1. New development must make effective use of land. Residential development is expected to achieve or exceed the following minimum densities:
| Minimum net residential density (dwellings per hectare) |
| Location | Within the location | Within 400 metres | Within 800 metres |
|---|
| Stockport Town Centre | 120 | 70 | 50 |
|---|
| District and Large Local Centres | 70 | 55 | 45 |
|---|
| Rail stations and Metrolink / tram-train stops | N/A | 120 | 70 |
|---|
| Areas within GMAL 6 and above56 or its equivalent | 55 | 45 | 45 |
|---|
| All other locations: minimum net residential density of 40 dwellings per hectare |
Densities lower than those outlined in the table above may be acceptable where:
In achieving the required densities development must not prejudice the potential development of neighbouring land, nor be brought forward in a piecemeal manner having a detrimental impact on the comprehensive development or regeneration of a larger area.
it is justified by the Housing Needs Assessment evidencing a clear need for a particular type of housing that cannot be delivered at a higher density;
analysis undertaken through a context and character appraisal
evidences that achieving the required density would have a detrimental impact on the landscape or townscape character; or
a Heritage Impact Assessment shows harm. This should take into account public benefit. The more important the asset, the greater the weight should be given to the asset's significance.
203) The NPPF places great importance on making effective use of land, with a focus on re-using brownfield land. In Stockport, this is coupled with a need for new