Proximity to treatment works and requirement for odour assessment

A few of the sites identified in the DeSA are in close proximity to our treatment works. Southern Water endeavours to operate its wastewater and sludge treatment works efficiently and in accordance with best practice to prevent pollution. However, unpleasant odours inevitably arise as a result of the treatment processes that occur.

New development must be adequately separated from wastewater treatment works to safeguard the amenity of future occupiers/users. Paragraph 109 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires that the planning system should prevent new development from being put at unacceptable risk from, or being adversely affected by unacceptable pollution. Annex 2 of the NPPF established that pollution includes odour and noise. Paragraph 120 of the NPPF states that 'To prevent unacceptable risks from pollution and land instability, planning policies and decisions should ensure that new development is appropriate for its location. The effects (including cumulative effects) of pollution on health, the natural environment or general amenity, and the potential sensitivity of the area or proposed development to adverse effects from pollution, should be taken into account'. Paragraphs 4.3.1 and 4.3.1 of the National Policy Statement for Wastewater state that 'Odours from waste water infrastructure can have a significant adverse impact on the quality of life of individuals and communities. Waste water infrastructure generates odour emissions during all stages of conveyance, treatment and storage. At waste water treatment works odours may arise from the inlet works; primary settlement tanks; during secondary treatment; and particularly from sludge treatment, transfer and storage'.

Underground Infrastructure

Although not strictly a planning policy requirement, where appropriate we would also seek recognition of the need to protect underground infrastructure that cross the site so that this is not built over, and it can continue to fulfil its function. Easements would be required to allow access for future maintenance and upsizing.

Proposed amendments

In line with the NPPF and National Planning Practice Guidance and to ensure a sustainable development, we propose that the following criteria are added to the list of considerations for the policy detailed below:

Land South of Skinner's Lane, Catsfield

This site is within close proximity to Catsfield WWTW. As such we request additional criteria for this policy:

* An odour assessment should be undertaken to inform the masterplanning of the site and to minimise land use conflict

(Please note that Southern Water requires access to the existing underground sewerage infrastructure for maintenance and upsizing purposes. The need for easements will therefore need to be taken into account in the layout of the site).