Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas

3.10 A number of planning authorities have introduced development plan
policies which encourage the use of design statements by developers
in relation to certain types of development. A design statement is a
short document which enables the applicant to explain why a
particular design solution is considered the most suitable for a
particular site, especially for larger or more complex forms of
development. The statement will usually consist of both text and
graphics, but is not intended to duplicate planning application
documents. It may be of special value in explaining why the context
requires an exceptional – rather than a conventional - design
approach. The statement should address all relevant development
plan or local area plan design policies and objectives, and relate them
to the site. The wider use of design statements should be promoted
by planning authorities.
3.11 All designers of residential developments should be encouraged to
carry out an appraisal of the distinctive character of the area
adjoining the site, and to consider how the design and layout of the
proposed development responds to, and preferably enriches, that
character9. If, however, the appraisal finds that the adjacent area is
characterised by poor design, the design approach to the proposed
development may have to be based on first principles. Where a
design statement is being submitted with the application, it should
include or summarise the character appraisal.
3.12 The design criteria set out in the design manual also provide a
framework for the systematic appraisal of applications for residential
development. High standards of design should be encouraged by
planning authorities; a proposed development which barely meets
minimum standards should not be accepted. Where proposed
development is acceptable in principle from a development plan
viewpoint, every effort should be made to resolve any remaining
design faults, whether by means of planning conditions (where 3rd
party rights would not be affected) or by inviting the applicant to
submit modified plans where more significant changes are envisaged.
Where the design is of such poor quality as to result in a sub-standard
housing environment, permission should be refused; the reasons for
refusal should clearly indicate how the layout and design would need
9 Again, more detailed advice on and examples of site character appraisals is to be
found in the Urban Design Manual.
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Planning Guidelines