Special Housing Needs

3.29 During the plan period there is likely to be an increase in the need for specialist accommodation such as nursing homes and communal housing for elderly people. The changing emphasis towards community rather than hospital care has also increased the need for individual accommodation for people who are disabled.

POLICY H7: SPECIAL HOUSING NEEDS

Elderly persons flats, sheltered housing or similar specialist accommodation will be acceptable on sites appropriate for residential development provided that such schemes meet the following criteria:

• a) the proposed development is designed to meet the specific needs of residents including requirements for disabled persons where appropriate;
• b) the location of the development is close to community shopping and services and public transport facilities; and
• c) the proposed development does not create an over concentration of similar accommodation in any one street or area.

3.30 Travellers: In considering the needs of gypsies and travelling show people, the Borough Council will have regard to government policy. A review of provision of travellers’ sites within St Edmundsbury was carried out in 2001. The review established that there was no need for a permanent travellers’ site within the borough for the foreseeable future. The review also established that the need for temporary transit sites was low but that the situation should be looked at regularly. No sites have been identified in the local plan as a result of the review for permanent or temporary accommodation. Should a need for a site arise, proposals for development must have particular regard to policies to protect amenity and the environment of St Edmundsbury.

POLICY H8: PROVISION FOR GYPSIES AND TRAVELLING PEOPLE

In the countryside, proposals for gypsy sites and travelling show people will be permitted where:

• a) The need for a site is established;
• b) The use of the site would not have an adverse impact upon the amenities of nearby occupiers;
  c) The proposal would not detract from the undeveloped open and rural character and appearance of the countryside; and
  d) Adequate landscaping measures are included.

A condition or legal agreement to control the future use of sites for gypsies and travelling show people may be imposed, as appropriate.

Where the proven need is short term the development will be limited by a temporary permission.