Kent Design Guide To Sustainable Development

KentDesign
a guide to sustainable development
Kent Association of Local Authorities
Kent Association of Local Authorities (KALA) Kent Planning Officers Group (KPOG) Kent Technical Officers Association (KTOA)
Kent Design Initiative Chairman: Tony Every-Brown Partners include: Ashford Borough Council Canterbury City Council Construction Sector Group, Learning and Business Link Co. Ltd Council for the Protection of Rural England Dartford Borough Council Dover District Council English Heritage Gravesham Borough Council Government Office for the South-East House Builders Federation Institution of Civil Engineers Kent Architecture Centre Kent County Constabulary Kent County Council Kent Developers Group Kent Federation of Amenity Societies Kent Institute of Art & Design Maidstone Borough Council Medway Council Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Royal Town Planning Institute Sevenoaks District Council Shepway District Council Soroptimists International Swale Borough Council Thanet District Council Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council Tunbridge Wells Borough Council University of Greenwich Womens Institute
ISBN i901509362
The information contained in this publication was as far as known correct at the date of issue. The publishers cannot, however, accept any responsibility for any error or omission.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner. Printed in England. Kent Association of Local Authorities
Foreword Introduction Objectives & Principles
process
1 2 3 Collaboration Innovation Life cycle
land-use
4 5 Mixed-use Movement
design
6 7 8 9 10 Locality Safety Maximising use Resources Green space
general appendix
Policy context Contacts Glossary Credits Bibliography
contents
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This Guide is published jointly by all the Local Authorities in Kent County, Unitary and District Councils on behalf of all the communities we represent. It has been prepared with the assistance of many people representing a wide range of interests; developers, housebuilders, the professions, environmental bodies, amenity societies, consumers, academia, and central and local government. The common thread that has bound all these interests together is the recognition that good design is a triple-bottomline issue - good for the economy, the environment and the community. Working together to realise this document has been a powerful process. It has raised the level of mutual understanding of complex issues that contribute to the success or failure of development proposals. I believe that process will serve to benefit future negotiations between applicant and development controller the arena where conflicting objectives must be resolved and the balance struck. All parties involved in shaping this Guide are convinced that collaboration is one of the keys to achieving good design. I also believe there will be other winners if this Guide is followed. They are the future inhabitants of Kent. The Guide breaks new ground by examining, in considerable breadth, issues of environmental responsibility and sustainability that is; meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. On behalf of the Kent Association of Local Authorities, and the many organisations who through the Steering Group and various working groups have played a crucial role in its production, I wholeheartedly commend this Guide to all involved in the development process in this wonderfully rich and diverse county. Together, we face tremendous challenges; to create wealth and employment opportunities; to regenerate economically, socially and environmentally deprived areas; to protect heritage and biodiversity; and to conserve the unique and distinctive character of Kent. We owe it to our children, and to all future generations, to do our very best.
Cllr. Mike J. Hayes Chairman Kent Association of Local Authorities
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S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T
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i.1 Design and development play a key role in achieving a strong economy, creating employment opportunities, ensuring good access to services and providing safe, attractive surroundings.
i.4 The guidance it contains is applicable to all types of development whether large or small, urban or rural, residential or commercial, in the public or private sector. It looks beyond the design of individual buildings to their context - the spaces, streets and other elements of the public realm which together form the total environment.
i.4 New Ash Green, Kent - an innovative approach towards creating a new village community i.1 Bluewater, Kent - investing in high quality design
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i.2 Our quality of life, and that of future generations, depends on us making good use of natural resources and providing protection for the environment. We, therefore, need to ensure that the needs of new and existing communities are met, wherever possible at the local level, thus reducing energy consumption and pollution by limiting the need to travel. Our social and economic wellbeing depends on strong communities with a mix of local businesses, types of housing and tenure, good schools and a well-developed social infrastructure. Planning for new development should seek to enhance this sense of local community. PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE i.3 The purpose of this Guide is, therefore, to promote sustainability and good design in Kent. Its aim is to encourage development which safeguards what is of value whilst enriching the environment for future generations.
i.5 It explains how objectives set out in national, regional and local plan policies might be achieved at the local level. In doing so, it seeks to promote development which will maintain Kents unique and distinctive character and heritage. It encourages developers to reject off-the-peg solutions, such as standard `village house types and inflexible corporate designs for commercial property. APPROACH i.6 Many organisations and individuals are involved in the development process and all can contribute to the success or failure of a scheme. For this reason, the Guide places considerable emphasis on process and collaboration as critical elements in the achievement of good design. To encourage the drive for better quality and locally distinctive design, this Guide is less prescriptive than previous versions and offers more flexibility. There is more scope for creativity and innovation. i.7 The Guide takes a neutral stance on issues of style, recognising that historically accurate detailing and modern architecture can each play their part. The primary aim should be the achievement of high quality, based on meeting the needs of sustainability and function, taking into account the local context to determine the best solution for a given site.
i.3 Station Road West, Canterbury - adding to the grain of the city on an urban brownfield site
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POLICY CONTEXT i.13 Issues of sustainability and design are firmly seated in national, regional and local policies. The United Kingdoms Strategy for Sustainable Development1 recognises that future development cannot simply follow the models of the past; we need to achieve economic, social and environmental objectives at the same time, and consider the longer term implications of decisions.
i.7 Kings Hill School, Kent - high quality school design
i.8 Kent Design seeks to challenge designers and development controllers alike by setting out a series of objectives and principles, illustrated with case studies. It encourages solutions that are tailored to the needs of each site and locality, taking into account the existing and future needs of local communities. By observing such principles, developers can be confident about the acceptability of their proposals. i.9 The Guide is not a rule book. It is not intended to be prescriptive but instead offers examples of how the objectives and principles have been met by developers on sites within and beyond Kent. In selecting these examples, no attempt has been made to be comprehensive - the Guide should be seen as a starting point for developer innovation and local interpretation.
i.13 focus on sustainable development within existing urban boundaries
i.10 General and technical appendices are included to assist designers with their understanding of the wider policy and administrative context for their work, and to provide engineering specifications which will be acceptable to the Highway Authority when considering the adoption of new roads, cycleways and footpaths. STATUS OF THE GUIDE i.11 The Guide has been prepared with the assistance of a wide range of interested parties. Developers, architects, environmental bodies, amenity groups and consumer interests have all made a contribution, together with staff from leisure, health, transport and planning departments of Kents local authorities. In addition, an extensive consultation process took place on the draft Guide. i.12 Kent Design - a guide to sustainable development is published by the Kent Association of Local Authorities and commended to individual Local Authorities - Kent County Council, Medway Council and the 12 District Councils - for adoption as supplementary planning guidance. Once adopted, the Guide will be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.
i.14 In order to achieve sustainable and high-quality development, appropriate strategies, policies and guidance must be in place. Development plan policies can promote sustainable development by encouraging good design, reducing dependence on the car and by encouraging the efficient use of resources. Development briefs and other forms of design guidance (such as Village Design Statements and Conservation Area studies) can build on these policies to promote successful new schemes. NATIONAL POLICIES i.15 In seeking to promote sustainable development, the Government advocates making best use of recycled land and sites which are accessible by public transport. It suggests testing assumptions about the effect of densities and car parking on the capacity of urban areas to accommodate housing. The Government also points to the potential role of mixed-use development and urban villages. i.16 Two policy statements that have reinforced this emphasis on sustainability are the Governments revisions to Planning Policy Guidance Note (PPG) 13: Transport2,
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which is intended to reduce dependence on the car and promote public transport, and PPG 3 on Housing (1999)3 which emphasises the need to raise development density, particularly in areas with good public transport links (see Policy Context for more detailed policy guidance). The Crime & Disorder Act 1998 underpins the need to take a holistic approach to the design of safe and secure developments. Kent Design has been produced to meet the objectives of this national policy guidance. i.17 There is a shift in Government investment away from new road building and towards public transport, as reflected in Transport Supplementary Grant and Transport Policies and Programmes settlements. Future fiscal measures are likely to penalise both car-ownership and use. Urban Transportation Packages are seen by Government as having an important role to play in providing the infrastructure necessary to promote efficient and sustainable transport patterns and allowing people to make the changes in transport habits upon which many sustainability targets are based. KENT STRUCTURE PLAN POLICIES i.18 The Kent Structure Plan 1996 provides the strategic framework for promoting a sustainable pattern of new development which will reduce both the need to travel and energy consumption. It indicates the development requirements in different parts of the County - identifying areas suitable for major growth and regeneration such as Kent Thames-side. It seeks to make the best use of land and to concentrate housing within the Countys urban areas, promoting well designed, mixed-use development which also protects the environment. The Structure Plan 4th Review, developed jointly with Medway Council, will reinforce these principles. LOCAL PLAN POLICIES i.19 Local Plans are prepared by District Councils. They identify, on a site-specific basis, where development should take place. Local Plans lay down the criteria against which specific planning applications can be assessed. They may also specify associated infrastructure, access, design and landscaping requirements and the appropriate use, or mix of uses, for a site. SOCIAL TRENDS i.20 Social trends are important considerations in planning for new development. There is a continuing trend towards smaller, single-person households. In 1991 they constituted 25.4% of all households - the projected figure for 2011 is 34%. Average household size in Kent has reduced from 2.85 in 1971 to 2.5 in 1991, and is forecast to decrease to 2.26 by 20114. This reflects a number of factors: greater longevity greater independence of the young reducing numbers and later age of marriage greater incidence of divorce and separation decline in average family size.
i.21 Given the diverse character of these changes it would be over-simplistic to equate growth in smaller households solely with the provision of small units of accommodation. Research findings support the view that people tend to buy houses based on affordability rather than their household size. i.22 The greater use of the home as a work-base and the increasing proportion of pensioners within the population may weaken the distinction between home and work. Increases in fuel taxes and the possibility of road pricing may have an influence on the distances people are prepared to travel for work and other purposes. It is undeniable that ongoing growth of car ownership is difficult to reverse. It is, nevertheless, an aim of this Guide to encourage development which reduces car use. The framework needs to be put in place now to accommodate the changing transport patterns of the future. i.23 Investing in high-quality reliable and cheap alternatives may encourage people to make fewer trips by car, but for many the car will be perceived as the most comfortable and convenient mode of transport, at least in the short term. CONSUMER RESEARCH i.24 A number of research studies have been commissioned by the development industry to identify consumer preferences. Whilst the public may support the broad principles of sustainability, this research suggests that, in practice, they find it difficult to accept alternative lifestyles. People enjoy, or are dependant on, the freedom of the car. They aspire to live in large detached houses, preferably in rural surroundings. However, research commissioned by the Urban Task Force5 indicates that for many, city living and urban lifestyles are an attractive proposition.
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KERB APPEAL - THE POPULAR HOUSING FORUM 1998
i.24 Kerb Appeal (Popular Housing Forum)
Key findings: new build is generally regarded negatively cramped and lacking individuality; people value safety and quietness, preferring culs-de-sac to busy roads; people desire a village-like environment; enough space for parking (ideally a garage);
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based on a selection of photographs of house types, they prefer traditional rather than contemporary design; privacy is important; and people like to be near but not next to facilities.
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HOME ALONE THE HOUSING RESEARCH FOUNDATION 1998 Key findings: one-person households have similar housing preferences and aspirations to family households; not all one-person households are single people nor do all of them have only one property; the majority of one-person householders in their middle years will be homeowners and they are likely to be discerning purchasers; some may prefer urban living but not all; some may be divorced and need accommodation for visiting children; single people may still want enough accommodation for friends and family to stay; some are older people looking to move out of larger houses into smaller, high-quality homes in desirable areas. They still want convenient access to facilities; and quality and safety in the environment is important. i.25 It is also important to raise public expectations of what new development can deliver and to ensure that the benefits of features such as high-quality landscape, good urban design, water conservation and energy efficiency can be recognised and appreciated. The ultimate test, however, will be what takes place on the ground in forthcoming years.
REFERENCES: 1 A Better Quality of Life - A strategy for sustainable development for the United Kingdom. Published 17 May 1999 by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions 2 Planning Policy Guidance Note 13 Transport; Department of the Environment, Transport & the Regions, October 1999 (Public consultation draft at time of writing) 3 Planning Policy Guidance Note 3 Housing; Department of the Environment, Transport & the Regions, March 1999 (Public consultation draft at time of writing) 4 Kent Structure Plan 3rd Review Technical Working Paper, Kent County Council, 1/94 revised 1996, p 46,48 5 But would you live there? Shaping attitudes to urban living, Urban Task Force, Department of the Environment, Transport & the Regions, February 1999
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objectives & principles
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1.1: 1.2: 1.3: 1.4: 1.5: 1.6:
Adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to development proposals to achieve the optimum solution for a given site Positive and early dialogue on scheme development should be encouraged Local Authorities should promote a Development Team approach Adequate preparation should be ensured before negotiations are undertaken The local community should become involved in project development Systems for the monitoring and bench-marking of schemes should be put in place Local Planning Authorities should build on the principles provided by Kent Design in the preparation of detailed design guidance for specific areas and sites. Seek environmentally sustainable solutions through innovative design Developers should seek to enhance environmental quality and sustainability through innovative solutions in both transport and building design Local Authorities will encourage innovation by welcoming those proposals which promote quality in design To assist developers, local authorities should be aware of best practice both here and abroad to keep abreast of latest thinking Developers should be prepared to commission skills in order to promote innovative design solutions Local authorities should assist developers with Kent Designs principles through training workshops or seminars Both developers and local authorities should be prepared to stimulate thinking by local communities about design issues through education and promotion.
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Bring together residential, commercial, retail and community uses in a manner which reduces the need to travel and improves quality of life Proposals should incorporate the principles of mixed-use development including the provision of conveniently located community infrastructure Masterplans and development briefs should consider the mix and disposition of uses between and within developments and how these uses will be delivered The community should be included at an appropriate stage in the design process to ensure their input into the chosen mix of uses Good pedestrian and cycling routes should be provided Mixed use developments should address the need to protect the amenity of a variety of occupiers Proposals should clarify funding, delivery and management arrangements for each component of a scheme.
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Ensure the public realm is maintained for its lifecycle through formal adoption or other management arrangements Consideration should be given to the whole life of any planned development so that appropriate mechanisms are in place to ensure a sustainable future The intended function of all land within any given site must be established at the outset All open space within any site must have an identified use The proposed system of long-term maintenance, and how this will be funded, must be established at the outset Consultation over the maintenance and function of key areas should be undertaken with the local community (if appropriate)
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Promote the movement of people by walking, cycling and public transport to reduce car dependency and maintain and improve air quality 5.1: Viable public transport should be provided at the initial phase of a new development 5.2: Public transport should be brought into the heart of the development where appropriate 5.3: Developers and/or commercial enterprise should submit green commuter plans for larger sites 5.4: Linked bus and train timetables and throughticketing should be promoted 5.5: Highway standards for private cars should reflect the provision of alternative modes of transport (buses, cycleways and walkways) 5.6: Access provision should be appropriate to the size and frequency of essential vehicles 5.7: Parking provision should be appropriate to locality and the availability of alternative modes of transport 5.8: Developments should be readily permeable allowing safe, direct routes for pedestrians, cyclists and the mobility impaired 5.9: New infrastructure for cycling, walking and riding should be linked into existing networks 5.10: Convenient cycle storage should be incorporated into properties and destinations. 6. Embrace local distinctiveness, promote quality and protect existing features of cultural, visual and historical importance 6.1: New development should embrace good contextual design principles 6.2: New development should express the distinctive quality of the natural topography, existing landscape and built character of the site
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Provide a safe, healthy and secure environment for both people and property 7.1: There should be a clear distinction between public and private space 7.2: Schemes should incorporate shared areas to encourage walking, cycling and socialising and to enhance safety and security 7.3: Design should encourage self-policing and offer surveillance of property 7.4: A sense of ownership should be encouraged through the quality of the public realm 7.5: Building design should conform to the latest safety and security advice 7.6: An appropriate level of lighting should be provided to enhance safety and security 7.7: Highway infrastructure should not dominate the layout of estates 7.8: Speed restraint should be an integral part of road design 7.9: Speed restraint measures should reflect local character 7.10: Priority should be given to the safety of pedestrians and cyclists over cars 7.11: Developments should be designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities 7.12: New developments should be designed to provide a healthy environment. 8. Maximise the use of land by encouraging the development of recycled land and increasing density Development should maximise the sites potential The use of recycled land and re-use of existing buildings should be encouraged Contaminated land must be treated in an appropriate manner prior to development Principles of increased density and diversity should be promoted The development should add to the quality of the environment and the surrounding area
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10. Conserve, create and integrate open space, landscape and natural habitats as part of development 10.1: The value of open space, landscape and nature conservation should be recognised within development proposals 10.2: New development should respond to site characteristics and context: this should include protecting sensitive sites and minimising any impacts 10.3: Proposals should identify appropriate mitigation measures to address the impact of a development and to compensate for lost habitats and landscape features; opportunities should also be taken to enhance the existing and planned environment 10.4: Proposals should contribute towards the creation of a network of open space and promote accessibility from residential and commercial areas to green space
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6.3: New development should respect local architectural heritage, make optimum use of existing buildings and recognise landmark buildings and features 6.4: Proposals for rural sites should reflect the particular considerations and sensitivity of such areas 6.5: The use of both traditional and modern materials and technologies should be evaluated by developers 6.6: New design should avoid a confused application of architectural styles or inappropriate historic imitation 6.7: Development should be human in scale and provide permeability and visual interest to those on foot 6.8: Caution should be taken to prevent excessive or inappropriate external lighting, particularly in sensitive areas.
8.6: Developments must ensure the protection of privacy and amenity for a variety of new and existing occupiers. 9. Conserve natural resources and minimise pollution in the layout, construction and ongoing use of development 9.1: The environmental sustainability of all construction materials should be considered 9.2: Proposals should prevent the inefficient use of materials and energy on site by adopting the protocol of the 3 Rs: reduce, re-use and recycle 9.3: Proposals should incorporate energy conservation features 9.4: Proposals should be supported by a sustainability statement 9.5: An evaluation of the environmental performance of a development (such as BREEAM) should be considered as part of the design process 9.6: Design should demonstrate flexibility to allow for re-use and adaptation of buildings over time 9.7: All redundant buildings, regardless of their architectural quality, should be considered as a valuable resource for potential re-use 9.8: Sustainable water management techniques should be incorporated into design and infrastructure proposals 9.9: Proposals should provide opportunities for the protection of water supplies by harnessing rainfall 9.10: Development should provide a range of waterefficient appliances and systems to reduce water usage 9.11: Development should protect the quality of water resources by appropriate treatment of sewage and run-off, and through use of reed beds where practical 9.12: New development should minimise negative impacts on air quality and the release of CO2 9.13: Measures should be taken to minimise the risk of soil pollution.
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10.5: Strategies should be submitted which address the long-term maintenance of proposed open space, landscape and nature conservation areas 10.6: Plans should be submitted to address the implementation of open space, nature conservation and landscaping proposals including adequate measures to safeguard features of landscape and nature conservation interest during construction 10.7: Green space proposals should be used to achieve other design objectives such as biodiversity, resource minimisation and community safety.
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Encouraging a pro-active and collaborative approach to the design process and putting in place long-term management measures
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Adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to development proposals to achieve the optimum solution for a given site
Principle 1.1: Positive and early dialogue on scheme development should be encouraged 1.1.1 Local authorities may find themselves under pressure to deal speedily with requests for advice from developers. Authorities should resist giving hurried advice and ensure that they have the necessary staff resources and expertise (including appropriate training of councillors) to meet the day-to-day challenge of securing good design for their area. waste collections authority. It is important to include those organisations who have a responsibility for providing services such as education and social services, fire and police, and specialists such as conservation officers, archaeologists, ecologists, legal representatives and urban designers. This allows for a co-ordinated response to be relayed back to the developer. (See also principle 1.4 on Community Involvement.) 1.2.2 Good leadership and adequate staff resources are essential components of the development team approach. In the case of planning applications the coordination of feedback will usually rest with the Planning Authoritys case officer. More complex schemes are likely to draw in a wider range of interests but the principle of ensuring that the appropriate advice is fed back to the developer at the appropriate time applies whatever the scale of the development.
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1.1.2 Pre-application negotiations between the developer, the local authority and other agents can be mutually beneficial and allow potential difficulties and risks to be identified and dealt with. 1.1.3 Landowners can become part of the pre-application process by consulting with local authorities before selling land and by being involved in the preparation of development briefs. They should also give realistic tender deadlines to allow developers sufficient time to identify the relevant planning issues associated with a site. Landowners may also need to temper expectations of development value, for example where sites have inherent characteristics which are worthy of retention, or where there are infrastructure requirements which need to be taken into account. 1.1.4 There is a clear responsibility for developers to employ appropriately skilled professionals, such as architects, landscape architects, urban designers and ecologists, to prepare schemes. While this may have cost and time implications for a developer, seeking advice at the right time can prove to be cost-effective by reducing the risk of delay during the processing of an application. Investing in quality can also add value to a development. 1.1.5 Design panels can form a valuable tool by offering expertise on the architectural and urban design quality of proposed schemes. The Kent Architecture Centre is able to arrange an independent assessment of development proposals on behalf of the developer or the local authority. It can also provide a neutral forum for debate on major schemes, including helping local communities to articulate their views on the impact of schemes. Principle 1.2: Local Authorities should promote a development team approach 1.2.1 A developer needs to be advised early about the likely planning issues arising from a proposed development. The precise make-up of the development team will vary with each proposal but the approach brings together all those with an interest in a given application, for example: planners, architects, transportation engineers, road safety auditors, building control officers, environmental health officers, landscape architects, and water companies, energy and resource suppliers, and the
THE DEVELOPMENT TEAM APPROACH PRINCIPLE 1.2 In Tonbridge & Malling, major or complex proposals are taken to an internal pre-application early warning meeting which brings together a range of specialist interests including policy and development control planners, transportation engineers, building control, environmental health and landscape/leisure officers. The case officer then reports back to the scheme promoter with an agreed set of messages which can be taken into account in deciding whether and how to proceed. These may include information not directly pertinent to the planning application but which could impact on the scheme at a later stage such as Building or Environmental Health regulations, which it may be useful for the scheme promoter to be aware of early on. Once a formal application is submitted, internal consultation takes place and if necessary follow-up meetings are held to resolve issues that might emerge during the application process. Brighton and Hove Council was involved in a Department of the Environment pilot project* intended to improve development control procedures for the business user. The Council decided to put into practice a development team approach for all medium and large commercial (rather than domestic) applications for development. This involved identifying for each application, those agencies which may have an interest and consulting them at the outset, thus identifying potential problems and conflicts of interest, such as between planning and building control. The Council held a seminar to bring all agents together, to identify the
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role of each player and discuss potential areas of conflict. The feedback from developers and officers has been positive. Applicants were assured that the final decision on the application would not be affected by the new procedures but it was felt that the process was smoother and speedier and that officer-time spent on an application was no greater, but merely organised more effectively. (* see One Stop Shop: Development Team Approach, DETR, 1998)1 Principle 1.3: Adequate preparation should be ensured before negotiations are undertaken. 1.3.1 Before entering into negotiations with a local authority, a developer should undertake a preliminary site and project appraisal that could include: Assessing the character of the site, its surroundings and pattern of development, building form and the qualities that make it locally distinctive; Identifying site constraints such as tree preservation orders, major sewers or wildlife designations; Commissioning a comprehensive site survey and reports, as appropriate, on soil condition, arboriculture, archaeology, historic landscape, noise, ecology, habitat and land contamination; Assessing public open space criteria, density criteria, local social housing policy, the need for community facilities, public transport, waste and energy arrangements, visibility splays, road widths and any current supplementary planning guidance; Preparing layout sketches to show design concepts and site characteristics and how these might influence the scheme; Submitting a design statement to show the relationship between the proposed development and the local context; this can be a written explanation of how the site was analysed and assessed and how the detailed design has evolved; and Preparing a sustainability strategy, including how resources are to be used and recycled. Principle 1.4: The local community should become involved in project development 1.4.1 Good design can be promoted through information, education and dialogue between all parties involved in or affected by new development. This should include developers, planners, landowners and, most importantly, the general public. The public, residents groups and amenity societies can provide a wealth of local knowledge and their involvement in the design process can be invaluable, ensuring that designers are fully aware of local context and of local priorities and concerns. 1.4.2 It is important to acknowledge that some people,
particularly the more vulnerable sectors of a community, may not be able to provide a unified or effective voice when confronted by development proposals. Participation measures may need to be tailored to ensure a wide-ranging involvement and where appropriate should target specific groups. 1.4.3 Parish Councils and Town Councils are experienced in representing the needs and aspirations of their own communities. They also have a deep understanding of their locality and its history. It is important that their input is specifically sought at an early stage in the process. 1.4.4 Community involvement can be encouraged by: Planning for Real2 exercises and Planning Days, involving exhibitions of drawings and models, workshops and opportunities to comment School projects Architectural competitions for design of prestigious or public sector buildings Permanent and temporary exhibitions. LA 21 networks Village design statements and village appraisals 1.4.5 The public and their representatives have an important role to play at all key stages in the development of projects. They should be encouraged to participate in the preparation of local plans; conservation area policy statements; development briefs for specific sites; and village design statements in specific planning applications and proposals. Participation should be encouraged at both formal and informal consultation stages. In some cases it may be appropriate for a developer to promote the dialogue with the public; in other cases it may be appropriate for the local planning authority to take the lead. The community and its representatives should continue to be involved as the scheme develops.
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PLANNING FOR REAL VICARAGE ESTATE, MILTON REGIS, KENT PRINCIPLE 1.4 In 1998 Swale Borough Council and Swale Housing Association bid successfully for Single Regeneration Budget funds to improve the local environment, address problems of crime and community safety and improve the quality of life for residents on the Vicarage Estate, Milton Regis. It was decided that a Planning for Real exercise could effectively highlight the greatest areas of need according to those who actually live there. Calling on the expertise of the Kent Architecture Centre, residents and school children were involved in building a three dimensional model of the estate, supplemented by photographs. Invitations, which included entry into a
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prize draw, were then sent to all local residents, and drew in over 100 participants. The model was used as the basis for identifying the priority issues, from road improvements to adult training opportunities. A follow up open meeting was held to resolve which recommendations were realistically achievable and when each issue should be dealt with - now, soon or later. It was also important to classify what the community could achieve on its own, or whether an injection of funds or expertise from the local authority, or the resources of a larger partnership, were needed.
regime requiring a developer to respond in the event that approved tolerances are exceeded. Examples might include noise emissions or air quality. 1.5.5 In order to assess the quality of their development control decisions, Sevenoaks District Council commissioned a review of the impact of development on a sample of occupiers and neighbours. Principle 1.6: Local Planning Authorities should build on the principles provided by Kent Design in the preparation of detailed design guidance for specific areas and sites. 1.6.1 Local Plan policies can encourage sustainable transport, mixed-use development, environmental safeguards and mitigation measures. Such policies can help to send a clear message to developers of a local authoritys aspirations and expectations for a particular site. 1.6.2 These policies might include the provision of community and physical infrastructure, landscaping, open space and access. Developers and the community then have an opportunity to challenge specific elements at a Local Plan inquiry. Once formally adopted, Local Plan policies have considerable weight. They can assist developers by giving them early notice of requirements so that these can be taken into account during the developers own decision-making processes. The Local Plan process may necessitate some preliminary survey work in order to identify the relevant key issues for a particular site.
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Outcomes Clear priority was given to overcoming problems of crime and safety, and a series of measures to take place in the short term was mapped out, including: Security fencing, lighting and/or CCTV cameras Neighbourhood Watch Addressing drug taking and problem families Traffic calming. The newly formed Residents Association (which resulted from the event) has held its first meeting, and a Clean Up Day to tackle problem areas has been proposed. The participation exercise tapped into the community aspiration for positive change, along with funding which could help realise at least some ideas to improve quality of life within the estate.
Principle 1.5: Systems for the monitoring and benchmarking of schemes should be put in place 1.5.1 Monitoring of both the design and environmental impact of a proposed development is vitally important in improving the quality of the built environment. This can be either a qualitative or a quantitative evaluation, or both. 1.5.2 Environmental benchmarking can take the form of a comparison of developments one with another. It may be particularly useful to compare the quality and sustainability of developments within Kent with authorities elsewhere. 1.5.3 Monitoring developments as they proceed is important to ensure that all the key elements of a scheme and any necessary conditions are properly implemented. It may be important to monitor the effectiveness of certain features of the design such as water-demand management, reduced car parking and higher development densities for future comparisons. It may also be appropriate, particularly with some innovative schemes, to impose conditions or seek legal agreements to address unforeseen problems. 1.5.4 There may be cases where it is reasonable for local planning authorities to require, through planning conditions, developers to put in place a monitoring
TONBRIDGE AND MALLING LOCAL PLAN POLICY P2/6 AND P2/7(1998)5 PRINCIPLE 1.6 For a major land release at Peters Pit, Wouldham, the Borough Council set down a number of requirements including: a new river crossing on- and off-site highway improvements an element of affordable housing a network of green cycleways, pedestrian and equestrian links and facilities for the public land restoration and treatment of contaminated land environmental enhancements and landscaping to mitigate new development impacts recycling facilities provision of leisure and recreation facilities and a riverside footpath provision for nature conservation management an element of mixed use including community infrastructure 1.6.3 Development briefs can be prepared by a local authority, landowner or developer. They can set down the parameters of what might be acceptable within a detailed planning application. A development brief is, therefore, a valuable mechanism for achieving good
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1.6 Gosport Study (Gosport Borough Council & Landscape Design Partnership)
RESEARCH 1.6.4 The Department of The Environment Transport and The Regions has recently carried out research into development briefs.6 This concluded that development briefs allow planning policies to be tuned to the specific characteristics of a given site. The research also concluded that briefs may need a specialist input for example; from urban designers, landscape architects, archaeologists and ecologists. 1.6.5 It goes on to recommend that consultation on briefs should include landowners, current occupiers, the development industry, chambers of commerce, estate agents, statutory undertakers, other departments in the local authority, other local authorities, local community and interest groups. Consultation with the public might take a number of forms including: leaflets, public meetings, questionnaires, site notices, public exhibitions and participative workshops.
This provides a detailed analysis of the urban environment at a local level. The first section identifies and assesses urban building types across the district, such as inter-war suburbia and 20th century industrial. The study applies the same evaluation to landscape areas. It then goes on to describe character areas within the urban conurbation, highlighting their positive and negative characteristics, landmarks, colour palette and, significantly, the design objectives. The appendix provides a detailed list of criteria for the evaluation of an area, for example the texture, microclimate, skyline and building age and condition.
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SEVENOAKS HIGH STREET CONSERVATION AREA APPRAISAL8 PRINCIPLE 1.6 This gives a detailed description of the geographic and historic context of Sevenoaks and is an example of many such appraisals carried out for Kents towns. By discussing individual buildings and groups of buildings and by giving details of materials, scale and decoration, the report manages to capture the sense of place (good and bad) created in different parts of the town. It describes the intricacies of the street pattern, footpath links and the quality of the street furniture and identifies important views into, within and out of the High Street. The report is intended to influence the development and implementation of planning and conservation policy within the town.
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design. The issues that might be covered in such briefs are set out below: how to respond to constraints and site characteristics, for example; listed buildings, ground conditions, contamination, access limitations, sensitive uses or buildings on or adjacent to the site; definition of local character including townscape, landscape and nature conservation; historic details; additional infrastructure or facilities that should be provided; planning standards to be applied and the degree of flexibility; scale, massing and height of buildings; influence of the property market; site survey and assessment including features to be retained; layout of circulation system (including servicing) for vehicles, public transport, pedestrians and cycles and how this should relate to open spaces; developable areas, landscape design and structure of external spaces; resource management such as water demand management, energy efficiency objectives; arrangements for establishing and maintaining structural planting; and phasing details to ensure key elements are delivered.
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GOSPORT BOROUGH LANDSCAPE AND TOWNSCAPE STUDY 19967 PRINCIPLE 1.6
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HOLLOW LANE CANTERBURY DEVELOPMENT BRIEF 19989 PRINCIPLE 1.6
1.6.8 Village Design Statements are particularly effective when they are developed, researched, and written by local people; when they are representative of the views of the village as a whole; and when they involve a wide section of the village community in their production. The database used to produce the statements may also provide useful information to developers as part of the process of facilitating locally sensitive design.
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EDENBRIDGE VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT 10 PRINCIPLE 1.6
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1.6 Hollow Lane (Canterbury City Council)
This brief related to a proposed residential development and identified the following key objectives: promotion of energy efficiency avoidance of car domination provision for cars, pedestrians and cyclists in a safe and sensitive manner (avoid cul-de-sacs, provide a high degree of permeability/traffic calming with a 10 mph home zone). open space including six door-step play areas an archaeological watching brief noise investigation in respect of a major road near the site provision of affordable housing and community infrastructure including education respect for local character and views promotion of water conservation measures. VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENTS AND VILLAGE APPRAISALS 1.6.6 The concept of locally prepared village design statements was introduced by the Countryside Commission (now Countryside Agency) as a way of involving residents in order that local knowledge, ideas and views could contribute in a positive way to the future of a village or town. Village Design Statements are used as a means of ensuring that the character of a village is fully understood and taken into account in planning decisions. They are applicable to all forms and scale of development and their purpose is to manage change in a village, not prevent it. They should define features of local character and distinctiveness that deserve to be protected and enhanced by new development. Where they are compatible with the statutory planning system they can be approved as supplementary planning guidance. 1.6.7 A Village Design Statement should: describe the distinctive character of the village and surrounding landscape; address regional diversity, local distinctiveness and the relationship of settlement to the surrounding landscape; draw up design principles based on distinctive local character; and work in partnership with the local planning authority within the context of existing local planning policy and so as to influence future policies.
1.6 Edenbridge Village Design Statement (Edenbridge Town Forum)
The preparation of the Edenbridge Village Design Statement was led by the Edenbridge Town Forum and involved the town council, Sevenoaks District Council, local residents, local community groups and schools. The Statement sets out the history of the village by identifying several of its key buildings and characteristic design features. Rural, developed and green spaces are described in detail for individual areas of the village to identify the key elements that give the village its character. The document is well illustrated and includes the communitys aspirations for new development; for example, indicating the types of design details that might complement existing development such as sensitive boundary treatment and the use of hung tiles and weather boarding. The Statement also makes specific reference to landscaping, street furniture, traffic and footpath issues. It has been adopted by Sevenoaks District Council as supplementary planning guidance. 1.6.9 A Village Appraisal is a community based and community led assessment of the current level of services and facilities within a village and the current needs of its inhabitants.
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REFERENCES: 1 One Stop Shop: Development Team Approach, Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions, 1998 2 Planning for Real The Neighbourhood Initiatives Foundation, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 1997 3 Vicarage Estate - Planning for Real Draft Report, Kent Architecture Centre; Swale Borough Council; Swale Housing Association, 1999 4 Quality of Development Control Outcomes, University of Westminster, 1998 5 Tonbridge and Malling Local Plan, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, 1998 6 Planning and Development Briefs: a Guide to Better Practice, Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions 1998 7 Gosport Borough Landscape and Townscape Study, Gosport Borough Council and Hampshire County Council, 1996 8 Sevenoaks High Street Conservation Area Appraisal, Sevenoaks District Council, 1998 9 Hollow Lane, Canterbury Development Brief, Canterbury City Council 1998 10 Edenbridge Village Design Statement, Edenbridge Town Forum, 1998
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 1: COLLABORATION

Have pre-application negotiations taken place? Have appropriately skilled teams been used to develop the scheme? Has appropriate survey work been undertaken? Has the development team approach been adopted? Have the public and its representatives been involved? Has a masterplan or development brief been prepared and taken into account? Has relevant detailed design guidance been taken into account? Does the scheme comply with Local Plan policy? Have monitoring regimes been submitted?
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Seek environmentally sustainable solutions through innovative design

Principle 2.1: Developers should seek to enhance environmental quality and sustainability through innovative solutions in both transport and building design Problem: The design of the road axis depended upon a straight street layout of some 200m in length. Experience suggested that this layout would result in unacceptably high traffic speeds for a residential street. The target speed needed was 20mph. Solution: Based upon a width of 5.5m, the road was designed with dumb roundabouts (circular central islands) sited at 70m intervals. The road width past these roundabouts was restricted by over-run areas constructed with granite setts sunk partly into the road surface, thus creating a raised shoulder which larger vehicles are forced to mount. The effect has been to maintain low speeds (average 17mph) throughout the length. By using quality materials and employing the central island as a tree planting area the measures have been designed to blend in with the overall scheme. A midi bus operates along this route.
2.1 Ashford international station
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2.1.1 Schemes that demonstrate a high quality of design, environmental responsibility and sustainability principles should be promoted. Developers should seek innovative construction techniques whether using contemporary or traditional materials. Consideration should be given to embracing an urban design process which incorporates the needs of all users whilst raising overall design quality. Sites incorporating recycled land may present design problems that can only be overcome by taking an unconventional approach. Developers should also look at ways of reducing the need for car transport and encouraging more sustainable forms of travel.
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INNOVATIVE HIGHWAY DESIGN PRINCIPLE 2.1
2.1.2 public art at Kings Hill, Kent
Principle 2.2: Local authorities will encourage innovation by welcoming those proposals which promote quality in design
2.1 Dumb roundabout
Kings Hill is a large mixed use development sited on a disused aerodrome near West Malling. The developers, Rouse Kent, wished to promote a principal road axis through the residential area, focusing on the distant landmark of Mereworth Castle. Part of the axis was to be in a boulevard style layout, with a street pattern of houses set back behind tree planted verges.
2.2.1 First Church of Christ Scientist, Maidstone
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2.2.1 Local authorities should seek to encourage developers whose applications demonstrate innovative techniques, enhance sustainability and raise design quality. In order to encourage sustainable development, they should ensure that their processes are sufficiently flexible to deal with innovative proposals. Such proposals should be monitored and evaluated throughout the planning and construction process. Consideration should be given to a scheme of local merit awards to acknowledge innovation and achievement.
system and an emphasis on passive solar gain, with automated blinds and shutters to prevent overheating. SAGA also provides a shuttle bus to transport employees to and from work. Principle 2.3: To assist developers, local authorities should be aware of best practice both here and abroad to keep abreast of latest thinking
2.3.1 high quality building in Nimes 2.2.1 innovative detailing C A S E S T U D Y
SAGA BUILDING, FOLKESTONE PRINCIPLE 2.2
2.3.1 Local authorities should be aware of the latest thinking in design and building techniques and should be prepared to train staff in order to give skilled support to developers putting forward innovative ideas.
2.2 Saga Building, Folkestone
Architects Michael Hopkins & Partners designed the new purpose-built headquarters for SAGA on recycled land in Folkestone. SAGA has long associations with Folkestone and is an important employer in the local economy. The planning application process was a collaborative one that kept the local community involved throughout. The Local Authority also adopted a positive stance to the innovative approach that has provided a prestigious new building in a high quality parkland setting. The building has been designed according to sustainability principles and incorporates a number of energy efficient components including a natural ventilation
2.3.1 Chestnut Court, Broughton (Environ Homes)
2.3.2 Liaison between local authorities to discuss latest techniques, exchange information and to share experiences should be encouraged. Use of existing discussion forums should be maximised and links formed with locally based sustainable interest organisations to keep abreast of latest thinking and techniques.
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Principle 2.4: Developers should be prepared to commission skills in order to promote innovative design solutions 2.4.1 In order to raise the quality of design through innovation and creativity, developers should be prepared to call on outside skills to bring forward non-standard solutions to development challenges.
forging partnerships with local authorities, Greenwich University and housebuilders to put theory into practice on a site in Dartford a proposed Timber Dwelling Research Centre at the University of Greenwich, Dartford and input into the neighbouring ecologically-focused London Science Park application of timber technology by Hyde Housing in existing stock. Another innovative application of timber construction is the Light Footfall Building System by English Oak Direct. This creates relocatable modular buildings from sustainably sourced timber with a minimum lifespan of 100 years and a capacity for a minimum of 10 moves. Principle 2.5: Local authorities should assist developers with Kent Designs principles through training workshops or seminars
2.4.1 innovative solution in Canterbury (Environ Homes) C A S E S T U D Y
TIMBER DWELLING PROJECT PRINCIPLE 2.4
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Timber from renewable sources is a sustainable and natural building material. Hyde Housing Association has teamed up with TRADA (Timber Research and Design Association) Hastoe, Swale Housing Association and Beazer Homes to promote timber in house construction; to consider ways of using it more innovatively and producing it more sustainably. Countries such as Finland and Canada have a wealth of experience on such matters.
2.5.1 joint developer/local authority training sessions
2.5.1 In order to promote an understanding of the objectives and principles contained within the Guide and encourage better practice, it may be appropriate for local authorities to hold training seminars or workshops for local builders and developers. This will be particularly important in promoting innovation amongst smaller developers who may not have access to a full range of specialist advice and experience. Principle 2.6: Both developers and local authorities should be prepared to stimulate thinking by local communities about design issues through education and promotion 2.6.1 Environmental education is important to raise peoples aspirations and expectations of the development process and to encourage an understanding of sustainability and design issues. Local Agenda 21 campaigns (dealing, for example, with pollution, recycling and traffic reduction) will increasingly play a major role in promoting the principles of sustainability to the general public. Initiatives such as Planning for Real days, local community focus groups and school projects can all assist in raising awareness of planning issues and by helping people to articulate their views. The local environment provides an ideal opportunity for exploring a number of subjects that complement the national curriculum.
2.6.2 timber dwelling (Amphion)
The strength of this project lies in its holistic approach to sustainable development. Not only were ideas sought for the innovative use of timber in internal components such as doors and staircases but also for wider considerations such as: assurance of sustainable forest management practices for all timber and wood products Forestry Stewardship Council certifications involving consumers at the design stage and assessing means of adapting dwellings to changing circumstances focus groups of potential clients to discover their requirements
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2.6.1 innovative quality housing in Norfolk. (Colin Blake, Norfolk County Council 1998)
2.6.2 Good design can be promoted in a number of ways, for example through publicity, demonstration projects, environmental education, exhibitions, design competitions and awards. Local authorities and developers can also benefit from closer relationships with educational establishments.
Does the design incorporate innovative features and in what ways? Has a timescale for the application process been agreed? Has the local authority contributed process or design ideas to add value to the final scheme? Have specialists such as architects or urban designers been involved in the development of the scheme? Have local authority-led seminars been held to raise awareness and help inform the design process? Where appropriate, has the scheme been considered by the local community and the potential for involving local schools investigated?
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CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 2: INNOVATION
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Ensure the public realm is maintained for its life cycle through formal adoption or other management arrangements
Principle 3.1: Consideration should be given to the whole life of any planned development so that appropriate mechanisms are in place to ensure a sustainable future their local context, so that an appropriate balance of public and private realm can be achieved. At an early stage of design, all public or semi-public spaces within a site should be designated, so that adoption and maintenance proposals can be established and agreed. These areas include: public open space play areas highway (including footways and cycleways), visibility splays and other areas required for highway maintenance or safety: this may include safety margins or service strips as appropriate parking courts and squares verges or margins between highway and footway structures in the public realm public art. 3.2.2 Adoption arrangements, including the financial provision to be made for long-term maintenance, must be agreed at the outset between the developer and the Local Authority for all areas within a site. As design is dynamic, there must be flexibility to enable the site to evolve throughout the planning and construction process. Ongoing supervision should be maintained by highway, landscape or other officers with responsibility for adoption, to ensure an acceptable outcome. Contact should also be maintained with the developer to take into account any design changes. Principle 3.3: All open space within any site must have an identified use 3.3.1 All open space should have a principal use. This is important to ensure that landscaping and open space makes a positive contribution to the development and are capable of being adequately maintained. Examples of these uses include: formal (e.g. planted garden) informal (e.g. quiet relaxation) functional (e.g. ball games, jogging trails) equipped (e.g. play area) laid out (e.g. squares/courtyards) visual amenity (e.g. screening/landscaped margin). Space that is non-functional or does not fall into any specifically defined category should be designed out (see Technical Appendix section 1.2).
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3.1.1 Local planning authorities, the Highway Authority and developers all have a responsibility for the stewardship of any development over its whole life. Sustainability mechanisms should be put in place so that the care and maintenance of that development will contribute to rather than detract from its local environment. Elements that require particular consideration include the ongoing energy needs of the development, the durability of construction and the care and management of any landscaping and amenity space. Principle 3.2: The intended function of all land within any given site must be established at the outset
3.2 designation and function
3.2.1 All sites should be considered holistically, within
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Principle 3.4: The proposed system of long-term maintenance, and how this will be funded, must be established at the outset
Authorities may also wish to specify the quality of workmanship and the degree of maturity of new landscaping that they will adopt.
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LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE PRINCIPLE 3.4 Stonegate Place is a recently developed infill development in the heart of the village of Wye. Formerly an egg packing yard, the site is small and compact, bounded by the village on all sides. Problem: To provide and maintain formal landscaping that would be appropriate for a small high-quality site. The system of maintenance was an important factor, as the Local Authority would be unlikely to be able to provide the high level of maintenance required. Solution: A management company carries out the maintenance on behalf of residents. Residents contribute on an annual basis, and have the benefit of very well maintained grounds, with the option of having private courtyards maintained and benefits such as rubbish disposal and other minor works, by agreement. Principle 3.5: Consultation over the maintenance and function of key areas should be undertaken with the local community (if appropriate) 3.5.1 The local community should be involved in the long-term maintenance of certain key areas such as woodland, nature reserves and ponds. Consultation would help generate interest, a sense of stewardship and could include a special agreement whereby the community maintains the area. The needs of the new community should also be considered during the postoccupation period.
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3.4.1 maintainance in action
3.4.2 Where it is agreed at the outset that the Highway Authority will adopt additional areas not strictly required for highway use (for example landscaped areas between carriageway and footway) then commuted sums should be sought for long-term maintenance. 3.4.3 In cases where larger or phased developments are planned, agreement should be reached at an early stage between the developer, the Local Authority and the Highway Authority on the surface materials to be used on the adopted road network. A system or logic should be agreed whereby roads with different characteristics may have surface finishes which reflect their attributes or functions. For example, car dominated roads may have a simple tarmac finish but other roads, depending on their usage and relationship to frontages, may be finished in materials that enhance the quality of the environment and public realm. The agreed strategy can then be applied throughout the phasing of the development with the confidence that it will be maintained with quality materials in the long term. 3.4.4 All maintenance arrangements should be long-term. Where maintenance is carried out by bodies other than the Local Authority, then the Authority should be consulted on how specific areas are to be maintained.
ASHFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL - PUBLIC OPEN SPACE ADOPTION PROCEDURE The Environmental Health and Leisure Services Department of Ashford Borough Council offers clear and concise advice on the procedure for Public Open Space (POS) adoption under a Section 9 Agreement. Section 9 of the Public Open Space Act 1906 provides that a Local Authority may acquire land for open space which it will then adopt and maintain for the purpose of local amenity. Local Authorities generally expect developers to apportion 10% of a site for POS as part of a planning agreement. For many developers the formal procedures relating to the handing over of POS can be complex and
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3.4.1 It is important that all relevant Local Authority interests should be involved in these decisions and that an holistic view is taken as to how a scheme should be designed and managed. Options for maintenance could include: adoption by the Highway Authority under the Highways Act adoption by the Local Authority under the Public Open Spaces Act maintenance by the Highway or Local Authority under a commuted sums arrangement maintenance carried out separately by a Bonded Management Company maintenance carried out separately by residents through special arrangement.
daunting. Ashford Borough Council provides a simple A4 sized leaflet to assist developers in understanding the process. The advantage of the leaflet is that it gives simple and clear guidance on a complex subject in a concise format. Advice relates to general information on adoption procedures, guidance on Section 9 Agreements and a list of contacts for further advice. The key part of the advice given is in the form of a flow chart that clearly sets out the sequence of the adoption process from the receipt of planning application stage to final hand over. The flow chart also identifies areas where time restrictions and financial requirements come into play, so that developers may be warned of these implications at an early stage.
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 3: LIFE CYCLE

Has the long-term sustainability of the development been considered? Does every area within the site have a designated function? Have all amenity areas been designated a specific function? Are there any areas left without a clear function? Has consultation on open space needs been carried out and if so with whom? Will the open space provision meet local needs in the long term? Which method or methods of long term maintenance (and funding) have been agreed?
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Bringing together uses in a manner which reduces the need to travel and promotes methods of movement that can improve the quality of life and reduce pollution
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Bring together residential, commercial, retail and community uses in a manner that reduces the need to travel and improves quality of life
Principle 4.1: Proposals should incorporate the principles of mixed-use development including the provision of conveniently located community infrastructure 4.1.1 Single-use developments can produce unfriendly and unsafe environments. The Urban Villages Forum1 has observed that community development is inhibited in such environments because the place where people live is not where they shop or work. As a result, these developments can be deserted at certain times of the day and are dominated by car use due to the distance between facilities. This lack of social interaction can create hostile environments for pedestrians and has a potentially negative effect on community safety. within an urban context the issue may be whether existing and proposed uses compliment each other to create a good mix of uses. Such incremental developments can also help to improve the quality of life within areas by introducing positive features to the environment and by revitalising a declining area. 4.1.4 The concept of mixed-use can apply to villages as well as urban development. For example, a new development within a village may include the provision of facilities that will reduce the need for residents to travel. 4.1.5 While it is acknowledged that that there will inevitably be commuting to and from mixed-use developments, providing employment and other facilities close to where people live increases their choice now or in the future.
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4.1.1 mixed-use neighbourhood
4.1.2 The success and vibrancy of historic centres lies in part in their cultural associations, their walkability and the fact that they provide attractive living and working environments where people are prepared to trade-off some disturbance in exchange for the range of activities and quality of life on offer. The Urban Villages Forum believes that it should be possible to create some of these attributes within new developments by promoting the concept of urban villages. The key features of an urban village are: a mix of uses (shops, leisure, community, commercial and residential) a variety of tenures (freehold and rented sector) to meet the needs of different parts of the community comparatively high densities a strong sense of place walkability a high degree of community involvement vitality 4.1.3 The principles of mixed-use developments can apply to towns, neighbourhoods, streets or single buildings and to small as well as large schemes. Developments should take into account the context within which they are to take place. For example, in a major greenfield scheme it may be necessary to include a wide range of different uses in order that the development can be self-sustaining. On smaller sites
4.1. multi-purpose Christ Church Centre in Tunbridge wells (Grayston Alan & Durtnell)
4.1.6 Good urban design that seeks to promote or create local distinctiveness and a sense of identity is an important component of mixed-use developments. Finely grained developments, built close to street frontages, enhance the streetscape and offer a greater sense of urban vitality and security. Carefully designed public spaces, streets, parks and pedestrian routes are also identified by the Urban Villages Forum as important components. Vibrancy within the central core of a mixed-use development may be promoted by providing for a range of leisure, education, informal caf and restaurant facilities. 4.1.7 The more conspicuous components of townscape such as shops, offices and public buildings, and the spaces around them, can help define the character of a development. 4.1.8 The quality of the public realm is very important. Blank frontages are unattractive to pedestrians and may
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deter walking. Areas should have their own character and sense of place. 4.1.9 Mixed-use developments do need to be carefully planned. While some people may wish to live within a busy central area others may want more tranquil surroundings. It should be possible to offer this choice through appropriate segregation of uses and by incorporating environmental safeguards. Providing a convenient network of public transport, footpaths and cycleways should ensure that facilities are capable of being reasonably accessible to one another without impacting adversely on each other. 4.1.10 It will be important to ensure that any transport infrastructure complements the objectives of the mixed-use development. Ensuring appropriate access and servicing arrangements, minimising the need to travel, promoting public transport and creating a safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists must all be addressed (see Objectives 5 and 7 on Movement and Safety). This will be particularly important where uses which historically may have had different design approaches now need to be addressed with a joint solution. 4.1.11 While developers used to promoting single-use developments may perceive additional risks in engaging in mixed-use developments, such risks may be reduced by forging links with commercial or other developers to share expertise. In the policy framework provided by Government (see Policy section), mixed-use developments are being given much greater emphasis and developers will be obliged to reflect this in their proposals. 4.1.12 There are an increasing number of examples of mixed-use developments which have been commercially successful (see case studies below). The potential benefit to developers of promoting mixed-use developments is the ability to offer customers greater choice. The publication, Making Places2, recommends that the promotion of an urban village should be carried out by a development management team. It suggests that such teams need skills in the following areas: acquisition/site disposal planning infrastructure assessment design developer and contract selection
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4.1 Brindley Place (Birmingham City Council)
WHITEFRIARS The proposed redevelopment of the Whitefriars area in Canterbury includes a range of uses with a focus on retailing. A major new department store will be its centrepiece but a number of community facilities are being provided, most notably a new church and prestigious library. The development will also include residential accommodation. The development will have a compact urban grain where buildings are of individual character linked by a network of pedestrian streets. The originally proposed number of parking spaces was later reduced in favour of a park and ride public transport facility.
4.1 Whitefriars (Canterbury City Council)
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BRINDLEY PLACE Brindley Place in Birmingham is a predominantly commercial development with residential and leisure elements which include an art gallery, restaurant quarter around the canal and an aquarium. A masterplan was prepared which dealt with the hierarchy of spaces, pedestrian movement, massing, views and gateways. An urban design brief was prepared for different areas but still provided scope for individual architectural design. The project was characterised by regular liaison between the promoters and the local authority.
WEST SILVERTOWN West Silvertown in London Docklands is an urban regeneration scheme in which a range of houses and flats in different price bands and tenures has been provided along with community infrastructure, such as open spaces and schools. The development is also within walking distance of a Docklands Light Railway Station. A pedestrian footbridge over the dock links the development to public transport connections.
Principle 4.2: Masterplans and development briefs should consider the mix and disposition of uses between and within developments and how these uses will be delivered 4.2.1 In order to promote mixed-use developments it is envisaged that the local authority or a developer would set down, in a masterplan or development brief, the type of uses and infrastructure requirements for a site. Masterplans tend to be used for major development projects that are likely to take place over a longer period and therefore need to have an element of flexibility. Masterplans should include information on: land use proposals public facility proposals transportation and circulation connections public space routes and places sub area divisions flagship projects. Further information on masterplans can be found in Making Places2.
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4.1 West Silvertown (Wimpey Homes)
GREENHITHE RIVERSIDE DEVELOPMENT (INGRESS ABBEY) This development draws on the principles of the urban village concept namely by promoting: a mixed-use centre a mix of dwelling types easy access to public transport a compact and permeable streetscape with walkable neighbourhoods an emphasis upon the public realm. The development creates a new parkland setting for the Grade II listed Abbey and acts as a focus for visual and physical links towards the waterfront and the residential areas. The land use plan shows the arrangements for development including layouts and accompanying elevations that show typical development form and architecture.
4.2. Singleton village centre
4.2.2 Development briefs address more detailed considerations such as design opportunities, ground conditions, built form, public realm, indicative site layout, and the possible location of key infrastructure. More detail on development briefs is given under Objective 1 on Collaboration. Urban design codes are a further refinement and include advice on the public realm and building design, type, massing and materials. 4.2.3 At the planning application stage it may be appropriate for the Local Authority to enter into an agreement with the developer to ensure that all necessary elements are provided. These elements might include; transport arrangements; number, tenure and size of units; open spaces for amenity recreation and play; shops, pubs, community halls and schools; leisure and other such services. Covenants may be appropriate to safeguard the long-term appearance and function of an urban village by, for example, requiring the maintenance of gardens and property, preventing alterations or restricting the display of signs.
4.1 Greenhithe Riverfront (Crest Strategic Projects)
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4.2.4 It is important that key facilities such as schools and shops are in place at an early stage of development to encourage patronage and allow peoples needs to be met without having far to travel. It is also important to address how new development dovetails into an existing area, for example, in terms of transport connections. Principle 4.3: The community should be included at an appropriate stage in the design process to ensure their input into the chosen mix of uses 4.3.1 To avoid potential conflicts and to reflect local priorities, it is important to identify and involve those groups and individuals affected by a proposed development. Issues concerning the mix of uses, construction phases and potential impacts in use may need to be discussed. This public participation process might include meetings, exhibitions or planning for real days. Principle 4.4: Good pedestrian and cycling routes should be provided 4.4.1 Successful mixed-use developments depend on the principle of walkable neighbourhoods incorporating networks of through pedestrian routes. It is important to ensure that any such thoroughfares are carefully designed to minimise the risk of criminal behaviour. This may be achieved by ensuring that footpaths are overlooked and have good visibility. The Police Architectural Liaison Officer should be consulted to identify the best approach (see also objective 5).
being that new development does not give rise to nuisance. Bringing different uses together can cause tension between occupiers unless adequate safeguards are built in during the design process. Nuisance late at night may often be associated with leisure activities such as nightclubs, pubs and restaurants. Noise from commercial vehicles or equipment may also cause nuisance to residential occupiers.
4.5.1 protection of amenity
4.4. walkable neighbourhood
4.5.3 Vehicular routes should be designed to minimise noise impacts on residential or other sensitive properties. Consideration should be given to the type of road surfacing used in order to reduce noise generated by vehicles (for example, porous asphalt). Traffic speed can also have a bearing on noise nuisance and speed restraint measures referred to in Objective 7 on Safety may help to address this issue. Careful design of servicing arrangements and the separation of access points may help to avoid conflicts. 4.5.4 Consultation with the police and the local community should help to highlight potential areas of conflict and identify the necessary safeguards. 4.5.5 Where uses are intended to be restricted to certain categories of activities, for example, B1 Business Use, to minimise the risk of conflict, it will be important to make potential occupiers aware of these limitations so that nuisance activity is not introduced. Including information on planning consents could facilitate this. 4.5.6 It should be recognised that there may be circumstances under which conflicts of use cannot be resolved and proposals may need to be amended accordingly. Retrospective action under Environmental Health legislation is unlikely to be an adequate substitute
4.4.2 Pedestrian and cycling shortcuts should be provided to give convenient access to a range of facilities. People will be encouraged to use footpaths or cycle routes if they are more direct than the equivalent vehicular route. Public transport facilities should link neighbourhoods and provide convenient access to other local centres. Accessibility between uses is the key. It is important to ensure that new transport infrastructure does not sever existing cycle or pedestrian routes. Principle 4.5: Mixed-use developments should address the need to protect the amenity of a variety of occupiers. 4.5.1 It is important to recognise and identify the potential conflicts that may arise in mixed-use developments and resolve them by careful design. It is also important in the interests of health and social well
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4.5.2 Separation of activities may be the most effective means of avoiding nuisance. Potentially noisy leisure uses should be located well away from residential elements of a scheme and noise attenuation measures should be included. Measures to deal with smells may need to be incorporated (see Objective 8). Neutral buffer activities or space may help to separate certain uses from others. Boundary features such as walls, fences and planting, together with the sensitive design of entrances and access points, may help to minimise disturbance. Controls over hours-of-use, security lighting and other management arrangements may also reduce the potential risk of nuisance.
for careful design. In Environmental Health terms, the defence of Best Practical Means limits the ability of occupiers to fully achieve a resolution of conflicts. Principle 4.6: Proposals should clarify funding, delivery and management arrangements for each component of a scheme 4.6.1 Negotiations between the Local Authority and developers should identify when different facilities will be needed. The applicant should then be able to calculate the development costs and prepare cash-flow appraisals that take into account forecast yields to reveal how a development is to be phased and the different elements brought forward. Viability testing may be required in order to ensure the correct balance and phasing of uses3. Where significant viability issues emerge it may be necessary to identify alternative sources of funding in order to deliver a holistic scheme. This funding might include loan guarantees, land reclamation grants, and other Government regeneration funding. 4.6.2 There may be difficulties where several developers are involved and they perceive disadvantages in a particular use ascribed to their land. It should be possible to ensure that incremental developments do not take place without a commitment to bring forward the community elements of a scheme such as open space. This will enable developers to negotiate with each other, recognising the inter-dependence of the different elements of the scheme. 4.6.3 The Urban Villages movement has promoted the concept of Community Trusts. These are bodies elected from the local community to sustain the character of a development in the long-term and to take guardianship of any communal areas or facilities. They may need to be given an initial cash injection by the developer and empowered to raise a service charge from occupiers. A Trust is able to respond to the specific needs of a new or expanding community and to nurture its development. 4.6.4 Buildings may be occupied in a variety of different ways over their life. The most successful buildings are those that can be readily adapted.
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implementation programme including procuring major infrastructure projects, the selection of private developers and Housing Associations for each project and securing the necessary gap funding from English Partnerships and other public sector sources. It was managed by an on-site executive team, which reported to a board of directors. CROWN STREET REGENERATION PARTNERSHIP GLASGOW. , Crown Street Regeneration Partnership, Glasgow. The Crown Street Regeneration Project was initially conceived by the pubic sector. A partnership was formed to bring together the expertise and assets of the Glasgow Development Agency (GDA), Glasgow City Council, Scottish Homes and the local community. The partners, acting as a Steering Committee, have adopted a model based on informality rather than complex legal structures. Various teams of consultants work under the leadership of a Project Director. The GDA initially met the costs of promoting the project and environmental involvement costs whilst the City Council invested its land holdings in the scheme. Private developers compete for the opportunity to develop the housing and commercial facilities on the basis of fixed land price, detailed design and development briefs. The first phase included 217 homes for sale and 71 homes for rent; a supermarket, and five shops. A derelict church was brought back into use and substantial environmental improvements were made. Together, these investments were sufficient to establish Crown Street as a new mixed-use urban quarter.
Source Making Places English Partnership and Urban Village Forum
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PRINCIPLE 4.6 HULME REGENERATION LTD. This was a joint venture company, limited by guarantee, set up by Manchester City Council and AMEC plc to manage the Hulme City Challenge initiative. With joint chairmen, one from each partner, this company has driven the process of planning, developing and refurbishing 3000 homes, a new shopping street, business accommodation and community facilities. Hulme Regeneration Ltd formulated the initial mixed-use concept and worked with the local community to prepare a masterplan and design guide. The company managed the
NEW ASH GREEN New Ash Green near Sevenoaks has many mixed-use characteristics. While there are only limited employment opportunities within the village, it does have a number of facilities that give it an element of self-containment. These include a central shopping area, a community hall and a network of open spaces and schools. The village has a vibrant centre. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the village is the community management structure that was established at the outset. This includes a Village Association that manages all the communal land and enforces restrictive covenants to preserve the integrity of the design elements and Residents Societies who manage the administration of each of the 24 neighbourhoods. There is a hierarchy of decision-making and responsibilities divided between the different parts of the management structure. Residents make financial contributions to the management of the village and their neighbourhoods, which gives some autonomy to respond to local environmental priorities. The structure does however require a considerable commitment and expertise on the part of local residents and the contributions (to Village Association and Residents Societies) are in addition to local authority rates.
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REFERENCES: 1 Urban Villages, The Urban Villages Forum, 1992 2 Making Places - A Guide to Good Practice in Undertaking Mixed-Use Development schemes, English Partnerships/Urban Village Forum, 1998 3 The Economics of Urban Villages, The Urban Villages Forum, 1995
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 4: MIXED USE

Do components of the scheme embrace urban village principles, such as quality, walkability and density? Does the scheme complement existing uses? Have measures been taken to reduce the risk of nuisance? Is supporting community infrastructure proposed? Is a construction and phasing strategy proposed? Has a masterplan been prepared? Has a development brief been prepared? Are facilities readily accessible by foot, cycle or public transport? Is the design of buildings robust?
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Promote the movement of people by walking, cycling and public transport to reduce car dependency and maintain and improve air quality
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Principle 5.1: Viable public transport should be provided at the initial phase of a new development 5.1.1 It is key to sustainability that public transport elements should be provided at the outset, before a development comes on stream, otherwise the car transport ethic will become ingrained and habits will be hard to change. Public transport may consist of buses, trains or rapid light rail transit, but negotiations must be made at an early stage to ensure that services are subsidised until they become viable. Developers may be required to provide pump-priming funds and ongoing revenue support. Sponsorship or partnership agreements with local bus companies may also be appropriate. (See also Planning for Public Transport in Developments - I.H.T.1).
should be provided initially. Thought should be given to providing a bus waiting area in the centre of developments. Bus stops should be of a high quality and well sign-posted with good information boards and waiting areas should have raised kerbs so that access to the bus is at footway level. Bus shelters should be appropriately lit and have seating.
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KENT THAMES-SIDE LOOKING TO AN INTEGRATED FUTURE PRINCIPLE 5.1
5.2.1 centralised public transport (David Lock Associates)
5.1 integrated transport in Kent Thames-side (David Lock Associates)
Kent Thames-side is an association that brings together Dartford & Gravesham Borough Councils, Kent County Council, Whitecliff Properties and University of Greenwich. Although a separate organisation, Kent Thames-side employs no staff directly, but staff from each body meet regularly and work together on specific issues and projects to help progress the regeneration of the area. Together the group is promoting a Vision for Kent Thames-side which takes the discouragement of unnecessary caruse as one of its fundamental principles. Priority is to be given to walking and cycling for short trips through the use of a network of safe and convenient routes, but for longer trips a good quality high capacity local transport system is envisaged. This system would link all the key areas within Kent Thames-side, and also run along corridors that are designed to be accessible to as many homes as possible, thus encouraging maximum take-up with residents. Principle 5.2: Public transport should be brought into the heart of the development where appropriate 5.2.1 New developments should be designed so that residents can easily access public transport. Residents should not have to walk further than 400m to reach a bus stop, and information signing to guide residents to stops
5.2.2 Where appropriate, bus priority measures should also be built into developments. These could include bus lanes, bus gates and traffic signal priority. Other priority measures could consist of bus boarders or built out kerbs that block the road for cars when the bus is present. Care must be taken to ensure that other speed restraint features on their routes do not compromise buses. In some cases it may be applicable to have dedicated bus lanes or bus-only routes.
GREENHITHE WATERFRONT PRINCIPLE 5.2 The Crest development at Greenhithe Waterfront will be a predominately residential development of up to 950 houses supported by local amenities such as nursery and primary education and local retail and community facilities. This brownfield site was formerly home to both the Empire Mill and Dartford Merchant Navy College and includes the recently restored Ingress Abbey. The development is planned along sustainable lines in accordance with the Vision for Kent Thamesside. Accordingly the Masterplan allows for good access by the high quality bus transport known as Fastrack. The planned Fastrack route runs through
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the site from east to west providing a regular and frequent service to all parts of Thames-side. In order to limit intrusion from through car traffic, the route will be controlled by bus-only gates at either end of the development. Housing has been planned to be in easy walking distance of the new route in order to encourage its use at the outset. The Fastrack route is designed specifically to cater for the bus service, with high quality bus stops and travel information. Principle 5.3: Developers and/or commercial enterprise should submit green commuter plans for larger sites 5.3.1 Green commuter plans are designed to reduce peak time car travel. They may include anything from the provision of cycle racks to the sponsorship of a shuttle bus for commuters who work on larger commercial developments. Cycle routes that link various commercial premises with key areas of the remainder of the development should be included in the green commuter plan brief. It will also be a requirement to ensure that companies have appropriate cycle storage as well as changing and showering facilities to augment cycling to work. Green Travel plans are more comprehensive methods of reducing work-related car travel. They may include a range of travel to work alternatives to the private car and include IT systems for home working and tele-conferencing. Guidance on the setting up of Green Travel plans is available through the local authority Local Agenda 21 initiatives.
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STEPPING HILL HOSPITAL AND STOCKPORT METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL Both organisations operate a car-sharing database to match potential sharers. The Hospital provides guaranteed parking spaces for car-sharers. WIGAN INFIRMARY Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council is investigating lighting, crossings and other safety features along a route regularly used to travel to the infirmary, with a view to implementing improvements and making walking a safe and attractive option. Principle 5.4: Linked bus and train timetables and through-ticketing should be promoted 5.4.1 Local authorities and public transport operators should explore the possibility of integrating transport so that railways and bus services are linked together by compatible timetables and have through-ticketing facilities.
5.3 green commuting (Kent Thames-side)
CHARTWELL EXPLORER LEISURE BUS SERVICE PRINCIPLE 5.4 A through ticketing project has been set up to encourage the use of public transport to and from Kentish tourist attractions and London. Partners in the project include; The Countryside Commission, Sevenoaks District Council, the National Trust, Kent County Council and rail and coach companies. The initiative allows individuals or families to buy a single ticket in London that covers a rail trip to local Kent
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GREATER MANCHESTER GREEN TRANSPORT PLANS PRINCIPLE 5.3 A comprehensive guide to the setting up of green travel plans has been produced through a partnership of interested bodies within the Greater Manchester area. Participating bodies include local authorities, health authorities, rail and bus companies. Targeted at businesses in the Greater Manchester area, the guide points out the benefits in terms of reduced costs and improved public health. The guide runs through the process from the explanatory introduction to the what to do and the how to do which includes gathering information on public attitudes through surveys and travel questionnaires. A toolkit approach to measures is suggested and participants are invited to consider which techniques would be the most appropriate for their company. Measures are wide ranging and include simple ideas like local signing for a hospital, to the introduction of a subsidised commuter bus and van-sharing initiatives for Manchester Airport.
stations to link with bus travel to various sites near Sevenoaks such as Chartwell, Emmett Garden and Squerrys Court. The frequency of the coach service from the stations to attractions allows visitors to drop on and off during the course of the journey, to permit flexibility and suit convenience. The current project operates on weekends and bank holidays during the summer months. Principle 5.5: Highway standards for private cars should reflect the provision of alternative modes of transport (buses, cycleways and walkways) 5.5.1 Developments that are located near to transport nodes and have a variety of alternative travel methods may have correspondingly less highway space given over to the private car. The principal route through such a development may be dedicated to buses or trams only, with more complex and tortuous routes provided for private cars. An alternative may be to design the principal route in such as way as to apportion the greater part of the space to buses, walkers and cyclists, leaving only narrow lanes for cars. Tree lined boulevards are an example of this, where the greatest part of the space is given over to pedestrians, thus minimising the impact of motorised vehicles.
Principle 5.7: Parking provision should be appropriate to locality and the availability of alternative modes of transport 5.7.1 The type and amount of parking that might be acceptable will depend on the characteristics of the locality, the specific circumstances of the case and the design philosophy of the scheme. Parking requirements will differ according to the building type and its users, whether needs are for long or short stay, and whether cars or larger vehicles have to be catered for. The availability of alternative transport facilities will also influence parking requirements. 5.7.2 It may be appropriate to limit parking in locations where there is easy access to public transport as well as walking and cycling routes. In certain areas it may even be practical to have car-free commercial or residential developments but these must be backed in the latter case by evidence that potential residents will not require parking spaces. It is essential that robust controls are in place on the surrounding public highway to prevent parking so that parking from new developments does not displace to these areas. An alternative may be to consider a pooling system where all vehicles are shared and garaged in an accessible and secure central location. 5.7.3 In rural areas where public transport choice is limited, parking standards should reflect need. Parking needs should be considered on a site-specific basis in respect of local alternatives to car travel (see Case Study 8.1). 5.7.4 Where it is appropriate to provide parking this should be in a manner which satisfies the overriding objectives of the Guide, such as maximising the use of land; minimising car use: promoting the safety of all highway users; providing security and showing sensitivity towards the locality. 5.7.5 The scale of road, its level and type of usage will influence the way parking is managed. Vehicle dominated roads, such as district and local distributors, are areas where car parking is most appropriate off-street, such as park and ride sites. On-street parking should be discouraged where speeds are high and pedestrians can be masked by parked vehicles. Pedestrian dominated streets may have a mix of parking types; on plot, rear parking courts or on street. On-street parking can work safely and successfully in pedestrian environments providing roads are designed to keep speeds very low. 5.7.6 Within curtilage parking is traditional and popular, but can be detrimental to the appearance and character of the neighbourhood and numbers of vehicles can be hard to control. Shared parking offers advantages in terms of providing a more flexible and discrete design but it can raise concerns about security. These could, however, be addressed in a number of ways, such as ensuring that parking areas are overlooked and well lit (see Principle 7. 3).
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5.5.1 sectional bus route (David Lock Associates)
Principle 5.6: Access provision should be appropriate to the size and frequency of essential vehicles 5.6.1 Consideration must be given in new development to the size and type of vehicles that may need access. Although it is important to limit road space as far as possible on the grounds of sustainability and safety, it is still important to make adequate provision for service. Care is needed at the early stage of the design to ensure that there is a strategy for accommodating buses and larger vehicles on certain roads within a development, but keeping other parts of the road network free for a more flexible design approach. 5.6.2 There will be a requirement for access by emergency service and refuse vehicles, but the effects in terms of road design can be minimised by early consultation with both the Fire Service and Waste collection companies. Waste collection points should be in easy reach of the collectors yet within the walking distance outlined by the Local Authority. These collection points are an important part of the overall design as careful siting can go a long way to minimising road space. Access widths suitable for the Fire Service are outlined in the highway standards table in the Technical Appendix. Further guidance can be found in Guidance for Providing Adequate Access for Fire Appliances under the County of Kent Act 19812.
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5.7.7 SERPLAN is in the process of developing parking strategies that seek to allow for different parking policies to be pursued within the priority areas for economic regeneration as compared to areas of economic pressure3. (See also: Draft PPG 13 - Transport 19994.)
- DETR6; and Reducing Mobility Handicaps - IHT7.
STATION ROAD, CANTERBURY PRINCIPLE 5.7 This was a brownfield site close to a railway station and Canterbury city centre. It comprised a bus depot, repair works and goods yard. In 1991 Canterbury City Council prepared a development brief which sought a contemporary solution that respected the Canterbury streetscape and would encourage people to live in the town. The brief was not prescriptive about the numbers of units that should be achieved, but the city council was keen to avoid a suburban and highway dominated solution. The progress of the scheme was characterised by close collaborative working between the City Councils Planners and Transport Engineers. The City Council and developers also engaged in regular dialogue. The scheme has achieved a density of nearly 27 units per acre by focusing on terraced properties and limiting parking provision to 1 space per unit and in some cases providing no spaces at all. Parking is provided within a secure communal area at the rear of properties. No onstreet parking is allowed and visitors can park in nearby City Centre car parks. While the appearance of the dwellings is more traditional than contemporary, the innovative aspect of this scheme relates to the radical approach taken to parking standards well in advance of the emerging national trend. It also demonstrates the turning of a brownfield site into a successful scheme in market terms. The scheme demonstrates that quality and collaboration are important components in achieving successful brownfield development. WALKING AND CYCLING Principle 5.8: Developments should be readily permeable allowing safe, direct routes for pedestrians, cyclists and the mobility impaired. 5.8.1 Suitable routes that link key areas both within and around new developments should be considered at the outset so that residents are encouraged to use them instead of the car. Walking and cycling are sustainable and healthy ways of travelling over short distances, but often suffer as a result of weather, culture, topography, fears for personal safety and lack of appropriate storage. Safety is enhanced generally by increasing the number of walkers and cyclists in an area, and children will benefit from having the freedom to use routes segregated from motorised traffic. People with disabilities will also benefit from routes that provide direct links to and from services, and that have a smooth and well-maintained surface. For further information see: Highways Suitable for the Mobility Impaired - KCC5; Guidance on the Use of Tactile Surfaces
5.8.1 pedestrian and cycling paths in Kings Hill
5.8.2 Direct routes through developments should be provided for walkers and cyclists. These may either be segregated or combined, whichever is most appropriate to their context and likely usage, but must be userfriendly. They should not be too far removed from surveillance and should not be hidden from roads or houses by earth mounds or heavy landscaping. They should have appropriate lighting unless they are a part of a small, unlit development. Walking and cycling should be promoted as a dominant mode of travel for short trips, so these routes should be more direct than those for cars. Strategic foot and cycleways should be well lit to encourage use, unless they are primarily for leisure use where night time use is unlikely, or in rural surroundings where lighting would be inappropriate. The following documents give further guidance: The National Cycle Network Guidelines and Practical Details - Sustrans8; Cycle Friendly Infrastructure - DoT9; London Cycle Network Design Manual10; Guidelines for Cycle Audit & Review - IHT11.
ST. MARYS ISLAND, GILLINGHAM PRINCIPLE 5.8 St Marys Island is a development of 1600 dwellings on ex. Ministry of Defence land in the Medway Estuary . The island is important for wildlife and is being designed to enhance this aspect by the provision of a wide area of parkland that runs across the island. As well as housing there are plans for a community centre with shops and a school. Good pedestrian access to a newly created riverside walk has been provided. Problem: The location of the island predicates a high level of car dependency. The original design
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suggested a principal route for traffic in the form of a long loop road around the perimeter of the island, a design which would be likely to lead to unacceptably high speeds. The problem was how to encourage greater cycle and pedestrian use for short journeys within the island site.
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PRIORITY MEASURES ON CANTERBURY CYCLE ROUTES PRINCIPLE 5.9 The walled city of Canterbury with its well-defined core and its self-contained network of medieval streets, lends itself to cycling as distances are not excessive and the town centre is largely pedestrianised and lightly trafficked. Canterbury has a large number of students and cycling is a popular form of transport both in and around the city. Problem: Although the centre of the city has a good degree of traffic control and speed restraint, the ring road and the radial routes from university and colleges present a safety problem for cyclists wishing to travel into and out of the centre. Solution: Greater priority is afforded to cyclists by the use of two techniques, Advance Stop Lines at traffic signals, and Toucan Crossings. Advance Stop Lines give priority to cyclists using the ring road, to enable them to have a safe and rapid getaway at traffic signals. Many conflicts occur at signalled junctions, as left-turning vehicles can often hit cyclists riding on the nearside, and right turning cyclists have difficulties moving across lanes of fast moving traffic. The Advance Cycle Stop Line allows cyclists to move ahead of the rest of traffic to wait in a clear area at the stop line. This means that they are then in clear view of the waiting traffic, and have the benefit of being in front of the queue, giving them more time to make manoeuvres in safety. The second technique is the Toucan Crossing. This is generally used to link the two sides of an off-road cycleway where it crosses a busy route. Although they can be used by pedestrians (thus the name; twocan) they are chiefly designed for cyclists, as they have push buttons mounted at the appropriate height. The difference between a Toucan and other crossings is that at pelicans and zebras cyclists are required to dismount to cross, whereas toucans allow riders to cycle across. The timing device can be adjusted so that cyclists never have long to wait, forcing car drivers to give way to cyclists.
5.8 St. Marys Island (Countryside Maritime)
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Solution: In order to prevent speeding the loop was made more circuitous and cut at its mid point with a bus only gate. A system of direct links for walkers and cyclists has been formed to cross the island, thus providing off-road routes to the community centre, and to local bus stops. Cycle use is encouraged by a wide segregated footpath and cycleway that links through to the mainland and round the island. Cyclists are given priority at side road junctions by running a raised route across the junctions, and by bypassing roundabouts and other speed restraint features, in order to provide safe, direct routes. Principle 5.9: New infrastructure for cycling, walking and riding should be linked into existing networks 5.9.1 It is important to design a strategy for walking and cycling that links new developments to existing developments. This might include existing local facilities such as shops or the railway station, or links to wider strategic networks such as national cycle routes, bridleways or long-distance footpath systems. Existing local networks may provide a useful leisure opportunity for walkers, cyclists and riders, and consideration should be given to linking these through the development. It is as important for developers to consider the relationship with the area outside of their development as it is to consider internal circulation. The Walking Strategy for Kent2 and The Cycling Strategy for Kent13 gives further guidance.
5.9.1 cycle short-cut against flow of traffic (Canterbury City Council)
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Principle 5.10: Convenient cycle storage should be incorporated into properties and destinations.
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 5: MOVEMENT

Has the developer made a contribution to public transport? Has public transport been designed into the development proposals? Has a green commuter plan been prepared? What alternatives to trips by private car have been provided? Have rail and bus companies been consulted to promote integrated transport? Do highway standards reflect the degree of choice of travel alternatives? Does the highway layout make provision for all necessary vehicles? Is parking provision appropriate to the degree of alternative travel choice? Have public transport service providers been consulted? Does the development provide direct links for walkers and cyclists to local facilities? Does provision for walkers and cyclists link to existing networks? Has cycle storage been provided at properties or travel nodes?
5.10.1 safe cycle storage facility
REFERENCES: 1 Planning for Public Transport in Developments, Institute of Highways & Transportation, 1998 2 Fire Safety Policy Directive 15 - Guidance for Providing Adequate Access for Fire Appliances under the County of Kent Act, Kent & Medway Towns Fire Authority, 1981 3 Towards a Parking Strategy for the South East, SERP477, 1999 4 Revision of Planning Policy Guidance Note (PPG)13 Transport (Draft), Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1999 5 Highways Suitable for the Mobility Impaired, Kent County Council, 1999 6 Guidance on the Use of Tactile Surfaces, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1998 7 Reducing Mobility Handicaps - Towards a Barrier Free Environment, Institute of Highways & Transportation, 1991 8 The National Cycle Network Guidelines and Practical Details, Sustrans/Ove Arup,1997 9 Cycle Friendly Infrastructure - Guidelines, Planning & Design, Department of Transport, 1996 10 London Cycle Network Design Manual - Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, 1998 11 Guidelines for Cycle Audit & Review, Institute of Highways & Transportation, 1998 12 The Walking Strategy for Kent (Draft), Kent County Council, 1999 13 The Cycling Strategy for Kent (Draft), Kent County Council, 1999.
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5.10.1 Storage provision for cycles should be made for every dwelling, either in the form of additional personal storage space in garages, houses or other lockable buildings, or communally in bicycle cages. Provision for storage should also be made at the journeys end, especially at shopping, community facilities and transport nodes. Cycle provision should be made at the outset even for buildings such as cinemas, multiplexes and DIY stores.
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Embracing local distinctiveness and maximising the use of land in order to provide attractive and safe environments whilst minimising the use of resources
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Embrace local distinctiveness, promote quality and protect existing features of cultural, visual and historical importance
Principle 6.1: New development should embrace good contextual design principles 6.1.1 Design covers a range of factors that mould the interaction of people with buildings and the spaces that connect them. The term urban design should be interpreted not just in the context of towns or cities but in any place where people interact with buildings and their landscape, from single buildings in villages to major development in large cities. It is about creating successful places that work well for those using them. Development is never too small to be considered in design terms. It is often the cumulative effects of domestic extensions, single dwellings and alterations, rather than major new buildings, which impact on peoples perception of a place. However, even within Kents diverse pattern and scale of development, whether it be coastal town, wooded rural location, traditional market town or more recent dormitory suburb, there are some common considerations which should be evaluated in an appraisal of any site. Quality in design reaches beyond transitory taste and fashion.
6.1.4 site appraisal factors
6.1.5 Site Appraisal

6.1 SAGA Headquarters, Folkestone, Michael Hopkins and Partners
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6.1.2 Good design can generate a lively, attractive and well-used environment; it can also bring significant economic benefits. Both the Government and developers are beginning to recognise this, and greater time, resources and advice are being invested in urban design. English Partnerships1 have observed that in lean economic times it is the better quality, well designed buildings which survive (this document also includes more detailed guidance on design issues). Local authorities have a key role in promoting this locally - PPG 1; for example, states that planning authorities can require that a proposal is accompanied by a design statement. Many local authorities are producing their own design strategies2. 6.1.3 The government is keen to ensure that urban design objectives become core elements of planning decisions and local planning policy. Successful new development is based on making a balanced judgement between all of the factors at play e.g. local context and character; transport and movement and balancing the needs of shopping, business and housing. Development that has proved less successful has often been overpowered by a single element, such as the provision for cars through road networks that have disregarded local character or context3 (see also Technical Appendices Section 2). 6.1.4 No single template can be drawn to achieve good urban design: the optimum solution is unique to each site.
Level and lie of the land What views are generated from and of the site? What is the approach to the site? What forms the sky-line? What is the nature of the open spaces and how are they connected? What is the local climate? Are there any significant wildlife habitats? The built environment What unusual features make the place distinctive? What is the relationship between the buildings and spaces? What size and shape are the plots? What are the boundary treatments - walls, fences, verges, planting? What are the building types and styles? The pattern of streets and movement Are the streets narrow, wide, curved? Who has access - cars, pedestrians? How does pedestrian and vehicular traffic move through? What is the historic street pattern? Ground and surface covering What is the proportion of hard surface and soft landscaping? Are surfaces rough or smooth in texture? What are the effects of natural daylight? What are the ground conditions?4
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6.1.6 Annex A of PPG 15, Handling of Design Issues, gives a clear policy basis for this approach, and recommends the preparation of a written design statement which should set out the design principles, show the proposal in its context and be accompanied by illustrative plans and elevations. Its degree of detail will depend on the scale and likely impact of the development, but consideration of design is applicable to development of any scale from house extensions to major proposals. 6.1.7 Good planning and design is based on balancing a range of issues in an innovative way to optimise the final solution. The advice that follows is based on principles of good practice and the degree to which each is relevant will depend on the context and scale of the development. The advice is intended to complement the Building Regulations that should be adhered to for all built development. CREATING POSITIVE PLACES 6.1.8 New development should make a positive contribution to its environment, particularly if the local context appears tired or unwelcoming. Positive features of local distinctiveness may be difficult to find, but clues may lie in history, landscape or deeper evaluation of the area. Even where there is no building, it may be worth researching the appearance of previous buildings to provide evidence of evolution in the area. These more challenging places and spaces often offer more opportunity for innovation or the potential to create a new identity. Landscape design should be integral to the proposal, and consideration should be given to the appropriate mix of hard and soft surfaces. Design competitions can often help to achieve a better quality and more innovative result for a new building.
6.1.9 smallest details
There are several elements which can contribute to good urban design6:
6.1.10 legibility
6.1.11 variety 6.1.8 rich detailing at Rochester Riverside, Kent
6.1.9 All design, from the smallest detail such as a handrail to a large commercial development, offers the opportunity to create something special. Public art can help to give identity and interest to a place.
VARIETY 6.1.11 Consideration should be given to encouraging a mix of uses which complement each other and which generate activity both during the day and the evening. Evening activity, whether cultural, social or retail, can transform the
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LEGIBILITY 6.1.10 Legibility describes the readability of a place to its users, including the clarity of its routes and points of entry and exit. New development should respect the areas, circulation spaces and landmarks that give a sense of where one is within the hierarchy of the town or village.
vitality of a place. A mix of uses may occur within a single building, with office accommodation providing a buffer on middle floors with shops below and housing above. Variety should also be apparent in the types of space; formal and informal, green and hard surfaces, private and public. Successful places balance the need for order and variety.
the fine balance between variety and uniformity in a building or development.
6.1.14 longevity
6.1.12 permeability
LONGEVITY 6.1.14 Spaces and buildings that allow for and actively encourage a broad range of present and future uses will be more sustainable than those designed for a single specific use or user. Materials and components should also be suitable for adaptation or re-use.
PERMEABILITY 6.1.12 Ensure permeability by designing for a variety of routes that allow movement easily through a space and link to other spaces and routes, particularly for those on foot.
6.1.15 visual character
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6.1.13 detail
VISUAL CHARACTER 6.1.15 Consideration should be given to the appearance of a development or an individual building in relation to its neighbours, and within its own components (for example, the scale and prominence of a garage should not give it greater visual priority than the house).
6.1.16 individuality
6.1.13 details in context
DETAIL 6.1.13 A richness of design and texture can be achieved through careful detailing and use of materials, and through
INDIVIDUALITY 6.1.16 There should be sufficient flexibility to allow those living and working in a place to make their mark both on their identifiable private space, and collectively over the function and appearance of public space, but within the overall character of the development and neighbouring area.
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Principle 6.2: New development should express the distinctive quality of the natural topography, existing landscape and built character of the site
CAPACITY 6.2.5 What is the acceptable capacity that the landscape can absorb? The layout of development set in valleys, hills or woodland should carefully consider its interplay with the topography and vegetation. Consideration must also be given to whether the location can cope with the scale of road required to serve the size of development proposed. HIERARCHY OF URBAN SPACE 6.2.6 The hierarchy of form of even the smallest village traditionally offers the visitor a sense of arrival. It is often marked by an increase in the density and height of buildings towards the centre with civic buildings or a church and a public space such as a civic square or village green. There may be areas within the town or village that have a distinctiveness of their own. Developments that are monotonous in their layout do not engender such a sense of place or nurture community spirit. PUBLIC / PRIVATE SPACE 6.2.7 New development should allow an appropriate degree of private and public space around the property. Developments in villages and towns have traditionally been built close to the road with large private gardens to the rear. Narrower plot widths are also a common feature in the centre of towns and villages.
6.2.1 impact
IMPACT 6.2.1 Any new development should respond to the context in which it is set. Distinctly urban or rural environments may be easier to evaluate than those which are on an urban fringe or which must take account of their impact on both urban and rural environments. Development on the edge of a town or village may be visually important to the view upon entering that place. Its impact on the skyline should also be considered, particularly in the countryside. Towns and villages are often characterised by their skylines. SCALE 6.2.2 The scale of the proposal refers not just to the height and length of the building but to the scale of all its components, for example doors, windows and detailing. Massing refers to the way in which the buildings elements are put together and includes the volumes in both plan and elevation. 6.2.3 The impact of telecommunications equipment, TV aerials and overhead cables must also be given consideration. Guidelines on this can be found in PPG 8 and Appendix E of the DoE circular 9/95, General Development Order Consolidation 1995. COLOUR 6.2.4 Colour can have a significant impact on the character of a building and its locale, particularly in conservation areas where colour may be subject to planning control. This concerns both the choice of materials and any applied colour. Even use of white can radically alter the appearance of a building for better or worse. The most successful colours are variants of those found naturally in the earth and landscape, such as browns, earth reds and dark greens, perhaps with a complementary colour applied to details (doors, windows, rainwater pipes). There are of course exceptions to this in Kent, particularly the pinks, blues and yellows in the architecture of some coastal towns. Colour does not necessarily have to be bound by this tradition but careful consideration should be given to context and to the shade, intensity, reflectiveness and area of coverage of the colour.
6.2.1 Gardens - public/private space
PUBLIC REALM 6.2.9 Successful places are well used - a steady passage of people gives a perception of safety; Spaces for public events, markets and performances should be respected or, in a case of newly developing areas, created; Private realm should be clearly distinguished from public realm (see Principle 7.1); Building frontages, whether commercial, retail or housing should have a direct relationship with the street. The building line should be retained, unless a positive use of space or a specific feature are to be accommodated; Buildings which attract the greatest activity and have a clear public function should be at the centre of a development, and their entrances should be clearly visible; Infill development should not overlook the opportunity to design in a network of paths, routes and spaces - public areas such as shopping streets
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6.2.8 Buildings at a street corner are particularly important and should actively turn the corner. They can also provide good natural surveillance.
require a greater degree of permeability for users; Roads are not just a vehicular corridor but part of the public realm and have a key impact on the perception of the users. The aim should be to create streets for people, rather than roads for vehicles. This should be taken account in their design (see Technical Appendix section 2); The public realm should be clearly enclosed by either buildings or landscape. Even a neighbourhood of semi- or detached housing can benefit from a sense of enclosure achieved by the use of hedges, fences and trees; and The quality of all elements of the street scene contribute to the sense of place and should be complementary, including lamps, seats, litter bins, paving, bus shelters and signs. Sparing use of strategically placed street furniture is often the most effective solution.
and isolated churches such as those on the Downs met the needs of remote communities. The nature of Kents buildings has also been defined by the significance of its agricultural economy and the practice of dividing land into small plots resulting in a heritage of small, timber-framed houses rather than large country mansions. 6.3.3 Kents scattered interior contrasts with the defensive edge of the coastal towns, particularly those facing the continent. There are fine examples of defensive castles at Dover and Deal, and military strongholds that have left a legacy of unique buildings, particularly from the 19th Century. The continental influence manifests itself in curved Dutch gables particularly in East Kent.
6.3.4i Smarden
6.3.4ii Ramsgate
6.2.9 Millennium Clock, Tunbridge Wells by John Mills Creativity can add to the richness of a place
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Principle 6.3: New development should respect local architectural heritage, make optimum use of existing buildings and recognise landmark buildings and features Kents Architectural History (see also Principle 9.5) 6.3.1 Kents unique and varied architectural heritage forms a strong base from which to develop its future built environment. This heritage has become increasingly significant as interest in our social and cultural history, which the built environment describes, has grown. Historic buildings often display a close link to their locality in terms of form, function and materials from which modern designers can learn.
6.3.4iii Scotney Castle
6.3.4 Other major architectural achievements include Kents religious buildings, with some remains of the earliest Augustine 7th century churches, for example at Minster-in-Sheppey. Many fine 12-14th Century parish churches still grace the Countys countryside, and Kent boasts two fine cathedrals at Rochester and Canterbury. The construction of windmills, oasts, and agricultural buildings has also made a significant impact on Kents heritage and landscape.
6.3.4iv Cobham Hall
6.3.4v Old Romney
6.3.1 Oast house heritage
6.3.2 Ancient buildings of Canterbury
6.3.2 Kent has a distinctive dispersal of settlements formed in pre-medieval times when the County was still thickly wooded, with small settlements formed in clearings. Small market towns provided an economic hub
6.3.5 Kent has some splendid examples of Elizabethan, Jacobean and Palladian architecture (for example Cobham Hall, Groome Park and Mereworth respectively). Decorative and moulded brickwork and classical details such as pediments and pilasters were prevalent in the 17th Century7. Complementing these grand buildings however is a proliferation of interesting domestic architecture. The precedents set in the 19th Century by the arts and crafts
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movement, which followed local building traditions and materials, were continued in to the 20th.
scope for new additions or alterations to old buildings to be innovative and contemporary if they remain sensitive to the original design - a flexible approach could be adopted if the quality of the proposal justifies it. 6.3.10 The most effective means of conservation of listed buildings and those in conservation areas is regular maintenance and repair using traditional materials. Effective maintenance prevents the need for extensive and costly works later. Sustainable principles for the treatment of historic buildings and their settings might include: respecting the integrity of the buildings and their settings minimising change, particularly to exteriors accurately record change ensuring extensions do not have a negative impact and are within the scale of the existing (see District Council policy guidance) not disguising changes allowing reversibility using local natural materials ensuring high quality workmanship accepting modern solutions, where appropriate respecting historic street patterns referring to and using historic names.
6.3.5 historic detailing
6.3.6 Windmills of historic interest
CONSERVATION 6.3.6 Kents environment has experienced substantial pressure in the 20th Century caused notably by prolific housebuilding to accommodate the growing economy of the south-east. Buildings and areas of architectural or historic interest are of particular importance as, by definition, they are impossible to replace. Their cultural and aesthetic qualities give a richness and diversity to the local environment and offer a sense of place and historic continuity to both visitors and the local community. Each generation has a responsibility to future generations to protect such assets and to treat them with due sensitivity and care. 6.3.7 There is a presumption in favour of the retention and repair of buildings of special architectural or historic interest (as opposed to unsympathetic restoration or redevelopment) but old buildings must have viable uses if their retention is to be sustainable.
6.3.10 Boots in Canterbury
6.3.8 converted oasts, Wateringbury. (Crispin & Borst)
6.3.9 Historic buildings require the adoption of a sympathetic approach to restoration or modification. Even a seemingly minor alteration to a building can be damaging to the historic character of an area, for example the loss of traditional windows or the introduction of hard surfacing to a front garden. Features and ornament such as chimney pots, stained glass and eaves details are often important elements of character. However, there may be
6.3.12 Many local planning authorities in Kent produce design guidelines for listed buildings, development in conservation areas (including Conservation Area Appraisals) and shopfront design. ARCHAEOLOGY 6.3.13 There is a wealth of information on Kents historic past and built character buried underground. Many sites for new development or redevelopment may be of archaeological interest. It is important to undertake
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6.3.8 Existing offices, houses, shops, commercial, agricultural or industrial buildings of conservation merit should be re-used wherever possible, not only for their local cultural and historic value but as an existing and therefore sustainable resource (see Objective 9). Each case will require assessment on an individual basis. They can help meet the demand for housing, and their restoration can stimulate regeneration in an area (see Case Study: Urban Splash, Objective 8).
6.3.11 Listed buildings and their settings, Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Conservation Areas may make an important contribution to local character and are protected by the Town and Country Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. PPG 15 Planning and the Historic Environment8 offers guidance on this. It demands consent for demolition of any building or part of a building or structure, or removal of trees, and for any alteration or extension to a building. New development can provide the opportunity to enhance local heritage, but standard corporate commercial designs or housing layouts are rarely acceptable in this kind of context and should be avoided. Incremental change in an area is usually more desirable than wholesale transformation. Retention of views, patterns of movement and circulation across a site can enhance the new development.
assessment and evaluation of the archaeological potential of a site and the impact of the proposed works at an early stage. Where development is allowed, the aim should be to preserve significant archaeological deposits in situ through sympathetic design but archaeological investigation in advance of development may be a more appropriate response. Early consultation with the planning authoritys archaeological adviser is essential.
development to its local context; and laying down requirements for community involvement. The objective is not to inhibit change, which is an ongoing necessity. For landscape issues refer also to advice in Objective 10. 6.4.2 While some external features may make an attractive addition to an urban landscape, they are usually at odds with rural locations (e.g. ornate walls, railings and lamps; plants and trees such as conifers or ornamental shrubs and garden ornaments). Clues can be gleaned from traditional boundaries used locally (often simple wooden fences, hedges or native trees) to prevent suburbanisation of the countryside. Similarly, unsympathetic highway design, such as the inappropriate use of pavements and kerbs, can be detrimental to the rural environment. The Highway Management Reference Book10 gives guidance on the sensitive provision of roads and footpaths in locations such as listed buildings, ancient monuments and in conservation areas. It recommends communication between highway engineers and local planning and conservation officers to reach what may be a non-standard solution to satisfying safety and maintenance standards (see also Technical Appendix section 3). Care should be taken with signage and road markings should be minimised or subdued. In a rural environment, external lighting and security lighting can have a detrimental impact on the surrounding countryside, and should be kept to a minimum. 6.4.3 Countryside Design Summaries,11 a Countryside Agency publication, offers advice on producing character evaluations of an area that should address three elements: the landscape setting of buildings the relationship between settlements the nature of the buildings themselves. These character assessments should consider such issues as geology, climate, exposure, the private/public domain of buildings and the visual and physical impact of trees and hedges. It is particularly important in a rural environment not just to protect existing trees, planting and other landscape features during construction but to ensure their ongoing care and survival by preventing root damage, for example. Such studies can be given particular strength when prepared in parallel with Village Design Statements (see Principle 1.6).
THE TRINITY FOYER, MAIDSTONE PRINCIPLE 6.3
6.3.7 Trinity Foyer, Maidstone
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Trinity Church in Maidstone had been empty since 1974 and in very poor condition. Built in 1828, it was one of 35 Waterloo churches, a grateful gift from the Prussian government for the victory over Napoleon, and being grade II listed, it posed a problem. Various sources of funding amounting to 2.4 million enabled the conversion of the church into a multi-use centre for the local community and a foyer for young people. A steel-framed structure, following plans by the architects at Maidstone Borough Council, had to be built inside the Kentish ragstone walls. The stone of the steeple, which was 75% eroded, was replaced by stone masons and the tall windows double-glazed and skilfully incorporated to correspond with the storeys of the inner structure without detracting from their exterior appearance. On the ground floor the community has access to a play group, a fitness club, meeting rooms and a caf and on the upper floor there is residential accommodation for 42 young people. The Foyer opened in October 1998 and is managed by Hyde Housing. 6.4: Proposals for rural sites should reflect the particular considerations and sensitivity of such areas 6.4.1 While the points raised in Principles 6.1 - 6.3 are all equally relevant to new development in rural areas, there are some specific qualities and sensitivities that may demand different solutions. Villages and rural areas are often defined by their diversity of building, irregularity of plan, minor roads and lanes and informality of spatial definition (for example, no kerbs on roads; simple wooden posts). The Countryside Agencys Planning for quality of life in rural England9 offers propositions for development planning which include: addressing the sustainability of a proposal as well as the visual appearance; preparing a statement on the appropriateness of the
NATIONAL TRUST GATEWAY TO THE WHITE CLIFFS VISITOR CENTRE, DOVER
6.4.1 White Cliffs visitor centre, Dover (National Trust)
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RE-USE OF BUILDINGS 6.4.4 The restoration of redundant rural buildings, such as isolated houses and agricultural structures, can be beneficial to the local environment and economy, and encourage tourism. The merits of re-use are subject to other considerations such as traffic, and the impact on the character of the rural area. Care should be taken to ensure that the character of these buildings is retained. Some buildings may require such radical alteration to make them fit for occupation that they are not suitable for conversion. Elements that should be conserved include: form, massing and roof-line materials openings such as windows and barn doors overall simplicity of form and design tone and colour of materials setting in the landscape (access and parking provision must take this into careful consideration).12
6.5.3 Sustainable building practices may alter the appearance of buildings and challenge traditional aesthetics, but this can present an opportunity for innovative design (see Objective 9).
6.5.3 detailing at Bluewater
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The National Trust visitor centre perched on the white cliffs of Dover has received a great deal of favourable attention from architectural and environmental interests since its opening in May 1999. A design competition was held in order to meet the brief which demanded a building which was green both in its visual impact on the landscape and its impact on the environment at large. Winning architects van Heyningen and Haward have met the challenge with an innovative building in which every element is designed to minimise environmental impact: grass roof to avoid visual intrusion on the landscape; timber frame sectional structure to allow for prefabrication (more efficient as construction method); Western Red Cedar from audited forest sources chosen for cladding as it requires no paints or stains and is therefore low maintenance; all other timber including furniture from source licensed by Forest Stewardship Council; waste water collected from sinks for irrigating the grass roof; high degree of insulation, and breathing walls to reduce condensation; use of recyclable lead cladding on some walls and local traditional handcut brick; boiler fitted with heat recovery unit; taps with aeriators to reduce flow and auto switch-off; designed never to require artificial light, other than at night; and in line with National Trust policy, the caf uses locally-sourced produce, for example Kentish apples, and ceramic crockery in preference to disposable cutlery and crockery. Perhaps most significantly, the building has been designed for zero impact - it has the capacity to be dismantled and the components recycled thus leaving no trace on the landscape.
Principle 6.5: The use of both traditional and modern materials and technologies should be evaluated by developers 6.5.1 Good quality design relies on the choice and combination of materials that have been used. Local materials have the advantage of reinforcing the character of the local area whilst reducing the need for transport.
6.5.1 modern detailing, University of Canterbury
6.5.2 Design and construction of buildings, roads and other built elements have traditionally used the best available constructional technology and materials of the time. Whilst it may be important in many locations to retain the existing character, new materials can be used selectively to very good effect and may be more appropriate. Alternatively they may be used in conjunction with traditional components to produce a more innovative and unique building. Over-complex use of materials such as attempts to include brick, stone, render and timber in a single elevation are rarely successful. It is also important to consider the weathering of materials - how will they look in ten or twenty years time?
KENTS BUILT HISTORY
6.5.4 traditional materials in Kent
6.5.4 Buildings in Kent have traditionally relied largely on locally available materials, but builders were also well located to import French stone and Spanish and east European timber for prestigious buildings. 6.5.5 As most of the County was covered by forest until medieval times, timber construction characterised Kents buildings until the Tudor period, when the use of brick became more widespread and was seen as a more sophisticated material than timber. The richness and quality of Kent clays allowed a diverse range of colours from red-brown to the bluish Wealden bricks, although the earliest examples of brick construction in 14th and 15th Centuries used buff coloured brick from Yorkshire and red brick from Lincolnshire. Tiles that resemble brick were sometimes used for wall cladding, as can be found in Faversham and Canterbury. Other popular materials include a variety of sandstone, flint and chalk from the North Downs, and ragstone. There was a ready supply of lime and sand to make plaster13. 6.5.6 Timber was used for weatherboarding, coated in tar, left unpainted or painted white or cream, and for roof shingles and church spires. Hung tile and rendered walls were sheltered by thatched, tiled and slated roofs. Many of these materials and building styles may co-exist in the same village or even the same building, but all contribute to the character of the place. This can give the designer a broad palette to work from14.
people as unattractive and insensitive. Public taste for nostalgia and the economies of scale for mass housebuilders have resulted in the creation of generic house types that appear up and down the country and incorporate inaccurate interpretations of past architectural styles, such as Georgian and Tudor. This reproductive architecture with its misuse of period detailing is destroying the uniqueness of historic centres by making historic forms commonplace. 6.6.2 Emphasis should be placed on the quality of the design solution, whether it be reproduction of historic styles or a more contemporary approach. An applied veneer of cladding in a traditional material can weaken the integrity of the style and structure of the building. This form of architecture often lacks the level of detailing or sense of scale of the original. These imitations offer a poor copy (such as leaded glass) or turn a functional element into a cosmetic add-on. Details derived from local buildings, such as windows or roofs, should retain the scale of the original. 6.6.3 Each location and context for development is unique. No single formula for good quality design can be applied but calls for a careful appraisal of the sites characteristics.
6.6.3 infill development in context, Faversham C A S E S T U D I E S
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6.5.7 The significance of the architecture of Kent lies in its variety from district to district and even within districts, for example between coastal towns and their agricultural hinterland. Shepways coastal towns, for example, are characterised by clay tiles, Welsh slate, red or yellow stock brick, stucco render and featheredge boarding. Regency and early Victorian buildings introduced stucco, stone and cast iron balconies. Around the marshes, flint, ragstone, brick, tiles and hung tiles are prevalent. 6.5.8 Many traditional materials, building forms and construction practices may be more sustainable, give greater longevity and be less energy intensive in their production than more modern technologies15. For example, timber-framed windows are now favoured by many authorities due to the short lifespan of UPVC windows and safety concerns over their performance in the case of fire. Principle 6.6: New design should avoid a confused application of architectural styles or inappropriate historic imitation 6.6.1 In recent years there has been a backlash against modern architecture, which is interpreted by many
SHELTERED HOUSING, AYCLIFFE PRINCIPLE 6.6
6.6 a
6.6 b (Ballast Wiltshier)
A successful example of development that provides comfort and security for elderly people in a spacious, light environment is Sunny Corner, a sheltered housing development at Aycliffe, Dover. The architectural division of Dover District Council proposed a building which would encourage residents to retain their independence for as long as possible. The accommodation, placed on either side of an internal street, gives residents the opportunity to escape from their own four walls and enjoy bright, communal areas with plenty of scope to socialise with their neighbours.
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The architects have exploited the sloping site by building in steps and taking advantage of the superb views over the Channel. The building maximises natural light with an impressive atrium on the northern elevation and a glazed roof over the internal street. A water to air heat exchanger ensures that rising heat is recovered and stratified air ducts recycle air to keep the building at a comfortable temperature. The building was constructed by a long standing Kent developer, Ballast Wiltshier. This Canterbury division of an international company has long recognised the importance of sustainable development and gained a coveted Environmental Award for Kent Business in 1998 for its local community involvement and policies to employ local people and use local suppliers wherever possible. Kent County Council and Aylesford Newsprint sponsor these annual awards for Kent companies wishing to show their commitment to saving resources, sustainability and protecting the environment. Principle 6.7: Development should be human in scale and provide permeability and visual interest to those on foot 6.7.1 Developers and housebuyers often give greater attention and resources to the interior of a new property than the external planning and detailing. The sheer scale of housing developments can leave them soulless and carreliant unless carefully planned. Settlements in the past have enjoyed an organic growth over many years. 6.7.2 The scale, height, massing and density of a new development all have an impact on the streetscape. Greater attention should be given to encouraging walking to and through a development by creating a more visually interesting environment. Buildings should address the street positively, rather than creating barriers such as high boundary walls and fences. Buildings should front rather than back onto footways, both for visual interest and to reduce the risk of crime. Boundaries and demarcations, from urban wrought iron railings and brick walls to simple stone bollards or timber posts, should be appropriate to their location. Principle 6.8: Caution should be taken to prevent excessive or inappropriate external lighting, particularly in sensitive areas 6.8.1 In recent times, light pollution has become a prominent environmental concern. External lighting should be integrated with the fabric and character of the environment and should be based on an assessment of the needs of the users, the location, the size of the space and the activities to be lit. It requires a skilled engineer and careful planning to avoid overpowering and unnecessary lighting or inappropriately large equipment. Many existing dwellings in sensitive locations have no, or minimal, external lighting. These locations are not necessarily rural; they can include streets or districts within towns and villages where light levels have traditionally been low. Smaller and/or lower fittings placed more frequently
along the route may offer a better solution. External lighting should also avoid penetrating bedrooms.
6.8.1 lighting at Market Buildings, Maidstone
6.8.2 Lighting in the public domain should be designed to ensure the safety and security of those on foot; cars have the benefit of headlamps to illuminate their path. Illumination from lamps that are lower in height can meet the needs of pedestrians and minimise light pollution and spillage outside the area that needs to be lit. District planning authorities should ensure that local plans have effective policies to deal with light pollution resulting from development and may consider conditions to prevent unnecessarily powerful external lighting from being installed by residents. (See also Principle 7.6 for issues related to lighting for safety and Section 2 in the Technical Appendix.) 6.8.3 Carefully considered or innovative lighting can enhance both buildings and outdoor spaces by highlighting special architectural features and displaying form, materials, colour and texture. Lamp-posts can be a feature, reinforcing the identity of an area or creating a gateway. In some locations, however, it may be more appropriate to reduce street clutter by mounting lamps on buildings16. REFERENCES: 1 Time for Design, English Partnerships, 1998 2 Convention Centre Quarter (one of several area-specific strategy documents), Birmingham City Council, 1994; Essex Design Guide, Essex Planning Officers Association, 1997 3 Finding the tools for better urban design, K Campbell and R Cowan, Planning 12/2/99 p16-17 4 Village Design, Countryside Commission, 1996 5 Planning Policy Guidance Note 1 General Policy and Principles, Department of the Environment, 1997 6 Responsive Environments, Bentley, Alcock, Murrain, McGlynn and Smith, 1985 7 Buildings of England: North East and East Kent 3rd ed, J Newman, 1983 8 Planning Policy Guidance Note 15 Planning and the Historic Environment, Department of the Environment, 1994 9 Planning for quality of life in rural England, The Countryside Agency, 1999 10 The Highway Management Reference Book, Kent County Council, revised 1998 11 Countryside Design Summaries, Countryside Commission (now Countryside Agency), 1996 12 Re-use of Rural Buildings Design Guide, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, 1999 13 Buildings of England: North East and East Kent 3rd ed, J Newman, 1983 14 A Celebration of Kents Architectural Heritage, Kent County Council, 1989 15 Sustainable Settlements; a guide for planners, designers and developers, by H Barton, G Davis and R Guise; University if the West of England/Local Government Management Board, 1995 16 Places, People and Movement, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1998
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CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 6: LOCALITY

Have the principles of permeability, variety, legibility, robustness, visual appropriateness, richness and personalisation been resolved? Will the development make a positive contribution to the area? Has a site appraisal been undertaken? Is the scale and type of development appropriate? Has the historic character of existing buildings, particularly listed buildings and conservation areas, been respected and enhanced? Has the ongoing maintenance of any listed buildings/conservation areas been ensured? Have views of key buildings and landscapes been retained or framed? If the proposal is in a rural area, does it respond to the character and context of the site? Do any features suggest suburbanisation of Kents rural environment? Has the appropriateness of the materials to the local and Kentish context been considered? Is the quality of the design the best that can be achieved for the development? Is the development visually interesting and human in scale at street level? Is the degree and type of lighting appropriate to the location and has light pollution been avoided?
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Provide a safe, healthy and secure environment for both people and property
PERSONAL SAFETY & SECURITY Principle 7.1: There should be a clear distinction between public and private space
YOUTH SHELTER, MARCHAM, OXFORDSHIRE PRINCIPLE 7.2
7.1 public / private hierarchy
7.2 Youth Shelter, Marcham (Thames Valley Police / Marcham Parish Council)
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7.1.1 Clear definition of space is required so that residents can have an element of control over their environment and know who should or should not be there, thus giving them the means to challenge inappropriate individuals. Open space between buildings should, as far as possible, be clearly defined as being either public and open to all, or private and defensible. Public open space, parks, play areas, highways and adjoining land, should have certain indicators to show that it is in the public domain; for example, benches, litterbins and signs. Private space may be defined by building enclosures, gates or doors, hedges or fences of various kinds, or by demarcation between the edge of the footway and the garden. Semi-private spaces, such as parking courts or amenity areas in front of buildings, can be problem areas if there is no clear sense of ownership or responsibility. Semi-private space should be designed to be overlooked, be well-lit and well maintained to maximise the sense of ownership. Principle 7.2: Schemes should incorporate shared areas to encourage walking, cycling and socialising and to enhance safety and security 7.2.1 Developments that have a high degree of activity within them such as walkers, cyclists and slow moving vehicles, are likely to deter criminal activity. Well-peopled streets encourage vehicles to travel more slowly, thus enhancing safety. Lively streets can be achieved by introducing a mixture of uses, dwelling types and tenures so that there is a greater spread of activity (see Objective 4). Developments should be permeable and offer a choice of routes to community buildings, shops, schools, and pubs. A mature development will be home to people of all ages and a range of needs should be catered for. Therefore, open space should offer centrally located play areas or fitness areas, larger areas for ball games or dog walking and a sheltered meeting place.
In 1987 the village of Marcham in Oxfordshire reported the usual problem of youths hanging around the local shop and causing nuisance. The Parish Council consulted these young people to see what facility they would like to have. The answer was a place of their own. A concrete shelter was designed and built and decorated by the youths with a striking mural design. The shelter is located in a sunny spot adjacent to the local cricket field. It is protected from wind on two of its six sides, and has seating, lighting and a litterbin. Every few years the next generation of users re-decorate with their own designs. The shelter was carefully designed to be fire and vandalproof but, at the same time, attractive to use. Since its construction the village has reported fewer youth problems and vandalism has been reduced. Principle 7.3: Design should encourage self-policing and offer surveillance of property 7.3.1 Section 17 of the 1998 Crime & Disorder Act1 imposes a duty on each local authority to exercise its functions with due regard to the need to do all that it reasonably can to prevent crime and disorder in its area. The incidence of crime has a close relationship with social and physical arrangements. The layout of roads, design of housing and public buildings, and positioning of public amenities all have an influence on the potential for crime. Local authorities should give consideration to the latest advice on crime prevention, as they may be held liable if a design flaw results in a subsequent crime problem.
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Illustration 7.3.1 overlooking enhances safety and security
7.3.2 Burglars will target areas where they feel they have a clear and direct escape route and will not be observed. Public open space, particularly when play areas are included, must be overlooked so that parents can keep an eye on children and can report inappropriate behaviour. Paths and cycleways should be well lit and designed to be overlooked by properties. They should not be so densely planted as to provide hiding places. Vulnerable areas, such as back fences and hidden pockets, may be protected by the growth of thorny plants. 7.3.3 Parked cars are particularly vulnerable and car crime accounts for a high percentage of total crime. It is very important that parking areas should be open, overlooked and appropriately lit. Screening parked cars will allow potential thieves to work unobserved. Courtyard parking should conform to this, and be designed to give the message that it is private, defensible space. On plot basement garaging is a safe and practical alternative to at grade parking, and can help to reduce the visual dominance of the car. Entrances to buildings should be visible from the street, and gaps between buildings should be gated or fenced, though these should be designed to be see-through. The design of windows can maximise surveillance by using bays, oriels or gable windows and advantage can be taken of corner buildings to provide views into adjacent streets. 7.3.4 Detailed guidance on issues of security and safety in the public realm can be found in documents such as Circular 5/94 - Planning Out Crime2 and Secured by Design3 produced by the Police. Advice on more sitespecific issues can be sought from the Police Architectural Liaison Officer, preferably at the pre-planning stage.
NEW ASH GREEN PRINCIPLE 7.3 Conceived in the 1960s by architect Eric Lyons and developer Span (Kent) Ltd., New Ash Green represents an early example of a sustainable mixeduse urban village. Designed on the principle of excluding vehicles from the core, motorised through traffic is relegated to a perimeter ring road. The internal layout consists of a network of footpaths linking small neighbourhoods, or collections of dwellings. Distances are never great, as the maximum radius of the village is approximately 800m, with community buildings at the core. Soft landscaping, now mature, is a major feature of the design, as it is used in various ways: to screen, provide visual and recreational amenity, to lend privacy to neighbourhoods and to extend the rural feel into the local environment. One of the features of New Ash Green is the use of interlinking footpaths that permeate the whole village. Footpaths are designed to run past the fronts of dwellings and are thus well overlooked. The houses themselves were designed with this surveillance feature in mind with well-used rooms such as kitchens and living rooms overlooking the paths. The design of the neighbourhoods, which limit road access to individual dwellings, encourages walkers and cyclists to use the paths, providing a greater sense of security and surveillance. Potential thieves may also be deterred by having to leave getaway vehicles some distance from the dwellings.
Principle 7.4: A sense of ownership should be encouraged through the quality of the public realm 7.4.1 Areas that are well-kept and litter-free help to discourage vandalism, further littering and other nuisances. Investing in better quality, more durable materials will pay off in the long-term. Residents should be encouraged to take part in the upkeep of their own
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Incidence of housebreaking is low in New Ash Green but vehicle crime is much higher as parking areas are some distance from properties and footpaths are well screened, providing privacy for thieves. More remote play areas have been vandalised simply because they are not overlooked and in many cases vegetation has been allowed to become very overgrown, adding to the screening effect. With hindsight careful design of parking and play areas, combined with greater attention to landscape maintenance, would have helped overcome some of the problems.
development through Residents Associations or Management Companies. The more involvement residents have the greater their feeling of responsibility towards their environment. Crime issues will be dealt with most effectively through a partnership between residents, local authorities and the police. Principle 7.5: Building design should conform to the latest safety and security advice 7.5.1 Much can be done to deter opportunistic crime by the use of simple deterrent devices. A key task is to ensure that dwellings, commercial premises, schools and community buildings are made physically secure by including burglar alarms, sophisticated door and window locks, padlocks and concealed hinges for outbuildings. Consideration can be given to room layout so that valuable items such as computers, televisions and videos are not visible through windows. 7.5.2 Detailed building design guidance can be found in Secured by Design (ACPO)4 and through the Safer Kent Initiative, a partnership between the Police, local authorities, the Fire Service, and health authorities. Guidance is given on accesses, extensions, lighting, shop grilles, locks, bolts and bars and other safety devices. 7.5.3 Adequate provision must be made for access to housing areas for the Fire Service and other emergency services. (Detailed guidance on access for the Fire Service can be found in Kent Fire Brigade Technical Bulletin No. G18)5. Appropriate water provision for the use of the Fire Service must be made available, and in particular, adequate hydrant provision for mixed-use developments.
and the perception of crime. To enhance safety, lighting should be provided for footways and cycleways where these are segregated from the carriageway. Adequate access must be allowed for the maintenance of such lighting. Design specifications for lighting are constantly being updated, and energy efficient and non-intrusive styles of luminaire are now commonplace (see also Principle 6.8 and A Guide for Crime & Disorder Reduction through a Public Lighting Strategy6. 7.6.2 An appropriate overall level of street lighting for carriageways, footways and footpaths will help reduce the need for intrusive and high energy-consuming security lighting. 7.6.3 Footways and cycleways may best be left unlit when located in rural or otherwise unlit areas and when such links cross rural land between urban areas. Consultation with the parish council at an early stage will ascertain the desire for lighting in a given locality.
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NIGHTINGALE ESTATE, HACKNEY PRINCIPLE 7.5 The Nightingale Estate is a component of a larger 300 million project to regenerate five Hackney estates. Around 500 homes will be refurbished and an additional 360 homes integrated into the scheme. The main objective is to improve the quality of life of residents by providing a greater sense of physical security and by improving the quality of the environment. The fortress-like feel of the estate is eliminated by : introducing a plan based on traditional street patterns strengthening the links to surrounding areas giving buildings clear entrances onto street frontages. Principle 7.6: An appropriate level of lighting should be provided to enhance safety and security 7.6.1 Fear of personal crime often results in people staying off the streets once darkness falls, and research shows that certain sectors of the public are more likely to be victims of crime when walking the streets after dark. Those at risk include women on their own, the elderly, and young people between the ages of 11 and 17. Studies have shown that lighting can do much to reduce crime
IMPROVED LIGHTING, DUDLEY & STOKE PRINCIPLE 7.6 High-pressure sodium lighting was introduced into two residential areas in Dudley & Stoke-on-Trent. Changes in crime, disorder, fear, quality of life and night-time street use were compared during the twelve month period before and after the street lighting improvements. Sample sizes were sufficiently large to have statistical significance, and adjacent and control areas were similarly compared. In both projects the improved lighting reduced crime significantly, pedestrian street use after dark increased dramatically and the benefits outweighed the costs of the new lighting. Studies of the control areas showed no evidence of a shift in crime to other areas. It was concluded that new lighting was a cheap method of environmental improvement (project undertaken by Institute of Lighting Engineers). HIGHWAY SAFETY Principle 7.7: Highway infrastructure should not dominate the layout of estates 7.7.1 Generous road space inevitably gives the psychological message to drivers that they have priority over other road users and encourages habitual car use, car domination and speeding. Developments should be designed so that vulnerable road users, such as walkers, cyclists and people with disabilities, have priority over motorised traffic. This can be achieved by keeping vehicle speeds low by designing road layouts that constrain drivers (by using short lengths, tight radii and narrow widths) and by giving greater dominance to buildings and landscaping (see Technical Appendix, section 2).
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dominance of motorised traffic and provide pedestrians and cyclists with a greater sense of security and freedom. The lower the traffic speeds, the greater the potential for flexibility of the highway layout - thus improving urban design and reducing highway dominance. Speed should, as far as possible, be controlled by perceptual methods of road design that lend a feeling of constraint. Drivers will travel more quickly when there is an open aspect so long, wide, straight or gently curving roads should be avoided, especially if housing is set back from the frontage.
7.7.1 highway layout has been designed around a network of linked spaces C A S E S T U D I E S
POUNDBURY PRINCIPLE 7.7
7.7 Poundbury (HMSO)
Poundbury is an edge-of-town mixed use development in Dorchester which lies within the Duchy of Cornwall estate. Designed on the basis of linking neighbourhoods, the road network consists of a series of linked spaces. Links are short, and vary in type and usage. On the larger scale they may serve as principal access for motorised traffic or, at the other end of the scale, merely serve as footpaths. Footpaths are short, fairly broad and well lit to encourage use. Each space is different in design and lends a distinct character to the neighbourhoods. Spaces vary in size and function from village square to intimate parking court. Dwellings are arranged to overlook all of the public realm, both links and squares, thus providing surveillance and a sense of community.
7.8.1 natural speed restraint
7.8.3 Road junctions may be incorporated into public open space in the form of small, urban squares that break up street lengths. 7.8.4 Planting and differentiated surface textures can be used to achieve speed restraint whilst some streets may provide a through route only for pedestrians or cyclists. 7.8.5 Raised measures such as road humps and speed tables (traffic calming) are generally applied to existing roads but are effective in keeping speeds low and have their place in certain situations. They are unsuitable for bus routes and have the disadvantage of creating additional noise, increasing emergency service response times, and raising pollution levels. (Further guidance on traffic calming and speed restraint devices can be found in Traffic Calming - a code of practice7.)
Principle 7.8: Speed restraint should be an integral part of road design 7.8.1 Speed restraint should be designed into a development so that artificial traffic calming devices do not have to be bolted on later when the development reaches its full potential. Low speeds reduce the
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7.8.2 The street pattern can have as significant an impact on speed restraint as some traffic calming techniques. Building close to the edge of the road and building tall both help emphasise the narrowness of roads. This may be enhanced by controlled on-street parking in certain areas.
Principle 7.9: Speed restraint measures should reflect local character 7.9.1 The design of speed restraints should, as far as possible, reflect the local context, whether urban, suburban or rural village. Such measures should complement rather than detract from the overall design objectives of the scheme, and should not create additional noise or inconvenience buses, walkers or cyclists. 7.9.2 An urban, higher density development layout may be based on a traditional grid pattern of streets incorporating techniques such as short, straight lengths, varying road width, junction treatments and controlled car parking. The materials used for speed restraint should also reflect local character. In the urban situation hard materials such as tarmac, brick, stone, cast iron and concrete might be appropriate. 7.9.3 Suburban layouts may include a mix of street types from boulevards to winding lanes. These types of layout may rely more on the use of plants and the incorporation of features like decorative bridges and road deflections, such as roundabouts, to achieve speed reduction. There are a wide range of materials suitable for suburban speed restraint. Examples might include; a variety of brick pavors for surfaces; reconstituted rubber and plastics for bollards; maintained grass and formal planting for roundabouts or build-outs; and stone or concrete for kerbing. 7.9.4 Rural village layouts may rely on sharp bends, limited sight lines, overhanging trees and vegetation and rough-grassed banks or walls to keep the perception of constraint. The use of stone, gravel and timber suggests a rural environment and local materials, such as ragstone or flint, and other vernacular details incorporated into the design, would help provide contextual clues. Principle 7.10: Priority should be given to the safety of pedestrians and cyclists over cars 7.10.1 Pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users should be provided with a network of linking routes that offer direct access to magnets: schools, community centres and leisure areas. These users should, as far as possible, have the most direct links. Measures to help walkers may include; pedestrian bridges, pedestrian crossings, raised crossing points, shared surfaces and homezones. Measures for cyclists may consist of toucan crossings, advance stop lines at signals and cyclist priority at junction mouths and roundabouts. In order to speed up journeys for cyclists, routes may bypass junctions or provide a twoway route through a one-way system. Care must be taken to ensure that pedestrian paths and cycleways are not abused by car drivers and motorcyclists, and that various types of lockable bollards and motorbike deterrent barriers are placed in critical locations. Where routes for pedestrians and cyclists are away from those used by motorised traffic it is important to design them so they are safe and attractive to use (Kent Walking Strategy8 and Kent Cycling Strategy9, 1999).
7.10.2 Homezone (Devon County Council, Traffic Calming Guidelines)
7.10.2 Homezones are residential streets where drivers have to give way to pedestrians and cyclists and are responsible for any injuries they cause to them. Homezones should be engineered so that traffic speeds are very low, around 10mph, and may incorporate grassed areas or play equipment. The benefits of homezones are various; they provide additional outdoor leisure space which has health benefits for both children and adults, they can help prevent crime as well-used streets contribute to surveillance, and they also foster community links by encouraging social interaction. There are also significant benefits to people with disabilities as they can safely walk within a homezone (Homezones, Childrens Play Council, London)10. Principle 7.11: Developments should be designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities 7.11.1 As many as one in fifteen people suffer from some form of disability which affects mobility. This figure may rise as life expectancy increases. Consideration must be given at the outset to the needs of people with disabilities so that their comfort and mobility is ensured. The Human Rights Act11 covers the issue in the general sense whilst the Approved Document M - Access and Facilities for Disabled People,199912 covers the design specifics for buildings and access. Highways suitable for the mobility impaired13 and Reducing Mobility Handicaps14 cover highway design aspects.
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7.11.1 disabled needs
7.11.2 In some cases, needs for various disabilities can conflict. Consultation with specific bodies such as KAB and RNIB can provide information and ideas to help to overcome any conflict between differing needs. Consideration of an overall strategy for disabled facilities and mobility provision within a development must be considered to enable design considerations to be taken on board from the outset.
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Principle 7.12: New developments should be designed to provide a healthy environment HEALTH (EXTERNAL CONSIDERATIONS) 7.12.1 The Garden City movement was instrumental in designing estates of well-spaced and airy dwellings, as a contrast to cramped slums, by promoting the notion of health and vitality for residents. Although this movement may seem outdated, its ethos was sound, and health considerations are just as important today. Global warming and fears about ozone depletion should be considered. In order to minimise risk from skin cancer, shade should be provided either from trees or structures within streets and public areas. The design of public buildings to include architectural features such as overhangs and awnings that provide additional shade, should be considered. Species of trees and shrubs that are most efficient in cleaning up ozone pollution should be promoted. 7.12.2 Cycle-ways, trim trails and attractive walking routes will encourage residents to take regular exercise. A range of play areas from those for small children up to skateboard areas and football pitches for older children should be provided when the scale of development demands it. Many development sites will include existing footpaths and bridleways which can be incorporated into more strategic routes for walkers and riders.
standards, ventilation and amenities. Designs should avoid buildings being so close together that they impede natural light (BRE). Gardens are important for privacy, relaxation and recreation. A range of sizes should be provided to meet the needs and preferences of individuals. In denser, more urban situations the inclusion of a garden may not be practical, but the provision of some growing space, be it balcony, yard, roof garden or even a window box, can make a positive contribution to health and well being. Gardens provide a safe place for children to play and gardening itself is a healthy and popular hobby. Both the use of home-produced compost and the growing of ones own food are sustainable activities. The provision of clothes drying areas helps to reduce the use of tumble dryers that consume considerable energy and can increase condensation. (Further guidance can be found in Saving Lives - Our Healthier Nation.)17 HEALTH (INTERNAL CONSIDERATIONS) 7.12.5 Housing design should ensure both internal and external spaces can accommodate users with disabilities, or easily be adapted. This might include: ensuring that the approach to entrances is level; that internal spaces are large enough to manoeuvre a wheelchair; passages are an appropriate width and electric sockets are located at a convenient height. External ramps and handrails may also be appropriate. For further reference see Designing Lifetime Homes, 199718. A number of changes have been introduced in the 1999 Document Part M of the Building Regulations19 which will also have implications for building design. These include some of the above points as well as requirements for the design of the approach and threshold of a building, and the provision of ground floor sanitary facilities. 7.12.6 Building design should conform to the latest standards in respect of ventilation and drainage as set out in the Building Regulations. Consideration should also be given to standards of fire safety. The use of flammable and/or toxic construction materials should as far as possible be avoided and sprinkler systems installed in larger buildings when appropriate. Details on water provision for various building types are outlined in National Guidance Document on the Provision of Water for Firefighting20 (see Technical Appendix: Miscellaneous). 7.12.7 Ideally, all rooms including bathrooms and kitchens should have opening windows to avoid reliance on less sustainable mechanical ventilation. Smoke alarms and household sprinkler systems should be installed as standard practice. While some of these requirements may fall outside of planning controls it may be appropriate at the planning stage to ensure that no other legislation is contravened in order to avoid the need for subsequent revisions to the design.
7.12.2 playground
7.12.4 useful garden
7.12.4 In the interests of health, developments should be carefully designed for the purpose for which they are intended. They should have good access, adequate space
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7.12.3 Many devices can be used to help people with disabilities on the highway. These include dropped kerbs and tactile paving; audible and tactile crossing indicators; the use of contrasting street paving and the design of steps, ramps, handrails and other street furniture. These are outlined in Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces15, and Highways Suitable for the Mobility Impaired16.
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 7: SAFETY

Is there a clear distinction between public and private space? Are there sufficient functions in the scheme to ensure street activity during a large part of the day? Has the scheme been designed with due regard to self-policing and surveillance? Has the Architectural Liaison Officer been consulted at the pre-planning stage? Has the quality of the public realm been a major consideration? Have partnerships been forged between various bodies to safeguard public areas? Has the highway layout been integrated with the buildings? What percentage of land is highway? Have perceptual methods of speed restraint been employed? Has the number of bolt-on devices been reduced or eliminated? Do the speed restraint measures reflect the character of the environment? Have measures been taken to give walkers and cyclists priority over cars? Have specific measures been provided for people with disabilities or mobility problems? Have specific measures been provided for fitness and other health considerations?
7.12.8 opening window in bathroom
7.12.8 In order to raise standards of quality, local authorities may wish to consider developing accreditation schemes. REFERENCES: 1 Crime & Disorder Act 1998 - Section 17 2 Circular 5/94 - Planning Out Crime 3 Secured by Design, Association of Chief Police Officers/Home Office, 1989 4 Secured by Design (see above) 5 Kent Fire Brigade Technical Bulletin No. G18, Kent & Medway Town Fire Authority, 1994 6 Guide for Crime & Disorder Reduction through a Public Lighting Strategy, Institute of Lighting Engineers - 1999 7 Traffic Calming - a code of practice, Kent County Council 1997 8 Kent Walking Strategy (Draft), 1999 9 Kent Cycling Strategy (Draft), 1999 10 Home Zones - Reclaiming Residential Streets, Childrens Play Council, 1999 11 The Human Rights Act 2000 12 Building Regulations Approved Document M - Access and Facilities for Disabled People, 1999 13 Highways Suitable for the Mobility Impaired, Kent County Council 1999 14 Reducing Mobility Handicaps - Towards a Barrier Free Environment, Institute of Highways & Transportation, 1991 15 Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1998 16 Highways Suitable for the Mobility Impaired, Kent County Council, 1999 17 Saving Lives - Our Healthier Nation, Department of Health, 1998 18 Designing Lifetime Homes, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 1997 19 Document M of the Building regulations - see above 20 National Guidance Document on the Provision of Water for Firefighting, Kent and Medway Towns Fire Authority, 1998
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Maximise the use of land by encouraging the development of recycled land and increasing density
Principle 8.1: Development should maximise the sites potential 8.1.1 Land is a precious resource that needs to be used effectively. In order to maximise the use of land and create attractive environments within built up areas, it is important to take advantage of a sites innate characteristics. Natural features such as trees and slopes can add to a sense of place. Topographical assets are often under-utilised or destroyed for ease of development (see Principle 6.1 on site appraisal). The sites potential should engage with its context at every opportunity. The aim of the study was to assess the potential of urban sites to absorb development. A range of sites was considered including: backlands sites constrained by road network derelict buildings underused allotments those constrained by railway noise (requiring single aspect solutions) underused car parks corner plots sites in temporary use ex-industrial sites. The report identified a number of constraints to the development of urban sites including land ownership, land assembly, ransom strips, speculation, the costs of demolition, legal issues (for example, covenants, rights of way) and relocating existing uses. It was considered that these can be overcome through the normal workings of the property market, although some support of other agencies in land assembly and gap funding may be necessary.
8.1 site characteristics influencing development at Yeoman Park, Maidstone.
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8.1.2 Setting aside land solely for car parking can limit a sites potential. Reducing car parking provision in appropriate circumstances; providing multi-use space (e.g. informal parking and public squares) or promoting home zones where the car is less dominant, can promote a more effective use of land and create more attractive environments. A report by Llewellyn Davies (see case study) offers valuable advice on the effect of car parking standards in realising the potential of a site.
Recommendations for Car Parking (for latest Kent Standards see Technical Appendix) a) Unitary Development Plan Standards 1-2 spaces per dwelling b) Reduced 0.5-1 spaces per dwelling c) Nil parking. Off plot parking areas should only be considered if able to meet security requirements.
LLEWELLYN DAVIES REPORT SUSTAINABLE RESIDENTIAL QUALITY: NEW APPROACHES TO URBAN LIVING REPORT FOR LONDON PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE/DETR/GOVERNMENT OFFICE FOR LONDON (1998) PRINCIPLE 8.1 AND 8.4 The study explored the potential to increase both development density and profitability by reducing the level of parking provision within developments. The study started from the premise that highway standards can impose a road geometry in isolation from the residential potential of the individual sites. Requirements for vehicular access onto the wider road network may make development unviable or impractical, especially on small sites. The study focused on sites within identified ped-sheds which are areas within 800m of the town centre (approximately 10 minutes walking distance taking into account the severance effect of busy roads).
Illustration 8.1 i Unitary Development Plan (UDP) housing policies and standards (Llewellyn Davies)
Illustration 8.1 ii reduced parking and enhanced design (Llewellyn Davies)
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Illustration 8.1 iii nil parking (Llewellyn Davies)
The indicative layouts suggested that car parking could be traded off for enhanced design. Communal or nil parking allowed more amenity space to be provided and a much stronger building solution, particularly on prominent corner sites. Dispensing with the need for on-plot parking allowed buildings to be pulled forward and to continue the building lines created by existing development, which in London are often Victorian or Georgian terraces. Communal parking is shown at the rear of buildings where cars could still be overlooked by occupants but without dominating the streetscape. The report concluded that residential development value increases with the intensity of development. The interface between new and existing development is important. For example, in backland development (areas to the rear of existing houses) there is a need to achieve a legible form, avoiding front gardens facing back gardens, and allowing for adequate sunlight. Recommended privacy distances of 20m (London) could be reduced with appropriate design solutions. Fenestration and layout can be planned to increase natural surveillance within the streetscape. Conclusions - relaxation of standards could unlock development potential. Proactive urban management and a site specific design-led approach can also produce better residential development than is possible under current UDP policies and standards. Local neighbourhood design strategies and guidelines identifying opportunities for residential development; preparing site specific design briefs and liaising with land owners and affected occupants allow the architect to respond to character and opportunities/ constraints of a site in a creative way. The study acknowledged that it would only be practical to pursue this philosophy on sites which were well served by public transport and cycling and pedestrian facilities. The report recognised that reducing parking standards would have implications for nearby
The report emphasises that it is important for local residents to recognise the benefits of intensification of development in their area through its quality (e.g. respecting local identity). Community Chest reflects the idea of supporting community facilities such as improving local parks and open spaces, play facilities, crime reduction initiatives, sustainable transport initiatives and investment in the public realm. In some cases, shared parking between residents and businesses could be proposed. Pilot projects may be appropriate to test attitudes to these solutions.
REGENERATION USING COMPULSORY PURCHASE POWERS - ROCHESTER RIVERSIDE PRINCIPLE 8.1 In September 1998, the Secretary of State confirmed a Compulsory Purchase Order, made under Section 226 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, for 35 hectares of the Medway Riverside between Rochester and Chatham in North Kent. RochesterUpon-Medway City Council (now Medway Council) made the order to regenerate for mixed-use development an area comprising vacant and derelict land and low value uses, separated from the historic centre of Rochester by the North Kent railway line. The site had been allocated for housing and employment development in the 1992 Local Plan but little investment had occurred. The site had poor access, was contaminated, at risk of flooding and in a multiplicity of ownerships. A report commissioned from Chestertons and Llewellyn Davies concluded that the Local Authority was likely to be the only body able to bring about comprehensive redevelopment using Compulsory Purchase powers. A number of factors contributed to the success of this process. These included: specific legal and other expertise including property advisors and negotiators, steering group and Member visits to other regeneration projects; the availability of resources for land acquisition and legal/consultants fees; relocation strategy/consultation regarding available sites for existing uses; broad public support following wide publicity and consultation;
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streets. Planning agreements and restrictive covenants on car ownership of the new occupants may be required. Alternatives might include offering residents a nearby local authority car park or promoting neighbourhood car fleets or car pools. Residents parking and rearrangement of on-street parking would require careful control.
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research into market demand; and the ability to reassure the Secretary of State that there would be no planning objections to the scheme. This was achieved by the approval of an outline planning application for the site for uses specified in the 1997 consultation draft of the Local Plan Review. This designated the whole site as an Action Area within an indicative range of uses. 8.1.3 Development should also respond to local land-use patterns. Within such patterns there should be scope for developments to display an appropriate degree of individuality and innovation. 8.1.4 When considering how to make effective use of land, the following considerations need to be taken into account: creating and developing identity and local character; safeguarding existing local amenity and preventing nuisance; addressing the risk of potential pollution from development by using appropriate techniques; minimising the negative impact on vehicles by promoting alternatives such as rail travel and cycling; and minimising negative impacts on surrounding neighbourhoods. 8.1.5 Land assembly may be necessary in many cases to permit a viable scale of development. At present this can be a complex procedure. Compulsory purchase powers can be used to secure comprehensive re-developments. 8.1.6 A range of potential funding opportunities can make successful developments possible. The South East England Development Agency administers a range of grants and there are other funding regimes such as the National Lottery, Landfill Tax and European Union which provide opportunities to enhance local environments, open spaces and features of historic importance. Public bodies can also act as underwriters for developments, thus reducing risks for private funders. Specialist advice may be sought to maximise this support. 8.1.7 It is possible to secure finance for the redevelopment of contaminated sites although interest rates may increase in proportion to the perceived risk. Risks can be spread through a syndicated loan. Banks may take into account the track record, competence and plan of action for a given scheme. Principle 8.2: The use of recycled land and re-use of existing buildings should be encouraged
8.2.1 The government has set a target to accommodate 60% of new households on recycled land by 2016. The redevelopment of disused or under-used land usually has greater inherent potential for sustainable development than greenfield sites. Facilities tend to be more accessible and there is greater scope to maximise the potential of Combined Heat and Power (see Principle 9.3). 8.2.2 Some previously used sites have formed valuable wildlife habitats which merit protection either in part or in whole. (see objective 10). Re-use and re-cycling includes: change of land use and conversion of existing buildings redevelopment of obsolete commercial sites to residential use infill or backland development redevelopment of vacant or redundant land maximising the use of existing buildings e.g. Living Over The Shop (LOTS). 8.2.3 Improved construction processes, techniques, materials and components for refurbishment could help to increase the opportunities for re-use .
URBAN SPLASH PRINCIPLE 8.2 The Urban Splash Company was set up in 1993 to provide well-designed, mixed-use developments in Liverpool and Manchester. The idea was to develop the vast stock of under-used historic buildings in the Cities. The Company now has around 100 million worth of projects. They have always worked closely with partners to take broader regeneration strategies into account. A recent project in Liverpool was the conversion of the Collegiate School into 96 apartments. The building was owned by the local council who invited Urban Splash to get involved. Funding from the North Liverpool Partnership and SRB was required to kick-start the process. Of the 12 million costs, English Partnerships contributed 2.5 million, North Liverpool Single Regeneration Partnership 245,000 and English Heritage 100,000. The process took around four years but the commitment of the partners saw the scheme through. Principle 8.3: Contaminated land must be treated in an appropriate manner prior to development 8.3.1 A potential problem often associated with previously used land is ground pollution. The three components used to assess the need for remediation of ground pollution are source (e.g. oil drum), pathway (e.g. soil) and receptor (e.g. human). Very few sites are so badly contaminated that they cannot be used at all. Certain uses are nevertheless compromised and each site therefore must be considered on its merits. A thorough analysis of the land must be carried out prior to deciding on the most appropriate form of development and the most effective means of treatment to avoid problems of contamination. An integrated pollution control approach
8.2 examples of re-cycling and re-use.
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should be promoted. This includes: dealing with the actual and perceived threats to health, safety and the environment; keeping or bringing back such land into beneficial use; and minimising pressures on greenfield sites. 8.3.2 This will inevitably have cost implications for the development of contaminated sites but the land, surveys and treatment should be seen as inseparable and taken as a package when determining viable uses for the land. Advice on contamination issues is given in the Desk Reference Guide to Potentially Contaminative Land produced by ISVA (the Society for Valuers and Auctioneers) and Model procedures for the Management of Contaminated Land produced by the Environment Agency. Section 57 of the Environment Act 1995 requires construction professionals, including developers, landowners and local authorities, to investigate and assess risks of potentially contaminated sites. 8.3.3 Potential contamination should be investigated at the earliest stage in the planning process so that requirements can be identified prior to determining applications. The level of investigation required will depend on: the location of the site what the site is to be used for whether it is within an area known for contamination the results of any preliminary investigations which may suggest the need for further survey. 8.3.4 A thorough investigation should identify: the level of contamination following desk and site investigation the extent of contamination through a soil survey the type of contaminants the risk of displacing contaminants and affecting groundwater the measures needed to protect users the treatment appropriate for the end and future uses whether removal and disposal of contaminants or containment in situ should be adopted the appropriate monitoring to check these methods have been effective. 8.3.5 New technology increases the options for dealing with contaminated land and may help to assess risks more adequately than more traditional methods.
Principle 8.4: Principles of increased density and diversity should be promoted
8.4 notional dense and diverse urban block
8.4.1 The Urban Villages movement1 offers a valuable guide to higher density living through the concept of closegrained, self-sufficient and localised communities (see Objective 4 - Mixed Use). The main recommendations of the Urban Village Movement include: compactness mix of uses and dwelling types range of employment, leisure and community facilities high standards of urban design access to public open space and green places ready access to public transport to reduce pressure on land for highway and parking requirements (see principle 4.1).
8.4.1 close grained urban form in Canterbury
8.3.6 It is important that appropriate conditions are imposed through planning permissions and that developers then take these on board. In order to give purchasers confidence, it is important to be able to demonstrate that contamination has been dealt with effectively and comprehensively, with adequate monitoring arrangements put in place.
8.4.2 Higher density living will not appeal to everyone nor will it be appropriate to every site. However, to ensure sustainable development in Kent, increased provision of higher density communities is needed to meet future development requirements while protecting Kents valuable countryside. 8.4.3 High density does not mean poor quality. Canterbury is often cited as a high density, yet highly desirable place to live and Paris is three times as dense as London yet provides an attractive living environment. The tradition of high quality tenements in places like Edinburgh also shows
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how high density in the right context can be successful. Higher densities need not lead to overcrowding. Density deals with number of dwellings or people per acre, whereas overcrowding deals with number of people per habitable room. Low-density areas can therefore be overcrowded if the houses are over-occupied.
people walking into the development. The majority of the units do not have frontage vehicular access or on-plot parking. During the negotiations for the scheme a flexible approach was adopted for the highway design which has allowed a high quality and intimate environment to be achieved. The development is characterised by high quality materials and finishes and by attractive planting. An annual maintenance fee is paid by the residents in order to manage all external repairs and landscape maintenance (see principle 3.4). Principle 8.5: The development should add to the quality of the environment and the surrounding area 8.5.1 The land use of a given site should never be considered in isolation from its immediate or further neighbours. Schemes can mutually benefit each other by complimenting the range of uses within a district. The uses on a site often directly affect the adjoining property. This should be seen as a positive aspect and developed to full potential creating cross-linkages and connections between new sites and existing situations. 8.5.2 Good environmental practice is needed on all sites not only to reduce costs but also nuisance. During construction, the impact of potential disturbance on the surrounding area should be considered. Examples include: equipment and traffic: noise levels and vibration mess: dust, spoil, stock heaps waste: burning is generally unacceptable time: certain working times for a variety of trades lighting: position, direction, glare, intrusion, lightpollution management: workers and site processes security: plant and tools should be secured to avoid opportunities for crime.
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8.4.2 dense living in Paris.
8.4.4 The disposition of land uses should complement the benefits of compactness. Providing facilities for work, rest and play all within walking distance reduces the need to travel whilst increasing the sense of locality and community. The correct balance of diversity is important to avoid uninspiring environments dominated by any one use. 8.4.5 The density of a development should respect local character and respond to existing densities in different locations such as brownfield, greenfield, central, peripheral, town and village. This does not mean simply replicating surrounding layouts but drawing clues from these surroundings as to the range of new densities that may be appropriate. This range should be defined for each locality. An appropriate mixture of densities to increase legibility and create choices in an expanding housing market should be encouraged. The UK Strategy for Sustainable Development comments on density as, a dynamic process, but the limits and thresholds must be understood
8.5.2 construction impacts
INCREASED DENSITY: WYE, ASHFORD. PRINCIPLE 8.4 Environ Homes have established a retirement scheme developed within a previously used site in the centre of the village of Wye, Ashford. This high density scheme comprises a mixture of semidetached and terraced flats and cottages. The properties are arranged in two quads around formal gardens. The cottages have small rear courtyard gardens, and there is also a shared croquet lawn and club house. Communal parking is provided near the entrance to the site where it can be overlooked by
8.5.3 Formal environmental management systems such as ISO 140016 are beginning to be adopted in construction.
LUTON MILLENNIUM GREEN PRINCIPLE 8.2 AND 8.5 Luton Millennium Green is located in a densely built up residential area near the centre of Chatham. The Green was created from 7 acres of disused allotment using a Millennium Green Grant and funding from a range of sources including English
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Partnerships, Rochester-Upon-Medway City Council and Medway Housing Society. Groundwork Medway-Swale led the development and implementation of the scheme. The site has an active recreational area with seating, space for events, toddlers play area, a kick-about area and a conservation area for wildlife. A network of footpaths lead around the site with the main routes having a surface suitable for access by people with disabilities. Community involvement has been an important component of the project and indeed the original impetus for the project came from local residents. The project demonstrates the potential to reuse urban land in a positive way for the benefit of the local community and to enhance the local urban environment. It also demonstrates the scope to secure funding for environmental improvements that will be necessary to ensure the holistic regeneration of urban areas. Principle 8.6: Developments must ensure the protection of privacy and amenity for a variety of new and existing occupiers 8.6.1 Many of our most attractive and sought after homes in towns and villages were built in close proximity to one another, providing a human scale and intimacy which many people find sociable, comfortable and private. 8.6.2 Most modern housing estates, often built to privacy standards, nevertheless fail to ameliorate feelings of overlooking and visual intrusion, demonstrating that distance alone is a very crude measure of privacy. In new development, the aim should be to achieve the qualities that people find attractive in traditional settlements, using variation of form, space, ancillary buildings, garages, planting and boundary walls to create high quality environments and to achieve a more efficient and sustainable use of land. 8.6.3 This is not to promote uniformly high densities. The context of the development is a critical factor, as demonstrated below:
8.6.4 minimum separation distance between new and existing properties
8.6.5 In finely grained developments it may be necessary to group certain activities to avoid nuisance. Potentially noisy activities will need to be carefully designed and noise attenuation measures may need to be introduced to ensure that the risk of nuisance is minimised. There should be an onus on developers and occupiers to comply with these conditions. 8.6.6 Within new development visual privacy can be achieved by a range of methods other than simply the distance between buildings or spaces. Individual units should be designed to prevent overlooking neighbouring private spaces and windows by employing the following methods where appropriate:
8.6.6 i position 8.6.3 some existing densities in Kent VILLAGE EDGE VILLAGE CENTRE TOWN EDGE TOWN CENTRE
adjoining units can be staggered, extensions or protrusions placed to block overlooking views
Milstead: E.g.: 28m
Smarden: E.g.: 12m
Maidstone: E.g.: 16m
Dartford: E.g.: 10m
A range of contextual examples showing the variation in sample privacy distances from spacious rural to dense urban situations (distances between windows of rear facing habitable rooms of neighbouring dwellings).
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8.6.4 Local context will help determine the appropriate form and density of development. It is important, however, to ensure that the privacy of existing residents is safeguarded when assessing the impact of new development. As a guide, a distance of 21 metres between the unobstructed windows of habitable rooms in the private rear facades of dwellings has been found to be generally acceptable. This dimension may, however, vary according to the surrounding context.
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8.6.6 ii orientation
adjoining blank gable walls facing private space offer enclosure without overlooking problems
8.6.6 v screening
Three factors interrelated in good screening are the relative position of the onlooker, the screening device and the element being screened. Screening devices could be trees and foliage, fencing, walls etc.
8.6.6 iii elevational treatment
views out of buildings are important but need not be uniformly applied. Upper storey windows may be used to allow daylight to enter yet have restricted views outward
8.6.6 vi changes in ground level
when combined with solid built forms like a roof, level changes can allow views and light without overlooking and consequent lack of privacy
NOAK BRIDGE, ESSEX PRINCIPLE 8.6
8.6.6 iv location and detailing of openings relative to space
placing public external spaces (like the footpaths in the diagram) away from private internal spaces increases the cone of vision and so the area in which overlooking can occur. The size of window opening and pane size should respond to the potential of being overlooked.
8.6 Noak Bridge high density area
Noak Bridge is a village north of Basildon which was developed to a relatively high density during the 1970s. It is based on traditional Essex vernacular with the following key features: network of pedestrian routes;
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An Article 4 Direction has been established to avoid insensitive future changes being made. The development provides an attractive environment for residents where the car does not dominate the street scene and residents can walk safely between neighbourhoods. Noak Bridge is a popular area suggesting that people are prepared to make trade-offs between their individual requirements relating to parking or private amenity space and the overall quality of a development. REFERENCES: 1. Urban Villages Forum Annual Review 1996-97, Urban Villages Forum, 1997
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 8: MAXIMISING USE

Have the sites innate characteristics been fully utilised to maximise sustainable benefits? Do all areas within the site have a designated primary use? Are cars appropriately incorporated to avoid excessive use of land for car parking only? Does the scheme respond positively to local land-use patterns by connecting and integrating as appropriate? Does the scheme make effective use of land in that location? Do existing buildings form part of the proposals? If so, is their re-use appropriate? Has the site been appropriately checked for contamination? If so, how is the contamination to be dealt with? Is the density of the scheme appropriate to the location? Do the land uses encourage diversity within localities? Have potential disturbances during and after construction been fully resolved? Do the land uses complement all other appropriate objectives? Does each unit within the development have an appropriate amount of protected private space?
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connected housing, often abutting the footpaths and sometimes served only by such footpaths; relaxed parking standards (with scope for additional parking at the rear); high quality design; small rear gardens; flats placed on corner sites to allow double fronted elevations and smaller gardens; social as well as private housing; and extensive landscaping and distinctive central open space.
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Conserve natural resources and minimise pollution in the layout, construction and ongoing use of development
Principle 9.1: The environmental sustainability of all construction materials should be considered
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9.1 sustainable building features
9.1.1 Sustainability is concerned with the conservation of the earths resources. The construction industry, by its nature, consumes large quantities of materials and sends a considerable amount of material to landfill. The extraction of raw materials can cause irreversible damage to the landscape, natural habitats and ecosystems. Most materials use a significant amount of energy in their production and transportation and may cause pollution and secondary damage which demands remedial action.
specific environmental properties, energy costs and longevity of materials. Sustainable Settlements: a guide for planners, designers and developers1 offers a good basic evaluation. The Building Research Establishment and CIRIA can also provide more detailed data on the environmental sustainability of construction materials and components, and organisations such as the Forestry Stewardship Council can provide information on sustainable sources of timber. Principle 9.2: Proposals should prevent the inefficient use of materials and energy on site by adopting the protocol of the 3 'R's: reduce, re-use and recycle REDUCTION OF WASTE 9.2.1 The amount of wasted materials on site can be reduced by introducing regular audits to monitor and control site activities more closely, for example reviewing materials ordering and site practices to prevent damage and cross-contamination. Surveys have found that detailed attention to the quantity of materials purchased and the way that these are off-loaded, labelled and stored then subsequently handled on site, can significantly reduce the amount of materials wasted. Wherever possible the use of packaging and non-returnable pallets should be avoided, recycled or re-used. RECOVERY OF MATERIALS FOR RE-USE 9.2.2 Where any site clearance or demolition is involved, recovery of materials can be maximised by separating out
9.1.1 sustainable materials in good design
9.1.2 The lifecycle environmental cost of all construction materials must be considered, including the costs of extracting raw materials, the renewable nature of raw materials, energy costs in the manufacture of materials and the environmental costs of transportation to site. There is an increasing amount of research available on the
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those of similar type to prevent cross-contamination. Using disassembly processes that prevent damage enables any useable materials to be salvaged and re-used where they are of sufficient quality. 9.2.3 In road construction, acceptable materials may include granular materials arising from the site and asphalt planings. Suitable salvaged materials which are of equivalent specification, in good order and appropriate for the location include kerbs, channels, gully grates and pots, manhole and inspection covers. In building construction, aggregate may be formed from the demolition of existing buildings on the same site for most effective re-use (see also Technical Appendix Section 1). RE-USE AND RECYCLING OF MATERIALS
or become contaminated. This will be particularly important in the case of commercial operations that can generate a lot of waste. Provision should be made in the design of homes for adequate refuse storage not only for disposal containers used by the relevant local authority but preferably allowing for separation of waste for recycling. The storage area should be no more than 25m from the point of collection.
9.2.6 recycling points
9.2.4 recycling bins integrated into the building
9.2.4 The availability of local facilities for receiving and processing recyclable construction materials should be investigated and such materials used wherever practicable. Processing on-site or locally off-site, such as hot processing of bituminous materials and aggregates, can be carried out on natural materials, demolition materials or planings to reduce imported materials. In-situ processing techniques reduce transportation requirements. This can also improve progress on site and reduce local traffic congestion. Asphalt planings from roads may be sent to an asphalt plant for incorporation into new products. 9.2.5 Developers, designers, suppliers and subcontractors should take positive steps to maximise sustainable practices in design, construction and usage. For example audits of the distances materials are hauled, the amount of materials used and re-used on-site, recycled or taken to land fill off-site and the efficiency in the organisation of the work on-site, could be assessed. 9.2.6 New development should also offer facilities to encourage those using or occupying buildings to reuse and recycle. Recycling facilities should be provided on site or close to new developments in a manner which does not cause nuisance. Provision should be made for the storage of recyclable waste so that it does not deteriorate
9.2.7 The provision of allotments and gardens that allow for the composting and growing of food produce should be encouraged. Public awareness campaigns should also be promoted to increase understanding of the need to recycle. Whilst it is recognised that holistic re-use and recycling of construction and household materials requires a change in the public perception of resource recycling, this should remain a long term objective achieved through education and shared good practice from local authorities.
COMMUNITY COMPOSTING PRINCIPLE 9.2 Composting kitchen and green waste instead of dumping it in a landfill site has been the response of a small east Kent parish over the past two years. Some 1,700 kilos are being collected weekly by a mobile composting scheme run in the area of Herne Hill, near Whitstable. The scheme, which is part funded by the Landfill Tax, collects bins of kitchen waste from 80 households each Monday. This is mixed with shredded garden waste and then composted at a farm in the neighbourhood. Herne Hill Composting believe strongly in small scale composting below 1,000 tonnes, which is often exempt from licensing. It would like to see waste being processed on farms and then used to enhance the farms' soil and thus avoid unnecessary lorry movements. By using the putrescible kitchen waste,
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which produces dangerous methane gas in landfill sites, this scheme is providing a valuable environmental service. It is one of 115 throughout the UK. Kent's biggest scheme is at Wye in Kent, which collects waste from 700 households weekly. Principle 9.3: Proposals should incorporate energy conservation features 9.3.1 Energy conservation in new development can range from simple planning and design principles (such as maximising and retaining natural heat and light) to sophisticated technologies that can generate sufficient power to transfer electricity back into the National Grid. Energy conservation reduces the demand for precious fossil fuels and reduces the release of environmentally polluting carbon dioxide and methane gases. 9.3.2 Insulation can significantly reduce fuel bills for any building. Protection from heat loss through walls, floor, and roof and the prevention of drafts through windows and doors are most effectively included in the initial design stages. Building Regulations now lay down more rigorous demands for insulation, safety for occupants and energy conservation. They are being continuously updated with a view to improving the thermal quality and sustainability of the built fabric. The most up to date Regulations should be referred to for any proposed built development.
9.3.5 sculptural passive solar design in Bluewater
9.3.6 Layouts should maximise east-west building alignments and orientate most of the glazing to within 30o of due south. Plans should also be designed to avoid overshadowing and minimise shading from obstructions to sunlight (such as other dwellings and coniferous trees). Other measures can include: locating taller buildings to the north of a site; locating car parking and garages to the north of housing; and using building form or landscaping as buffering from wind and designing out potential wind tunnels between buildings. 9.3.7 In residential development the actual form of housing can have a substantial impact on energy efficiency. Detached houses, particularly bungalows, tend to be less energy efficient, with the greatest surface area exposed to the elements. Assuming the same floor area and orientation, bulkier forms of development such as flats, retain heat better, while terraces provide some crossinsulation at a lower density. 9.3.8 Designers will have several factors to consider in the layout of the development, many of which are discussed in this Guide. Solar gain should complement these. It is important however that buildings relate to each other as a cohesive whole avoiding monotony in the orientation of the buildings. 9.3.9 Buildings designed today dictate the pattern of energy consumption of the future. It is important to invest in energy-saving technology now in order to reduce this demand. It is easier and more economical to consider this within the initial design process than as an add-on. A number of recent individual houses and small developments with zero or low energy use offer examples of good practice often within a limited budget, such as the Hockerton Housing project described below. To improve the thermal efficiency of an individual building, the design may include: a south-facing conservatory or atrium buffer zone to trap heat; insulation to the north elevation through reduced glazing location of lower occupancy rooms such as bathrooms or garages or setting the building partially into the ground; a compact plan form to reduce the external wall surface;
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9.3.2 insulation in a breathing wall
9.3.3 Timers and thermostats to control heat, hot water and light are an inexpensive way of saving energy. Building management systems in larger buildings operate on similar principles and can result in significant cost savings. 9.3.4 A source of information and advice is the DETR/Building Research Establishment's Energy Efficiency Office, who also illustrate the potential financial savings to businesses and householders of adopting energy saving practices in both new and existing buildings (Environment and Energy Helpline 0800 585794). PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN 9.3.5 Passive solar design takes advantage of natural light and heat from the sun and uses air movement for ventilation. This reduces or negates the need for artificial light, heat, cooling or ventilation. It can be achieved with no additional cost to a development and can result in considerable cost savings2.
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glazing part of the roof, particularly on very tight sites with limited natural light; well-insulated roof and walls, and good quality double glazing; and high thermal mass to retain heat, if this is appropriate for the use pattern of the building. 9.3.10 Mechanical ventilation, air-conditioning and lighting can incur major energy loads in commercial buildings. Overheating may be a particular problem, but can be overcome with screens or shutters, overhanging eaves and windows which open. These features allow occupants to control their internal environment rather than through a centrally controlled heating or air conditioning system.
Buildings which are shallow in plan or provide atria offer greater use of natural ventilation and light. 9.3.11 Speculative developers may disregard the energy use of a commercial building as they will not be the eventual occupiers responsible for future costs. The building user, who will have a vested interest in the durability and running cost of the building, should be consulted early in the design process3. Offices designed for the Charities Aid Foundation under a pre-lease arrangement with developer Rouse at Kings Hill involved all parties in a series of meetings and allowed the requirements such as low running costs to be designed-in early on. The building gained a very good rating from its BREEAM for Offices evaluation.
9.3.8 individual building
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ACTIVE SOLAR TECHNOLOGY
9.3.12 Zen Aquasol duo solar panels (Construction Resources) 9.3.11 Acclaimed design for Charities Aid Foundation, Kings Hill by Nicholas Hare Architects
An alternative form of energy generation which may be viable for new developments is the use of wind turbines, as at Hockerton Housing (see case study).
SEVENOAKS FIRE STATION OBJECTIVE 9 The proposal by the Kent and Medway Towns Fire Authority to build a first floor extension above a single storey brick wing for occupation by the Fire Safety Office provided an ideal opportunity to use many green techniques and materials. A strict deadline was in operation in order that the works would be completed before the end of the financial year so a speedy construction method was called for.
9.3.12 Active solar technology involves the use of collector panels to capture the sun's heat and then transfer it to either water or oil for heating (solar panels) or to generate electricity (photovoltaic panels). PPG Note 22, 1994 states that even the UK has enough sunlight for solar heating to be viable. Grouped solar heating systems have the advantage of levelling out demand, as low use at a particular time from one occupier can compensate for the use of another. Solar panels located directly next to the area they are serving suffer less from heat loss and are therefore more efficient. Outdoor swimming pools often follow this principle. 9.3.13 There are many examples of single dwellings which have been designed according to sustainability principles, but these ideas have not yet been translated to a mass housebuilding market. The development of the BREs Integer House (Intelligent Green) is set to challenge that as it is intended as a prototype for the sustainable house of the future. It maximises use of prefabrication, which is a particularly sustainable form of construction, and forms the basis of larger scale Integer housing development currently under construction in Sandwell. PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS
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The fire station extension provides a super-insulated, lightweight construction with minimal running costs to the client and makes use of: masonite beams and roof and floor boarding produced from waste wood materials; wall insulation giving U value of just under 0.2w/m2 and breathing wall construction; timber framed, argon filled thermally efficient double glazing; organic stains and paints; and six litre flushing toilets (lowest available at the time in UK).
9.3.13 ES solar photovoltaic panels (Construction Resources)
9.3.14 Photovoltaic panels can be placed on the ground or attached to walls or roofs. Costs are gradually falling but are still some way from being cost-effective for the mass market. A large number of panels are likely to be necessary to fully power a house and so should be taken into account at the design stage. Surplus electricity can be sold back to the National Grid. COMPUTER OPERATED SYSTEMS 9.3.14 Computer systems can be installed to monitor, operate and indicate consumption of energy, water and other resources and thereby save the occupier money. They may also adjust heating controls and blinds according to the weather.
9.3 Sevenoaks Fire Station
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BOUNDARY HOUSE OBJECTIVE 9
9.3 Boundary House
At Boundary House, architect Michael Winter has risen to the challenge of designing a contemporary, attractive and environmentally friendly home. The house was designed to fell as few trees as possible with a plan form that navigates its way through its wooded site in Tunbridge Wells. In selecting materials for the house, Winter considered cost as a factor alongside the environmental impact of the materials, such as energy used in their manufacture and scarcity. The structure and cladding are timber, with second-hand timber flooring used internally. No preservatives were used, and organic stains and paints were chosen wherever possible. The rainwater collection and storage system is one of the many resource-saving features. The house is raised above ground to minimise the impact of the foundations and to allow it to touch the ground lightly. COMBINED HEAT AND POWER (CHP) 9.3.15 CHP uses the heat created in the generation of electricity to provide heat for another building or even an entire community. This is particularly effective when building uses are balanced between daytime and evening use (for example housing and offices) or within hospitals. CHP is a highly efficient and affordable means of producing heat, but ideally should be planned into the development early on. Its incorporation should increase as a greater number of mixed-use, higher density developments emerge. Proposed schemes should be the subject of an environmental impact assessment with a view to addressing any impact on local air quality.
The Hockerton Housing Project illustrates that ecological housing can also be affordable. The terrace of five earth-sheltered dwellings was designed by eco-architects Brenda and Robert Vale, and is run by a co-operative formed by the residents. The houses are self-sufficient in their use of resources and release no CO2 or atmospheric pollution. Design features include: high quality insulation a solar conservatory on the southern aspect to maximise solar gain; earth-sheltering to the north to prevent radiant heat loss and limit exposure to wind; an internal temperature year-round of 19-21oC without need for a heating system; plans for all electrical energy to come from a renewable, non-polluting source located on site (wind turbine) and photovoltaic panels; water demand to be met on site, and a floating reed-bed system used for sewage treatment ; recycling of organic waste products through composting facilities on site; car-sharing/pooling system; and encouragement of a diversity of plant and animal life.
9.3 b (Hockerton Housing Project)
HOCKERTON HOUSING PROJECT OBJECTIVE 9
Principle 9.4: Proposals should be supported by a sustainability statement 9.4.1 A sustainability statement indicates how resource management and other principles have been taken into account in the design and implementation of a proposed development. Sustainable practices should, as far as possible, minimise the use of scarce resources (including water and energy-intensive materials), facilitate recycling and re-use, ensure safe disposal and future low maintenance. In addition to submitting sustainability statements developers should consider appointing a suitably qualified person to implement and monitor the actions set out in the sustainability statement and to audit activities throughout the design and implementation phases. 9.4.2 Whilst sustainability statements will become a more important tool as the size of the development and/or its likely environmental impact increases, some criteria will be valid for any development. The DETRs document UK Strategy for Sustainable Development (1999) presents Governments strategy for sustainable construction for the UK.
9.3 a (Hockerton Housing Project)
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Principle 9.5: An evaluation of the environmental performance of a development (such as BREEAM) should be considered as part of the design process 9.5.1 A comprehensive assessment of the environmental performance of a building should go beyond the more conventional evaluation of energy efficiency. One of the objectives of BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is to encourage a reduction in the environmental impact of a building through a recognition of the commercial benefits of such considerations. This can be applied to houses, shops, offices and industrial units. The approach is holistic, looking at greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable transport, water usage, noise pollution and waste recycling to name but a few considerations. BREEAM also encourages the use of local labour to help boost the local economy and reduce the need to travel. 9.5.2 In 1996 government ministers agreed that BREEAM / BREEAM for Offices 1998 should be undertaken on all new government buildings and major refurbishment. The DETR has also produced extensive guidelines in Towards More Sustainable Construction: Green Guide for Managers on the Government Estate including everything from assessing the whole life cost of the building, such as its running and maintenance costs, recyclability and eventual demolition, to its lighting specifications. This initiative runs alongside the Egan report on Rethinking Construction (1998). Principle 9.6: Design should demonstrate flexibility to allow for re-use and adaptation of buildings over time 9.6.1 The Building Research Establishment (BRE) is updating its environmental evaluation to encourage flexibility in design so that buildings can be adapted to changing uses and users as well as alternative sources of energy and new resource-saving technologies. These are likely to become more financially viable as their use and understanding of their properties grow. 9.6.2 The challenge of creating adaptable buildings at a higher density has inspired a renewed interest in housing design, illustrated by some of the development at the Greenwich Millennium Village and exhibitions and competitions, such as the RIBAs Concept House. Designs illustrated open plan spaces which occupiers can adapt to their own needs, and isolated rooms or even temporary structures which could be used for office, storage or extra bedroom accommodation. 9.6.3 Many older buildings illustrate the potential for adaptability that reflects the dynamics of social and commercial change. Houses in urban areas have often been used successfully as offices and shops and then restored back to their original use. 9.6.4 Large scale, deep plan offices and commercial buildings can present more of a problem of re-use when the original use becomes redundant. Buildings should be designed to allow for future expansion rather than provide unnecessary accommodation at the start. This may be particularly appropriate in the case of schools, where
there may be a real possibility that demand will increase over time. Buildings which are broken up into smaller units and which have a shallow floor plan allow for easier subdivision to accommodate changes of use or occupier. Principle 9.7: All redundant buildings, regardless of their architectural quality, should be considered as a valuable resource for potential re-use 9.7.1 There are many examples of historic buildings that have been successfully converted to new uses. Buildings which are listed or in a conservation area are granted a degree of protection from demolition but any existing building could be seen as a valuable material resource. Buildings of no perceived heritage value have the advantage of allowing more radical and unconstrained alteration. Less glamorous uses such as small industrial units, mechanical and storage facilities still require accommodation to which a building may well be suited. However, the designer will need to weigh up whether adaptation may actually consume more resources than a new building and whether there are other constraints such as the impact of associated works or access arrangements. UWE/LGMB Sustainable Settlements offers guidance on appropriateness of certain building types for new uses (p166-7). Re-use of buildings in a rural environment may be inappropriate or unsustainable in other respects, and applicants will need to have regard to relevant Structure Plan and Local Plan policies. 9.7.2 There may also be means of improving the energy efficiency of the building, as some older properties can be thermally inefficient.
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SUNLIGHT CENTRE, GILLINGHAM PRINCIPLE 9.7
9.7 Sunlight Centre (Chris Tubbs)
Competitions create possibilities for nowhere sites to be given a new lease of life (Rev Andrew Mawson, competition panel member). The conversion of the Sunlight Laundry has provided Gillingham with an exciting new building and a much needed community facility. It was the result of an architectural competition run by the Kent Architecture Centre and Gillingham Borough Council (now Medway Council). The winning design by Morrison Brink Architecture offers a flexible, adaptable and innovative approach [which] succeeded in conserving and enhancing the existing qualities while skilfully improving the presence on the street.
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The project was part of a regeneration initiative for North Gillingham. The significance of the Sunlight Centre was that the brief which outlined the proposed function of the building, its design and how it might be run was based on a one day community workshop in which 700 people took part, including school children. Emphasis was placed on ensuring low maintenance and running costs and promoting the concept of sustainable lifestyles. The buildings core functions are: One Stop Shop/information point Community Centre Health Centre (and associated facilities). The building provides flexible spaces to accommodate a wide variety of facilities such as training, education and economic welfare, and has the capacity to adapt over time to the changing needs of the community.
south-east6. Water abstraction may not be apparent close to the site, but will have an impact elsewhere in the region that cannot be ignored. Water companies now produce Water Resource Plans to address the issue of forward planning. Conversely, serious flooding in some areas is predicted. As more land is developed, impermeable concrete and tarmac surfaces can direct large volumes of rainwater into drains and rivers that can no longer cope with the flow, as opposed to draining away naturally into the soil7. The Environment Agency has also stressed the importance of avoiding development on flood plains8. Principle 9.8: Sustainable water management techniques should be incorporated into design and infrastructure proposals 9.8.1 Developers should take a long-term view of the impact of their proposals on future water consumption and how changes to the water table will affect the local landscape and natural habitats. They should consult with water companies and the local authority. 9.8.2 Water companies have been instructed to put in place water efficiency plans, which include leakage control policies, metering of supplies to encourage water-saving and the provision of advice to the public. These are measures to which developers should also respond. According to PPG 12, water availability should be a consideration for the local authority in its development plan. 9.8.3 New development should allow sufficient natural drainage to prevent depletion of the water table in the locality. The use of block paving and other permeable surfaces should be encouraged for large areas such as car parks. Storm water control systems can be included in these areas by providing a sub-system below the surface which captures and slowly releases rainfall into the ground, or it can be pumped out for re-use in garden irrigation or for flushing toilets. 9.8.4 Construction sites use a vast quantity of water. Developers can make a direct contribution to water conservation by preventing wasteful use of water on-site and re-using water wherever possible. Principle 9.9: Proposals should provide opportunities for the protection of water supplies by harnessing rainfall 9.9.1 Rainwater utilisation systems collect rainwater from the roof of a building for use in flushing toilets or garden irrigation. This reduces water consumption by at least 35% and helps reduce storm water run-off to sewers. While water for gardening requires only filtering before use, it would usually be treated using ultra-violet or other methods to eliminate contaminants for use in toilets. The required water storage facilities can readily be included in the design of a new building.
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CAPSTONE OAST YOUTH HOSTEL PRINCIPLE 9.7
9.7.1 Capstone Oast Youth Hostel (Medway Council)
The neglected Capstone oasthouse was in use as a hay store when Rochester-upon-Medway Council (now Medway Council) decided to restore it and put it to better use. Its location halfway along the scenic Pilgrims Way in an area popular for walking and cycling made it an ideal site for a youth hostel. The Youth Hostel Association now leases the building from the Council. WATER The demand for water in the UK as elsewhere, has increased substantially over the last 40 years. Household water consumption alone has nearly doubled since 1961. The greater the volume of water abstracted from rivers, lakes and underground aquifers4, the less is available to dilute pollution and to protect essential wildlife and ecological habitats. Although efficiency has improved over recent years due to leakage control and water savings, the National Rivers Authority (now part of the Environment Agency) forecast in 1994 that increased demand could lead to a serious shortfall in water supply to some areas, including Kent5. This problem will become a significant issue with the increased number of households anticipated in the
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Principle 9.10: Development should provide a range of water-efficient appliances and systems to reduce water usage 9.10.1 There are many simple measures that can be incorporated into new homes, commercial and public buildings to significantly reduce water consumption and save money. Approximately a third of domestic water supply is used for flushing toilets, yet there are several water-saving options available. Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (July 1999) state toilets in the UK must not exceed 6 litres per flush, but there are numerous existing toilets which can hold far more than that. Dual flush systems can also be introduced to older cysterns. 9.10.2 Cistern dams can be placed in the cistern to reduce the amount of water used per flush by 1-3 litres. 9.10.3 Low flush toilets as low as 5 litres are more common in Europe and the USA. 9.10.4 Waterless and composting toilets are more frequently used in rural locations with no main sewer, but have been successfully installed in several new dwellings in the UK, including the Hockerton Community (see Case Study). 9.10.5 Waterless urinals can offer a substantial cost saving in offices and commercial buildings especially those that have a metered water supply, as approximately 20% of water supplied to offices is drained through flushing urinals. Waterless urinals are suitable in all types of building, and come in the form of deodorising pads which can be fitted to existing urinals, or through siphonic traps which contain a barrier fluid. Estimated savings are between 100 and 250 per urinal per year. Worldwide Washrooms Ltd, based in Cliftonville, Kent won the Environmental Innovation Category in the Environment Awards for Kent Business in 1997 with its waterless urinal system. 9.10.6 Water tap controls are an inexpensive and effective means of reducing water consumption, and saving energy through reducing hot water use. A dripping tap can cost up to 40 annually. Spray taps produce a spray or mist which can more than halve water flow. Push top taps switch off automatically after a pre-set time delay. These are already widely used. Electronic sensor taps work on the same principle.
investment to reduce water use. Recent developments in washing machine technology are proving increasingly marketable, and new houses that include fitted kitchens could incorporate such appliances. The 1999 Regulations place maximum water usage volumes on new washing machines and dishwashers. 9.10.9 Greywater utilisation systems require a secondary plumbing system to collect water from handbasins, baths and showers for use in garden watering and toilet flushing. There are several systems on the market. Water use in swimming pools and garden sprinklers should also be controlled.
9.10.9 The WISY Filter Collector filters rainwater run-off from roofs directly to the downpipe for piping to a storage tank (Construction Resources)
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9.10.9 Water companies can take the lead in demonstrating the benefits of water-efficient development by providing advice and support to developers and occupiers. Much of the potential for saving water cannot be realised without behavioural changes on the part of the consumer. Metering of water supplies provides a financial incentive for this and has proved successful in pilot studies by reducing demand, although there are the social issues of financial hardship and health to consider. The UK is one of the few countries in Europe that does not practise water metering universally, although water authorities are now equipping all new houses with meters, and it is likely that from April 2000 all household customers will have the right to opt for a free meter.
CREST HOMES WATER CONSERVATION INITIATIVE PRINCIPLE 9.10 Crest Homes teamed up with a Kent company, Water Dynamics, for new homes in Shenley, Hertfordshire where customers were offered a special plumbing package with a greywater recycling system. Crest also aim to educate householders about the importance of water conservation through information on reducing consumption and new water saving devices and technology. Their showhouse gardens are designed to be water efficient, with drought tolerant plants and turf, and include a micro irrigation system.
9.10.6 Aqua water-saving taps (Construction Resources)
9.10.7 Shower restrictors can halve water use by adding a flow valve to the shower hose. It should be noted that power showers are particularly water intensive. 9.10.8 Water-economic domestic appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers, which account for on average 16% of water consumption, offer a simple
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Principle 9.11: Development should protect the quality of water resources by appropriate treatment of sewage and run-off, and through use of reed beds where practical 9.11.1 New development should promote the use of reed beds where appropriate to treat domestic sewage. Reed beds are a proven and effective means of treatment which comprise of water, gravel and aquatic plants that produce bacteria which breakdown household sewage. They require little maintenance, and are particularly useful where there are constraints to the use of conventional sewage systems. ICI are amongst the companies that have used reed beds to purify waste. Other means of on-site sewerage treatment may also be appropriate, particularly for large commercial operations. Principle 9.12: New development should minimise negative impacts on air quality and the release of CO2 9.12.1 Air pollution affects us all causing significant health and social costs. The energy consumed in buildings produces about 50% of the UKs carbon dioxide emissions. The Government is committed to the target set by the United Nations for the reduction of CO2 emissions by 5.2% by 2013. New development can contribute to the achievement of this goal through enabling reduced usage of the private car and by maximising energy conservation. It is important to ensure that appliances, particularly gas appliances, are operating efficiently and are properly maintained to reduce emissions, particularly of carbon monoxide, which is highly toxic. 9.12.2 Whilst CO2 makes up the largest volume of gas which has a detrimental impact on air quality and ozone depletion, there are several others, for example nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and radon, which can cause serious damage not just to air quality but to water supplies. Methane, resulting from burning of fossil fuels, is another contributor to ozone depletion. Data from the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology shows that Kent often experiences ozone levels amongst the highest in the country.
Monitoring information along with weekly and annual reports can be accessed through an Internet website (http://www.Seiph.umds.ac.uk/envhealth/kaqmn.html). This is currently being updated to include additional information from the KAQP The data from the . KAQMS provides the basis for informed decisionmaking and has been used to assess over 20 major development proposals. It has also helped to raise awareness about a significant environmental problem. 9.12.3 The air quality of the interior of buildings should also be considered. Sick Building Syndrome is a recognised problem that is particularly associated with artificially ventilated buildings. Materials such as solvents, paints, glues, preservatives and formaldehydes can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) that adversely affect the health of occupants. The use of these products should be avoided if possible, or reduced through the specification of low-emission formaldehyde products, organic or low-VOC paints, sealing or painting problem materials and by ensuring adequate ventilation. Developers should ensure that visual and other implications of pollution attenuation measures are addressed at an early stage of any project.
THE KENT AIR QUALITY PARTNERSHIP PRINCIPLE 9.12 The 1995 Environment Act placed a duty upon district councils to undertake air quality reviews and assessments and to monitor local air quality and, where necessary, to prepare action plans to meet new air quality targets. Kent County Council (KCC) and the district councils have participated in the Kent Air Quality Partnership (KAQP) since 1992, together with the Environment Agency, Health Authorities and the University of Greenwich. Kent is in the unique position of having the Kent Air Quality Management System (KAQMS), which includes an emission inventory, an air quality model and a monitoring network, with 19 continuous monitoring sites recording data on key pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and particulate matter.
REFERENCES: 1 Sustainable Settlements: a guide for planners, designers and developers, by H Barton, G Davis and R Guise for University of the West of England and Local Government Management Board, 1995 2 Planning for Passive Solar Design, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions/Department of Trade & Industry, Energy Efficiency Best Practice Programme, 1998 3 Reviving the City, Friends of the Earth, 1991 4 Aquifer Protection Policy, Environment Agency, 1998 5 Water, Natures Precious Resource, National Rivers Authority, 1994 6 Household Growth: where shall we live?, Department of the Environment, 1996 7 Introduction of the Groundwater Regulations, Environment Agency, 2/99 8 Flood Plains, Environment Agency, 1/97
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Principle 9.13: Measures should be taken to minimise the risk of soil pollution 9.13.1 The construction of buildings, roads and other infrastructure can have a destructive and often unnecessary impact on the soil and land surface. This can be minimised by: preventing unnecessary disturbance of soils which have a particular ecological or agricultural/foodproducing function; minimising the removal of topsoil and retaining that which has to be stripped for re-use once the development is completed, or for export to another site; preventing cross-contamination of weeds and other undesirable imports by the monitoring of new soil; preventing unnecessary or careless use of earthmoving equipment which can irrevocably erode or compact soil; using geotextile mats, planting or more environmentally-friendly forms of land engineering; treating soils which have been damaged previously; and using plants which are suited to specific site conditions and considering their ongoing maintenance.
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 9: RESOURCES

Has the longevity, scarcity and energy of manufacture of materials been assessed? Which of the raw materials used in the development come from renewable sources? Are the materials locally-sourced to minimise transportation? Does the proposal make use of recycled materials and follow the principles of the 3 Rs? Do the buildings maximise solar gain? Have other energy saving features and high quality insulation been included? Have efforts been made to reduce energy and water use on site? Has a sustainability statement or environmental evaluation such as BREEAM been undertaken? Have the buildings been designed for potential re-use or adaptation for different uses and occupiers over time? Are there buildings on site that could potentially be re-used? For those buildings which are not being re-used, are their materials being re-used in the construction process? Has a water management statement been submitted detailing measures to reduce water consumption? What proportion of hard surfaces, such as car parking areas, are permeable? Have water-efficient appliances or grey water systems been incorporated into the proposals? For larger developments, has the use of reed beds for treating domestic sewage been considered? Has an evaluation of impact on air quality been undertaken? Have measures been taken to reduce the release of CO2 and other greenhouse gases? Has the disturbance of soil been minimised and undeveloped land been suitably restored or maintained?
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Conserve, create and integrate open space, landscape and natural habitats as part of development
Principle 10.1: The value of open space, landscape and nature conservation should be recognised within development proposals 10.1.1 The implications of development on open space, landscape and nature conservation resources need to be fully understood as part of the design and decision-making process. Such resources can fulfil a number of different and complementary functions. All contribute to the quality of a locality by providing: OPEN SPACE an enhanced quality of life promoting social and physical well being places to meet, relax and exercise space to hold events facilities tailored to meeting local needs locally-based facilities that reduce the need to travel the creation of links between built up areas and the countryside. LANDSCAPE an attractive environment for users and occupiers a positive environment with wide economic benefits a sense of enclosure a sense of space a pleasant setting for development shade from the sun softening of hard building lines architectural benefits - contribution to the overall urban design of an area by helping to integrate the visual impact of built environment with nature environmental benefits - micro-climate creation, pollution attenuation (vegetation absorbs pollution and dust), and by influencing water and energy consumption noise and visual screening. NATURE CONSERVATION an opportunity for retaining and encouraging local biodiversity educational benefits - wildlife areas can provide informal or formal field laboratories for biological, geographical and environmental sciences plants and animals that keep people in touch with their natural environment the opportunity for local residents to manage their local environment, reinforcing a sense of community a sense of tranquillity and place the retention of cultural associations with the natural environment. Landscape Areas (SLA), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI), Local Nature Reserves (LNR), Tree Preservation Orders (TPO), Hedgerow Protection Orders (HPO), Protected Species, Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS) and Historic Landscapes. Policies dealing with such designations are covered by national, regional or local plans (see Policy section). Information on designations should be sought in order to inform the design process and ensure that the special characteristics of such areas are given due attention. 10.1.3 The following methods exist to help provide an objective assessment of the value of open space, landscape and nature conservation: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENTS 10.1.4 The Countryside Agency has produced a Landscape Character Map for England which has been refined for Kent by analysing regional landscape character units (see Greensand Ridge case study). District wide assessments are encouraged at a local level. Character areas are a combination of physical features of the landscape (landforms, soils etc.), ecological profiles and cultural associations. Landscape Character Assessments analyse the condition and sensitivity of an area and describe landscape patterns. Guidance is given on the type of change that may be appropriate to the area, for example restoration, conservation or improvement. 10.1.5 The assessments describe characteristic features such as field boundaries, land use, highways, tree cover, form and type of hedges, ditches and building materials. The information provided may need to be fine-tuned on a site-by-site basis as specific projects come forward.
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GREENSAND BELT LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 1 PRINCIPLE 10.1 The purpose of this study was to understand the bio-geopraphic character of the Greensand Ridge. It examined landscape conditions and the issues that currently affect landscape change as a starting point for producing an overall landscape policy and guidelines for each character area. These parameters will inform the drafting of landscape policies in the 4th Review of the Kent Structure Plan and Local Plans review. The study describes geology and soils, landform, rivers, ecology, local landscape and heritage features. It also provides an insight into what makes the area distinctive and which features are vulnerable and in need of particular attention or protection. In particular its recommendations include:
10.1.2 There is a wide range of different landscape and nature conservation designations that may be affected by a development proposal. They include Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Special Protection Areas (SPA), Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), Special
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conserving remaining orchards; restoring the historic parkland character of rolling grazing land and re-plant parkland trees; minimising suburbanisation of the rural landscape when undertaking future road improvements along the A26 and A28; and ensuring development respects the wooded silhouette of the Greensand Ridge and avoids erosion of the character of rural views. The key findings in respect of the sub-area described as the Medway Valley Upper, were that: development should maximise opportunities that allow the river to be naturally recharged by limiting hard surfacing which excessively discharges water to the sewer system; the structures and settings of the historic bridges, locks and associated buildings should be conserved; strategic shelterbelts and hedgerows in the surrounding landscape should be replanted to enhance the enclosed rural character of the riverside. The suburbs of Maidstone, notably those at Barming, should be screened; issues of water and bankside quality should be addressed; and any further development visible from the Medway Valley Upper (Nettlestead to T ovil) should be resisted. NATURAL AREAS
ROMNEY MARSH NATURAL AREA PROFILE PRINCIPLE 10.1
10.1 Romney Marsh (Kent County Council)
This study identifies the historical influences on the Marsh including the impact of human settlement, water abstraction and mineral extraction. Current impacts relate to leisure activities, the spread of built development and military activity (for example the use of vehicles and explosives causing damage). Principal Objective - complete protection of the remaining shingle and sand dune areas including associated pools, marshes and other habitats that have evolved by natural coastal processes. Subsidiary Objectives restore more natural conditions of beach development protect water levels in the shingle area minimise damage from extraction areas locate damaging activities elsewhere.
10.1 Vintners park, Maidstone
10.1.6 Natural Areas are defined in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan2 as biogeographic zones which reflect the geological foundation, the natural systems and processes and the native wildlife in different parts of the country. They are intended to provide a framework for an integrated approach to nature conservation. Profiles have been produced for all 10 Natural Areas in Kent by English Nature.
CLIFFE POOLS MANAGEMENT PLAN 3 PRINCIPLE 10.1
10.1 Cliffe Pools
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Cliffe Pools, which are managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, constitute 10% of the UK saline resource and are nationally important waterfowl feeding and roosting site. The pits were created from clay extraction but permission for infill with river dredgings was granted. In 1997 a management agreement was reached with the support of the owners and operators to allow the dredgings to be deployed sensitively for the benefit of nature conservation while still disposing of the original volume of dredgings. The aim of the project was to provide a range of habitats including reed swamp saline lagoons, relatively fresh pools and lowland wet grassland. The project also manages unauthorised and undesirable activities while still providing low-key visitor facilities to cater for up to 40,000 visitors per year. The project demonstrates how wildlife initiatives need not necessarily work against commercial objectives and that wild life facilities can be an important recreational resource for the local community. BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLANS 10.1.7 These provide a framework for the action that needs to be taken to implement national and local targets for habitats and species together with appropriate delivery mechanisms. The use of Kents Biodiversity Action Plan4 can assist in identifying those habitats and species that are of importance and any appropriate action required to help ensure their long term survival. ENVIRONMENTAL CAPITAL 10.1.8 The Environmental Capital Approach5 focuses on why natural features and characteristics matter from a sustainability perspective by identifying the attributes or services these features can provide for society such as biodiversity, historical character and recreation. These are evaluated in both the local and global context by considering: at what scale is this attribute important; how important is it (at this scale); is enough of this resource anticipated in the future; and what if anything could replace or substitute for this attribute. 10.1.9 The Approach defines the character of an area and identifies its environmental benefits and dis-benefits and projects proposed within it. It considers how important each benefit is and to whom and why. It may reveal that in some locations the Environmental Capital is so valuable and irreplaceable that no development should take place. Ancient woodland, for example, cannot be recreated except over hundreds of years. Other sites may have attributes that warrant substitution. The approach can inform decisions about the provisions to be made in a development to ensure sustainability and suggest solutions based on compensatory action and enhancement. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS 10.1.10 Environmental assessment, which is compulsory for certain categories of development, involves describing
the existing baseline environment, predicting proposed environmental impacts of a development and attempting to eliminate, minimise or mitigate any negative effects. Further information on Environmental Assessments is given in Circular 2/99, Assessment of Environmental Regulation. 10.1.11 Adopting appropriate methods of survey and appraisal for all proposals promotes good practice and ensures that the optimum solution for a site is found. 10.1.12 Landscape, open space, physical surveys and ecological surveys should be carried out as appropriate and submitted with development proposals showing clear links between the survey results and the design. Physical surveys should include information on topography, geology, soils, water flows (catchment areas, position of aquifers, streams and ponds), water quality (nutrient status, acidic or neutral) and the orientation of the site. Landscape surveys should include information on growing conditions, existing vegetation and trees (including their condition) and those species which are appropriate to the area. Ecological surveys should identify habitats, features and species affected either directly or indirectly by the development. They should evaluate the importance of the features identified, determine the type, duration and significance of potential effects arising from the development and assess the overall balance of losses and gains, taking any proposed mitigation measures into account. Principle 10.2: New development should respond to site characteristics and context; this should include protecting sensitive sites and minimising any impacts 10.2.1 Account should be taken of the need to draw from, conserve or enhance existing natural features, including locality, pattern, scale and materials and the need to protect sensitive sites and minimising impacts. (See Objective 6.) 10.2.2 Features of landscape importance or nature conservation value should be retained and consideration should be given to re-creating or restoring habitats that have been lost or are found to be in poor condition. (see also 10.1) 10.2.3 Protecting and enhancing existing flora and fauna can avoid the need to re-plant and establish new landscapes. The suitability of plants and trees chosen for retention or planting is important, with native plants generally more appropriate than non-native species. Planting should be appropriate to local ground conditions and consideration should be given to its long-term growth characteristics and maintenance requirements to ensure its survival and to avoid damage to other features. 10.2.4 Landscape and nature conservation design can also be used to reinforce or create local identity. There may be opportunities to introduce new water features or woodlands and link existing habitats to create wildlife corridors, for example, by joining two woodland areas with a new hedgerow.
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PRINCES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, HILDENBOROUGH PRINCIPLE 10.2
10.2 Princes Christian School
Principle 10.3: Proposals should identify appropriate mitigation measures to address the impact of a development and to compensate for lost habitats and landscape features; opportunities should also be taken to enhance the existing and planned environment 10.3.1 It will be inevitable in some schemes that features of value will be lost. Therefore it is important to identify measures to mitigate or compensate for that loss at the outset. Consideration should be given to the creation, restoration and enhancement of habitats. Mitigation measures might include providing planting to screen or enhance the appearance of a development, the creation of new habitats or open spaces or the enhancement of a feature that is to be retained. They may also involve the provision of landscaped footpaths to improve opportunities for walking, cycling or to provide links between existing or proposed green spaces, including access for the less mobile. Appropriate surveys together with the character appraisals referred to above should help to identify what mitigation measures are suitable. 10.3.2 Mitigation and compensation measures should themselves be assessed to ensure they do not cause adverse impacts. 10.3.3 Measures should be monitored, particularly where outcomes are uncertain, and management may need to be adjusted in the light of further information. For example, monitoring of mitigation measures by Christchurch College, Canterbury6 showed that successful species translocation (slowworm) was difficult to achieve and should only be considered if no alternative options exist.
10.4 access to natural areas
10.4.2 It is important that spaces which are created are attractive and of high quality to encourage their use. Consideration should be given to the existing patterns of use and potential circulation through and to new and existing open space. A well-used space often forms an identifiable route from one place to another and can contribute to more sustainable transport patterns, such as walking and cycling. RESEARCH Research conducted by Thames Valley Police in 19997 identified a number of examples of facilities provided for teenagers that led to reductions in vandalism and other anti-social behaviour. The types of facilities provided included youth shelters and seating, basketball courts, cricket stumps and football walls. Ideally, facilities should combine different features and provide flexible spaces that can be used for a variety of uses. The research also found that investment in such facilities led to a reduction in repair costs at nearby play areas. They gave young people a place to socialise and thus reduced boredom, a key reason why youngsters take a first step to crime. (See objective 7.) The research concluded that care needs to be taken over access, lighting and the relationship to nearby houses. It recommended that a range of interest groups, such as local residents and business, should be involved in the design of facilities to ensure they are of value, safe for users and do not give rise to nuisance. It also advocates that schools and young people should be involved in the design, implementation and maintenance of facilities.
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This scheme comprised the redevelopment of an institutional site within the green belt. The site contained a Grade II listed building (Glen House) and associated land together with farmstead buildings in a courtyard format. A series of utilitarian outbuildings were demolished and replaced by new buildings of a similar footprint but in less prominent positions. This arrangement was intended to reduce the overall impact on the green belt and improve the setting of the listed building. The listed building and farmstead were then converted to residential use.
Principle 10.4: Proposals should contribute towards the creation of a network of open space and promote accessibility from residential and commercial areas to green space 10.4.1 Convenient access to open space is important for quality of life and personal well being. Children, adolescents and adults need open space to relax, play, socialise and exercise. In many areas, informal green space provides the only opportunity for contact with the natural environment. There should be an appropriate range of open space provision made within developments to meet the needs of different age groups. Sites should then be laid out in a manner appropriate for the designated purpose and be available as and when potential users require them. Occupiers of developments where limited private space is proposed will have different needs to those in more suburban housing situations. Green links from within town centres to the outer countryside might be a valuable resource for local residents.
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VICTORIA PARK, DEAL PRINCIPLE 10.4 An initial proposal for a basketball court was modified, following representations from youngsters at a public meeting, to include other facilities. The project was promoted jointly by Dover District Council and Deal Town Council. It comprises basketball, soccer and netball courts together with a wide range of skate and skate board facilities. The project was part-sponsored by the National Lottery and the Sports Council.
function with the intention of providing a well-used and well-managed space. There may be scope to draw on local cultural, historic or environmental references in their design to provide a sense of local distinctiveness perhaps through public art. 10.4.5 Local Plans normally set out the specific criteria for open space provision having regard to local assessments of need. Policies are often linked to National Playing Field standards and generally include reference to the need for: equipped play areas casual play space areas for formal sports (pitches, courts, greens, etc.) informal recreation (parkland, country parks, nature conservation facilities, riverside walks). 10.4.6 English Nature also promote guidelines for the provision of accessible green space, a primary aim being to provide the opportunity for everyday contact with nature in a safe environment without the need to make extensive journeys. 10.4.7 In making open space provision, consideration should be given to access by pedestrians and cyclists and the less mobile. Safety must also be considered, particularly play equipment standards, and the need for shade and a good quality environment. The availability and quality of existing public open space, and any opportunities to enhance this, should also be considered. 10.4.8 In considering play provision the need for informal supervision is important. Where appropriate, play areas should be overlooked either by footpaths or properties. Children of different ages require different facilities but may still require supervision by the same guardian. It will also be important to ensure that the space is located and designed to avoid nuisance to nearby residents. It may be appropriate to test this issue through consultation (see objective 7).
DARENTH COUNTRY PARK DARTFORD 8 PRINCIPLE 10.4
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10.4 Darenth Park Country Park
As part of a scheme for 300 new homes and a new hospital on the site of the Darenth Park Mental Hospital, 60 hectares of land was transferred to the local authority to create a country park, together with a lump sum for its management for 21 years. An associated scheme involved the creation of a village green and playing fields, enhancement of an SSSI, improved public access with new footpaths, cycle routes and bridle way, establishment of new riding centre for the disabled in refurbished farm buildings and new tree planting. The site was originally identified in the Dartford Local Plan and a masterplan was produced identifying the proposed mix of uses. The country park was also identified in the Kent Thames-side Green Grid Strategy (see Green-Grid case study). The Millennium Commission Changing Places Fund has provided other funding for the project and Groundwork Kent Thames-side is involved in facilitating the proposal. 10.4.3 Occupiers and customers of commercial developments will benefit from the provision of high quality green space. Such spaces can improve the appearance and functioning of developments. They can also enhance the quality of the working environment and help to promote well being of staff and other users. Possibilities might include providing play facilities in retail developments and rest areas or other recreation facilities for employees. The scope to share existing or new facilities may also need to be considered. 10.4.4 Open spaces should draw on local character assessments and create visual diversity within the environment. They should have a clear identity and
LOCAL PLAN OPEN SPACE POLICIES PRINCIPLE 10.4
10.4 Dane John Gardens, Canterbury.
Canterbury City Council Local Plan Policy D49 Appendix 2 (1998)9 3 sq. m per child bed space with additional local play area per 100 dwellings one doorstep play space (primarily for toddlers) per 30 dwellings to comprise of minimum 100 sq. m grassed and 100 sq. m hard surface with 1-2 pieces of play equipment
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local play area with kickabout area of 500 sq. m, four or more pieces of play equipment and a grassed amenity area of 300 - 500 sq. metres main play areas to be located in existing parks and recreation grounds. Commuted payments based on 20 times the annual maintenance cost (estimated by the Director of Works (Council's legal charges to be met) or residents' maintenance company). Successive houseowners would be bound in title by a covenant under S33 of Local Government and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1992 to make an annual payment to cover maintenance. Shepway District Council Local Plan 1997 Policy LR1310 1 3m2 of space per child bed space. 2 Areas should be set out and located so as to minimise annoyance to nearby occupiers, maximise children's safety and be visible from neighbouring properties. Play areas should be within walking distance of all dwellings containing child bed spaces. i Local Area for Play Small areas to cater mainly for 4-6 year-olds within one minute walking time of homes (approximately 100m). ii Local Equipped Area for Play Equipped areas to cater mainly for accompanied 4-8 year-olds, and unaccompanied children slightly older than 8, within five minutes walking time of home (approximately 400m). iii Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play Equipped areas to cater mainly for unaccompanied 8-14 year-olds with consideration for older children and slightly younger supervised or accompanied children, within 15 minutes walking time of home (approximately 1,000m). Note: Child bed spaces are calculated by subtracting all bed spaces in old people's dwellings, all bed spaces in one or two person dwellings and two bed spaces in family dwellings, from the total number of bed spaces in the scheme.
landscape - a framework of green spaces, areas of open land and green corridors. As well as being of strategic importance to the image and attractiveness of the area, the concept has individual and collective importance to the local community for landscape and visual quality, ecological and wildlife value, access and recreation. Initial survey work focused on identifying, classifying and mapping existing green space within the area and analysing this using a Geographic Information System (GIS) to highlight areas of deficiency. A strategic framework has been prepared which will serve as guidance for local development plans and define the context within which site specific planning can take place. Principle 10.5: Strategies should be submitted which address the long-term maintenance of proposed open space, landscape and nature conservation areas 10.5.1 Landscape and nature conservation proposals should be accompanied by management plans and sources of funding for future management should be identified. Local stakeholders, such as parish councils and community groups, should be encouraged to contribute to management plans and agree their objectives and the rights and responsibilities of all parties. The long-term ownership and management of any landscaping or nature conservation areas should be explicitly addressed. Options include the parish council, district council, a management company, or trust. Asset management plans covering short and long-term maintenance should be provided as a condition of planning permission. Management proposals should allow flexibility, as the needs of the users changes over time.
10.5.1 Landscapes should be maintained for the entire life of a development (Kent County Council)
10.5.2 Proposals should outline in a management plan how maintenance and enhancement of habitats, new landscaping and open space will be addressed. Monitoring should occur after completion of the development to ascertain the effectiveness and achievement of objectives relating to landscape, open space and nature conservation. 10.5.3 Management and maintenance arrangements should be simple, cost effective and promote sustainable after-care of landscape, habitats and species. They should also promote a sense of ownership amongst local residents and other stakeholders. While tidiness is often equated with maintenance there are schemes which require less intensive maintenance regimes such as meadow grass, naturalised landscape and woodlands and this may need to be emphasised to prospective occupiers (see Objective 3 on Life cycle).
GREEN SPACE IN KENT THAMES-SIDE 11 PRINCIPLE 10.4 The Green Grid is a fundamental component of the vision for the economic, physical and social regeneration of the Kent Thames-side area which will undergo substantial change and growth in the next quarter century. It proposes the creation and retention of an interlinking web of high quality
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Principle 10.6: Plans should be submitted to address the implementation of open space, nature conservation and landscaping proposals including adequate measures to safeguard features of landscape and nature conservation interest during construction 10.6.1 Poor scheduling of works and inappropriate methods can damage features that are already present or even jeopardise the successful creation of proposed new features. A well thought out staged programme should be produced. The implementation of works and compliance with any conditions or obligations imposed should be monitored at every stage to ensure a successful outcome. After-care management should maintain or enhance the open space, landscape and habitats present or proposed on site. This is referred to in Objective 3 on Life cycle and in this section under principle 10.5.
example, by causing problems of overgrowth by plants such as leylandii. 10.7.3 Landscape schemes can contribute to energy consumption within a development, for example by providing shelter belts. Zones of vegetation can also be used to soften or screen the urban edges to development and, if of a sufficient scale, these zones can serve other functions such as providing recreational space or wildlife corridors. 10.7.4 Other factors which could promote sustainability within landscape, open space or nature conservation design include: ensuring moisture can reach planted areas and by planting in places where moisture is sufficient for the selected species. This will minimise the need for artificial watering; promoting safety; for example of pedestrians and children using footpaths and play areas; considering the impact of hard surfacing on groundwater; for example pavements and roads; avoiding the need for intensive maintenance regimes which require excessive use of resources; for example, energy for mowing and water consumption; exploring the use of short rotation coppicing in appropriate locations to provide an energy resource; involving stakeholders in all stages of the development process to promote local ownership and long term commitment to maintenance; for example parish, community, and interest groups; and using landscape features to enhance the appearance of roads and pedestrian routes providing focal points, sense of place and changes in scale and character of external spaces.
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10.6.2 Implementation proposals should ensure that the following are avoided: Properties being occupied before the necessary facilities are in place Compaction and damage during construction - create precautionary areas and protective zones Unnecessary storage on site; locate storage areas for materials and plants away from existing and developing features of interest The misuse of chemicals and hazardous substances Contaminated run off to neighbouring water courses Damage to trees and vegetation to be retained Damage to trees and vegetation on adjoining land Damage to utilities (for example by checking records) Sensitive seasonal periods Principle 10.7: Green space proposals should be used to achieve other design objectives such as biodiversity, resource minimisation and community safety 10.7.1 In all developments it should be demonstrated that open space, landscaping and nature conservation proposals would achieve a wise use of resources both during implementation and throughout the long-term management of the landscape. Water resources, in particular, should be conserved by using plants which do not require supplementary watering or which help to clean run-off before it enters the water table. The retention of existing vegetation and careful selection process for new plants and trees should minimise the impact on the water table. 10.7.2 As well as their recreational and ecological value, trees and plants are fundamental to our well being by absorbing pollution and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. Landscape schemes can provide an opportunity to increase biodiversity and achieve targets as identified in County and District Biodiversity Action Plans. Planting schemes can provide shade to give protection from the sun, particularly in areas used by children such as parks or school grounds. Landscape design can also be used in road design to enclose spaces and therefore help reduce vehicle speeds. It is important, however, that it does not itself create a nuisance, for
THE EARTH CENTRE, DONCASTER 12 PRINCIPLE 10.7.
10.7 The Earth Centre recognises the importance of water and its conservation
The Earth Centre in Doncaster seeks to promote an understanding of sustainable development and to help people become involved in the process of achieving it within their own lives as well as addressing more global concerns. It has been developed on a derelict colliery site. Landscape is intended to be a key attraction with opportunities for play, production of crops, education and general appreciation of the natural environment. The landscape strategy seeks to manage basic natural
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resources of soils, water, waste and energy. It is intended to present everyday features in a new light and to make people reconsider issues that affect them at home. A range of soil profiles has been incorporated to demonstrate a variety of planting and management techniques. Water is a fundamental element of the scheme. A system has been devised to collect, store, clean (through reed beds) and recycle water. Localised landforms have been used to create shelter and varied character areas. Excavations have created opportunities for new wetlands and damp hollows that create new habitats for threatened species in the locality. Terraced gardens from the river edge to the crest of the old spoil tip are based around the principles of organic gardening with the emphasis on gardens that produce fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, medicines and dyes. There are forest gardens, drought-tolerant gardens and conservation gardens. It is intended that recycled water, including treated effluent, will be used to irrigate some of these. Water is also used as a theme of the park - there is an array of spaces where the aesthetic, sensory and spiritual value of water can be expressed. REFERENCES: 1 Greensand Belt Landscape Assessment, Kent County Council, 1998 2 UK Biodiversity Action Plan, Report of Steering Group to Government, 1995 3 Cliffe Pools Management Plan, Royal Society For the Protection of Birds, 1997 4 Kent Biodiversity Action Plan, Kent County Council, 1997 5 Environmental Capital - A New Approach, CAG Consultants for the Countryside Commission, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency, 1997 6 Translocation of Slow Worms as a Mitigation Strategy, Platenburg R.J. & Griffiths, R.A, 1999 7 Youth Shelters and Supports Systems, Thames Valley Police, 1999 8 Countryside Benefits from Developer Contributions: A report for the Countryside Agency, Oxford Brookes University, 1999 9 Canterbury City Council Local Plan, Canterbury City Council, 1998 10 Shepway District Council Local Plan, Shepway District Council, 1997 11 Green space in Kent Thames-side, Kent County Council on behalf of the Thames-side Partnership, 1998 12 Life on Earth, Andrew Grant, Landscape Design, May 1998
CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 10: LANDSCAPE

Have relevant landscape or character assessments been taken into account? Have existing attributes been safeguarded? Have appropriate mitigation measures been included? Has the impact of any proposed mitigation measures been assessed? Do the occupiers have access to open space? Do the landscape, nature conservation and open space proposals embrace sustainability principles? Have maintenance strategies been submitted? Are maintenance schemes sustainable in terms of resource use?
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policy context
PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE (PPG) 1 GENERAL POLICY AND PRINCIPLES, 1997 PPG1 sets out the Governments approach to planning and recognises the important role of the planning system in delivering sustainable development. It promotes high quality mixed-use developments, recognising that local planning authorities may need to adopt a flexible approach to planning standards to achieve this. The Note suggests that this might include reducing the level of parking provision and allowing increased densities, while having regard to the availability of alternative modes of transport, residential amenity and the needs of business. It specifically mentions the potential role of urban villages. PPG1 also encourages local authorities to include design policies in development plans and these plans may refer to supplementary design guidance. It states that applicants should, as a minimum, provide a short written statement setting out the design principles adopted. DRAFT PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 3 HOUSING, 1999 PPG3 emphasises the need to promote high quality residential and mixed use developments to raise the density of development in and around centres and other areas with good public transport links. The guidance suggests that providing off-street parking adds significantly to the amount of land needed. It also states that local authorities should revise their parking standards to allow significantly lower levels of parking provision in all housing developments and allow for the variation in car ownership relative to income, age and household type. PPG3 states that local authorities should set both a minimum and a range of densities to reflect local character. It advises that low density development should be avoided. It advocates using previously developed sites within urban areas to make best use of existing physical and social infrastructure. Compulsory purchase powers should be used where necessary. It promotes the use of positive policies to encourage the conversion of buildings to residential use. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 6 TOWN CENTRES AND RETAIL DEVELOPMENT, 1996 PPG6 promotes mixed uses within town centres as a means of encouraging new investment and additional housing within urban areas. It acknowledges that the vitality and viability of town centres depends on retaining and developing a wide range of attractions and amenities, creating and maintaining an attractive environment, ensuring good accessibility and encouraging high quality design. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 7 THE COUNTRYSIDE ENVIRONMENT QUALITY AND ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, 1997 The guiding principle in the countryside is that development should benefit economic activity and
maintain or enhance the environment. Rural areas can accommodate many forms of development without detriment if the location and design of development is handled with sensitivity. New development should be sensitively related to existing settlement patterns and to historic, wildlife and landscape resources. Building in the open countryside, away from existing settlements or from areas allocated for development in development plans, should be strictly controlled. In areas statutorily designated for their landscape, wildlife or historic qualities, policies should give greater priority to restraint. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 9 NATURE CONSERVATION, 1994 This recognises that the wildlife of Britain is an integral part of its towns, countryside and coasts and is not confined to the various statutorily designated sites. It also recognises that many urban sites for nature conservation have an enhanced local importance as a consequence of the relative lack of wildlife sites in built-up areas. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 13 TRANSPORT (CONSULTATION DRAFT), 1999 The objectives of this guidance are to integrate planning and transport at the national, regional and local level to promote more sustainable transport choices, and reduce the need to travel, especially by car. This will help to ensure that the planning system plays its part in the Governments strategy on sustainable development, including promoting social inclusion in both urban and rural areas and revitalising towns and cities as places to live and work. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 15 PLANNING AND THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT, 1994 Some of the key points set out in the guidance are: Para 1.5 states conservation can play a key part in promoting economic prosperity by ensuring an area offers attractive living and working conditions. Para 1.6 urges local authorities to maintain and strengthen their commitment to stewardship of the historic environment advocating that it is important for planning authorities to adopt suitable policies in their development plans and give practical effect to them through their development control decisions. Para 2.18 suggests that new uses may often be the key to a buildings or areas preservation. Controls over land use, density, plot ratio, day lighting and other planning matters should be exercised sympathetically where this would enable a building to be given a new lease of life.
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PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 16 ARCHAEOLOGY AND PLANNING, 1990 In summary, some of the key points set out in the guidance are: Para 6 states archaeological remains should be seen as a finite and non-renewable resource, in many cases highly fragile and vulnerable to damage and destruction. They are part of our sense of national identity and are valuable both for their own sake and for their role in education, leisure and tourism. Para 12 points out that the key to informed decisions is for consideration to be given to whether archaeological remains exist on a site before formal planning applications are made and how these might impact on the development proposal. Developers should prepare sympathetic designs which avoid disturbing the remains by; careful choice of foundation type; minimising damage by raising ground levels under a proposed new structure, or by careful siting of landscape and open space areas. Depending on the importance of the remains, arrangements may be needed for preservation in situ or excavation and recording. Para 19 suggests that, in their own interests, developers should in all cases include as part of their research into the development potential of a site an initial assessment of whether the site is known or likely to contain archaeological remains. It suggests consultation with the County Archaeological Officer and, where appropriate, English Heritage. Assessment normally involves a deskbased evaluation of existing information including historic maps and records. Where early discussions indicate that important remains may exist, field investigations through ground surveys or trial trenching are suggested. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 17 SPORT AND RECREATION, 1991 Some of the key points in this guidance are: Para 17 suggests the extent to which particular standards are applicable in a specific area is a matter for the local planning authoritys judgement. In considering possible standards, ease of access to public open space, particularly on foot, should be an important consideration in plan preparation. Para 20 suggests that in highly built up areas redevelopment schemes may provide opportunities for creating new public open space. Sport and recreation facilities can form an important component of new housing, major office schemes and retail development. It may be appropriate to secure sports and recreation provision as part of larger mixed-use development, including on-site and off-site facilities. In the case of
smaller developments a contribution to nearby sport and recreation or open space may be appropriate. Para 25 states that open space is important to the quality of urban life. Paras 52-53 identify the need to have regard to issues of nuisance associated with some sporting activities. Para 27 states that local planning authorities should seek to achieve a reasonable balance between the need to make adequate provision for development in urban areas and the need to protect open space. Local plans should address in consultation with leisure and other departments:- the need for main stream and specialist sports facilities and the particular recreational needs of the elderly and disabled people. They should assess local needs, identify deficiencies and ensure provision is properly co-ordinated with other forms of development. PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 23 PLANNING AND POLLUTION CONTROL, 1994 In summary, some of the key points set out in the guidance are: Para 1.31 states that the planning system has an important role to play in determining the location of development which may give rise to pollution. Para 1.32 states that the planning system should control other development in proximity to potential sources of pollution. Para 1.33 states that the role of the planning system focuses on whether the development itself is an acceptable use of the land rather than the control of the processes themselves. Material considerations that may have an effect on the use of land might include the risk and impact of pollution from the development and the need and feasibility of restoring the land to standards sufficient for appropriate after use. Planning can therefore complement the pollution control regime, recognising that the dividing line is not always clear cut. Para 1.34 states that planning authorities will need to consult pollution control authorities in order that they can take account of the scope and requirements of the relevant pollution controls. They should work on the assumption that the pollution control regimes will be properly applied and enforced. Para 1.35 In some cases the scope of the planning system in protecting the environment will go wider than that of the pollution control regime.
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Para 1.36 Planning authorities must be satisfied that concerns about potential releases can be left for the pollution control authority to take into account in considering the application for the authorisation or licence. Alternatively, they may conclude that the wider impact of a potential release on the development or use of land is unacceptable on planning grounds despite the potential grant of a pollution control authorisation or licence. Part of PPG 23 will be supported by PPG 10 Planning and Waste Management (September 1999) with regard to waste management issues. A STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM 1999 This strategy for sustainable development is a catalyst for change. It identifies priority areas for action in the sustainability sphere, and indicators and targets to measure progress, against which the Government will expect to be judged. It sets out action that the Government has already taken and further initiatives that are planned, and highlights what others can do. The Government will use the Strategy as a framework to guide its policies and will encourage others to do the same. URBAN TASK FORCE REPORT TOWARDS AN URBAN RENAISSANCE 1999 The main thrust of the Urban Task Forces Report is to limit greenfield land releases and channel development into urban brownfield sites. A range of fiscal measures and incentives are proposed in support of this, targeted at landowners, housebuilders and developers, owner occupiers, tenants and investors. The Report argues that only through the creation of sustainable city living can future household demand be met and building on greenfield sites minimised. The Report aims to achieve a new equilibrium between cities, societies and nature which is both realistic and achievable. It emphasises the need for our towns and cities to be made more attractive as places to live, work and visit, if targets for new housing development to be located on urban, recycled land are to be achieved. It also recognises that key components of making urban living more desirable will be the quality of schools, health services and low levels of pollution and crime. QUALITY IN TOWN AND COUNTRY 1994 This document is aimed to stimulate the debate and encourage best practice in good design. CIRCULAR 5/94 PLANNING OUT CRIME 1994 Circular 5/94 states that crime prevention can become a material consideration when planning applications are being considered. It recognises that the cause of crime and vandalism are complex, but it is widely accepted that environmental factors can play a part. Used sensitively, the planning system can be instrumental in producing an attractive and well-managed environment that helps to discourage antisocial behaviour. The Circular points out that adopting a range of uses can create livelier and more attractive environments but once a development is completed the main opportunity to incorporate crime
prevention measures will have been lost. The Circular encourages consultation with Police Architectural Liaison Officers. The advice contained in the Circular includes: landscaping adjoining footpaths to avoid hidden areas creating defensible territory avoiding unrestricted rear access ensuring appropriate surveillance and lighting of car parks THE CRIME AND DISORDER ACT 1998 The Crime and Disorder Act requires the creation of multi-agency partnerships to cut crime in their local areas. These partnerships seek to create a broad framework to enhance the quality of life for the communities they serve. The police, together with the local authority, are required to undertake a crime and disorder audit in the district, borough or unitary authority area, in consultation with other agencies and the wider community. They will then have to develop a local strategy to tackle crime and disorder identified in the audit. The work of the partners includes setting clear targets and involves action at a local level within the local authority area. It is important that contractors and developers understand that the local authorities now have a statutory obligation to consider this legislation in the development and refurbishment of land within its boundaries. BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 1994 In 1992 the UK Government signed the Biodiversity Convention at the UN Conference on the Environment and Development in Rio. This was followed in 1994 by the publication of Biodiversity: the UK Action Plan which sets out the UK's agenda and action for nature conservation. At county level this was translated into targets and actions by a partnership of interested organisations, including the county and district authorities together with the statutory and non-statutory wildlife and farming bodies. The process was launched with the publication of the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan in 1997. The recent Making Biodiversity Happen supplementary consultation paper to Opportunities for Change prepared by DETR, recognises that biodiversity is a crosscutting theme - an aspect of sustainable development and an element of its success rather than a sectoral activity which needs to be influenced by sustainable development at a practical level. It also clearly recognises that biodiversity is related to quality of life and that there is a need to integrate it into policies and programmes. DESIGNATED SITES Sites with SPA (Special Protection Area) and SAC (Special Area of Conservation) status are of European importance and contribute to the Natura 2000 network. Natura 2000 is a complex of sites protecting the full range of important habitats and species found throughout the continent. Ramsar (wetland sites named under the Ramsar Convention) have even wider international importance.
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The EC Habitats Directive seeks to maintain the diversity of European wildlife and to protect rare and threatened species (English Nature). One of the most important measures is to designate a series of key sites. This has and is still being done by the Government and designated sites are referred to as SAC or Special Areas of Conservation. The EC Habitats Directive also requires member states to endeavour to encourage the management of features of the landscape which are of major significance for wild flora and fauna. These features are those which, because of the linear and continuous structure of their function as stepping stones, are essential for migration, dispersal and genetic exchange, e.g. rivers, field boundaries, ponds and small woodlands. These features can often be closely associated with developed areas and in many cases are remnants of the open countryside. Development proposals need to consider potential impacts on such features, as well as opportunities to enhance these networks. The Birds Directive requires the Government to conserve the habitats of certain species of birds by classifying areas of most suitable habitat for them as SPAs. The Ramsar Convention requires the Government to protect wetland sites of international importance including those of importance for waterfowl. All SAC, SPAs and Ramsar sites are based on the existing SSSI network. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are of national importance and represent only a selection of the best examples of wildlife habitats, geological features and landforms. There are many areas of high heritage value that remain undesignated as SSSI. However other designated or selected areas exist (usually those designated by local authorities and wildlife trusts) such as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs). Some species of plants and animals outside of designated areas are also protected in their own right under three main Acts of Parliament, that is The Wildlife and Countryside Act, The Protection of Badgers Act and The Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations. THE TRANSPORT WHITE PAPER 1998 This sets the framework intended to: reduce pollution from transport improve air quality encourage healthy lifestyles by reducing dependence on the car and making it easier to walk and cycle promote better public transport reduce noise and vibration from transport improve safety for walkers. Taxation is identified as one means of encouraging fuel efficient vehicles. The White Paper also outlines some issues to be considered in regional planning guidance including traffic management issues, road user charging, guidance on parking standards and parking levies.
PLACES STREETS AND MOVEMENT - A COMPANION GUIDE TO DESIGN BULLETIN 32 (RESIDENTIAL ROADS AND FOOTPATHS), 1998 This Guide encourages a greater emphasis on place, community and context in the design of housing layouts. It seeks to promote a flexible interpretation of Design Bulletin 32 away from prescriptive standards in order to reduce car useage and avoid the dominance of the car. The guide explains how the layout of areas can contribute to the promotion of walking, cycling and public transport. SECURED BY DESIGN 1989 This is a police initiative with the objective of encouraging the building industry to adopt recommended crime prevention guidelines in both housing and estate design. Since the launch a series of guidelines have been produced in relation to car parks, housing and commercial premises. KENT TOWNS SAFETY AND SECURITY GUIDE 1997 The Safer Kent Initiative was launched in 1994 and is a partnership including the Police, Kent County Council, district councils and other organisations with an interest in crime prevention. In 1997 the initiative produced this Guide drawing on expertise from Kent Town Centre Managers and other with expertise in this field. It contains information and advice on issues such as: retail crime prevention; emergency access; safety in car parks and public transport facilities; facilities for the young; street environment and activities.
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Address:
ASHFORD Ashford Borough Council The Civic Centre Tannery Lane Ashford Kent TN23 1PL 01223 637311 CANTERBURY Canterbury City Council Military Road Canterbury Kent CT1 1YW 01227 862000 DARTFORD Dartford Borough Council Civic Centre Home Gardens Dartford Kent DA1 1DR 01322 343434 DOVER Dover District Council White Cliffs Business Park Dover Kent CT16 3PG 01304 821199
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MEDWAY Compass Centre Chatham Maritime Chatham Kent, ME4 4YH 01634 306000 SEVENOAKS Sevenoaks District Council Council Offices Argyle Road Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1HG 01732 741222 SHEPWAY Shepway District Council Civic Centre Castle Hill Avenue Folkestone Kent CT20 2QY 01303 850388 SWALE Swale Borough Council Swale House East Street Sittingbourne Kent ME10 3HT 01795 424341
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GRAVESHAM Gravesham Borough Council Cygnet House Windmill Street Gravesend Kent DA12 1BQ 01474 564422 MAIDSTONE Maidstone Borough Council 13 Tonbridge Road Maidstone Kent ME15 8HG 01622 602000
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THANET Thanet District Council Council Offices Cecil Street Margate Kent CT10 1XZ 01843 225511
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TONBRIDGE & MALLING Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Council Offices The Air Station West Malling Kent ME19 6LZ 01732 844522
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TUNBRIDGE WELLS Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Town Hall Royal Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1RS 01892 526121
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FURTHER COPIES OF THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE OBTAINED FROM: Environmental Management Publications Strategic Planning Invicta House County Hall Maidstone Kent ME14 1XX Telephone Number: 01622 221526 Fax Number: 01622 221636
KENT COUNTY COUNCIL Strategic Planning Director Invicta House County Hall Maidstone ME14 1XX Telephone Number: 01622 671411 Transport Client Services, Invicta House, County Hall, Maidstone ME14 1XX. Area Offices (Transport Planning and Project Management): Mid Kent Area Office, Doubleday House, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7BU West Kent Area Office, St Michaels Close, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7TZ North East Kent Area Office, 2 Beer Cart Lane, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2NN Babtie Group - Engineering Consultants Sandling Block, Springfield, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2LQ
E-mail: env.publications@kent.gov.uk FURTHER INFORMATION AVAILABLE FROM: http://www.kent.gov.uk/kent_design/ or E-mail: urban_design@kent.gov.uk
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glossary
accessibility -
The ease with which people can travel to a site by different modes of transport. The process by which land for open space, landscaping or highway land is transferred to a local authority to maintain. The overall impression of a collection of environmental elements combining to make a distinctive space. A pleasant or useful feature or facility. It can also relate to the quality of life enjoyed by occupants, for example the quietness of their environment. A line of vision or access between key nodes or points of visual interest. Areas of land behind existing developments including gardens and garage space. To pursue the best approach. A term referred to in the Concise Oxford Dictionary of Ecology (1994) as . All aspects of biological diversity especially including species richness, ecosystem complexity and genetic variation. Traffic calming - usually refers to raised features such as speed humps, but includes changes to kerb lines on existing roads. A broad main street which is usually lined with trees and can be dedicated to a range of different users. Constructed to allow airflow through the fabric of the wall. Land previously used for urban or industrial development. Alterations in kerb line to allow buses to access kerbs more easily
and to allow passengers to enter and leave the bus on the level. car-free developments Schemes with no provision for parking cars on site. Often placed within close proximity of good public transport. close/fine grained streets Dense streets with a high diversity of detail at a human scale. collaboration To co-operate and work jointly within a team structure.
adoption -
a sense of place -
amenity -
axis -
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) A system which, in contrast to conventional electricity production, utilises the waste heat of electricity production to provide hot water that is distributed widely for space heating between buildings or within an urban district. commuted sum Payments made at the outset to cover the costs of infrastructure provision or maintenance.
backlands -
best practice biodiversity -
contaminated land - Pollution grading term used to describe land that contains concentrations of substances that are likely to be harmful, directly or indirectly to humans and the environment. CO2 context Carbon Dioxide The surroundings into which a development is situated. Legal restrictions on land that control the use or development of a site.
glossary
bolt-on devices -
covenants -
boulevard -
breathing wall -
cycleways (combined) A footway which has been designated by a sign for the use of both cyclists and pedestrians. cycleways (segregated) Cycleways can be segregated in two ways; either the footway next to the carriageway is divided (usually by a white line) so that cyclists can use one side, or they are
brownfield sites -
bus-boarders -
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separated from the carriageway and follow a different route. defensible space An exterior space usually adjoining a private internal space to provide a buffer capable of conveying the message of privacy. The degree of closeness and proximity of one to another. Document which sets out the key issues which need to be taken into consideration when producing detailed proposals for a site. The can give an indication of potential uses for a site and detailed design matters including identifying relevant constraints. This includes all those individuals or organisations who have a potential involvement in the processing of a planning application. Roundabout island sited in length of road away from junctions. Defined in the Concise Oxford Dictionary of Ecology (1994) as . biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment. The amount of energy consumed in the extraction, manufacture, transport, assembly on site and eventual removal/demolition of building materials.
grey-water -
Rain water and waste water from washing. The whole system combining a series of sub-elements. A dominantly residential and pedestrian area where speeds are kept to around 10mph - making streets into multi-use spaces. In proportion with the dimensions of the average person. Basic equipment or structure on which other systems can be operated e.g. roads, railway lines, schools or open spaces.
holistic -
home-zone -
density -
development brief -
human-scale -
infrastructure -
development team -
dumb roundabout -
integrated transport - Various forms of movement brought together to form a combined network of inter-linking systems allowing easy movement e.g. from bus to cycle or bus to rail. It can include synchronised timetabling and through ticketing. KAB Kent Association for the Blind. A conspicuous and usually important element in the environment set within a backdrop of more mundane elements. Covered structure such as a bandstand or other gathering area which forms a focal point in an area of public open space. The assessment of energy costs over the long term in the construction and final building form, taking account of the extraction, processing, use, maintenance and disposal of the materials involved.
eco-system -
landmark features -
embodied energy -
landmark shelter -
lifecycle analysis Environmental Impact Assessment A comprehensive method of assessing the relevant environmental factors in a systematic manner so as to advise on appropriate action. foyer Centre for information, accommodation and socialising for young people with specific problems such as homelesness and unemployment.
legible environment - An easily understandable and navigable place. local agenda 21 An agreement signed at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 to ensure a good quality of life for people while safeguarding the environment. LA 21 Strategies are agendas for local action to promote sustainability.
green commuter plans Measures to reduce peak-time travel by car.
glossary
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local-distinctiveness - The particular characteristics of a locality that distinguishes one local area from another. luminaire magnets Lamp-holder. Developments that draw the public in - they would include community centres, cinemas, leisure facilities and transport nodes. Localised climatic conditions within a site or a part of a site. An alternative solution through the trading of an undesirable aspect for another facet in the design or development. Different, usually complimentary, uses within various scales from a building to a street to a neighbourhood. A district of distinct character usually predominantly residential. Points at which routes for public transport and other modes of movement intersect. The source annoyance. of trouble or
public art -
Art objects or processes displayed in the public realm usually externally. All space accessible to the general public. Covers a variety of frequent service systems which include trams, guided buses and light railway/mono-rail.
public realm -
rapid light transit -
micro-climate -
mitigation -
reedbed technology - An alternative system to conventional sewage treatment that uses ponds and reed beds to treat waste water. RNIB Royal National Institute for the Blind Casual surveillance carried out by residents in their day to day activities which serves to discourage criminal behaviour. Local characteristics which give a place identity. Plan devised by Local authority elected planning representatives to which determines regional housing, transport and economic planning for the south east.
mixed-use -
self-policing -
neighbourhood -
sense of place -
nodes -
SERPLAN -
nuisance -
passive solar design - The collection of solar radiation to meet a buildings heating load using the fabric of the building rather than solar panels which are active solar systems. ped-sheds A pedestrian catchment area defined by a radius of 400m which is approximately a 5 minute walk. Observation and understanding through the use of the senses.
Sick Building Syndrome Recognised problem when the health of occupants is adversely affected by elements of the building such as air conditioning systems and plastics, adhesives and synthetic building products. speed restraints Design features applied to new streets and roads to keep traffic speeds low. The maintenance of the health of the biosphere and the husbanding of key resources of air, water, land and minerals. A standard highway solution to the design of a site. Measures applied to existing roads to keep traffic speeds low. Reduce, Re-use and Re-cycle refers to minimising the excessive use of resources, in the order of their degree of sustainability.
glossary
perceptual -
sustainability -
permeable surfaces - Surfaces which allow the passage of rainwater through their fabric. permeability The degree of accessibility and ease of passage of people through space. The use of special cells which generate electricity using energy from the sun. A defined unit of measurement for separation between two inhabitable private spaces. template -
photovoltaics -
traffic calming -
three Rs privacy distance -
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trim-trail -
A set of public exercise equipment usually along an external route. A broad term encompassing the form, purpose and nature of manmade built environments and the interaction of their users. Layout, scale and massing of buildings that suggest an urban setting. A traffic-calmed, mixed-use neighbourhood maximising community involvement. The overall impact of a development from sourcing of materials to the end of the buildings life-span.
urban design -
urban grain -
urban village -
whole-life -
zero impact building - (1) Building which over the course of a year takes no more power than it returns to the National Grid (2) Building whose components can be dismantled and removed from a site without trace.
glossary
A G U I D E T O S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T
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credits
STEERING GROUP MEMBERS Tony Every-Brown - Kent Developers Group (Chairman) Margaret Anderson - Soroptimists International Nicholas Antram - English Heritage Timothy Baker - Kent Institute of Art & Design Peter Court - House Builders Federation Jerry Crossley - Kent County Council Peter Day - Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Ralph Dickens - Government Office for the South East Anne Griffiths - Womens Institute Trevor Hall - Kent Police Stuart Higham - Institution of Civil Engineers Tony Hillier - Hillreed Homes Ltd Steve Humphrey - Medway Council Nicholas Lee-Evans - Royal Institue of British Architects Frank Linden - University of Greenwich Hilary Moorby - Council for the Protection of Rural England Keith Nicholson - Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Ian Parker - Kent Property Services David Petford - Maidstone Borough Council Bob Ratcliffe - Kent Federation of Amenity Societies Barry Shaw - The Kent Architecture Centre Jeff Stack - Shepway District Council Cliff Thurlow - Royal Town Planning Institute John Wale - Kent County Council (to April 1998) Stephen Walker - Learning & Business Link Co. Ltd. (Construction Sector Group) Rob White - Kent County Council (from April 1998) WORKING GROUP MEMBERS Mary Adams - Weald of Kent Preservation Society Nick Antram - English Heritage (Chairman, Achieving Good Design Group) John Arnold - Dartford Borough Council Timothy Baker - Kent Institute of Art and Design Keith Bothwell - Royal Institute of British Architects Douglas Brown - Thanet District Council Barry Chapman - Kent Police Peter Cobley - Kent County Council - Heritage Conservation Richard Cole - Architect Anthony Dance - Canterbury City Council Annette Hards - The Hards Partnership Jane Farmer - Kent County Council - Landscape Services Sheila Farmer - Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Dick Feasey - Kent County Council - Land Use and Transportation Richard Harbord - Shepway District Council Annette Hards - The Hards Partnership Neil Hewitt - Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Steve Hewlett - Medway Council Mike Higgins - Sevenoaks District Council Tony Hillier - Hillreed Homes Betty Johnson - Womens Institute
David Joyner - Kent County Council - Transportation David Lerew - Dartford Borough Council Jan Loveless - Kent County Council - Social Services Gilian MacInnes - Maidstone Borough Council Martin McKay - Gravesham Borough Council Brian Morgan - Maidstone Borough Council (Chairman, Sustainability Group) Helen Mullin - Kent County Council - Landscape Services Martin Northern - Maidstone Borough Council Graham Norton - Wimpey Homes Martin Oman - Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Geoff Pearson - Shepway District Council Keith Pye - House Builders Federation Mike Rushman - Berkeley Homes Nassar Sarrafan - Thanet District Council Robin Smith - Kent County Council - Property Services Pauline Stockwell - Weald of Kent Preservation Society Theresa Trussell - Kent County Council - Transport (Chairman, Innovation Group) Ray Wilkinson - Ashford Borough Council OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Jonathon Atkinson - Environment Agency Kim Bennett - Canterbury City Council Teresa Bennett - English Nature Stuart Black - Urban Villages Forum Peter Braithwaite - Ove Arup & partners John Byer - Kent County Council - Kent Property Services Andy Cameron - Alan Baxter Associates George Chandler - Kent County Council - Transport Planning Pip Chapelard - Kent County Council - Environmental Management Patrick Clarke - Llewellyn Davies Richard Davison - Edenbridge Town Council Mick Drury - Ward Homes Suzy Edwards - Building Research Establishment Daniel Everitt - Environment Agency John Farmer - Kent County Council - Transportation Client Services Sheila Frampton - Crest Homes, South east Andrew Grant - Consultant for the Earth Centre Nikki Greenleaf - Urban Villages Forum Adrian Griffiths - Chapman Taylor Rob Hancock - Kent County Council Peter Herbertson - Environment Agency Nigel Hepworth - Environment Agency Peter Johns - Formpave Andrew Jones - Kent County Council - Countryside Ruth Kay - The Kent Architecture Centre Gary Kennison - Kent County Council - Countryside Tom LaDell - Tom LaDell Associates Matthew Lally - Llewellyn Davies Mike Lowe - Ove Arup
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Debbie Morgan - Kent County Council Keith Mumford - Kent County Council John Payne - Kent County Council - Land Use & Transportation Alan Pett - New Ash Green Village Association Graham Phillips - Kent County Council Simon Pugh - David Lock Associates Lucy Robinson - Hyde Housing Steve Robinson - Folkestone & Dover Water Rob Scott - Dartford Borough Council Alan Stone - Essex County Council Louise Thomas - David Lock Associates Andrew Warnock - Consultant Paul Williams - Water Dynamics Michael Winter - Architect PROJECT MANAGEMENT GROUP Steve Humphrey; Keith Nicolson, David Petford, Jeff Stack, Rob White. PROJECT TEAM Tony Wimble; Mark Brightburn, Gary Fitch, Ashley Ralph, Abigail Raymond, Theresa Trussell, Julia Wallace. Special thanks to Anne Griffiths for kindly helping to edit this document and to Trudy Fabian for assistance with photography. Graphic Design by: Pollett & Cole Creative Marketing Limited, The Old Warehouse, 1 Albert Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1HP Telephone number: 01227 770790 Fax number: 01227 770924 E-mail: design@polcol.co.uk Printed by: Thanet Press Limited, Union Crescent, Margate, Kent CT9 1NU Telephone number: 01843 234800 Fax number: 01843 228831 E-mail: enquiries@thanet-press.co.uk
credits
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Kent Design Guide To Sustainable Development

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KentDesign

a guide to sustainable development

Kent Association of Local Authorities

Foreword Introduction Objectives & Principles

Cllr. Mike J. Hayes Chairman Kent Association of Local Authorities

i.7 Kings Hill School, Kent - high quality school design

KERB APPEAL - THE POPULAR HOUSING FORUM 1998

i.24 Kerb Appeal (Popular Housing Forum)

objectives & principles

objectives & principles

1.1: 1.2: 1.3: 1.4: 1.5: 1.6:

4.4: 4.5: 4.6:

3.2: 3.3: 3.4:

8.1: 8.2: 8.3: 8.4: 8.5:

objectives & principles

objectives & principles

GOSPORT BOROUGH LANDSCAPE AND TOWNSCAPE STUDY 19967 PRINCIPLE 1.6

HOLLOW LANE CANTERBURY DEVELOPMENT BRIEF 19989 PRINCIPLE 1.6

EDENBRIDGE VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT 10 PRINCIPLE 1.6

1.6 Hollow Lane (Canterbury City Council)

1.6 Edenbridge Village Design Statement (Edenbridge Town Forum)

CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 1: COLLABORATION

Seek environmentally sustainable solutions through innovative design

2.1 Ashford international station

INNOVATIVE HIGHWAY DESIGN PRINCIPLE 2.1

2.1.2 public art at Kings Hill, Kent

2.1 Dumb roundabout

2.2.1 First Church of Christ Scientist, Maidstone

2.3.1 high quality building in Nimes 2.2.1 innovative detailing C A S E S T U D Y

SAGA BUILDING, FOLKESTONE PRINCIPLE 2.2

2.2 Saga Building, Folkestone

2.3.1 Chestnut Court, Broughton (Environ Homes)

2.4.1 innovative solution in Canterbury (Environ Homes) C A S E S T U D Y

TIMBER DWELLING PROJECT PRINCIPLE 2.4

2.5.1 joint developer/local authority training sessions

2.6.2 timber dwelling (Amphion)

CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 2: INNOVATION

3.1 maintenance in action (KCC)

3.2 designation and function

3.2.1 All sites should be considered holistically, within

3.4.1 maintainance in action

CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 3: LIFE CYCLE

4.1.1 mixed-use neighbourhood

4.1 Brindley Place (Birmingham City Council)

4.1 Whitefriars (Canterbury City Council)

4.1 West Silvertown (Wimpey Homes)

4.2. Singleton village centre

4.1 Greenhithe Riverfront (Crest Strategic Projects)

4.5.1 protection of amenity

4.4. walkable neighbourhood

CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 4: MIXED USE

KENT THAMES-SIDE LOOKING TO AN INTEGRATED FUTURE PRINCIPLE 5.1

5.2.1 centralised public transport (David Lock Associates)

5.1 integrated transport in Kent Thames-side (David Lock Associates)

5.3 green commuting (Kent Thames-side)

5.5.1 sectional bus route (David Lock Associates)

- DETR6; and Reducing Mobility Handicaps - IHT7.

5.8.1 pedestrian and cycling paths in Kings Hill

5.8 St. Marys Island (Countryside Maritime)

5.9.1 cycle short-cut against flow of traffic (Canterbury City Council)

CHECKLIST FOR OBJECTIVE 5: MOVEMENT

5.10.1 safe cycle storage facility

6.1.4 site appraisal factors