LDF evidence base
The Council is undertaking a number of studies and surveys to gather information for the new Local Development Framework.
Government guidance requires the policies in Local Development Frameworks to be based upon sound evidence. This page details the studies undertaken by Hertsmere Borough Council to meet this requirement. For further information on any of these studies or to purchase a full copy of the reports, please contact the planning department.
Urban Capacity Study
Hertsmere Borough Council produced an Urban Capacity Study in 2006. This study provides an estimate of the number of new houses that can be provided within the Borough's towns and villages in the period 2001-2021.
- Urban Capacity Study (
71 pages, 1,868KB) - Urban Capacity Study - Executive Summary ( 6 pages, 536KB)
- Urban Capacity Study - Design Exercise Report ( 26 pages, 3,522KB)
The findings of the study were updated in 2007 to take account of the latest housing monitoring figures and government guidance.
- Urban Capacity Study Update 2007 ( 41 pages, 409KB)
Central Hertfordshire Employment Land Review
Hertsmere Borough Council commissioned a joint report with Welwyn Hatfield District Council and St Albans City & District Council to analyse the quantity and quality of employment land in the Borough. The work was undertaken by consultants Roger Tym & Partners and was completed in November 2006.
- Central Hertfordshire Employment Land Review - Executive Summary ( 13 pages, 394KB)
Identification of potential Gypsy and Traveller sites
Following the completion of the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Survey in April 2005, independent consultants were appointed to prepare a report on potential sites. The report by Scott Wilson was completed in September 2006.
Housing Needs Survey
Hertsmere Borough Council and Welwyn Hatfield District Council jointly commissioned David Couttie Associates to examine the levels of housing demand and supply in each District. The study was completed in November 2005.
- Housing Needs Survey - Executive Summary ( 8 pages, 153KB)
Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Survey
The Centre of Urban and Regional Studies at the University of Birmingham undertook an assessment of need for gypsy and traveller sites and pitches in 2005. This is a joint project between Hertfordshire County Council, Dacorum Borough Council, Hertsmere Borough Council, St Albans City and District Council, Three Rivers District Council and Watford Borough Council.
- Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Survey - Executive Summary ( 7 pages, 69KB)
Strategic Flood Risk Assessment
Hertsmere Borough Council retained Halcrow to undertake a Level 1 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment in accordance with Planning Policy Statement 25. The work was completed in May 2008.
- Strategic Flood Risk Assessment - Executive Summary ( 3 pages, 94KB)