Modern Built Environment
The Borough has experienced a considerable amount of development in recent years. Unfortunately, they have not always been attractive or sympathetic with the character of adjacent existing properties or areas.
The Council now wishes to encourage the use of good modern design in future developments, whether these be small extensions to existing buildings or large-scale construction projects. It aspires to ensure that a high quality environment is created, providing a new heritage for future generations.
To ensure that good quality design has a high profile within the Borough, two Design Champions have been appointed, a senior elected member of the Executive Group and a member of the Management Team, both supported by a specialist professional officer.
It is intended to provide design guidance on all scales of development, but there are certain well-established principles that are universally accepted that can be followed in the absence of more detailed guidance.
New development should have a positive effect on the character and quality of an area. It should relate to its surroundings (neighbouring buildings and the local area generally) in terms of its physical appearance, overall scale, density, massing, height, landscape, layout and access. Designs should be based on a proper assessment of the character of the surrounding built and natural environment, taking into account the defining characteristics of each local area, such as local or regional building traditions and materials. However, occasionally it is possible to design a degree of contrast into a building or an area. In all cases a thoroughly argued design statement should be provided to support the proposals.
For further information contact The Conservation and Design Manager, David M Hayes 01606 867721, dhayes@valeroyal.gov.uk
Applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposals with the local planning authority at an early stage. However, it will be important to have a clear understanding of what the proposed development is intended to achieve and for there to be some preliminary design drawings at the least, before engaging with a planning officer. It should also be noted that advice always has to be offered without prejudice.
For further information contact Planning Control Manager on 01606 867734, planning@valeroyal.gov.uk
Links to relevant websites
- CABE - www.cabe.org.uk/research
- RTPI - http://www.rtpi.org.uk
- TCPA - www.tcpa.org.uk
- Planning Officers Society - www.planningofficers.org.uk
- Planning Inspectorate - www.planning-inspectorate.gov.uk
- Better Public Buildings - www.betterpublicbuildings.gov.uk
- English Heritage - www.english-heritage.org.uk
- Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Last modified: 14 November 2008
