The future of design guides and codes
The latest proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) take some initial steps in the direction of the wider proposed reforms to the planning system.
Notable here is the focus on good design quality and placemaking, with local planning authorities being required to prepare ‘design guides or codes’ consistent with the National Design Guide and the recently published draft National Model Design Code (NMDC) and Guidance Notes for Design Codes (GNDC).
These guides and codes will need to be tailored to each locality, reflecting distinct character, design preferences and aspirations – based on community engagement. To carry weight in decision-making, they should also be prepared as part of a plan, or as a supplementary planning document.
This week’s article is all about design. It’s an art which makes the best of how something looks by careful arrangement of features and choices of colour, size and shape. The Government thinks design is important and is currently consulting on a National Design Guide for Britain’s buildings. It’s all about making Britain ‘beautiful, enduring and successful’ again. New planning policy recommends that streets in new estates are tree-lined, an excellent suggestion as trees bring shade. They cool the air, they absorb sound, they reduce flooding, they are living and beautiful and green. The design guide also suggests that buildings should aim to be passively heated by the sun and reach a high standard of construction.
PERMISSION is being sought to create a new caravan park and retail development. Plans have been submitted to Durham County Council for a static caravan site, petrol filling station, drive-thru café and retail units at land to the east of Admiralty Way, Seaham. Proposals submitted by applicants CG Robinson & Sons Ltd and CJ Leonard & Sons Ltd include the sitting of 184 static caravans. The south-east corner of the site will feature the petrol-filling station, drive-thru café and two retail units. The design and access statement, submitted by ELG Planning, reads: The proposed development layout seeks to form seamless continuation of the urban area through the creation of the retail elements on the south-eastern corner of the site, which provides an active frontage onto Admiralty Way at this key vantage point. Beyond this, the static caravan park will represent an attractive form of development, which compliments both the urban edge and surrounding golf course and count
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Information on how to apply for the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026.
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This guidance tells you about the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026. The guidance will be updated if anything changes.
About the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026
Affordable housing, as defined by the National Planning Policy Framework, is housing for sale or rent for those whose needs are not met by the market. The provision of affordable housing is a key element of the Government’s plan to end the housing crisis, tackle homelessness and provide aspiring homeowners with a step onto the housing ladder.