Sustainability Assessment for Tourist Amenities in the Countryside

APPENDIX 3 – TOURIST AMENITIES IN THE COUNTRYSIDE Sustainability Assessment Economic Sustainability • the proposed development will result in locally significant employment and / or training opportunities; • a significant level of spend expected to flow into the local economy; • the proposal will enhance the range and quality of tourism attractions and facilities in the local area; • the proposed development will extend the tourist season in the local area; • significant utilisation of local goods and services, including trades and crafts; • the proposal is an important element in farm or broader rural diversification. Community / Social Sustainability • the proposed development will, in addition to meeting tourist needs, provide facilities (recreational / cultural / social) that can be accessed by the local community; • The proposal will contribute to a local community regeneration scheme. Environmental Sustainability • the proposed development will help to protect or improve an environmental asset associated with either the natural or built heritage; • the proposed development will enhance biodiversity, for example through the creation or improvement of wetland or woodland habitat; • utilisation of 'green' technology, for example recycling waste, utilisation of renewable energy, reduction of CO2 emissions; • utilisation of sustainable drainage systems where appropriate (SUDS); • sustainable design in line with BREEAM standards for the environmental performance of buildings; • development of 'green' transport initiatives, for example dedicated rail or bus links between the amenity and a nearby settlement or linking several tourist amenities in the locality; • use of a visitor management programme for larger scale proposals or to mitigate against damage to fragile sites; Locational Sustainability • the proposal is accessible by public transport, walking or cycling; • large scale proposals are conveniently accessible from the regional strategic transport network;