Appendix B: 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; and
• 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; and/or
• the proposal will contribute to a local community regeneration scheme. 

Environmental Sustainability 

• the proposed development will help to protect or conserve or enhance 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; and
• 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;
• the proposed development is conveniently located with respect to existing tourism development in the local area.