Evidence Base

Q. What is the JCS evidence base? 

A. The evidence base is the technical research and analysis which informs the preparation of the Joint Core Strategy (JCS). It is a legal requirement set out in Planning Policy Statement 12 (PPS12, Local Spatial Planning) which demands that all core strategies are “justifiable”. This means that core strategies must be:  

• “Founded on a robust and credible evidence base; and
• The most appropriate strategy when considered against the reasonable alternatives”. 

An evidence base which is sound and transparent will enable the JCS authorities to consider all reasonable alternatives, ensuring that the final strategy best represents the needs of the area and is approved for adoption by the Planning Inspector.  

Q. What is the status of the JCS evidence base following the revocation and future abolition of the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West (RSS)? 

A. Much of the JCS evidence base prepared so far is technical in nature, for example: the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, Sustainability Appraisal and Hotel Capacity Study. The findings of these documents would be the same with or without the RSS.  

However, some other elements of the evidence base were prepared within the context of the RSS, prior to the announcement of its abolition – for example, the Urban Extension Boundary Definition Study. Such documents reflect a point in time and can provide useful information, but will not be allowed to predetermine development options for the JCS area.  

In summary, all parts of the evidence base remain important and valid. However the changing context must be acknowledged and amendments to parts of the evidence base can be made, or new research can be undertaken as necessary, for example: a JCS area green belt review. 

Q. Can I comment on the JCS evidence base? 

A. The evidence base is made up of a series of technical studies, prepared both in-house by the JCS team and by independent consultants. Specific consultation will not be undertaken on the evidence base.  

Q. What is the timetable for the JCS?   

A. Following the revocation of the RSS in May 2010 followed by its abolition via the Localism Bill (expected autumn 2010), the Secretary of State offered three options to the JCS authorities: 

1. Accept the development requirements in the “Draft RSS Option 1” and prepare core strategies accordingly.
2. Accept the development requirements in the “Secretary of State’s Proposed Changes to the RSS” and prepare core strategies accordingly.
3. Review development requirements locally, and prepare core strategies accordingly.  

The JCS authorities have agreed to pursue option 3. As such, the timetable for preparation of the JCS is currently being reviewed pending a complete, local review of development requirements. Once a timetable is agreed it will be published on the JCS website.

- Gloucestershire Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA)|
- Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessments (SHLAA)|
- Urban Extension Definition Study|
- Employment Land Review|
- Hotel Capacity Study|
- Central Severn Vale Transport Strategy (CSVTS)|
- Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA)|
- Green Infrastructure Study|
- Renewable Energy Viability Assessment|

Please note there is also a wealth of evidence relating specifically to individual authorities and this can be found on respective Council websites.