Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan Health Impact Assessment · Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan...

Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan

Health Impact AssessmentSubmission Draft and Proposed Modifications

August 2016

Contents

1.0 Introduction .................................................................................................... 1

2.0 What is a Health Impact Assessment? ......................................................... 3

3.0 Health Impact Assessment process ............................................................. 4

HIA in the plan making process ................................................................... 4

HIA methodology ........................................................................................... 4

4.0 Screening ........................................................................................................ 6

5.0 Scoping ........................................................................................................... 7

Baseline data.................................................................................................. 7

Health and Wellbeing Priorities .................................................................... 7

Scoping exercise outcomes ......................................................................... 8

6.0 Appraisal and monitoring ............................................................................ 10

Recommended policy actions .................................................................... 10

Recommended monitoring actions ............................................................ 11

Review of the Submission Draft and Proposed Modifications ................ 11

Conclusions ................................................................................................. 12

Appendix A: Health Profile of Nottinghamshire 2015 ......................................... 13

Appendix B: Scoping Exercise ............................................................................. 17

Appendix C: Appraisal ........................................................................................... 29

Appendix D: Monitoring ......................................................................................... 36

Appendix E: Review of Submission Draft and Proposed Modifications ........... 39

Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan Health Impact Assessment

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Nottinghamshire County Council is currently in the process of developing a new Minerals Local Plan (the Plan). The Plan is being prepared under the terms of the 2011 Localism Act and once adopted it will provide a planning framework for the County, guiding all minerals development to 2030. It includes:

- A long term Vision for minerals development in Nottinghamshire until 2030;

- Strategic Objectives demonstrating how the Vision will be achieved; - Strategic Policies covering the key issues of sustainable development,

minerals provision, biodiversity led restoration, climate change, transport, the built and natural environment and the Green Belt;

- Minerals Provision Policies setting out the minerals requirements during the plan period to 2030, including land allocations to meet this demand;

- Development Management Policies to deliver the strategic objectives and policies, by providing the criteria against which future minerals development will be assessed;

- A framework by which the implementation of and subsequent effect of the Plan and its policies can be monitored and reviewed;

- A Policies Map which identifies site allocations and policies; and - Site specific Development Briefs.

1.2 Various stages of public consultation have taken place during the preparation of

the Plan, most notably an Issues and Options Consultation (January – March 2012) and a Preferred Approach Consultation (October – December 2013) plus Additional Consultation on Sand and Gravel Provision (May – July 2014) and Shelford West (October – December 2014). A period for formal representations on the Submission Draft ran during February – March 2016. A timetable for the remaining stages of production is set out in Table 1.

Table 1: Timetable for progression of the Minerals Local Plan Stage Date Submission to Government December 2016 Examination March 2017 Adoption September 2017

1.3 Part of the process to prepare the Plan is to consider the implications of the

planning policies contained with the Plan upon matters relating to health. Health impacts of the Plan were first considered through the Sustainability Appraisal process, which has been integral to the preparation of the Local Plan from the outset. It is also considered in the Equality Impact Assessment. Specific consideration through a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) was not considered necessary until the Submission Draft stage, when the development of final policy was completed, enabling more in-depth consideration and assessment.

1.4 This HIA was completed on the policies as set out in the Preferred Approach and Additional Consultation on Sand and Gravel Provision to contribute to the development of the Submission Draft document. Reviews of the final Submission Draft document and subsequent Proposed Modifications were completed to check whether any changes to the Plan were significant enough

Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 1 Health Impact Assessment

to require reassessment in terms of their impact on health. Details of these reviews can be found in Appendix E.

1.5 The Sustainability Appraisal and Equality Impact Assessment are

complementary reports to this HIA, which together contribute to a complete consideration of the potential impacts of the policy in the Minerals Local Plan.


2.0 What is a Health Impact Assessment?

2.1 The World Health Organisation defines Health Impact Assessment (HIA) as:

‘A combination of procedures, methods and tools by which a policy, programme or project may be judged as to its potential effects on the health of a population, and the distribution of those effects within the population.’

2.2 HIA provides a practical and flexible framework by which the effects of

proposals on health and inequality can be identified. Such effects are examined in terms of their differential impact, their relative importance and the interaction between impacts. In doing so, HIAs can make recommendations to inform decision making, particularly in terms of minimising negative impacts and maximising opportunity to promote health and wellbeing.

2.3 The use of HIA ensures that health impacts are explicitly considered in proposals and can help in the monitoring of such, to help future proposals and ultimately contribute to narrowing the gap between those experiencing the worst and best health.

2.4 There are three types/times at which HIA can be undertaken, as outlined in Table 2.

Table 2: Types of Health Impact Assessment Type When completed? Purpose and or benefits Prospective Before policy

implementation Allows adjustments to be made at the planning stage to maximise the beneficial effects and minimise any harmful effects on health, wellbeing and inequalities.

Concurrent During policy implementation

Enables decision makers to act promptly and to monitor the accuracy of predictions about potential health impacts.

Retrospective After policy implementation

Enables those involved to learn from what has actually happened and to then share this knowledge for future relevant proposals.

Source: NHS Health Development Agency. Introducing health impact assessment (HIA): Informing the decision-making process


3.0 Health Impact Assessment process HIA in the plan making process

3.1 There is no statutory requirement to produce a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) in the development of planning policy, however, as set out in the previous chapters, HIA is an effective way of ensuring health and wellbeing is given due consideration. It is also closely linked to the statutory process of Sustainability Appraisal (which considered health impacts, but in less detail) and to Equality Impact Assessment, which considers the differential impact of policy on different groups of the population.

3.2 At the heart of current national planning, as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework, there is a focus on sustainable development, part of which is the delivery of healthy communities:

‘The planning system can play an important role in facilitating social interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities1’

3.3 As part of this ‘planning system’, it is therefore desirable for health impacts to

be considered as part of the development the Minerals Local Plan and so this HIA will be prospective in nature (see Table 2), with its conclusions and recommendations having the potential to influence policy at its creation stage.

HIA methodology

3.4 Many different guidance documents on the completion of HIAs are available. Often, these documents split the process into a number of stages. Table 3 sets out the details of the stages to be used in this assessment and how they link to the sections within the report.

Table 3: Health Impact Assessment procedure and links to HIA report Stage Description Link to HIA report Screening Review of a series of questions to establish

whether there are likely to be health impacts as a result of the policy. Establishes whether HIA is required

Chapter 4 details the results of the Screening exercise.

Scoping

Identifies and prioritises relevant health impacts/determinates relating specifically to minerals development. This includes examination of baseline data for the area, which will help establish boundaries for the assessment.

Chapter 5 details the results of the Scoping exercise (details in Appendix B). It includes baseline data on the health and wellbeing of Nottinghamshire’s population to provide context for assessment and to ensure that the health impacts identified are relevant to the local context (see Appendix A). Consideration of local priorities for health (as set out in published strategies) will also be considered at this stage. Engagement with local health professionals at this stage will

1 DCLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework, paragraph 69 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf


ensure that the basis of the assessment reflects local circumstances and need.

Appraisal and Reporting

Risk assessment of health impacts related to the Plan, to identify a risk rating and identify actions for the Plan (relating to specific policies). The actions will be recommendations for improvements to policy to remove or mitigate the risk of the impact.

Chapter 6 includes a summary of the findings of the appraisal and its recommendations (with greater detail set out in Appendix C). Again, engagement with local health professional will ensure that the appraisal and actions are appropriate.

Monitoring Action, where appropriate, to monitor actual impacts on health to enhance existing evidence base

Conclusions regarding the necessity for monitoring are included in Chapter 6 (with greater detail set out in Appendix D).

Source: adapted from HIA guidance published by Department of Health2 and World Health Organisation3

3.5 In order to identify the full range of potential impacts and possible beneficial effects, the rainbow model of determinates of health (see Figure 1) will be referred to throughout the assessment. The majority of impacts from planning policy on minerals development are likely to fall into the ‘general socio-economic, cultural and environmental conditions’ and ‘living and working conditions’ categories.

Figure 1: Rainbow model of determinates of health

Source: adapted from Dahlgren, G and Whitehead, M (1991) Rainbow model of health4

2 Health Impact Assessment of Government Policy: A guide to carrying out a Health Impact Assessment of new policy as part of the Impact Assessment process https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216009/dh_120110.pdf 3 http://www.who.int/hia/tools/en/


4.0 Screening 4.1 Formal screening and recording of results is an important stage in ensuring

Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) are completed where they are needed. A list of screening questions is suggested by the Department of Health (see Table 4) whereby if the answer to any of the questions is yes, the further stages of HIA should be completed. The questions have been reviewed by those responsible for the production of the policies contained within the Minerals Local Plan (the Plan), to ensure an understanding of the background, context, rationale and objectives informed the responses. Table 4: Results of Screening Exercise Screening Question Will the proposal have a direct impact on health, mental health and wellbeing?

No - There is potential for some impacts on health and wellbeing as a result of the operation of mineral sites, both on those working on sites and those living or working in or visiting the local community. However, the likely impact of these is not significant enough to be considered direct.

Will the policy have an impact on social, economic and environmental living conditions that would indirectly affect health?

Yes - There will be an amenity impact on communities living close to mineral sites, which has potential to impact on matters concerning health and wellbeing.

Will the proposal affect an individual’s ability to improve their own health and wellbeing?

Yes – Although only a small contributor, restored mineral sites can increase access to open space and nature, which has potential to improve an individual’s ability to improve their own health and wellbeing.

Will there be a change in demand for or access to health and social care services?

No - Provision for and the working of minerals should have no impact on the demand for, or access to services, aside from those associated generally with manual work and the associated health and safety issues.

Will the proposal have an impact on global health?

No - The Plan is on a local scale and although there is potential to contribute to climate change (through emissions) this is not considered to be on such a scale to have a significant impact on global health.

Source: Questions taken from HIA guidance published by Department of Health5

4.2 Two of the questions generated a ‘yes’ response and so a Health Impact

Assessment is necessary for the Minerals Local Plan.

4 in Dahlgren, G (1995) European Health Policy Conference: Opportunities for the future. Vol 11 – Intersectoral Action for Health. Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe. 5 Health Impact Assessment of Government Policy: A guide to carrying out a Health Impact Assessment of new policy as part of the Impact Assessment process https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216009/dh_120110.pdf


https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216009/dh_120110.pdf

5.0 Scoping 5.1 The purpose of scoping is to identify and prioritise the health impacts relating to

minerals development to establish those which need to be examined further in the appraisal stage. As part of this it is important to examine and establish the health profile of Nottinghamshire to set a baseline. It is also important to review any identified priorities and aims in relation to health and wellbeing to ensure that the Minerals Local Plan will do what it can to address and not contribute to any of the issues. Baseline data

5.2 A comprehensive health profile of Nottinghamshire in 2015, as compiled by the Department of Health is set out in Appendix A. In summary this identified:

- The health of people in Nottinghamshire is varied compared with the

England average. Deprivation is lower than average, however about 23,500 (16.9%) children live in poverty. Life expectancy for both men and women is similar to the England average.

- Life expectancy is 8.7 years lower for men and 6.7 years lower for women in the most deprived areas of Nottinghamshire than in the least deprived areas.

- In Year 6, 17.5% (1.273) of children are classified as obese, better than the average for England. The rate of alcohol-specific hospital stays among those under 18 was 34.9 (per 100.000 population). Levels of breast feeding and smoking at time of delivery are worse than the England average.

- 24.0% of adults are classified as obese. Estimated levels of adult excess weight are worse than the England average. The rate of alcohol related harm hospital stays was 675 (per 100,000 population). The rate of smoking related deaths was 279 (per 100,000 population), better than the average for England. The rate of people killed and seriously injured on roads is worse than the average. Rates of sexually transmitted infections and TB are better than average. Rates of statutory homelessness, violent crime, long term unemployment and early deaths from cardiovascular diseases are better than average.

Health and Wellbeing Priorities

5.3 The Health and Wellbeing Strategy for Nottinghamshire6 is a plan to improve health and wellbeing in Nottinghamshire and particularly to address health inequalities. It is based on the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment which identifies current and future needs for adults and children.

5.4 The first strategy (for 2012-2013) was published in April 2012 and the most recent covers the period 2014 – 2017. It identifies four ambitions to support the overall vision, along with 20 priorities for action:

Strategic Ambitions 1. A good start – for everyone to have a good start in life

6 ‘Our Strategy for Health and Wellbeing in Nottinghamshire: Priorities for 2012-2013’ and ‘Our Strategy for Health and Wellbeing in Nottinghamshire: 2014 - 2016’ Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Board


2. Living well – for people to live well, making healthier choices and living healthier lives

3. Coping well – that people cope well and that we help and support people to improve their health and wellbeing, to be independent and reduce their need for traditional health and social care services where we can

4. Working together – to get everyone working together.

Priorities for action - work together to keep children and young people safe - improve children and young people's health outcomes through the

integrated commissioning of services - close the gap in educational attainment - provide children and young people with the early help support they need - deliver integrated services for children and young people with complex

needs or disabilities - reduce the number of people who smoke - reduce the number of people who are overweight and obese - improve services to reduce alcohol and drug misuse - reduce sexually transmitted disease and unplanned pregnancies - increase the number of eligible people who have a Healthcheck - improve the quality of life for carers by providing appropriate support for

carers and the cared for - support people with learning disabilities and Autistic Spectrum Conditions - support people with long-term conditions - support older people to be independent, safe and well - provide services which work together to support individuals with dementia

and their carers - improve services to support victims of domestic abuse - provide coordinated services for people with mental ill health - ensure we have sufficient and suitable housing, including housing related

support, particularly for vulnerable people - improve workplace health and wellbeing - improve access to primary care doctors and nurses.

Scoping exercise outcomes

5.5 The details of the scoping exercise can be found in Appendix B. It identifies and examines the potential health impacts associated with minerals development and explores how these are related to the baseline data and priorities for health identified above.

5.6 Health professionals reviewed and contributed to this stage to ensure that the range of health impacts identified was robust and could enable a well-informed and effective appraisal stage. The use of existing research and studies was utilised where possible to identify possible health impacts.

5.7 The scoping exercise identified eight potential impacts (or risks) that were

considered significant enough to warrant further consideration through the appraisal stage. These impacts are (categorised in terms of the Rainbow Model):


Living and working conditions: - Disruption to public water supplies. General socio-economic, cultural and environmental conditions: - Anxiety associated with potential for development - Noise pollution - Air pollution - Temporary loss of access to open space - Long term provision of access to open space - Increased road traffic and safety issues - Community benefit funding schemes.


6.0 Appraisal and monitoring 6.1 Having established a baseline profile of Nottinghamshire in relation to health

and wellbeing, an assessment of the Minerals Local Plan (the Plan) was completed, based on the methodology set out in Chapter 3. Tables setting out in detail the results of the appraisal can be found in Appendix C. The purpose of this assessment is to identify amendments needed to policy in the Plan in order to deliver the greatest health gain and minimise negative health impacts for the population resulting from implementation of the policy.

6.2 It was not considered appropriate or necessary to complete an assessment of all of the policies in the Plan on a policy-by-policy basis as there is no direct link between the majority of the policies and health and wellbeing impacts. Similarly, individual sites were not assessed and it was deemed that this would not produce differential result and would not produce effective recommendations and actions. A more effective approach considers the potential impacts on a risk basis to establish the level of risk they present. This then allows an appraisal of the extent to which, and effectiveness of how, the Plan deals with the risk, which enables policy specific recommendations to be made. This will result in policy changes that apply across the plan as a whole and any policy improvements would apply to the assessment of planning applications for all of the site allocations.

Recommended policy actions

6.3 The appraisal established that a series of changes to the policies (as set out in the Minerals Local Plan Preferred Approach) were needed to ensure that the health impacts and risks are fully addressed in the Submission Draft. The recommended policy actions identified were:

Strategic Objectives: SO5 - add explicit reference to water resources in the list in the first sentence. - add sentence about the protection and enhancement of public rights of way

and access to open space. - add reference to the promotion/encouragement of community benefit funding

schemes. Strategic Policies: SP6 - add reference to water level/provision alongside reference to water quality. Development Management Policies: DM1 - add reference to sensitive locations/features. The justification text should set

out that for noise, schools and nurseries are sensitive locations.

DM2 - 1 part b. needs to be changed; ‘where critical’ should be replaced with a

reference to no negative impacts/alterations to groundwater quality/levels.


Consider inclusion of new policy requiring community benefit funds for all minerals development.

Recommended monitoring actions

6.4 An additional consideration, to ensure that the policies of the Plan deliver the greatest health gain and minimise negative health impacts, is effective monitoring and review procedures. The Plan includes a section on monitoring and implementation. As a final stage of the Health Impact Assessment, the proposals for monitoring were reviewed, again with recommendations made, where appropriate, for improvements to ensure that there are sufficient measures in place for the health and wellbeing impacts of the policies to be properly monitored and reviewed.

6.5 A full review and discussion of the proposed monitoring can be found in

Appendix D. This resulted in a number of recommended monitoring actions: Strategic Policies: SP6 - add reference to the advice from the Environment Agency to the indicators. - include an indicator that will cover community amenity (such as advice from

Environment Health Officer).

Development Management Policies: DM1 - remove reference to significant number of developments (more than 10%)

from the trigger – it should be any development approved which identifies significant harmful impacts on local amenity.

DM2 - amend indicator to include water level/supplies or re-word to remove

limitation to water quality.

DM7 - specify the number of planning permissions granted that will trigger a review.

It is suggested that this should be >0 to minimise the identified health risks from this impact.

DM9 - include the advice of the Highways Authority within the trigger.

Review of the Submission Draft and Proposed Modifications

6.6 A review of all of the changes made to the Preferred Approach to produce the Submission Draft, along with the subsequent proposed modifications, that have an impact related to health is set out in Appendix E. This did not identify any further recommended actions.


Conclusions 6.7 As a result of this Health Impact Assessment both positive and negative

potential impacts/health risks from the implementation of the Minerals Local Plan (the Plan) have been identified. An appraisal of these risks enabled the identification of a series of improvements to the Plan. This included changes to the Strategic Objectives, Strategic Policies and Development Management Policies and also to the Monitoring indicators and triggers.

6.8 Providing these recommendations are incorporated into the Submission Draft

version of the Plan, it is considered that the potential negative health risks of the Plan will be minimised and the potential positive impacts will be maximised.


Appendix A: Health Profile of Nottinghamshire 2015


Appendix B: Scoping Exercise Health Impact Will the health

impacts affect the whole population or will there be differential impacts within the population?

Will the health impacts be difficult to remedy or have an irreversible impact?

Will the health impacts be medium to long term?

Are the health impacts likely to generate public concern?

Are the health impacts likely to generate cumulative and or synergistic impacts?

Prioritising Health Impacts: Will the impacts have an important positive or negative impact on health?

Living and working conditions Work environment Mineral workings require staff to operate them. As a work environment, they present a range of health and safety considerations. The Health and Safety Executive have published guidance on the health risks posed to quarry workers, which includes a list of common hazards: contaminated land, dust, eyesight, ionising and non-ionising radiation, legionellosis, methylene chloride/dichloromethane, musculoskeletal disorders, noise, petroleum products, stress, substance use/misuse, hand arm vibration, welding fume, sensitisers. Improving workplace health and wellbeing is a priority for the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

The health impacts will only directly affect those employed in the minerals industry, but the subsequent effects (not limited to health) may be felt more widely (i.e. family and friends).

The range of hazards presented could have a range of health impacts some of which could be difficult to remedy or have irreversible impacts and equally could have impacts in the medium to long term.

Not in relation to the plan making process. Health and safety concerns in workplaces will be of concern to those employed in the industry, but this is unlikely to generate concern for the Plan.

Due to the range of impacts it is difficult to ascertain if cumulative and or synergistic impacts could be generated.

The health impacts of employment in quarries have the potential to have a significant impact on health of those employed in the industry. However, this is something that is controlled externally from the planning system and the percentage of the working population employed in the industry in Nottinghamshire is just 0.46%7 meaning the impact is limited in terms of the proportion of the population affected.

7 Percentage of all aged 16-74 employed in mining and quarrying, Census 2011 (sourced from Nottinghamshire Insight) Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 17 Health Impact Assessment

Health Impact Will the health impacts affect the whole population or will there be differential impacts within the population?






Unemployment The Health Development Agency and NHS report ‘Worklessness and health – what do we know about the causal relationship? Evidence review’ (2005) concludes that there is a relationship between unemployment and poor health, although causation is not proven. Studies have shown that there is a positive association between mortality and unemployment for all age groups and that there is a strong association between unemployment and measures of psychological and psychiatric morbidity, with a reversal of effects upon re-employment. As an employer, quarries can aid in the provision of jobs and training schemes, which could help to alleviate such health issues.

This positive impact will be experienced by those who benefit from employment at quarries. The extent of this benefit could vary though depending on a number of life situations, for example the report states that being married is a ‘proactive agent’ against psychological distress.

This is a positive impact, although as quarries are temporary activities, unemployment could return, removing the positive impact and reintroducing the negative health impacts associated with unemployment. The report indicates that while some health impacts increase within a year of job loss (e.g. suicide), cardiovascular mortality accelerates after two or three years and continues for the next 10-15 years, thus meaning impacts could occur in both the short, medium and long term and that the negative impacts of unemployment may not be easily overcome through provision of employment.

No – this is a positive impact (i.e. potential reduction in unemployment through provision of jobs).

The report indicates that unemployment can affect a range of health issues and so provision of employment is likely to generate cumulative and synergistic positive impacts.

Although provision of employment is identified as having the potential to have a positive impact on health, the level of employment derived from mineral extraction is not considered great enough to be classed as an ‘important’ impact. As previously mentioned, employment in this industry accounts for only 0.46% of the workforce.








Agriculture and food production Loss of productive agricultural land to minerals development could result in reduced home food production and thus increased food costs ( need to import), potentially impacting, indirectly, on diet and health. Also potential for impact in terms of loss of employment and degradation of agricultural communities. See ‘unemployment’ for further discussion. Conversely, the provision of irrigation lagoons to aid agricultural practices will help to deliver food production. A healthy diet may help to prevent certain long-term diseases such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes and reduce the risk of some cancers8. Local levels of adult excess weight are worse than average and is a local concern (Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy includes a priority of reducing the number of people who are overweight and obese).

Whole population will be affected. Those on lower incomes could feel financial pressure and thus resultant health impacts more acutely. Farming communities would be directly affected by loss of employment and changes to community structure.

Loss of high quality agricultural land can be irreversible if it is not possible to reclaim it (soil quality and land change issues). Changes to employment and community structure unlikely to be reversible. Diet is a widely tackled health issue and is a behaviour that can be altered; however some of the health impacts may be irreversible.

Pressure on land will become more acute in the long term. The impacts on community wellbeing have the potential to be medium to long term, if not addressed. The health impacts of diet vary and can be short and long term.

Loss of agricultural land and impact on food production and farming communities will possibly generate concern. Unsure if the possible resultant health impacts would generate concern.

Cumulative impact of loss of significant areas of agricultural land is a possibility; however, the overall take of agricultural land through minerals development is minimal when compared to the level of agricultural land still in existence.

The loss of agricultural land and farming communities is recognised as an important factor, however the links to diet and thus health are considered to be indirect and thus not significantly negative.

8 http://www.patient.co.uk/health/healthy-eating Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 19 Health Impact Assessment







Housing The Housing Health and Safety Rating System9 identifies a range of over 30 physiological, psychological, accident and infection hazards associated with housing, including: - excessive cold (physiological) which can increase risk of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and hypothermia - noise (psychological) caused by lack of sufficient sound insulation which can affect physical (lead to aggression, violence) and mental health (stress and anxiety) The provision of sufficient, suitable housing, particularly for vulnerable people, is a priority for the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy. Mineral extraction provides many raw materials used in building and energy industries which could help overcome these hazards and reduce negative health impacts. Mineral such as silica sand and building stone will have no/limited impact.

Health impacts will vary depending on the quality of housing people are living in.

This is a positive impact. Materials derived from mineral extraction can be used to build new housing or upgrade older housing stock.

The health benefits associated with the provision of high quality housing should continue into the long term, as people continue to live in well built homes. However, the role of minerals in this is limited as there are other influencing factors.

No – this is a positive impact

Yes – there are a multitude of health impacts associated with housing which link to and will impact on health in a wider sense.

There are many potential health impacts associated with (poor) housing which the provision of minerals could aid in overcoming. However, there are a significant number of influences between the raw material and the end product which means the positive impacts from mineral provision cannot be considered ‘important’.

9 See Department for Communities and Local Government publication ‘Housing Health and Safety Rating System: Guidance for Landlords and Property Related Professionals’ (2006) Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 20 Health Impact Assessment







Water and sanitation Minerals development has the potential to impact on the supply and quality of water through run-off from industrial process, disruption to the water table or fouling/damaging of aquifers and source protection zones10. Severn Trent Water who supplies water to the County (and a much wider area covering a central band of England) source a third of their drinking water from groundwater. The majority of this is sourced from aquifers in the West Midlands and Nottinghamshire11. The body needs water to avoid dehydration and its associated health impacts. Water is also very important for sanitation. Poor sanitary conditions can lead to the spread of disease and are likely to cause issues in terms of mental wellbeing and general quality of life.

If groundwater sources are affected, all those served by that resource could be impacted. In the case of Nottinghamshire’s aquifer this is the whole of the Severn Trent Water area, which extends across a significant proportion of central England. Direct pollution to local watercourses will more directly affect the immediately surrounding communities and those downstream from the point of pollution.

Severe dehydration can be serious and cause fits, brain damage and can sometimes be fatal. Therefore, its impact can be irreversible and long term, although this is only in the worst cases. However, simple short term measures such as water bowsers or bottle water brought to communities affected would easily remedy the situation and therefore it is unlikely that dehydration would be a realistic concern.

The impacts of diseases spread by poor sanitation vary, but will include some medium and long term impacts.

Impact on water resources is likely to generate public concern, both in relation to its pollution and the resultant impact on the environment and also on human health (although perhaps to a lesser extent for the latter).

There is the potential for cumulative impacts, particularly if both drinking water and water for sanitation are impacted concurrently.

Disruption and pollution of water supplies and water for sanitation has the potential to have a negative impact on public health.

10 British Geological Survey Minerals Matters Issue 11: Mineral extraction and the water environment’ http://www.bgs.ac.uk/downloads/browse.cfm?sec=12&cat=120 11 Severn Trent Water http://www.stwater.co.uk/households/your-water-supply/supplying-your-water/ Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 21 Health Impact Assessment

http://www.stwater.co.uk/households/your-water-supply/supplying-your-water/







General socio-economic, cultural and environmental conditions Amenity The potential for change and new developments can cause anxiety and stress about the potential impacts of the development (both on health and other matters). Three ambitions of the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy are to give people a good start in life and for people to live and cope well. In terms of mineral sites there will be uncertainty over future plans during both the plan making stages (public consultation) which will be looking at potential allocations and then subsequently at the planning application stage.

The impacts will affect those living/working in close proximity to mineral workings. Those with a predisposition to anxiety or with limited knowledge/ experience of mineral workings may experience this impact more acutely.

Once sites are operational and perceived impacts are replaced with real impacts, the health impacts are likely to reduce (although may be replaced with other impacts associated with the operational phase, see other discussions). It is possible that the impact on mental health could have medium to long term impacts, especially if considered in relation to existing or additional concerns/impact of actual mineral working.

The likelihood of stress occurring is high, although it is uncertain as to whether this in itself will be a cause of public concern, it is more the operational issues causing the stress that are likely to generate public concern.

There is potential for cumulative impacts when combined with the health impacts associated with working of minerals sites which will follow the period of stress during the allocation and planning application stages.

Yes. As the plan making and planning application process can cover a long period of time, there is potential for the resultant anxiety and stress to be significant for some, particularly if it is contributing to a pre-existing health or wellbeing issue.








Minerals development can bring about changes to noise levels in the area. Health Protection Agency report ‘Environmental Noise and Health in the UK’ (2010) highlights a number of health impacts from noise: - Annoyance. The impact varies from person to person, but can result in an increased possibility of violence or feelings of powerlessness and frustration which can be associated with longer term health impacts. It may lead to stress and illness. - Noise exposure during sleep may increase blood pressure, heart rate and body movements - Possible increase in cardiovascular and psychological issues - Potential impact on cognitive performance of children - Positive impacts can be derived from some noises. - Access to tranquil areas of nature can reduce stress. Three ambitions of the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy are to give people a good start in life and for people to live and cope well.

The impacts will affect those living/working in close proximity to mineral workings. The impact will vary from person to person.

The increase in pollution will only occur during the operational phase of any development (i.e. temporarily). However, some of the associated health impacts could continue into the medium and long term (i.e. those associated with stress). The potential for positive impacts derived from the provision of a tranquil environment following restoration may go some way to overcoming these long term impacts.

Yes. This is one of the most direct and obvious impacts of mineral work and the one that can be most obviously associated with impacts on health.

There is the potential for cumulative impacts due to the range of associated health impacts.

Noise pollution can have a direct impact on the local population and is likely to be a significant area of concern. There are both direct and indirect potential health impacts from this and thus this is considered to have the potential for an important negative impact on health. There is also potential for a positive impact through restoration.








Minerals development can increase the levels of dust particles (particulate matter) and release gases from transportation of minerals and operation of on-site machinery (including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and ozone). At very high levels, the following health impacts can result from pollutants: -Nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and ozone: irritation of the airways of the lungs, increasing the symptoms of those suffering from lung diseases. Particles: Fine particles can be carried deep into the lungs where they can cause inflammation and a worsening of heart and lung disease. -Carbon monoxide: This prevents the update of oxygen by the blood. All information on air pollution sourced from Department for Environment Food12 and Rural Affairs and World Health Organisation13

The impacts will be felt most acutely by those in close proximity to sites, but pollutants can also travel long distances and affect wider air quality. In the case of greenhouse gases there is the impact on climate change which will have much wider impacts.

Elevated levels and/or long term exposure to pollutants can lead to serious symptoms and impact on human health. However, moderate air pollution levels are unlikely to have any serious short term effect (particularly for the young and those in a good state of health). There is the potential for irreversible, long term impacts (for example where air pollution exacerbates a pre-existing condition).

Yes. This is one of the most direct and obvious impacts of mineral work and the one that can be most obviously associated with impacts on health.

There is the potential for cumulative impacts due to the range of associated health impacts.

Air pollution can have a direct impact on the local population and is likely to be a significant area of concern. There are a range of potential health impacts from this and thus this is considered to have the potential for an important negative impact on health.

12 http://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/air-pollution/effects 13 http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs313/en/ Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 24 Health Impact Assessment







Access to open space Access to nature and green space can be an integral part of the health care system as set out in a Natural England report ‘Health and Natural Environments – An evidence based information pack’. This includes the creation of healthy resilient communities, provision of life supporting systems and creation of venues for active lifestyle choices and physical challenge. An ambition of the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy is to enable people to make healthier choices. In the short term, during the operation of mineral sites, there is potential loss of access to green space/temporary closure of public rights of way. However, in the long term, as part of restoration, there is the opportunity to both significantly increase the quantity of green space/natural environment and the quality and level of access/rights of way to the land.

The Natural England report highlights that provision of green space benefits everyone, but that the least well off benefit the most. It also notes that the provision of green space has the most impact when created in urban areas.

The negative impact is temporary and relatively short term, but the positive effects will be felt in the medium to long term.

The range of benefits outlined in the Natural England report indicates that impacts will be provided in both the short and long term.

Possibly. Loss of access to countryside will be particularly felt where there are existing communities nearby that use the open space/access. As the benefits are in the long term, these might not as easily be recognised by the public.

Yes – the Natural England report highlights that the provision of green space demonstrates cost effective health outcomes, which should thus result in savings and improvements elsewhere in health care. It also contributes to improvements in mental wellbeing through the provision of calming and restorative natural environments.

In the long term provision of green space has significant potential to contribute positively to healthy communities. As the negative impact is of a temporary nature, this is less significant. Temporary diversions/alternative access can usually be provided to mitigate this. The importance of the provision of high quality open space and opportunities for sport and recreation and the protection and enhancement of rights of way in delivering healthy communities through planning is also highlighted in the National Planning Policy Framework (paragraph 73).








The Department of Health publication ‘Protecting people. Promoting health: A public heath approach to violence prevention for England’ (2012) indicates that access to green space can reduce incidents and problems with violence in communities. The health impacts of violence can be both direct (e.g. injury) and indirect (e.g. mental wellbeing and quality of life). Improving services to support victims of domestic abuse is a priority for the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

The impacts are likely to be felt most acutely by those living in communities close to the green spaces provided (i.e. close to mineral sites). However, the indirect benefits will spread wider.

This is a positive impact that will continue into the long term.

Both – immediate in terms of the direct benefits, but longer term as the indirect benefits spread.

No – this is a positive impact

Yes – violence is linked to a range of other health impacts and issues, as set out in the report.

See previous row








Road and pedestrian safety Road traffic collisions are the single largest cause of premature death and serious injury in the country. Injuries from collisions are an important health issue not only due to the potentially devastating effect they have on those who are killed or injured, but also because of the consequences and repercussions for their families and society.14 As shown in the baseline data, the rate of road injuries and deaths in Nottinghamshire is worse than average and is thus of particular local concern. Minerals development will increase the level of traffic on road around minerals sites and on the strategic highway network.

The impacts of road and pedestrian safety will be felt greatest by those living near or using routes which will be used by vehicles generated from minerals development. Wider impacts will affect friends and families of those involved in accidents.

Serious injury can have both medium and long term impacts that can be difficult to remedy and have irreversible impacts. There is also potential for impact on the health and wellbeing of family and friends of those injured or killed in road traffic accidents which could continue into the medium and long term.

Yes – traffic and the impacts of accidents are very tangible to the general public. Thus, any development which will contribute to traffic levels is likely to be a cause of public concern.

Yes – for example an injury sustained could result in reduced capacity for work and thus the health impacts associated with unemployment could be caused. Accidents are likely to cause wider impacts on the health and wellbeing of family and friends.

Minerals development will increase the traffic on the roads in close proximity to the site and will place extra strain on the highway network. Road and pedestrian safety could be impacted upon and thus there is potential for important negative impacts on health.

14 Extract from Nottinghamshire County Council’s ‘Casualty Report for Nottinghamshire 2012’ Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 27 Health Impact Assessment







Community benefit funding schemes Financial benefits to local communities are sometimes provided by the operators of minerals sites. This has traditionally been limited mainly to coal extraction, but new measures are introducing something similar for shale gas extraction through hydraulic fracturing (‘fracking’). The financial benefits could be used to secure facilities or services which could help improve health and wellbeing (e.g. provision of sports facilities or community spaces which will encourage physical exercise and local interaction). These could contribute to giving people a good start and helping them to live and cope well, which are ambitions of the Nottinghamshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

The impact will only be felt directly by those living within and using the facilities provided. Wider benefits on family and friends may be felt. Communities suffering from rural deprivation may feel the effects more acutely.

This is a positive impact that will continue into the long term, with continued use of facilities and associated health and wellbeing impacts.

No – this is a positive impact.

Yes – there is the potential for a wide range of interrelated impacts associated with health and wellbeing that could result.

There is the potential for the positive health impacts of this to be significant, particularly where mineral sites are located in rural areas suffering from deprivation and poverty.

Source: Table structure taken from HIA guidance published by Department of Health15

15 Health Impact Assessment of Government Policy: A guide to carrying out a Health Impact Assessment of new policy as part of the Impact Assessment process https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216009/dh_120110.pdf Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 28 Health Impact Assessment

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216009/dh_120110.pdf

Appendix C: Appraisal Impact (risk) Severity16 Likelihood17 Risk Rating Discussion of Minerals Local Plan Preferred Approach

and Policy Actions for the Submission Draft version Disruption to public water supplies for drinking and sanitation

Major (-)

Improbable Low The health consequences of disruption to water supplies and quality could be potentially be irreversible and remain in the long term. Additionally, any disruption would affect a large proportion of the population (wider than the local scale). However, the protection of water supplies is strictly controlled through various mechanisms, mainly by the Environment Agency. This involves the obtaining of licences and subsequent monitoring. Subsequently, as the planning system has to operate on the assumption that these other regimes will operate effectively, the risk of this impact can be considered low. The protection of water supplies (and its quality) however, remains an important issue for the Plan. It is noted that there is no reference to the protection of groundwater resources in the Strategic Objectives, specifically, and importantly, in relation to SO5: Minimising impacts on communities. It is suggested that reference to water resources should be added to the list in the first sentence about minimising health impacts; although the caveat of ‘etc’ is included, as water resources are somewhat distinct from the other listed elements it is considered worthy of specific inclusion in the list. This would link to the final sentence of the Vision which states that ‘The quality of life of those living, working in, or visiting Nottinghamshire will be protected’. In Strategic Policy SP6, reference is made to the avoidance of adverse impacts on water quality. There is however no mention of water levels or provision, which is considered an oversight. Development Management Policy DM2 covers water resources. It states, at point 1: ‘Proposals for minerals development will be supported where it can be demonstrated that:

a. Surface water flows at or in the vicinity of the site are not detrimentally altered; b. Groundwater quality and levels, where critical, are not altered; c. There are no risk of polluting ground or surface water d. Water resources, where required should be used as efficiently as possible.’

It is suggested that a change to part b. is needed. The statement ‘where critical’ reduces its significance and should be replaced with reference to no negative impact/ alteration to groundwater quality and levels. The other elements of the policy are considered to sufficiently seek protection of ground (and surface) waters to ensure the likelihood of the impact occurring is maintained at ‘improbable’. Policy Actions SO5 – add explicit reference to water resources in the list in the first sentence. SP6 – add reference to water level/provision alongside reference to water quality. DM2 – part b. needs to be changed; ‘where critical’ should be replaced with a reference to no negative impacts/alterations to groundwater quality/levels

16 Severity is a measure of how serious the impact would be if it did occur. Categories to be used: Major – Moderate – Minor. Whether it is positive or negative is indicated in brackets (+) / (-) 17 Likelihood is a measure of how probable is it that the impact would occur. Categories to be used: Probable – Possible – Improbable Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 29 Health Impact Assessment

Impact (risk) Severity16 Likelihood17 Risk Rating Discussion of Minerals Local Plan Preferred Approach and Policy Actions for the Submission Draft version

Anxiety associated with potential for minerals development in the local area (during plan making and planning application stages)

Minor to Moderate

(-)

Probable Medium The health impacts associated with a perceived or potential change to the local environment are likely to vary across the population depending on pre-existing health conditions and life experiences. Additionally, the cause will only be temporary – once an allocation or planning application is completed, the uncertainty is removed (it may be replaced with concerns regarding actual impacts; this is considered separately). Change is likely to be an emotive issue in communities and thus it is probable that this impact will occur. On this basis the risk associated with this potential impact can be considered medium. The Plan needs to ensure that during both the allocation and planning application process the impact on communities in this regard is managed effectively. This could include ensuring sufficient and appropriate levels of information provision and encouraging operators to engage with local communities about their intentions for the development of the site. The explicit reference to involvement of the community in the planning application process in Strategic Objective SO5 is welcomed in terms of tackling this impact. Similarly, the list of information required in support of planning applications (as set out in Appendix 1 of the Plan) should aid in informing communities. It is noted that this is not carried through into any policies in the Plan. However, it is not considered necessary for such measures to be covered in policy, partially as the risk rating is medium (not high) and it is considered that it is facilitated through other means, namely the Statement of Community Involvement. Policy Actions None



Increase in noise levels in and around mineral sites

Moderate (-)

Probable High An increase in noise from minerals development will only be temporary, however there is potential for the health impacts resulting to continue into the medium to long term (although there is some potential for this to be overcome to a certain extent through the provision of tranquil environments, with positive sounds, through restoration). As one of the most obviously and easily felt impacts that will inevitably come with minerals development it is likely that this impact will occur. With an almost certain likelihood and a direct impact on the local community the risk rating can be considered high. As set out in the Health Protection Agency’s report18 there is the potential to reduce the health impacts associated with annoyance and stress caused by noise through the provision of mitigation. The Plan should therefore seek the mitigation of noise to minimise its impact on the local community. The report also highlighted the impact of noise on the cognitive performance of children, suggesting that policy mechanisms should be in place particularly to prevent minerals development affecting sensitive sites such as schools and nurseries. Although the impact of noise is not specifically mentioned in the Strategic Objectives (SO5), it is considered that its similar nature to the other impacts listed means that it can be sufficiently covered by the ‘etc’ caveat. Similarly, it is implicitly covered in SP6 where community amenity is mentioned in relation to its protection, enhancement and avoidance of adverse impacts. This objective is carried through to Development Management Policy DM1 and its justification text. The inclusion of noise in the list and the opening sentence are considered to provide sufficient protection and mitigation to minimise the risk and impact of noise on communities. The reference to the statutory requirements in the justification text is welcomed. An omission from this policy however, is the lack of reference to sensitive locations/features. In the case of the impact of noise, it was identified that school and nursery sites are particularly important. It is suggested that the policy is altered to make reference to sensitive locations/features and the justification text should make reference to schools/nurseries as a sensitive feature for noise. Policy Actions DM1 - reference to sensitive locations/features needs to be added. The justification text should set out that for noise, schools and nurseries are sensitive locations.

18 Health Protection Agency ‘Environmental Noise and Health in the UK’ 2010 Nottinghamshire Minerals Local Plan 31 Health Impact Assessment


Increase in air pollution in and around mineral sites

Major (-)

Probable High An increase in air pollution from minerals development will only continue across the life of the extraction phase (i.e. temporarily), however it has the potential to impact more widely than the local area and the health impacts have the potential to be irreversible and continue into the long term. As one of the most obviously and easily felt impacts that will inevitably come with minerals development it is likely that this impact will occur. With an almost certain likelihood and a direct impact on the both the local and wider community the risk rating can be considered high. The impact of air pollution is mentioned in part in Strategic Objectives SO5, through inclusion of ‘dust’ in the list of impacts in the first sentence. It is implicitly covered in Strategic Policy SP6 where community amenity is mentioned in relation to its protection, enhancement and avoidance of adverse impacts. The objective is carried through to Development Management Policy DM1 and its justification text. The inclusion of both dust and air emissions in the list and the opening sentence are considered to provide sufficient protection and mitigation to minimise the risk and impact of air pollution on communities. The details about these elements in the justification text are welcomed. Policy Actions None

Reduction in outdoor activity in areas affected by mineral extraction

Minor (-)

Possible Low The loss of access to open space as a result of minerals development will be temporary as in the majority of schemes some form of public access can be provided through restoration. Also, public rights of way can be temporarily diverted during the operational period in some instances, thus retaining the access and meaning that the impact will only apply to some minerals developments. The risk of this health impact Is therefore considered low because there are obvious mitigation measures that can overcome the issue in most instances, and if not, it is only of a temporary duration. The reference in the Vision to the protection, maintenance and enhancement of environmental assets, including through consideration of public rights of way is welcomed, as is the seeking of the protection of the quality of life and health of those living, working or visiting Nottinghamshire. However, these elements are not carried forward into the Strategic Objectives, which is considered an oversight that needs to be corrected. The inclusion of a dedicated Development Management policy (DM7) on public access is welcomed. This covers the protection of rights of way and access during mineral workings and seeks mitigation where this is not possible. Policy Actions SO5 – add sentence about the protection and enhancement of public rights of way and access to open space.



Increase in open space facilities provision through restoration of mineral workings

Moderate (+)

Probable High The health effects of provision of public access to open space from the restoration of mineral workings will continue in perpetuity and be of a fairly significant nature (enabling self-management and contributing to a number of the health priorities for the area). The vast majority of restoration will either reinstate previous levels of open space or increase public access and potentially add links to other rights of way. Some schemes will produce a more tranquil and beneficial environmental than the original use. There is therefore considered to be a high positive risk as there is a good level of potential for a fairly significant positive impact. The reference in the Vision to the protection, maintenance and enhancement of environmental assets, including through consideration of public rights of way is welcomed, as is the seeking of the protection of the quality of life and health of those living, working or visiting Nottinghamshire. However, these elements are not carried forward into the Strategic Objectives, which is considered an oversight that needs to be corrected. The inclusion of a dedicated Development Management policy (DM7) on public access is welcomed. This seeks the improvement and enhancement to rights of way and public access as part of restored mineral workings. Development Management policy DM11 takes this a little further in terms of the after-use of the site, stating that where opportunities arise, public access should be improved. Policy Actions SO5 – add sentence about the protection and enhancement of public rights of way and access to open space.



Increased road traffic and safety issues

Moderate to Major

(-)

Possible High The health impacts of road traffic accidents can be significant and in some instances fatal. The impact is not limited to those directly affected. There will inevitably be in increase in road traffic as a result of minerals development. However, it does not automatically follow that this will lead to safety issues as use of suitable access and roads and use of routeing agreements can mitigate and minimise the potential impacts. The risk can be considered high because although there are obvious mitigation measures that can overcome the issue in most instances, the impact can be severe and will be a major source of public concern. The Vision encourages sustainable patterns and modes of transport which will aid in overcoming this risk through reducing the level of road transport generated by minerals development. It also makes reference to protecting the quality of life and health of those living, working and visiting Nottinghamshire which implicitly covers road safety. Both of these elements are carried through into the Strategic Objectives, with SO1 encouraging barge transportation and S05 expanding on minimising impact on communities and including an explicit reference to traffic as an adverse impact. The themes are also continued into the policies of the Plan. Strategic Policy SP5 again refers to the use of alternative modes of transport and includes specific references to road safety and avoiding residential areas and minor roads. The requirement for Transport Assessment to accompany planning application to enable consideration of these matters is welcomed. Further details on road safety considerations are covered by Development Management Policy DM9. In combination, road safety is comprehensively covered by the Plan. Policy Actions None



Use of funding from community benefit schemes

Moderate (+)

Possible Medium Community funding derived from minerals development can be used for a vast range of community benefit schemes. There is significant potential for these to positively impact on health (which will continue into the long term). However, not all monies may be spent on schemes benefiting health and wellbeing. The scope (and thus likelihood of the impacts occurring) is additionally limited as community benefit schemes only apply to certain minerals. It is considered that there would be a medium, positive impact because there is potential for improvement, but this is limited in scope and there is no guarantee that the monies will be used to this benefit. There is no direct reference to the potential financial benefits to communities from minerals development in either the Vision or the Strategic Objectives, although there is reference to the role of minerals generally in delivering a sustainable and economically vibrant County. There are no policies that cover the provision of community benefit funding schemes. It Is recognised that some community funding schemes are required under separate, national provisions and so would not need to be covered by local policy. Policy Actions SO5 – add reference to the promotion/encouragement of community benefit funding schemes Development Management Policy – consider inclusion of a new policy requiring community benefit funds for all minerals development.


Appendix D: Monitoring Impact (risk) Discussion of monitoring needs Disruption to public water supplies for drinking and sanitation

The appraisal identified that Policies SP6 and DM2 were relevant to this impact. The Monitoring and Implementation Table in the Minerals Local Plan includes the following indicators and triggers for these policies:

SP6

Indicator

Planning permissions granted contrary to Natural England advice. Planning permissions granted contrary to English Heritage advice.

Trigger Significant number of developments approved which identify harmful impacts on the built and natural environment (more than 10%).

Discussion

Water quality and levels is not within the remit of either of the bodies mentioned and therefore as they currently stand, the indicators do not cover water, which in turn means that water will not be considered within the trigger as a harmful impact on the build and natural environment.

DM2

Indicator Number of new planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice on flooding and water quality grounds.

Trigger Number of planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice (>0).

Discussion The health and wellbeing risk is concerned not just with water quality, but also with water levels and supplies. The indicator however limits it to flooding and water quality.

Monitoring Actions SP6 – Add reference to the advice from the Environment Agency to the indicators DM2 – Amend indicator to include water level/supplies or re-word to remove limitation to water quality

Anxiety associated with potential for minerals development in the local area (during plan making and planning application stages)

The appraisal did not identify any policies of the Minerals Local Plan relevant to this impact and did not recommend any policy actions. Therefore, there is no possibility for monitoring and review of this impact.


Impact (risk) Discussion of monitoring needs Increase in noise levels in and around mineral sites

The appraisal identified that Policies SP6 and DM1 were relevant to these impacts. The Monitoring and Implementation Table in the Minerals Local Plan includes the following indicators and triggers for these policies:

SP6

Indicator

Planning permissions granted contrary to Natural England advice. Planning permissions granted contrary to English Heritage advice.

Trigger Significant number of developments approved which identify harmful impacts on the built and natural environment (more than 10%).

Discussion

Advice from Natural England and English Heritage will not cover issues of community amenity (as mentioned in the policy and relevant to this impact). The indicator and so also the trigger do not therefore sufficiently monitor these health risks.

DM1

Indicator

Planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice. Planning permissions granted contrary to Environmental Health Officer advice (air quality area, noise, dust levels).

Trigger Significant number of developments approved which identify harmful impacts on local amenity (more than 10%).

Discussion

Advice from the Environmental Health Officer will cover air and noise pollution. However, it is considered that to truly minimise this health impact the trigger should be any developments approved which identify harmful impacts on local amenity (or possibly significant harmful impacts)

Monitoring Actions SP6 – Include an indicator that will cover community amenity (such as advice from Environmental Health Officer). DM1 – Remove reference to significant number of developments (more than 10%) from the trigger – it should be any development approved which identifies significant harmful impacts on local amenity.

Increase in air pollution in and around mineral sites

Reduction in outdoor activity in areas affected by mineral extraction

The appraisal identified that Policy DM7 was relevant to this impact. The Monitoring and Implementation Table in the Minerals Local Plan includes the following indicator and trigger for this policy:

DM7

Indicator Number of new Public Rights of Way permitted/lost/diverted in new mineral development

Trigger Number of planning permissions granted which do not maintain/provide enhanced public access

Discussion

It is considered that the indicator and trigger sufficiently cover minimising the loss of access to open areas. However, to ensure effective monitoring, it needs to specify the number of permissions that will trigger a review.

Monitoring Actions DM7 – Specify the number of planning permissions granted that will trigger a review. It is suggested that this should be >0 to minimise the identified health risks from this impact.


Impact (risk) Discussion of monitoring needs Increase in open space facilities provision through restoration of mineral workings

The appraisal identified that Policies DM7 and DM11 were relevant to this impact. The Monitoring and Implementation Table in the Minerals Local Plan includes the following indicators and triggers for these policies:

DM7

Indicator Number of new Public Rights of Way permitted/lost/diverted in new mineral development.

Trigger Number of planning permissions granted which do not maintain/provide enhanced public access.

Discussion

It is considered that the indicator and trigger sufficiently cover the delivery of access of open areas through restoration. However, as previously mentioned, to ensure effective monitoring, it needs to specify the number of permissions that will trigger a review.

DM11

Indicator Number of new mineral permissions subject to restoration, after care and after use plans

Trigger Number of planning permission granted without satisfactory restoration plans (>0).

Discussion No reference is made to the monitoring of Rights of Way or public access as part of the monitoring of DM11, however the policy has a wider scope and this would not be expected or considered suitable.

Monitoring Actions DM7 – Specify the number of planning permissions granted that will trigger a review. It is suggested that this should be >0 to minimise the identified health risks from this impact.

Increased road traffic and safety issues

The appraisal identified that Policies SP5 and DM9 were relevant to this impact. The Monitoring and Implementation Table in the Minerals Local Plan includes the following indicators and triggers for these policies:

SP5

Indicator Number of planning applications with a sustainable transport assessment.

Trigger N/A (Aspirational Policy).

Discussion A transport assessment will enable the consideration of impacts on traffic and road safety. The detailed considerations are felt to be more effectively considered and monitored through DM9.

DM9

Indicator

Planning permissions granted contrary to Highways Agency advice. Planning permissions granted contrary to Highways Authority advice.

Trigger Number of planning permissions granted contrary to Highways Agency advice (>0).

Discussion

The advice of the Highways Agency and Highways Authority both need to be considered as they cover different parts of the road network. Importantly for impacts and risks for the local community, the Highways Authority covers local roads. It is therefore considered that their advice should be included within the trigger.

Monitoring Actions DM9 – Include the advice of the Highways Authority within the trigger.

Use of funding from community benefit schemes

The appraisal did not identify any policies of the Minerals Local Plan relevant to this impact and did not recommend any policy actions. Therefore, there is no possibility for monitoring and review of this impact.


Appendix E: Review of Submission Draft and Proposed Modifications N.B. Policies with no changes, minor/terminology/typographical changes or where the changes/modifications have no clear link to the HIA are not included. Vision/Strategic Objectives changes Commentary Recommended

action SO3 – Addressing climate change – second part reworded. Now includes references to aiding in the adaptation to climate changes and includes more specific measures by which to achieve this.

Links between climate change and health are discussed in the Appraisal exercise. Inclusion of aiding to the adaptation to climate change would have a positive impact in this regard.

None

SO5 – Minimising impacts on communities –minor wording changes and additional reference made to the provision of public rights of way and access to open space.

Amendments reflect recommendations from the HIA. No reference has been added in relation to community benefit schemes.

None

Strategic Policy changes Commentary Recommended action

SP2 – Minerals provision – minor wording changes, including addition of reference to use of compensation if mitigation is not possible.

Compensation measures have the potential to have a positive (or lessen the negative impact) in relation to health.

None

SP6 – The built and natural environment – minor wording changes

Amendment reflects the recommendation from the HIA

None

Development Management Policy changes

Commentary Recommended action

DM1 – Protecting local amenity Recommended change to policy not made. Additional justification text added, as recommended, to highlight the importance of sensitive locations. No specific reference to schools and nurseries.

None

DM2 – Water resources and flood risk – various wording changes and alterations to the ordering/numbering of the policy.

Amendment reflects the recommendation from the HIA

None

Monitoring changes Commentary Recommended

action SP6 – The built, historic and natural environment – indicators added for planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice and advice from Environmental Health Officer.

Amendments reflect the recommendations from the HIA.

None

DM1 – Protecting local amenity – trigger amended to read ‘Number of planning permission granted which identify unacceptable impacts on local amenity (measured through grants contrary to advice from those set out in performance indicator) (>0)’

Amendment reflects the recommendation from the HIA.

None

DM2 – Water resources and flood risk – indicator amended to include water provision (as well as quality).


None

DM7 – Public access – trigger amended significantly. Now refers to applications granted contrary to advice

Amendment does not directly reflect the HIA recommendation, but is considered to achieve the same result.

None


from Countryside Access Team (more than 10%). Also includes new trigger of ‘Planning permission granted resulting in permanent loss of Right of Way’. DM9 – Highways safety and vehicle movements/routeing - trigger amended to include advice from Highways Authority


None


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