian areas.
Further discussions with WCC Highways
tionnaire responses to tackle these issues:
are required to review these solutions and to investigate the viability of them. This plan
would like any viable solutions to be included in the Local Transport Plan.
Add pedestrian crossing either side of Chamberlain Walk
Improve pedestrian route from Morrison’s to High Street:
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan
Lower walls along Chamberlain Walk
Questionnaire Responses
Introduction of increased lighting
Introduction of clear signage to High
44% are concerned about lack of
Street and creation of ‘gateway’ ac-
parking access to the High street.
cess to High Street
Consider making available a new park-
31% want improved pedestrian and
ing area close to the A446 and Stone-
cycle routes
bridge allotments to link in with the future plans for the memorial park with
26% want better footpaths and pe-
an specific access to the town centre
destrian areas Each option has been reviewed by the Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Transportapedestrian access
tion Working Group, referenced against the
and safety to/through High Street and
appropriate policy in the NWBC Core Strat-
new housing developments.
egy and would be supported by this plan.
TPMNP3:
Improve
By improving pedestrian access in and around the town, this plan aims to make the
TPMNP4:
town easier and safer to navigate for local
across and in vicinity of Cole End Bridge
residents and visitors.
One of the main areas of congestion within
Improve
vehicle
movement
the town is the single file crossing of Cole This can be achieved in a number of ways:
End Bridge. This was mentioned in the re-
Increase crossing options on main
sponses to the NPQ under a number of dif-
roads (in addition to the new crossing
ferent guises :
on the Coventry Road)
Improve signage and lighting
Increase safety of children attending local schools
A number of solutions have been put forward by local residents in the CNP Ques-
Increased difficulty in crossing Cole End Bridge
Confusion on right of way
HGV’s turning on Station Road
HGV’s using Cole End Bridge
38
In addition to this issue being highlighted a number of solutions were also presented:
Priority
signs
for
bridge
crossing
(within an appropriate scale to protect the historic setting of the bridge)
Traffic calming measures (to be further investigated)
Have Your Say! “The crossroads has always created an issue and continues to be a massive problem for safety and traffic congestion. Lights would resolve some of the problems but may cause tailbacks
Re-direction of HGV’s to avoid High Street and Cole End Bridge
now that Morrisons has access points on the same road. There is (sic) few disabled parking bays, and those we
Each option has been reviewed by the Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Transportation Working Group and will be forwarded to the newly emerging traffic management group when they are formed.
have are more often than not occupied by cars not displaying a disabled badge. Therefore disabled drivers tend to park on the double yellow lines on
the High Street and cause congestions. It is too late to keep OUR car
This plan would like the viability of these solutions to be further investigated and discussions with Warwickshire County Council
park, but parking does need to be a strong consideration in any future developments that are allowed.”
Highways department to be held. Funding options would also need to be further investigated. HGV traffic has been a problem for Coleshil, Love Coleshill
signage has been placed on A446 and A47
The High Street depends on locals, visitors and passing trade and with effective signage everyone is aware of the things that we have to offer. If people do not know what is available they may pass by without having set foot on the High Street. Marie
Stephenson,
to direct heavy vehicles to Birmingham Road roundabout for east bound traffic and to Gorsey Lane for traffic to access the Station Road Industrial estate.
Other signs
show a route to Hams Hall for HGV traffic
approaching the town from Shustoke, The only possible route is to continue forward onto the Birmingham Road the A446 and
Love
Please see appendix 4a.
Coleshill.
A47 to Birmingham.
. A Note from the Steering Group
HGV traffic at the Green Man crossroads can create heavy tailbacks but must be prohibited from turning up the High Street to ac-
The issue of HGV’s leaving the A446
cess the A446.
onto the Birmingham Road to access
Street is not wide enough to accommodate
the Industrial Estate via the crossroads
HGV traffic. Even normal car traffic flow is
and Cole End Bridge is a problem.
difficult to maintain at peak hours in particu-
Signage on the A446 should reinforce
lar.
that there is no through route to the in-
It is imperative that no HGV traffic is allowed
dustrial estate for HGV’s in Coleshill.
to turn into the lower High Street. The only
This is because the High
HGV traffic would result in gridlock.
'escape' route available to such traffic is over Current signage is not sufficient to get this message across to HGV drivers who often find themselves on the Bir-
mingham Road with no where to turn around and are forced to access the Industrial Estate via the Cross Roads and illegally use Cole End Bridge.
the Cole Bridge, which is not strong enough to cope with regular usage by such heavy, wide vehicles.
It's an accident waiting to
happen. This is also true of HGV's trying to leave Station Road in the direction of Lichfield Road. Damage has already been caused to the bridge because large vehicles have been un-
Businesses on Station Road need to
able to make the turn. The only exit from
educate their HGV traffic of the re-
Station Road is onto Gorsey Lane.
strictions to stop the use of the Lichfield Road, Cole End Bridge and Cross
The imminent arrival of a supermarket on
Roads.
Station Road is a welcome development and
September 2015
opens up the possibility of replacing additional industrial units, when they are vacated, with houses. Such change to residential use
Articulated Lorries, Trucks and Vans over 7.5 tonnes use Coleshill’s Ancient Bridge illegally to access the Industrial Estate
on the east side of Station Road as far
as Temple Way would further relieve this section of Station Road and Coles End Bridge from HGV movements.
40
tected. Where possible they should be en-
ENVIRONMENT OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
hanced or expanded to further preserve the character of the town and to reinforce the town boundaries.
This section will cover the proposals in regard to the environmental aspects within
The responses to the questionnaire also
Coleshill. This will include, ecological fea-
highlighted the importance of the historic en-
tures, public open space, sustainable move-
vironment (listed buildings and conservation
ment options and our conservation area
area) in keeping the character of the town and preserve them for future generations.
All proposals have received support from the local residents through the responses received in the questionnaire. As stated, Coleshill is a historic market town and is proud of its heritage. There is much that is valued in its landscape, and buildings that must be preserved and enhanced in the future. The conservation area contains much of the character of the town which includes a number of listed buildings. P36: Coleshill’s Cricket Pitch on Memorial Park The town is located in a ecologically diverse
area which contributes to a wider environmental sensitive hinterland of North Warwickshire.
Objective: The main objective of this section is the
The town has numerous public open spaces
preservation and enhancement of the local
(including playing fields) which are seen as
environment including our green open spac-
vitality important for both recreation and the
es and historic core. The proposals set out
maintenance of the open feel to the town,
hope to achieve this while still providing flexi-
they also reinforce the links with the sur-
bility for sustainable growth within the town.
rounding countryside. In the responses to the questionnaire received, it was stated that all current public open space (including playing fields) be pro-
The people of Coleshill are committed to the
ENP1: Preservation of Existing Conserva-
protection and enhancement of their existing
tion Area
environment and champion its improvement into the future. Of particular concern is the
The Coleshill conservation area is one of the
preservation of historic buildings, the High
main features of our town. The majority of
Street and the conservation area together
the historic and listed buildings are situated
with the open and public green spaces that
within this area. In order to ensure the herit-
are the hallmarks of the character of this
age of the town is protected and where pos-
town.
sible enhanced, the current conservation area should be preserved and highlighted.
For any future development, especially those revolving around transport issues, local peo-
This will ensure that the town:
ple are anxious to ensure appropriate miti-
Maintains its historic character
gating factors are the focus of any decision
Protects all existing historic buildings
making process.
Protects all historic views across and into the town
Though responses to the questionnaire, local residents expressed the desire to protect and enhance the local environment. A number of specific proposals were highlighted in the responses and are detailed below:
From the Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire responses , a number of solutions have been developed to take this proposal forward
Update list of all historic buildings within Conservation area
Ensure any new development be in line with the character of the area
Undertake a local review of which buildings should be listed with the conservation area. This proposal is supported by the NWBC Core Strategy Policy NW11. Furthermore, on-going discussions with Natural England and Historic England will conNWBC Cole End Park and Nature Reserve
tinue to ensure the support for the current conservation area.
42
ENP2: Preservation of Existing Green NWBC Core Strategy 2015
Open Space
NW11 Natural & Historic Environment
Our green and open space is one of the most valuable assets of our town. It is es-
The quality, character, diversity and lo-
sential that this green open space identified
cal distinctiveness of the natural and
in figure is protected and maintained,
historic environment will be protected
and enhanced. In particular:
These spaces provide valuable leisure and recreational space for the local community
• Within identified landscape character
and visitors to the area. In addition, these
areas development will conserve, en-
spaces provide the required natural bounda-
hance and where appropriate, restore
ries within the town. The main sites identified
landscape character as well as promote
are:
a resilient, functional landscape able to adapt to climate change. Specific land-
Memorial Park (details in separate proposal)
scape, geo-diversity, wildlife and historic features which contribute to local char-
Allotments
acter will be protected and enhanced;
Community Centre Park
Brendan Close Park
• The quality of the historic environment,
Coleshill Town Football Club
including archaeological features, will
Cole End Park
be protected and enhanced, and wher-
Southfields Farm Nature Trail
ever possible, a sustainable reuse of the historic building will be sought.
In addition, the following open space will also be protected from future development:
Coleshill’s conservation area High Street South
Wingfield Road
Coventry Road (Horse paddock)
Green Lane
Station Road
Temple Way
Chestnut Grove
14
14 6
13
3
7
15 4
5
1 2
10 12
Green spaces in Coleshill. Kindly reproduced with permission from NWBC.
44
Leisure and Recreational Areas in Coleshill Site Code 1
Address
Area
Description
Memorial Park,
South
West of Coleshill the park comprises of Coleshill Cricket Club, two football pitches, skate park, basketball court and children's play area. Coleshill Town Council are currently regenerating the area.
South
West of Memorial Park and bordering the A446, the plot contains approximately 40 allotments and is administered by Coleshill Town Council.
Gilson, Grimstock and North Beggars Well Allotments
Three interconnecting allotment sites between Coleshill and Gilson and bordered by the A446 the plots contains approximately 60 allotments that are administered by Coleshill Town Council.
Park Road Coleshill B46 3LD 2
Stonebridge Allotment
B46 3HA
3
B46 1LJ 4
Blythe Allotments
South
B46 1AF
Small allotment site bordering farmers fields down towards the Blythe Valley, the plots contain approximately 10 allotments and is administered by Coleshill Town Council,
5
Maxstoke Lane Allot- South ments
Small allotment site comprising of approximately 10 allotments.
6
Community Centre North Park and play area
Play area and field servicing the north of Coleshill and administered by Coleshill Town Council.
Temple Way B46 1HN 7
Cole End Park, play North area and Nature Reserve (the rocket park) B46 1BG
8 Not Shown 9 No Shown
Brendan Area
Administered by NWBC Cole End park has just been upgraded to a nature reserve and now includes a walk from the river to the rocket park, the park is also included in the wider Tame Valley Wetlands initiative.
Close
Play South
Administered by NWBC, created to service the new housing areas in the South of Coleshill.
Coleshill Town Packington Lane
FC, South
Home to Coleshill Town F.C a successful and popular lower league team.
B46 3EF
B46 3JE
Open Spaces in Coleshill
Site Code 10
Address
Area
Description
Wingfield/Digby Road
South
Open space administered by NWBC, used by local residents for leisure.
South
Open space Administered by NWBC, used by local residents fro leisure.
South
Open area administered by Coleshill Town Council, a popular dog walking route.
North
Open space administered by NWBC, the ground suffers from its close proximity to the industrial estate and HGV’s turning in the area
North
Open space Administered by NWBC, used by local residents fro leisure.
North
Open space as part of the housing development including a copse of trees, land adopted by WCC
B46 3LP 11
Coventry Road/
Not Packington Lane shown B46 3EL 12
Green Lane B46 3NE
13
Station Road
B46 1HE
14
Temple Way B46 1HN
15
Chestnut Grove B46 1AD
Additional open spaces in Coleshill
46
In addition all current school fields will be continued to be protected.
NWBC Core Strategy 2015 NW13 Green Infrastructure
Any proposed development that neighbours onto the above sites will need to take consid-
Throughout the borough a compre-
eration of the importance of the sites and
hensive network of high quality, multi-
any possible views into and from the sites.
functional, green spaces, corridors and other historic and natural environ-
This proposal has been included due to the
mental features will be maintained,
responses received in the Neighbourhood
enhanced and created for flora, fauna
Plan questionnaire. By protecting the afore-
and humans, which link into the sub-
mentioned sites the neighbourhood plan is
regional green infrastructure networks.
ensuring their usage for future generations.
Development proposals must demonstrate how they contribute to maintain-
This proposal is support by the NWBC Core
ing and enhancing a comprehensive
Strategy Policy NW13 (Green Infrastructure)
and strategically planned green infra-
which outlines that any new developments
structure network, where appropriate.
should contribute to maintaining and enhancing any strategically planned green infrastructure. Furthermore, the identified spaces are a haven for local wildlife as detailed on page 57 Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses Do you use any of the following? The Memorial Park 34%
Coleshill’s Cole End Park
The Croft
33%
Cole End Park
31%
Old Mill Road Park
18%
ENP3: Creation of Cycle Parking Facili-
In May 2015 Coleshill Town Council applied
ties and New Cycle Paths
for funding through the HS2 community fund to support this proposal.
In addition to the preservation and enhancement of public footpaths in the previous pro-
See appendix 5a & 5b for map and HS2 ap-
posal, another option for sustainable travel
plication.
would be improved cycle options via the creation of Cycle Parking Facilities and new cy-
cle paths linking the following areas:
Town Centre with Coleshill Parkway Train Station
Town Centre with Coleshill Secondary School and Leisure Centre
Cycle paths within Coleshill with the national Sustrans Cycle Network—Route 53 (Coventry to Birmingham) see page 48 for map.
Possible locations for proposed Cycle Park currently being considered include Coleshill
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses 31% Want improved pedestrian and cycle routes 16% Want additional cycle lanes in Coleshill 12% Want extended cycle paths 9% Want additional cycle racks and better promotion of cycle routes
Town Hall, Coleshill Parkway Train Station and the Coleshill Leisure Centre Have Your Say! The provision of dedicated cycle paths and Cycle Park will increase the established
“Develop a strategy for long distance
transport links within the parish boundaries,
cycle and footpaths without using
increase links with the wider area and pro-
roads, that circle the town, using exist-
vide a sustainable transport option for resi-
ing public rights of way, encouraging
dents and visitors. Furthermore, the provi-
farmers to open up permitted foot-
sion of new cycle facilities would provide
paths. Try and develop cycle/foot
positive health benefits to local residents.
paths to attractions eg Kingsbury Water Park using the same”
Funding should be sought from any major future developments including High Speed 2, as part of community gain for the benefit of the town and local residents.
48
ENP4: Preservation and Enhancement of Public Footpaths
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses
A number of responses highlighted that current public footpaths should be protected
56% Want the upkeep of all green ar-
and, where possible enhanced, these in-
eas and footpaths
cluded: 31% Want improved pedestrian and
Any public footpaths affected by any fu-
cycle routes
ture developments (including HS2) to be diverted to create a new and full pathway and green mitigation measure introduced. Notification of any alterations to
The consideration of WCC to make
footpaths from development to be pre-
Coleshill a 20mph zone through the
sented to Coleshill Town Council prior to
High Street.
commencement of works.
Town Council review of signage wel-
Connection of Cole End Walk to the pro-
coming people into Coleshill new sign-
posed cycle route see ENP4 via a new
age should say something along the
public footpath / walkway.
lines of “Welcome to Coleshill, a pe-
Ensure all existing public footpaths are to
destrian and cycle friendly town”
be preserved, easy to negotiate and well
directed ( to / from town centre)
These public footpaths provide essential
New signage to be developed to high-
connections to all areas of the town and to
light existing footpaths linking the town
vital pubic transport links to and from
centre with other areas of the town
Coleshill which can also be linked to in-
(positive health benefits also to be inves-
creased local eco-
tigated) such as Coleshill Parkway Train
nomic
Station.
ties.
Please see appendix c&d for footpath maps
& HS2 funding. Other ideas include:
Annual Coleshill Town Council reviews of town pedestrian safety on all walkways
opportuni-
NWBC Cole End Park and Nature Reserve
ENP5: Land to be Reserved for Extension
2020.
of Cemetery The provision of a local cemetery and its
If the town is to continue to be registered as
continued use was referenced in responses
a ‘Burials Authority’ into the future, then ne-
to the Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire.
gotiations need to be commenced with the
The current cemetery is nearing capacity,
objective of acquiring additional land.
with roughly sufficient burial space to last until 2020 and therefore land is required for
Coleshill
Neighbourhood
Plan
Steering
expansion.
Group would look to NWBC to discuss cemetery provision with Coleshill Town Council
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan
as and when land becomes available.
Questionnaire Responses Coleshill Town Council 26% of returned questionnaires wanted to protect Coleshill’s Cemetery
“Coleshill Town Council is looking to expand its cemetery provision.
The Au-
thority has a reserve fund available for Coleshill Town Council are currently looking
land purchase and is adding to this
at options for this expansion, this includes :
each year. It is ready to acquire a site as soon as suitable land becomes avail-
Purchase of land neighbouring the cur-
able, so finding a site is a very current
rent cemetery.
objective.
Purchase of land elsewhere in the
town. The expansion of the current cemetery provision would provide the required space for short and medium term use and future proof the demand for burial space in the long term. St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church yard and the town’s cemetery are maintained by Coleshill Town Council, the Town Clerk also being the Cemetery Superintendent. It is estimated that there is space in the cemetery to meet the needs of the town until the end of
Coleshills Cemetery and its views of the Blythe Valley
50
ENP6: Preserve Current Flood Prevention
(SFRA) update in July 2013. This updated
Measures
the Level 1 SFRA, completed in February
Due to the location of the River Cole, the En-
2008.
vironment Agency introduced flood risk management plans (FRMPs) for the Coleshill ar-
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan
ea. These plans highlight the hazards and
Questionnaire Responses
risks of flooding from rivers, surface water, groundwater and reservoirs, and set out how
Risk Management Authorities (RMAs) work
24% of residents wanted to protect the current flood prevention measures
together with communities to manage flood risk.
The preservation of these measures were highlighted in the responses to the NPQ with
The FRMPs are currently being produced by
the designations of the current flood plains
the Environment Agency with the final publi-
being preserved as one of the top responses
cation date being December 2015. Within
in this category. The Coleshill Neighbour-
the plans they will have objectives for man-
hood Plan supports all future FRMP’s.
aging flood risk and proposed measures. See appendix 5e for flood plane map. In addition the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires that Local Plans
Have Your Say!
should be supported by a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA). The SFRA identi-
“The river Cole should be looked after
fies areas that may flood, taking into account
more, I often see volunteers helping to
all potential sources of flooding. It is used to
clean it up after it has been left for a
inform planning policies and assist Local
while. I would help with this but never
Planning Authorities in directing new devel-
see the adverts for help.”
opment to areas of lower flood risk and ensure that new development helps to manage flood risk. Therefore, the SFRA will be an important evidence base document that un-
derpins Warwickshire County Council’s Minerals and Waste Development Framework. Warwickshire County Council, Stratford-onAvon District Council, Rugby Borough Council and North Warwickshire Borough Council commissioned consultants to undertake a Level Strategic Flood Risk Assessment
Coleshills’s ancient bridge across the river Cole
ENP7: Support enhancements to Coleshill
The Memorial Park Project
Memorial Park In July 2015, Coleshill Town Council approved a masterplan and schedule of works for the upgrading of facilities for the Memorial Park. This is required, as it is felt within the town that the current facilities are not up to modern standards and that there has been a steady decline
in the use of park.
In 2014 Coleshill Town Council conducted a public Consultation on plans to develop its Memorial Park Area of the residents that responded: 434 said they would welcome developments to the Memorial Park area
23 said no to the redevelopment of the area
The Memorial Park is approximately 7.5 hectares of green space at the heart of Coleshill. It has reportedly been used for cricket since 1854 (under the former name of the Swan Field) and for football since 1885. The park was brought
Figures taken from Moore Environments’ “Improvements to Memorial Park Coleshill Report of 2014 Public Consultation No 1410/RT2
with money gifted to the town by the Digby family in 1951, under covenant that it shall only be used for recreational purposes, and has been
Coleshill Town Council
used successfully for a wide range of recrea-
The Town Council is committed to protect-
tional activities since that time.
ing and improving the Memorial Park as an outdoor area for sports and recreation. The
In addition to the state of the current facilities,
Council has recently invested in the current
some of the footpaths and gateways are unsuit-
children play area and has now commis-
able for providing inclusive access to all mem-
sioned a local landscape architect to plan
bers of the community, sporting facilities are in
and implement a complete renovation. The
need of refurbishment, there are derelict and
project will see current facilities brought up
underused areas and some of the boundaries
to standard and new sports equipment add-
need to be strengthened and improved.
ed in an effort to make the area a more enjoyable place to play sport and to relax with
The proposals supported by this plan will ad-
family and friends. The Council hopes the
dress these issues and provide the residents of
investment made in the park will result in its
Coleshill with a high class facility that will serve
increased use and a rise in the number of
current and future generations and preserve an
local people enjoying sport. This should
important and historic green open space.
help to contribute to creating a healthy society that can come together through sport
See appendix 5f & 5g for memorial park project maps.
and a love of the outdoors
52
ENP8: Replanting of the Coleshill corri-
ENP9: Protection of Views into Coleshill
dor with natural woodland to enhance the
As previously stated the views into the town
natural buffer between the town and the
are one of the cherished characteristics by
national road network
local residents. Its essential that these views
The identity and independence of Coleshill is
are protected, therefore any future develop-
one of its most endearing aspects. As previ-
ment proposals that could impact these vis-
ously stated, one of the aims of this plan is to
tas should be carefully considered by NWBC
ensure that the town is still recognisable in
and be in scale with surrounding develop-
thus state when it celebrates its 900th anni-
ment.
versary in 2107 Any future development will need to be in One way in which to ensure this would be
character with its local environment and not
the replanting of the Coleshill corridor with
have a significant impact on the important
natural woodland. This would also provide
historic vistas into the town.
an enhance buffer to muffle the noise of local and future transport connections. It would
Have Your Say!
have a positive visual impact upon the boundaries of the town and would provide
We would like to see the continued sep-
enhanced wildlife habitats.
aration of Coleshill from the Birmingham protected along with the attractive build-
In May 2015 Coleshill Town Council applied
ings on the High Street and Coventry
for funding through the HS2 community fund
Road. Also the green belt area to the
to support this proposal.
east of the town must be protected from development to continue to provide
See appendix 5h for the HS2 application.
space, scenery and footpaths.
Have Your Say! “Obviously the town is bordered by motorways, environmentally I wish that there was more "soundproofing" . Aircraft noise is not a problem, but constant motorway drone is a major nuisance.” Coleshill’s Blythe Valley
dwellings) with payments delivered prior to
CIL OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
the
completion
of
the
development
(depending on the amount of floor space being developed). This will provide NWBC
In March 2015, North Warwickshire Bor-
with the opportunity to develop or enhance
ough Council undertook a public consulta-
the required infrastructure to support the
tion on the adoption of the Community Infra-
new development.
structure Levy (CIL) schedule of charges for
all appropriate development within the Bor-
It is advised that Coleshill Town Council re-
ough.
view the need for future infrastructure requirements for the Town and confirm them
The CIL will be a new mechanism for secur-
with North Warwickshire Borough Council.
ing contributions for new or enhanced infrastructure where development has an impact
Other areas that Coleshill Neighbourhood
on the local area.
Plan Steering Group would like NWBC to consider in relation to any CIL money is
In responding to the CIL consultation,
school and medical provision.
Coleshill Town Council stated that they were in support of the proposed CIL sched-
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan welcomes
ule of charges, however, would wish details
the opportunities presented by the introduc-
to be provided on how NWBC would pro-
tion of a revised CIL by NWBC. The process
pose to allocate the CIL funds generated by
of securing CIL funding for Coleshill will be
developments within Coleshill.
managed by NWBC with representation from Coleshill Town Council with the added
It is vital that any funds allocated through
advantage of an approved Neighbourhood
CIL benefit the local community within
Plan to support the CIL bids that it makes.
Coleshill. Initial ideas for allocation of CIL funds could focus on the following:
New or enhanced road crossing
New or enhanced children’s play areas
Greening / Environmental projects
Additional parking provision
New or enhanced cycle routes
CIL contributions will be based on a set charge per square meter of floor space for all new developments (excluding single
Coleshill’s Neighbourhood Plan Questionnaire Responses 28% Want improvements to Coleshill’s service for Children 27% Want improvements to leisure and recreational services
54
Coleshill Schools
cumstance where parents opt for the more
It is always difficult to predict accurately the
distant but smaller infant school.
number and age-profile of school-age children which any given development will gen-
The Coleshill School (11 - 19 Business and
erate, but it is generally far fewer than one
Enterprise Academy) is Coleshill's commu-
might imagine. For example, the Parkfield
nity secondary school.
development in Castle Bromwich which is
with approximately one thousand students
larger and has a much greater diversity of
and there is a separate part of the school
housing than anything currently under de-
building for their high achieving sixth form.
The school works
velopment or envisaged in Coleshill, did not require any new school building with the two
Coleshill's new leisure centre is now on the
popular primary schools easily able to ab-
school site and is a shared facility with the
sorb the growth.
local community. Public access to the centre's sports hall is limited, during school
The primary schools in Coleshill are popular
hours. The School is also a member of the
and oversubscribed. However the admis-
Arthur Terry Learning Partnership - a family
sion regulations are driven primarily by dis-
of seven schools. Arthur Terry is an out-
tance from school.
Sibling relationships
standing teaching school and the partner-
and, as both the primary schools are church
ship with Coleshill School will enable the
aided,
school to meet high standards of perfor-
religious
affiliation
also
play
a
part. As all the current and envisaged new
mance and academic achievement."
developments in Coleshill are in the centre of the town any children will almost certainly
Coleshill School has places and should be
gain a place at the expense of those who
able to admit all Coleshill students who wish
live further away.
to enrol there, without the need to displace any potential students who live in North
In the case of Coleshill CE Primary School,
Solihull or further afield.
for example, about 20% of the current
funding from CIL for local educational provi-
school roll live in north Solihull. As families
sion should be discussed with the local edu-
move into the newly built houses, there
cation authority. Please see appendix 6a.
would be fewer places available to offer to children who live further away. The situation at St Edward’s RC Primary School is broadly similar. High Meadow Infant School tends to take pupils from north of the River Cole. It, too, should be able to absorb the children from the new developments in cir-
The Coleshill School
Any available
Local GP Services
was opened on the Coleshill Academy site.
Health services are managed and provided
Although smaller in floor area, the new cen-
at the Hazelwood Surgery on Parkfield
tre has state of the art facilities which have
Road. The building itself was modern fifty
been designed to meet the needs of a busy
years ago. While it still has sufficient con-
secondary school and the community it
sultation rooms for the doctors and nursing
serves. It is an imaginative and flexible de-
staff, there is insufficient parking space for
sign which makes full use of the space
patients and the waiting area is dated.
available. And although the sports hall is
not always free for public use during school The surgery is completely closed for an
hours, a wide range of sporting activities are
hour at lunchtime during the week – but is
available and it can also be hired for private
open on Saturday mornings for urgent cas-
functions.
es. Currently, patients requesting personal appointments are contacted by telephone
However access for local people without
by a doctor who will assesses their need for
their own transport can be an issue and it is
a face-to-face diagnosis.
hoped that there will be
public transport
available especially for people living at the The population of Coleshill has remained
north end of the town.
reasonably stable – only increasing by 200 in the decade from 2001 to 2011. Howev-
Shuttle bus
er, the percentage of residents currently
One suggestion to improve access to the
over the age of 60 years has risen to 28%.
leisure facilities and increase the use of the leisure centre and reduce the cars parking
The projected Core Strategy increase in
in Packington lane would be the introduction
housing units set at 275 will put additional
of a shuttle bus running from North to South
pressures on the system with approximately
Coleshill.
another 650+ residents moving into the area. Hazelwood Practice have stated that 275 extra houses WILL NOT affect them by
Have Your Say!
putting too much Pressure into their re-
sources, Please see 6b & 6c for their full
“To walk to and from the new facilities
response.
would take an hour. If I did this why
Leisure Centre In November 2014, Coleshill's old leisure centre in the memorial Park closed for the last time. Simultaneously, the new centre
would I need to work out?”
56
Allotments
COLESHILLS SERVICES OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
Churches Within Coleshill there are five churches or religious organisations serving the local community and surrounding areas. In order
to better serve the local community, the churches have developed an organisation to promote the services available within the different churches and to foster positive relationships between different faiths. This organisation is called Churches Together and have the following mission statement: ‘Coleshill’s spiritual health is overseen and nurtured by all the churches working together in fellowship. The work is guided by a covenant, renewed at an annual joint service to mark the anniversary of its signing, and reviewed every five years.
Allotments in Coleshill are provided by the Town Council on four sites. They have regained popularity and importance in recent times.
Allotment holders are consulted
about
proposed
developments
Memorial Park and at Gilson. Smaller sites are on the Blythe Road and in Maxstoke Lane. Coleshill Town Council currently own 102 Allotments in Coleshill these are located at Blythe Road, Stonebridge Road and Grimstock Hill/Gilson. In recent years Coleshill
Town Council have ran yearly competitions to actively encourage allotment holders old and new to tend and make the best of their plot. Allotment holders are also encouraged to join national allotment competitions with some allotment holders winning North Warwickshire Borough Council awards.
grown up between the congregations. The covenant, whilst remaining true to different traditions, commits them to pray and work together towards that unity for which Christ prayed, and to continue together in a spirit of openness and generosity. The covenant includes shared acts of service; creating opportunities for people of all building one another up through prayer and mutual support, and making time to enjoy each other’s company.’
the
sites. The major sites are adjacent to the
A strong sense of fellowship and unity has
ages and backgrounds to come together;
on
Coleshill’s United Church
Town Hall and Community Centre In recent years, Coleshill Town Council has
Within the boundary we have Cole End
undertaken a major programme of moderni-
Park, a Local Nature Reserve, Southfields
sation with the Town Hall. Coleshill needs a
Farm which has many permissive footpaths
centre where a range of community activity
and includes a wild flower meadow, wide
and meetings can take place in pleasant
margins round the fields and specially plant-
surroundings. The quality of the building
ed areas providing food for birds and in-
has now had an effect on its populari-
sects.
ty. Consequently the revenue from rentals and bookings has become an impressive
The Tame Valley Wetlands project aims to
feature of the Town Council’s income.
connect Coleshill to ancient pathways running north from the town and restoring his-
The fabric of the Community Centre has al-
toric land marks such as the Drayton
so been improved and it is well-used. Un-
Bridge.
fortunately the Play Area has become a regular target for petty vandalism Coleshill Town Council have a long term plan of in-
Tame Valley Wetlands
stalling cameras onto the site to prevent this.
The Tame Valley Wetlands is a landscape partnership scheme, led by
Wildlife in Coleshill Coleshill, perched on a hill in North Warwickshire, while on the outskirts of Birmingham and Solihull is surrounded by green fields which contain a wealth of natural history. There are three rivers associated with Coleshill. The boundary to the East is the River Blythe which is a Site of Special Sci-
entific Interest, the River Cole runs through the North of the town underneath the ancient bridge and a little further north, the River Tame just outside our boundary. These three rivers join very close to Hams Hall Distribution Park which adjoins our northern boundary.
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and a partnership of local and national organisations. Our vision is ‘to create a wetland landscape, rich in wildlife and accessible to all’ between Birmingham and Tamworth, in North Warwickshire and south-east Staffordshire. For more information please visit our website http:// www.tamevalleywetlands.co.uk/
58
ment target for North Warwickshire over a
SUMMARY
15 year period. It is, however, up to the
OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
Borough Council to break down this total figure and ascribe targets to individual town
This first Neighbourhood Plan for Coleshill
and parish Councils. Setting ‘total targets’
is the direct product of responses to the
can be a lengthy process and a complex
questionnaire which was distributed to all
equation if it includes cross-boundary nego-
households in the town. It is a summary of
tiations with adjoining authorities who are
all the evidence submitted by people who
assessed as having greater need.
live and work in Coleshill, and from students
cases, Borough targets can be increased
who attended the Sixth Form at Coleshill
and may still be subject to later review.
In such
School.
In the hierarchy of parishes within the
While it has been designed to meet the le-
Borough, Coleshill is categorised as a
gal requirements and format of the National
Market Town in the Green Belt.
Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the
Over a 15 year period, Coleshill’s cur-
NWBC Core Strategy, the primary objec-
rent construction target for new dwell-
tives throughout the document are implaca-
ings is 275.
bly focused on specific details which will al-
The NWBC Site Allocation Plan indi-
low our town to develop, while retaining its
cates that this is an achievable target.
unique identity, characteristics and bounda-
It is also anticipated that some ‘windfall
ries.
sites’ will emerge to meet any shortfall.
The
lists
of
recommendations
in
These developments must take place
the
within the boundaries of our town – the
Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan range from
surrounding green belt is protected.
the protection of existing, valued and pro-
While this embargo is currently abso-
ductive assets, to addressing shortfalls in
lute, it is always possible for the Gov-
provision which merit more immediate atten-
ernment to amend this law.
tion and longer-term planning. It is intended
Whenever possible, brownfield sites
that the Neighbourhood Plan will guide plan-
should used. This refers to land which
ning over the next fifteen years, although it
has been built on previously.
will be subject to review. This summary
gives insight into the main points.
Housing design should blend into the immediate environment.
A mix of housing should be planned
Housing
with a focus on social housing and af-
Our Planning Authority, NWBC, is required
fordable starter homes. There should
by regulation to meet a housing develop-
also be opportunities for down-sizing.
In the allocation of social housing, ad-
new businesses to the town. Encour-
ditional priority should be given to ap-
age local organisations to promote
plicants who have grown up or work in
this. Look at opportunities for Commu-
Coleshill.
nity Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding.
Address the shortage of suitable park-
Economy
ing so shoppers can access the High
A strong local economy is a key element for
Street easily.
the
preservation
and
enhancement
of
Coleshill as a centre of business life and employment, both in the town itself, the in-
Promote more market outlets for local
producers.
Coleshill’s Parkway Station has made
dustrial estates and for the surrounding vil-
the town more accessible to potential
lages.
commuting employees. It’s important that local bus services enable access
The number and variety of local amenities were high on the list why people liked living
for people from surrounding area.
The main area of employment is locat-
in Coleshill. Responses showed a high lev-
ed to the north of the town on the In-
el of support for independent traders and
dustrial Estate.
the character of the High Street. However,
economic viability of Coleshill that
our commercial community is having to con-
there is a potential for growth and di-
tend with competition from the internet,
versity.
large superstores and out-of-town shopping
centres.
It’s essential for the
Care must be taken to keep all HGV traffic well away from the High Street and the Cole End bridge.
It is essential to maintain the retail
Where appropriate, consideration may
frontages on the High Street wherever
be given for superfluous office space
possible. The proliferation of office ac-
to be converted for residential use.
commodation into former shopping
premises will have a catastrophic ef-
Transport
fect.
A good local transport network is vital to
Where the design allows, it is possible
support and encourage the sustainable
to make shopping premises more eco-
growth of Coleshill.
nomically viable by using upper floor
that the town continues to act as a local hub
levels as residential accommodation.
for the surrounding area.
Market forces will have a huge bearing
on which retail outlets are attracted to Coleshill. This does not mean that efforts can’t be made to attract diverse
It will help to ensure
Improve pedestrian access and safety – especially around the schools.
Improved parking with access to High Street.
60
Strategies to improve the traffic flow
could link the town centre with Parkway Sta-
and reduce the heavy volume of traffic
tion, schools and leisure centre.
in the town – especially at peak times on the High Street and the Green Man
Coleshill is also a Burial Authority.
crossroads.
Ongoing feasibility study for the con-
The River Cole is subject to flood prevention
struction of an Eastern By-pass via
measures.
Faraday Avenue, Hams Hall. (Linked
to future HS2 development).
Update the list of all important build-
Parking enforcement to become Coun-
ings within the current Conservation
cil responsibility – especially abuse of
Area.
disabled parking spaces.
Ensure that any new developments
Re-direction of all HGV’s to avoid High
are compatible with the with the histor-
Street and the Cole End bridge –
ic character of the area.
which has already sustained damage.
Priority signs for bridge crossing.
Management of HGV movements on
Protect historic views in the town and on the approaches.
Protect the green open spaces. The
Station Road to a Gorsey Lane exit
Town Council is responsible for the
route.
Croft and the Memorial Park.
There
are exciting plans to improve facilities for park users in the immediate future.
Environment Coleshill is an historic market town and resi-
The Old Mill Road and Cole End Park
dents are proud of its heritage. There are
as the responsibility of NWBC who
many features of its landscape and build-
have developed a nature reserve.
ings which people wish to see preserved
and enhanced in the future. The Conservation Area, especially, contains much of the
Protect the current school playing fields.
character of the town and listed buildings.
Coleshill is virtually surrounded by green
belt
land
and
any
future
development must demonstrate that it Coleshill has a number of public open spac-
is compatible with the current green
es – and school playing fields, essential for
infrastructure.
recreation and leisure.
They also help to
Protect the system of public footpaths,
maintain an open feel to the town and rein-
especially those which may be affect-
force links with the surrounding countryside.
ed by the construction of the planned
Coleshill’s public footpaths need to be main-
HS2 railway link. Consider new sign-
tained and protected.
age highlighting links to town centre.
New cycle paths
New cycle paths within the town to im-
local authority’s Assessment, State-
prove access to key areas – and provi-
menting and Reviewing Service.
sion of secure cycle parking facilities.
The primary and secondary schools
If Coleshill is to continue to be regis-
are confident that they can respond to
tered as a Burial Authority, plans need
requests for places for children from
to be made to acquire additional land.
Coleshill families.
Coleshill to follow the recommenda-
Hazelwood Group Practice responds
tions of the current Flood Risk man-
to the needs of patients from a wider
agement Plan.
catchment area than just Coleshill.
Consider the planting of natural wood-
The GP’s have adjusted their referral
land in the Coleshill corridor to reduce
strategy and feel they can cope with
noise and improve the visual impact
an anticipated rise in patient numbers.
between the town, the motorway sys-
tem and HS2.
Coleshill’s new leisure centre opened on the Coleshill school site in November 2014. Facilities are modern and
Community, Leisure and Wellbeing
flexible. Some areas are used by stu-
Consultation with Coleshill residents con-
dents during school hours. The centre
firmed the view that there is an active com-
can be difficult to access by public
munity life in the town. This refers both to
transport.
statutory services – education, health and
leisure - and to the activities of many groups and organisations.
They respond to the
The Town Council allotments continue to be popular.
The town hall and community centre
needs of individuals and families in the town
have been modernised and the result
and are often a vital ingredient to the feeling
has been an increase in use by the
that they do belong within that community.
community. The civic centre play area has been a focus for persistent vandal-
Coleshill has two primary schools
ism - -possible future CIL investment
which are church-aided. A further pri-
may assist.
mary school is for infants only.
On a spiritual and a practical level,
The Coleshill School is a community
churches in Coleshill and Maxstoke co
secondary academy which is a part of
-operate with each other.
the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership.
Churches Together aim to promote fel-
The Woodlands School is situated in
lowship and unity between the congre-
Coleshill but meets the needs of pupils
gations.
from a wider catchment area. Admission is only for children referred by the
Coleshill
62
cension Planning
PHOTOGAPHS
OUR MAIN ISSUES AND AREAS OF FOCUS
Coleshill Civic Society
Front Cover Clockwise from top left 1.
P14: Old Bank House, Church Hill: Karen Barrow – North Talk
St Peter and St Pauls Church and War Me-
morial: Karen Barrow - North Talk
2.
P13: The Star in: Courtesy of John Hoyle
P15: Conservation Area maps courtesy of NWBC
Cole End Bridge: Karen Barrow - North
Talk
P16: Coleshill Town Hall: Dominic Moore – Ascension Planning
3.
Bank House: Karen Barrow - North Talk
4.
Coleshill Town Hall: Dominic Moore – Ascension Planning
P17: Stanhope Way: Dominic Moore – Ascension Planning
Belway Homes, Father Hudson’s site development:
Main Document
dir/109k/108281/53161946/108281_The_D
P2: Bill Richards: Coleshill Town Council
P5: Coleshill Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group
roitwich_July_15_IMG_00_0000_max_656 x437.jpg
P8: Church Hill Farmers Market: Mike Wal-
www.picturesofengland.com/images/
Warwickshire
map:
https://
bbab-a284010f493a/dev_fa1f765e-90c9-
Coleshill Map: www.streetmap.co.uk
Ascension Planning
4766-bbab-
P10: Coleshill High Street: Karen Barrow –
P11: Coleshill Stocks: Dominic Moore –
P12: Parkfield Road: Dominic Moore – As-
http://www.bellway.co.uk/Publish/
DevelopmentPlan/fa1f765e-90c9-4766-
warwickshire.jpg
North Talk
P23: Father Hudson’s Bellway Development:
thecastlelady.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/
P21: Site Allocations map courtesy of NWBC
mapofengland/england-counties.gif
http://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/
birmingham-road/b46-1as/#expired
P9: Map of the United Kingdom: http://
North
P18:
property/west-midlands/coleshill/
pole
http://media.rightmove.co.uk/
a284010f493a_siteplan_20151913497.jpg
P24: Coleshill High Street North: Courtesy of John Hoyle, Coleshill Civic Society
P25: Love Coleshill French Market Photo courtesy of Marie Stephens, Love Coleshill
inic Moore – Ascension Planning
P26: Coleshill Sign Posts, Parkfield Road:
High Street: Dominic Moore – Ascension
Dominic Moore – Ascension Planning
Planning
P27: Penny Johnsons Florist: Karen Bar-
row – North Talk
P29: High Street North Offices: Dominic
P30:
Coleshill
Parkway:
http://
photos/90/52/905274_893c3469.jpg
P52:
Coleshill
Blythe
Valley:
http://
GB-420000-288000/picture/3
P32: Coleshill Industrial Estate Map courte-
P54:
The
Coleshill
School:
http://
sy of NWBC
www.tamworthherald.co.uk/images/
P33: Coleshill House, Station Road: Domi-
localworld/ugc-images/276332/Article/
nic Moore – Ascension Planning
images/22732123/6756879-large.jpg
P34: Cole End Bridge: Zoe Hillcox –
P35: Coleshill Crossroads: Dominic Moore
P39: Cole End Bridge: Zoe Hillcox –
P40: Coleshill Memorial Park: Karen Barrow – North Talk
pole 2015
Coleshill Town Council
Karen Barrow – North Talk
www.bbc.co.uk/history/domesday/dblock/
– Ascension Planning
P50: The River Cole / Cole End Bridge:
church tower photo courtesy of Mike Wal-
Coleshill Town Council
P49: Coleshill Cemetery: Photo courtesy of Coleshill Town Council
pole Circa 1960 P32: The view from St Peter and St Pauls
P48: Cole End Park Nature Reserve: Dominic Moore – Ascension Planning
P31: The view from St Peter and St Pauls church tower photo courtesy of Mike Wal-
P46: Cole End Bridge: Karen Barrow – North Talk
s0.geograph.org.uk/
P43: Coleshill’s Green Spaces Map courtesy of NWBC
Moore – Ascension Planning
P42: Coleshill’s Conservation Area, South
P41: Cole End Park Nature Reserve: Dom-
P56: Coleshill’s United Church: John Hoyle Coleshill Civic Society
64
ture, Coleshill will continue to function within
FINAL STATEMENT
this Borough Authority.
COLESHILL’S NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
The NWBC Local
Plan describes Coleshill as a market a town
When the Coleshill Town Council decided to
within the Green Belt.
Our historic parish
authorise the setting up of a Steering Group
boundaries remain intact and projected fu-
to create a neighbourhood plan for our town,
ture development plans are containable with-
it was realised that its success would be de-
in the town's limits.
pendent on the co-operation of individuals, families, community groups and organisa-
What responses from the local residents to
tions. That's because such a plan must re-
the Steering Group have overwhelmingly
flect comments from the community.
We
shown is that Coleshill has a clear communi-
had confidence that we would receive a posi-
ty identity which is viewed as supportive and
tive response to our written and on-line ques-
friendly. There are issues which need atten-
tionnaires and that proved to be the case.
tion but, on balance, people do like living here - it's seen as a good place to raise a
In this computerised age, regulations seem
family.
to change quickly and often. County Council
electoral boundaries have changed.
Num-
When the neighbourhood plan is accepted
bers of MP's are to be reduced. It seems
by local referendum, it will become an official
likely that there will be West Midlands Com-
planning document which must be consulted
bined Authority which brings together seven
when considering planning applications in
of the largest councils in our region from
our town. It is relevant and local and has
Coventry to Wolverhampton.
been created thanks to the responses of
The High
Speed Rail Link will also pass very close to our town.
NWBC have rejected any thought of joining this consortium so, for the foreseeable fu-
people who live and work in the town.