In applying Policy N2, development proposals should connect to and strengthen the Network and should use green infrastructure and nature-based solutions to secure multiple benefits.

• A)The Network also includes the green and landscape corridor between Totton and Eling and Marchwood, including woodland, hedgerows, watercourses and open-land connections adjoining the north-western edge of the Land south of Bury Road strategic allocation. This corridor performs an important role in ecological connectivity, landscape setting and maintaining the perceived distinction between Totton and Eling and Marchwood. Development within or adjoining the Network should maintain and, where practicable, strengthen these functions through its layout, landscape structure and open-space provision.
• B)Proposals which contribute to the NFDC Green and Blue Infrastructure Priority Projects or the New Forest National Park Authority Green Links Study 2024 or subsequent editions, within the Neighbourhood Area will be supported where they accord with the development plan and national decision-making policies. These include:
• i)enhancement of the gateway to the New Forest National Park through improvements to green-space provision at Bartley Park and along Bartley Water;
• ii)improvements to the East Totton to Southampton green links; and
• iii)wider green linkages between the New Forest National Park and the waterfront, including land north of Marchwood.
• iv)Green Link 1 Totton to Ashurst
• C)Proposals which deliver or facilitate locally identified improvements to the ecological, recreational or active-travel function of Bartley Water and its adjoining green corridor will be supported where they accord with the development plan and have regard to the Bartley Park Management Plan 2020 or subsequent version.

3.8 Green and Blue Infrastructure covers a wide range of natural, ecological and recreational features which together form a connected and multi-functional network. In Totton and Eling this includes the locally important green and blue infrastructure assets and connections including the Test floodplain, Eling Creek and Bartley Water corridors, neighbourhood and town-centre green spaces, mature tree and verge networks, the West Totton Green Route, and connections towards Testwood Lakes, the New Forest National Park and the surrounding countryside.

3.9 The Policies Map identifies the locally important network and the locations where connectivity can be maintained or strengthened as land is developed or redeveloped. The mapping should be read alongside the Hampshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy, the 2024 LUC Waterside Study and the 2026 NFDC Settlement Character Assessment.

3.10 In respect of Clause A, the 2024 Waterside Landscape, Settlement Gaps and Green and Blue Infrastructure Study identifies the Totton-Marchwood gap as providing a moderate degree of distinction and identifies wooded settlement edges, Bartley Water, the rural character of Eling and tree cover as important elements in preserving separation. It advises that development should avoid encroachment on Eling and retain visual openness along Marchwood Road and Jacob's Gutter Lane so that separation by open countryside remains perceptible.

3.11 The importance of the Totton–Eling–Marchwood corridor is further reinforced by the promotion of land immediately south of Eling as a potential new South Totton neighbourhood. Although this proposal does not presently form part of the adopted development strategy, its location between Eling and the Land