INTRODUCTION 1.0
PAGE 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION
DESIGN GUIDE THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 For a zero carbon, healthy, resilient and distinctive environment CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Draft Supplementary Planning Document 2021 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 Contents
Foreword 4
1.0 Introduction 5 Why is a Design Guide needed? Scope. Status; How to use the Guide. Relationship to Taunton Garden Town Vision, Checklist and Charter, and Public Realm Design Guide. SCC Highways. National policies and guidance
2.0 The Design Process 14 2.1 The recommended design process 15 2.2 Preliminaries 17 2.3 Appraisal of context and setting of site 18 2.4 Appraisal of the site 20 2.5 Development of a design concept 23 2.6 Consultation and engagement 25 2.7 Detailed design 26
3.0 Context and Distinctiveness 30 3.1 Introduction 31 3.2 Learning from the locality 32 3.3 Character Areas CONSULTATION DRAFT42 4.0 Sustainable Placemaking 68 4.1 Integrating placemaking with sustainability 69 4.2 Site stucturing 74 4.3 Designing house types which make streets and places 78 4.4 Streets, places & parking 84
Continued on next page
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 Contents (continued)
5.0 Design Topics 96 Taunton Garden Town information 5.1 Introduction 97
5.2 Towards zero carbon design and construction 98 This icon appears throughout the guide 5.3 Lifetime homes, designing for accessibility; ergonomic design 106 where it is likely that the topic is relevant 5.4 Developing smaller residential sites 107 to Taunton Garden Town 5.5 Infill and intensification 110 5.6 Privacy and sociability 113 5.7 Storage for bicycles and recycling 114 Further information
5.8 Property boundaries and the streetscape 116 5.9 Flood resilience 117 This icon appears throughout the guide 5.10 Taller buildings 118 where other relevant policy should 5.11 Non-residential development 120 be consulted 5.12 New agricultural buildings 122 5.13 Mixed uses 125 Zero Carbon Impact 5.14 Shopfront design and conversion 128 5.15 Residential alterations and extensions 130 5.16 Heritage and community assets 135 This icon appears throughout the guide where information is relevant 6.0 Supplementary Information 144 to designing for zero carbon impact 6.1 Information required for makingCONSULTATION a Planning Application DRAFT145 6.2 Design and Access Statements 146 6.3 Masterplans, Parameter Plans and Design Coding 148 6.4 Heritage Statements 151 6.5 Design Review 153
7.0 Appendices 156 7.1 Glossary 157 7.2 References 160
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 PAGE 4 FOREWORD
Foreword
The design of developments and the places To this end, the following guide provides the we create for ourselves reflects both society’s building blocks for creating better designed values and the importance we attach to improving places to live, which are also relevant to where our quality of life. It is also our legacy, whether they are built. It also brings together the ideas good or bad, for future generations who will of place making and sustainability into one inherit what we design and build today. document, so that what we build today not only delivers character and distinctiveness, but the At a time when concerns are often expressed foundations for a better quality of life and well- about ‘cloned towns’ where places are difficult being in the longer term. to differentiate between, celebrating identity and distinctiveness becomes increasingly important. We attach great importance to the quality of However, standardisation, rigid interpretation of the places where we live. It is therefore essential highway regulations and a lack of appreciation that the homes and places we design today add for the places where developments are proposed, to the character, richness and livability of our often leads to uniformity of built environments. settlements, thereby ensuring the legacy we All too frequently, the quality of new development hand on to the next generation is one we can falls below that which should be expected. all be proud of.
Ensuring places are sustainable with minimal I commend this guide to developers, designers CONSULTATIONimpact on their surrounding environments is DRAFTand decision makers involved in the district’s now essential for stakeholders involved in built environment and to the community who development and integral to the design process live and work in it, as a positive tool in the drive to itself. This is outlined in our commitments for make Somerset West and Taunton a zero carbon, the Somerset West and Taunton district to healthy, attractive and distinctive place to live. reach carbon neutrality by 2030, and to deliver our vision for Taunton Garden Town. Mike Rigby Planning and Transportation Portfolio Holder
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 INTRODUCTION 1.0
PAGE 5 1.0 INTRODUCTION THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT 1.0 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 INTRODUCTION APPENDICES 7.0
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 INTRODUCTION 1.0
PAGE 6 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Fig 1.0a THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Somerset West APPENDICES 7.0 and Taunton District
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021 INTRODUCTION 1.0
PAGE 7 1.0 INTRODUCTION THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
1.1 Why is a Design Guide necessary? The Council’s Declaration of a Climate Emergency It is clear from public opinion in the District (from in 2020 and their commitment to achieving Zero the responses to the public consultation for the Carbon by 2030 should influence design decisions. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Draft Design Guide and the workshops for the “The creation of high quality buildings and Above all, the challenge is to create resilient built Taunton Garden Town Vision), that people value places is fundamental to what the planning and environments which are responsive to everyone, the character and appearance of the area and that development process should achieve. Good regardless of age, ability, gender and income, in a they want the design of new development to be design is a key aspect of sustainable development, way which creates the valued heritage of the future. locally distinctive. The outstanding nature of the creates better places in which to live and work landscape and its relationship with the towns and National Planning and design policy underline the and helps make development acceptable to SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 villages in Somerset West and Taunton impart a need for local authorities to ensure that the quality communities.” special quality which should be cherished. Indeed, of the design of new development is both sensitive Para 124, National Planning Policy Framework this is reflected in the designation of Exmoor to the positive aspects of the character of local areas “To provide maximum clarity about design National Park, the Quantock Hills and Blackdown and to incorporate the principles of placemaking, expectations at an early stage, plans or Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and to achieve viable resilient neighbourhoods. supplementary planning documents should use the numerous Conservation Areas and Listed DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), ……design guides and codes. These provide a Buildings, reflecting the quality of much of the the National Design Guide and the National Model framework for creating distinctive places….” built environment. Design Code advocate that local authorities Para 126, National Planning Policy Framework However, the area faces challenges; theCONSULTATION need to produce design guides and design codes as aDRAFT build more houses, to address the significant shortfall means to achieve a higher quality of development “An understanding of the context, history and in the supply of homes for all, the need to create which addresses the aims above. The NPPF cultural characteristics of a site, neighbourhood SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 neighbourhoods, with a sense of place, and the recommends Design Guides should be adopted and region influences the location, siting and need to build resilience in our new development in as Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) design of new developments.” the face of the effects of climate change, especially in order they are given as much weight as possible Para 38, National Design Guide flooding, and to build healthy and sustainable places, in the decision-making process, with improving opportunities for active travel The aims of improved design in the district are whilst reducing the over-reliance on cars and to summarised in the diagram on the next page. APPENDICES 7.0 maximise the use of renewable energy sources.
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PAGE 8 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Zero Carbon Impact
Fig 1.0b THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0 Achieving quality design
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PAGE 9 1.0 INTRODUCTION THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
1.2 What is a Design Guide? assets or not. It is important to note that the main Taunton Garden Town information This guide illustrates how the council’s aspirations recommendations and the suggested design for maintaining and improving the quality of design process are relevant to all building types. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 can be achieved. It explains some key principles, such For development proposals within the Taunton Garden The Design Guide seeks a step change in the quality as placemaking and illustrates examples through Town area this Guide should be consulted as part of the of new development in support of existing adopted indicative drawings. suite of design guidance which also includes the TGT planning policies (see section on policy context). documents ’Taunton; the Vision for Our Town’, the Design Zero Carbon Impact It provides additional guidance on how existing Charter and Checklist and the Public Realm Design Guide. adopted planning policy should be responded to SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 in relation to securing high quality design. In doing It demonstrates that meeting the challenges of the so, it sets out what is expected of developments 1.4 What is its Status? climate emergency through sustainable, energy through these existing policies, but also in places Following public consultation it is intended that efficient, low carbon and climate resilient measures sets out examples beyond policy requirements for this draft Design Guide will be adopted as a is integral to high quality design and placemaking, developments to consider aspiring towards. Supplementary Planning Document as a material and in doing so brings major benefits to other key consideration in determining planning proposals DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 aspects of good design, such as health and wellbeing. The Design Guide covers the whole of the Somerset and applications. West and Taunton area (see Fig 1.0a on page 6), The SPD has been produced pursuant to policies It also attempts to show how principles of excluding Exmoor National Park and including the DM4 of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy, D7 of the good practice in street design and layout can be area designated as the Taunton Garden Town, Taunton Deane Site Allocations and Development incorporated into good placemaking. CONSULTATION(TGT), the Quantock Hills and the Blackdown DRAFT Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Management Plan, and NH13 of the West Somerset
1.3 What is its scope? Blackdown Hills AoNB has its own Design Guide, Local Plan to 2032, which aim to promote high SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 The Design Guide is predominantly focussed on which also should be consulted if proposals relate quality design in the district. From adoption, the SPD the range of new build residential development to that area. Exmoor National Park is a separate will provide additional guidance on how these and at all scales. It also addresses non-residential planning authority which has its own Design Guide. other relevant policies of the adopted development development including agricultural buildings and Proposals which are located within the National plan should be responded to. shopfronts in general terms and the conversion and Park, or are within the setting of the National Park extension of existing buildings, whether heritage should consult ENPA policies. APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 10 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Policy context THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Fig 1.0c
National Policy Somerset West
& Guidance & Taunton Council CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0
National Planning Policy Framework SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The National Local Plan and Taunton Garden Town Design Guide relevant SPDs
National Model Somerset DESIGN The Vision for our Design Code County Council GUIDE Garden Town DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Building for a Streets in Residential Design Charter Healthy Life CONSULTATIONDevelopments DRAFT & Checklist
Design Codes Public Realm SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Manual for Streets & Other relevant and Briefs Design Guide MfS2 (& successor) policies
Residential Space Standards APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 11 1.0 INTRODUCTION THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
1.5 Policy Context ENV5 (Development in the vicinity of Rivers & Canals) ED5 (Combatting Climate Change through New Development) This Supplementary Planning Document has been ENV6 (Wellington Burgage pattern) produced pursuant to policies DM4 (Design) of the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 D1 (Taunton’s Skyline) Taunton Deane Core Strategy, 2011-2028; D7 (Design West Somerset Local Plan to 2032 policies: Quality) of the Taunton Deane Site Allocations & D2 (Approach routes to Taunton & Wellington) SD1 (Presumption in favour of Sustainable Development Management Plan,2016 and policy D4 (Shopfronts) Development) NH 13 (Securing High Standards of Design) of the D5 (Extension of Dwellings) West Somerset Local Plan to 2032, all of which TR2 (Reducing reliance on the Private Car) aim to produce high quality design in the District. D7 (Design Quality) CF2 (Planning for Healthy Communities) SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0
Policies relevant to sections in the guide are shown D8 (Safety) CC5 (Water Efficiency) at the head of each section. D9 (A Coordinated Approach to Development & NH1 (The Historic Environment) Highway Planning) A number of other relevant policies include: NH4 (Archaeological Sites of Local Significance). D10 (Dwelling Sizes) NH5 (Landscape Character Protection)
Taunton Deane Core Strategy policies: DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 D12 (Amenity Space) SD1 (Presumption in favour of Sustainable NH7 (Green Infrastructure)
Development) A1 (Parking Requirements)
CP1 (Climate Change) A5 (Accessibility of Development) Saved Policies of the West Somerset Local Plan CONSULTATION DRAFT(2006): CP8 (Environment) Taunton Deane Taunton town Centre Area CA/5 (Shop Fronts in Conservation Areas) DM1 (General Requirements) SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Action Plan: BD/3 (Conversions, Alterations & Extensions) DM5 (Use of Resources & Sustainable Design) Tr2 (Parking in New Development) BD/8 (Re-Use of Existing Building Materials) Tr3 (Smarter Choices) Taunton Deane Site Allocations & Development BD/9 (Energy & Waste Conservation) ED1 (Design) Management Plan policies: T/7 (Non-Residential Development Car Parking) ED2 (Public Art) ENV2 (Tree Planting within New Developments) T/8 (residential Development Car Parking) APPENDICES 7.0 ED4 (Density)
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PAGE 12 1.0 INTRODUCTION THE 2.0
DESIGN PROCESS
1.6 Who is it for? The designer, in addressing these should find
It is intended that the guide will be a useful source that engagement with the local community CONTEXT 3.0 of reference, for applicants, developers, designers, and planning officers have a sound basis. Moreover, “New housing and commercial developments planning officers, highway engineers, elected council where applicable for applicants, the narrative should
shall create a high standard of design quality & members, the community and other stakeholders. form the basis of the contents of a Design and DISTINCTIVENESS and sense of place by: Access Statement, a Heritage Impact Statement, (a) Creating places with locally inspired or otherwise 1.7 How should it be used? Flood Risk Statement and Sustainability checklist distinctive characteristics and materials; The guide has been compiled with the intention and energy statement (requirement of DM5). (b) Reflecting the site and its context….; of being a springboard for good design, sensitive SUSTAINABLE 4.0 Planning officers will also find the process useful (c) Integrating into their surroundings through the to its context, not a straightjacket requiring strict in providing an agenda for design discussions with reinforcement of existing connections…..creating
adherence to a particular aesthetic. The drawings applicants and subsequently items for the framing legible and connected street networks; and PLACEMAKING and illustrations are indicative, but are not of decisions. (d) Ensuring that buildings define and enhance the exhaustive in terms of design response. Quality streets and spaces…’ contemporary design solutions are to be welcomed, A summary of Key Requirements is located at the Policy 7; Design Quality. Taunton Deane Adopted Site DESIGN 5.0 if they satisfy the requirements of the design process end of each section for easy checking and reference. Allocations and Development Management Plan, 2018.
(see Section 2) and demonstrate their incorporation TOPICS of the principles of sustainable placemaking. “ New development will be expected to meet the highest standards of design. In order to achieve What is strongly advocated in the guide is the Further information CONSULTATION DRAFTthis, .....new development..... should demonstrate requirement for designers to demonstrate an that where appropriate..... ‘narrative’ illustrating the logic of their design This guide should be read within the context of SUPPLEMENTARY • The proposal...creates a place with distinctive character; 6.0 response to local context. Therefore, the guide relevant policies within the adopted Local Plans, • Measures to minimise carbon emissions and places emphasis on a process which can form the other approved Neighbourhood Plans and Local promote renewable energy and reduce impact structure to such a narrative, namely the sequence Development Orders for Employment Buildings.
on climate change form an integral part of the INFO of a statement of aims, appraisal of context and site, Other guidance, for example, guidance for Areas of design solutions. the design concept which addresses the foregoing Outstanding Natural Beauty, and, where they exist, and the development of the final scheme. Conservation Area Appraisals should be consulted. Policy NH13: Securing High Standards of Design. West APPENDICES Somerset Local Plan to 2032. 7.0
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PAGE 13 1.0 INTRODUCTION / KEY REQUIREMENTS
Key Requirements THE 2.0
DESIGN PROCESS
Checklist for 1.0 Introduction section: CONTEXT Has the policy context (national and local) 3.0 underpinned your design decisions and
& been referred to where appropriate in your DISTINCTIVENESS justification for your development proposal?
Proposals in the Taunton Garden Town area should also refer to ‘The Vision for Our Garden SUSTAINABLE 4.0 Town’, ‘Design Charter and Checklist’ and ‘Public Realm Design Guide’.
PLACEMAKING
Has the Council’s commitment to climate emergency and carbon neutrality been a key influence in your design decisions? DESIGN 5.0
TOPICS CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0
INFO APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 14 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS
2.1 The recommended design process 15 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 2.2 Preliminaries 17
2.3 Appraisal of context and setting of site 18
2.4 Appraisal of the site 20 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 2.5 Development of a design concept 23
2.6 Consultation 25
2.7 Detailed design 26 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 2.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT THE DESIGN SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 PROCESS APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 15 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.1 THE RECOMMENDED DESIGN PROCESS
2.1 The recommended design process
Relevant Policies > DM4 (of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy), D7 (of the Taunton Deane SADMP), NH13 (of the WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The following stages in the development of a design (see Fig 2.1a below) should be addressed by applicants. They will be useful in making an CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 application, in drawing up an accompanying Design & Access Statement and in negotiation with planning officers and the local community. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Fig 2.1a
Preliminaries Key Considerations Design Planning Application
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7) DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Examine AppraiseCONSULTATION Appraise Develop DRAFTDESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT STATEMENT
for Planning SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 16 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.1 THE RECOMMENDED DESIGN PROCESS
2.1.1 Sequence of considerations for design appraisal, negotiations & design statements THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The aim of emissions reduction should influence design decisions from the outset; eg site structuring, orientation, green infrastructure. Response to context and Broader CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Context & Site site including biodiversity and microclimate. Response to relevant policy. 1 considerations Overall Design concept e.g. sustainable, healthy settlements and buildings, Zero Carbon Impact Scale; formal/informal, compact/open. mix of uses etc.
Structuring: Green/blue infrastructure, Grain, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 2 Structure & Layout Hierarchy of spaces/places/routes/accessibility. Appropriate density, height range, key frontages
Building typologies, plot sizes. 3 Building & Plot gardens, servicing, parking. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 recycling, privacy, safety CONSULTATION DRAFT Materials and colours
4 Materials for buildings, boundaries SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 and paved surfaces
Fenestration, Narrower Details lighting, 5 considerations signs APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 17 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.2 PRELIMINARIES
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.2 Preliminaries STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
This will be a statement of the requirements Fig 2.2a: It is advisable to determine the nett area of a site (minus physical & policy of the developer, in terms of development constraints) at the outset of a project type/land use (residential, commercial, etc), CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 number of units and/or development area/ volume, tenure/intended user, etc. In many cases, the effect of site constraints and policy requirements, or increasing aspirations in response to the climate emergency. may limit the developable area to something less than SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 the total site area (see Fig 2.2a on right).
Zero Carbon Impact
It is advisable at the outset to establish the aspirations and targets to meet the zero carbon DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 aims for the project; this will have implications for the fabric-first decisions regarding building form, orientation, materials and their procurement and the on-site/on-plot renewable energy sources.CONSULTATION Aspects DRAFT of active travel, use of natural resources etc, will also have considerable impacts on the character SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of the project. See also sections 2.4, 4.1, 5.2
Ideally, the purchase price for a site should be determined following the appraisal of the physical and policy constraints (and opportunities) and with reference to the design agenda set out at APPENDICES 7.0 national and local level, through this design guide.
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PAGE 18 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.3 APPRAISAL OF CONTEXT AND SETTING OF SITE
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.3 Appraisal of context and setting of site STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application Relevant Policies > Core Strategy: CP8, DM1 SADMP: ENV5, ENV6, D1, D2, D9 WSLP2032: CF2, NH1 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate Zero Carbon Impact
2.3.1 • what are the characteristic property 2.3.4 Inevitably, the impact of development will boundaries in the vicinity? The context of some sites might be suburban in be experienced beyond the limits of the site. character, for example housing estates developed CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 2.3.3 This might range from the impact on the street between about the interwar period up to about Factors to take into account within scene to long views from distant uplands, in 2000. Whilst these are desirable to their residents, the wider context of the site include: some cases from nationally significant and the wide standardised road layouts and housing sensitive landscapes, such as Exmoor National • are there key views of the site from layouts and materials draw little from the character Park or the Blackdown Hills and Quantock important vantage points? or distinctiveness of the area.
Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 • are there aspects of the landscape character In these cases, whilst the suburban context and The following factors are indicative as sites of the setting of the site which might affect the character of a site should be acknowledged, the and contexts vary considerably. form, skyline or layout of any proposals? design response might be somewhat different, although the scale of its setting should be respected. 2.3.2 • has the character and impact of the topography, Factors to take account of in the landscape, trees, hedges (rural and urban) and 2.3.5 immediate vicinity of the site include: greenspaces in the area been noted?. Most of DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 The context appraisal should be concise and these features are not always shown on O.S. maps, • is the site within a conservation area or the preferably use a map-based analysis. Maps of the it is essential that they are shown on appraisal maps. setting of a conservation area or Heritage context should be figure/ground (see 2.3.5a below), Asset (eg a Listed Building?) see sectionCONSULTATION 5.16. • what are the characteristic features of the locally DRAFT to convey the layout and grain of the area. Is it within the setting of any other areas of distinctive buildings within the settlement, such as special value? (AONB or National Park). form, appearance, layout and materials? SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • what is the scale, (including number of • are there distinctive character areas bordering storeys), form, plot shape and grain, space the site (defined by land use, density, layout, between buildings and land use of the style and age of localities, etc, which might affect buildings adjacent to the site? the degree of connectivity to these areas? Fig 2.3.5a: Example of a figure/ground map • is there an important established building • what are the most convenient (existing and APPENDICES 7.0 line which should be respected? potential) walking routes to local facilities (shops, schools, bus stops, etc) from the site?
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PAGE 19 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.3 APPRAISAL OF CONTEXT AND SETTING OF SITE
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT STATEMENT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
The appraisal can be a couple of pages for a Fig 2.3.5b: Example showing the use of notation on a base map (for Key, see p22 fig 2.4.4a) modest proposal, to a more comprehensive analysis for larger scaled developments. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 The notation sheet (see 2.4.4 on page 22) will be useful in annotating a map to illustrate and locate the factors identified above. Additionally, captioned photographic images will enhance the appraisal. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The analysis of historic maps of the area can establish the significance of boundaries, former uses and place names. The Historic Environment Record at the South West Heritage Trust should be consulted. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 20 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.4 APPRAISAL OF THE SITE
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.4 Appraisal of the site STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
2.4.1 • Are there areas prone to flood risk or poor • Are there Tree Preservation Orders on any The characteristics of a site will exert an influence on drainage? Where would sustainable drainage trees? What are the landscape characteristics the layout and form of development. The response to measures be located? Identify existing of the site? Will these influence the layout and CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 those characteristics will determine significantly the drainage ditches. green infrastructure of the site? Can hedgerows distinctiveness of the design. The following factors are influence the parcelling/phasing of the • What are the critical gradients, slopes, ridgelines indicative, as the nature of sites vary considerably. development? which will influence the layout and form? The site appraisal should be primarily map based, Eg; degree of exposure to wind, driving rain, sunny • What existing buildings and other structures possibly with a number of topic-based ‘overlays’ and shady slopes, determining the sun's path, are on-site? These may be designated or SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 where the appraisal is likely to be complex. It is views in and out of the site. Would the gradients undesignated heritage assets, or have particular important that the maps should have contours, influence buildability and steepness of streets? value or associations for the local community. as the three-dimensional aspects of the site Assess slopes to minimise major cut and fill. Existing buildings should be regarded as are likely to exert as much influence on the potential assets for re-use or regeneration and • What are the habitat and biodiversity character of any development proposal as its two- they also represent embodied energy, and often characteristics of the site? Are these protected dimensional shape. As with the context appraisal, craftsmanship and locally distinctive materials. or potential? How might these aspects be not DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 it is recommended that the notation sheet The most successful schemes use the retention only maintained but enhanced? Mature trees, illustrated in this section (2.4.4 on page 22) be used. of existing buildings as the springboard for a hedgerows and ponds are particularly critical. scheme which is embedded in the locality from 2.4.2 CONSULTATION DRAFTits inception. Zero Carbon Impact • What is the character of the site boundaries? • What are the ground conditions? Are there
Consider their materials, height, condition, underground cellars, services; are there SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 The site should be appraised in terms of potential permeability, sensitivity to privacy and overlooking wayleaves or rights of way? Is there evidence of for on-site renewable energy sources and optimal of adjacent properties. Boundaries may be contamination? Has an archaeological survey building orientation. See also section 5.2. distinctive or characteristic to the area. been undertaken, or the South West Heritage Trust been notified? • Where are the points of access and connectivity (existing or potential?) Main pedestrian, cyclepath APPENDICES 7.0 and vehicular access points to local road network and local facilities.
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PAGE 21 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.4 APPRAISAL OF THE SITE
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
2.4.3 Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals Many development sites will be located BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT STATEMENT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application on hillsides requiring a 3-Dimensional response. THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
Fig 2.4.3a CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
2.4.4 Appraisal Notation Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals These symbols can be applied to context and site appraisal BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT STATEMENT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application maps in order to pinpoint the aspects of positive and negative THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
character of a site and its setting. Symbols are also shown to Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate identify the location of basic neighbourhood facilities.
Fig 2.4.4a
Sense of place or Significant edge Intrustive / 'Dead' Need for seating Local school identity in small area (eg between land uses) frontage (specify) CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0
Major landmark/ Community facility Significant green space View to landmark Hazard (specify) Local Landmark (specify)
View terminated Feature of local interest Significant tree group Lack of enclosure Local group shop by building eg street furniture SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Poorly defined, 'left over' Surface texture Distinctive line of trees Deflected view area or disorientation Parking area eg setts (specify)
Habitat/Biodiversity Abrupt change of level Area of play Glimpse view Clutter (specify) signifcance & potential (in metres) (informal/formal)
Distinctive or typical Height of building DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Extensive view Dead end Bus stop hedge boundary (No. of storeys)
Distinctive or typical Good sense of boundary wall Potential connection Meeting point street enclosure (stone/brick) CONSULTATION DRAFTNeighbourhood boundary Heritage asset Important roofline 'Pinch point' Foot route (specify)
Sub-area in SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 neighbourhood Noise area (ff) Tree/landscape skyline Pivotal corner Quiet area (pp) Neighbourhood 'Gateway' Rhythm: ie Pattern or Crest line Distinctive building line repetitive features APPENDICES 7.0 Slope (pointing up) Key / distinctive building Key vacant site requiring steeper /s (thick line on front) quality development
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PAGE 23 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.5 DEVELOPMENT OF A DESIGN CONCEPT
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.5 Development of a design concept STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
2.5.1 2.5.2 • Townscape character; areas of compact and This important stage in the process is where Typical aspects of a Design Concept are looser grained built form, formal or informal; the conclusions drawn from stages 1-3 above shown on the next page; they will differ in hierarchy of streets and spaces. Roofscape and CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 inform the basic decisions about the character, depth or relevance depending on the size of skyline considerations. appearance, design and layout of the scheme are the development: • Is there a coherent green and blue infrastructure? expressed on a map/plan, preferably supported • Entry point/s to the development. How is the Location and function of open spaces; greens, by sketches. development to be entered? What will be the squares, wide verges, tree planting, playspaces, It is emphasised that this is not a detailed layout, impact on the existing street scene? The entry sustainable drainage, allotments, foot/cycle- SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 but it will show the salient aspects of the proposed point is important; it ‘sets the scene’ for the rest paths. Consider how biodiversity net gain could scheme, which can form the basis of early of the development yet has to have regard to the be delivered within the site (where appropriate). discussions with planning officers, local community nature and scale of the existing development, • Renewable energy methods. Consider how and/or neighbours and any other stakeholders. especially if that is of traditional settlement form. biodiversity net gain could be delivered within The entry point should be chosen to minimise the Basically, the design concept should answer the site, where appropriate. need to create excessive sight lines which would the questions: DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 necessitate substantial hedgerow or boundary • Demonstrate an approach which prioritises walking What is the general idea behind the design? wall removal. and cycling as the primary modes for movement within, from and through the development. What will be its character? • Frontage and boundary treatment. How will CONSULTATIONthe development address its boundaries/will DRAFT • Demonstrate the approach to the moving and How have the issues raised in the appraisal it be generally outward looking? Are there parked vehicle. The general assumption will be and in the general requirements of the brief boundaries where privacy with adjacent that roads, vehicular access and parking will SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 been resolved in the aims of the design? neighbours will influence design and layout? not dominate the character of the development.
Section 4.0 should be consulted, to assist in • Existing trees, hedges, structures or buildings 2.5.3 addressing the points below. to be retained and how these will influence the The notation shown on the previous page could be character, layout and form of the proposals. useful in conveying the design concept on a map/
• Location of focal points/features and key groups plan, without drawing a detailed layout. It is important, APPENDICES 7.0 of buildings (in larger schemes in particular). though, that the symbols relate to the scale of the plan.
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Zero Carbon Impact 2.5.4 The design process at a glance THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Context Appraisal Site Appraisal Design Concept See Section 2.3 See Section 2.4 See Section 2.5 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Important wooded Local school Boundary privacy Run-off direction Pivotal corner design Greenspace/swale skyline issues drainage Pedestrian desire line Existing drainage Key frontage design Landmark Optimum site stream Reinforce existing trees Intrusive junction entry point Street frontage Bus stop Sun’s path Key entrance design Initial view of village Reinforce village View terminated Quality street scene Key group: square ‘entry’ Consider view APPENDICES 7.0 Outward looking edge Existing hedgerows Bend to absorb
Biodiversity importance gradient Rooflines below ridgeline
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PAGE 25 2.0 THE DESIGN PROCESS / 2.6 CONSULTATION
Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.6 Consultation and engagement STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
2.6.1 2.6.2 It will generally be expected that the The format of the consultations should be Care should be taken to avoid jargon in stages (shown on previous page) in the design appropriate to the size of the development annotations, or to give the impression that CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 process form the basis for consultation with proposals, from informal conversations to the scheme is ‘cut and dried’, and that there neighbours, the local community and planning meetings, exhibitions and workshops. It is is no apparent opportunity to influence the officers. Other stakeholders, where relevant, might recommended that the designers/developers development of the scheme. Wherever possible, also be involved. This early stage of consultation, return to the consultees to show how their views, options should be presented in the early stages before the detailed design work on the full insights and concerns have been addressed. of scheme development; this tends to engender application progresses too far, can save time The process of the consultations and consequent discussion and involvement. Computer generated SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 in later revisions and conveys the message revisions, as well as the Design Process set out imagery can be valuable in this process and can that the scheme can be adapted to address in this section, will form the basis of the Design add the additional element of movement through local views and issues. & Access Statement, see section 6.2. a scheme through ‘fly-throughs’.
Where graphic information such as plans, sections elevations etc is used, in exhibitions, workshops DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 and leaflets, it should communicate in a clear and engaging way which is comprehensible to ‘lay’ people. The presentation of a ‘narrative’ CONSULTATIONabout the evolution of a design from appraisal DRAFT to development of concept etc, can be particularly engaging. The use of production drawings (or SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 working drawings and detailing) is unlikely to be easily understood. APPENDICES 7.0
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Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals 2.7 Detailed design STATEMENT BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
Full sets of drawings will be expected, at the appropriate scales. Sections through the site and a street elevation along the main frontage are very CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 helpful in explaining the project, as are computer generated visualisations. It is essential that on the site plan at least, all the adjacent buildings, trees hedges, other landscape features and all other relevant structures are shown. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Information on all building materials and finishes should be provided on the elevational drawings and details on boundary design, lighting and street and path materials and details shown, see section 6.1. It is advised that a figure/ground plan is used to convey the above information to highlight DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 the relationship between the existing buildings, structure etc and the proposed.
It is recommended that room furniture, kitchen and bathroom layouts are shown on internalCONSULTATION plans. DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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2.7.1 Design scheme THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 This indicative layout (Fig 2.7.1a) demonstrates how the Fig 2.7.1a Fig 2.7.1b design concept can be translated into a design scheme. • Scheme positively addresses countryside edge and village approach road with frontages (see 2.7.2). • Privacy respected for existing houses on northern CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 boundary. • Hedgerow on western boundary reinforced by tree planting and green fringe, to increase biodiversity, aid maintenance and provide rain gardens. • Clear character sub areas; a) main entrance group/
avenue approach/focal square; b) higher density SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 core; c) main ‘village green’ and sub greens, all enclosed by housing groups; d) outward facing village edge group, with substantial house on SE corner reinforcing village entry; e) interface with The type of layout (Fig 2.7.1b) above would village with foot/cycle link framed by a green be unlikely to be approved. and building frontages. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 • Inward looking scheme, with back gardens • Permeable street design, with frequent abrupt and fences onto road and village edge. changes of direction and buildings forming ‘places’, to help reduce vehicle speed. Main street axis • Awkward plots and ‘spaces left over’ CONSULTATION DRAFTdue to unrelated curvilinear road layout. follows contours. • Absence of hierarchy and placeshaping
• Direct foot/cycle link to village centre and bus stop. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 resulting in uniform, standard appearance. • Variety of house types relate to making streetscapes and provide range of density and choice. • Road layout lacks permeability in many places. • Main hedgerow and ditch across site retained and balancing ponds incorporated. • Little evidence of sustainable drainage measures.
• Hierarchy of accessible greens provide aesthetic APPENDICES 7.0 interest, informal playspace and aid drainage. • No indication that landscape has been included or played a part in placemaking.
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Understand sustainability & placemaking priciples Design Scheme (Section 2.7)
2.7.2 Examine Appraise Appraise Develop DESIGN & Detailed PROJECT CONTEXT OF PROJECT DESIGN ACCESS proposals Design and layout of development frontage to address BRIEF SITE OR PROJECT SITE CONCEPT STATEMENT for Planning Section 2.2 Section 2.3 Section 2.4 Section 2.5 Section 6.2 application both the countryside edge and the entry to a settlement: THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Consult, research & engage with community, planners, highways & stakeholders (Section 2.6) Design Review may be appropriate
Fig 2.7.2a CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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Key Requirements THE 2.0
DESIGN PROCESS
Checklist for 2.0 The Design Process: CONTEXT NB: all of the following stages below should be 2.5 Design Concept Has your proposal 3.0 addressed in the preparation of: design proposals, considered all the factors assessed in 2.2,
& a Design and Access Statement or a presentation 2.3, 2.4? Are the Opportunities and Constraints DISTINCTIVENESS to a Design Review. clearly expressed? Are the aims of the design addressed concisely and graphically? 2.2 Preliminaries Have the project aims been
stated? Have all policy and designation 2.6 Consultation and Engagement Have you SUSTAINABLE 4.0 implications been addressed? Has the impact set out what methods you have used for
on Zero Carbon aims been addressed? consultation and how this has influenced the PLACEMAKING proposed design? 2.3 Appraisal of Context and Setting Has the landscape/biodiversity and townscape of the 2.7 Detailed Design In what ways will the DESIGN context been appraised? Have connectivity agreed conclusions drawn from stages 5.0
and accessibility to facilities been noted? Have 2.2-2.6 be incorporated into the masterplans, TOPICS key views and microclimate been identified? parameter plans, design codes and the design Has the evolution of the area been analysed of individual buildings and public realm? and conclusions drawn? CONSULTATIONHave you provided scaled drawings of the DRAFT proposal which show neighbouring buildings, SUPPLEMENTARY 2.4 Appraisal of the Site Has the landscape/ site features, boundaries, sections, street 6.0 biodiversity and townscape of the context elevations, and visualisations? been appraised? Have connectivity and
accessibility to facilities been noted? Have key INFO views and microclimate been identified? Has the evolution of the area been analysed and APPENDICES conclusions drawn? 7.0
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3.1 Introduction 31 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 3.2 Learning from the locality 32
3.3 Character Areas 42
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 3.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT CONTEXT & SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 DISTINCTIVENESS APPENDICES 7.0
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3.1 Introduction THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Planning policy at national and local level echoes These can be sourced from the Historic Environment What is likely to contribute to the distinctiveness community concerns that new development Record at the South West Heritage Trust. of a development? should have regard to and reflect the positive The appraisals in sections 2.3 and 2.4 should CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 aspects of the character of the area; that reveal (for example): new development should avoid the form and Taunton Garden Town information • The character, scale, layout and grain of the appearance of being ‘anonymous’ or ‘anywhere’. setting or context of the site. Often the response to this challenge has purely For proposed developments within the Taunton Garden Town area, sections 3.3.6 and 3.3.7 will been to apply a veneer of local-looking materials • Critical skylines, rooflines, views (long and short) to otherwise standard houses and layouts. This is be appropriate. Additionally, sections 2.3 and and landmarks. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 not appropriate. 2.4 will be useful guides to the Appraisal of the Context and Site for any proposals. The document • The ‘lie of the land’. topography; areas of This section sets out to identify the key Taunton; the Vision for our Garden Town section 1, exposure and shelter. characteristics of the area, thus suggesting cues ‘Understanding Our Roots’ (pp 8-11) contains • Existing drainage form and capacity. for designers and developers to respond to in their other specific information on the context and schemes. In particular, it should prove a useful • Landscape and heritage assets.
distinctiveness of the town. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 springboard to the preparation of Context and • The palette of vernacular building materials Site Appraisals, a key part of a Design and Access and colours (normally in non-urban settings) Statement. It will also prove a useful starting point for design within Conservation Areas andCONSULTATION involving DRAFT• Aspects of traditional built form and layout Heritage Assets and the preparation on Heritage which respond to local circumstances. Statements, see section 6.4 on page 151. • Critical boundaries (privacy, high visibility, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Where they exist, Conservation Area Appraisals distinctive materials, etc.) and Village Design Statements should be • ‘Desire lines’ and other important pedestrian consulted, for more detailed local information routes. and the value placed on local assets. Historic maps are an invaluable source of information The quality of the planning and design response on the nature and layout of previous land uses, to these aspects will contribute to the success APPENDICES 7.0 significant boundaries and local place names. of the proposals.
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3.2 Learning from the locality THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
This section highlights some aspects of design and placemaking found in the district. In particular, they illustrate locally distinctive ways in which CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 buildings and in particular groupings and layout have responded to the local context. Whilst direct copying of these features would not normally be relevant, it is hoped that they would stimulate thinking about developing locally distinctive design solutions. It should be noted that the SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 examples shown are mostly found in smaller settlements, others are drawn from forms of layout in the larger towns. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Fig 3.2a: A fine hillside street with simple building forms, all the houses are different, but conform to the same basic shape, roof pitch, limited material and colour palette and a common building line, step naturally downhill, APPENDICES 7.0 opening up views of the surrounding landscape, which is in close proximity to the settlement. Bicknoller.
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3.2.1 Cottage types THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
These cottage forms are widespread and Fig 3.2.1a Fig 3.2.1b characteristic, outside the core of the main towns. Their simple, rectangular shape and generally wide front, low profile exert a context of scale which should be respected in the form and layout of any new development. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0
Fig 3.2.1c DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.2.2 Characteristic 'Tandem' building layouts THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Examples of this form of layout, Fig 3.2.2a Fig 3.2.2b where a freestanding major or minor building is situated in close proximity to a short range of buildings, can be seen usually in the north and west of the district. They suggest how a building CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 line on the back edge of a road or footway can be maintained, whilst a main range can be set back to allow for front gardens, etc. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.2.2c Fig 3.2.2d
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Fig 3.2.2e: Indicative sketch showing tandem arrangement to establish street continuity. This example shows how the tandem form could be reinterpreted to consider how a small development proposal within a village on a busy road, could set back the new houses away from the road whilst the long low linked garage is positioned on the traditional building line, on the back edge of the road. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.2.3 Traditional solutions to building on sloping sites THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Most development sites will be sloping, sometimes significantly so. These examples show how the use of low stone retaining walls create building platforms to accommodate changes in level, whilst achieving effortlessly attractive building CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 groupings and street scenes.
Fig 3.2.3a
Fig 3.2.3b SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Fig 3.2.3c Fig 3.2.3d APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 3.2.3e: Housing group on sloping site, Quarry Close, Minehead CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.2.4 Examples of roadside drainage in settlements
Fig 3.2.4b THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 The handling of drainage in roadside settings in villages and towns is a feature of Somerset. The stream and verge is Fig 3.2.4a a traditional precedent for swales and other forms of sustainable drainage in new developments. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Fig 3.2.4c Fig 3.2.4d CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.2.5 An intimate mixed use and residential pedestrian place:
Bath Place, Taunton THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
This attractive place thrives as it is built around a walkable route and has cross connectivity. The space has a distinctive sense of place and appropriate CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 level of enclosure, opening up and closes down as you move through; it is domestically scaled yet has public buildings, individual houses and independent shops. There is a high proportion of active frontages, and well defined public, semi public and private Fig 3.2.5c space. The handful of mature trees provide a SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 dappled canopy, changing with the seasons.
Fig 3.2.5d DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Fig 3.2.5a CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.2.5b
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3.2.6 A distinctive place and local hub:
High Street, Wellington THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Fig 3.2.6a: Precedent Fig 3.2.6b: Reinterpretation How traditional townscapes could influence new neighbourhood centres. The combination of the configuration of standard plots and buildings along CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 more organic building lines, and the types of street design as recommended in section 4.4, mean that distinctive townscapes can be designed. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.2.7 Local paving materials THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The traditional paving materials of the area Lias (see Fig 3.2.7c); used as flagstones, kerbing Fig 3.2.7a: Two-coloured contribute as much to its local distinctiveness and crossovers (as narrow setts). Usually found cobbles laid in pattern as the building materials which characterise its in the centre, north and east of the district. Being with lias kerb CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 vernacular architecture. They derive from the local a relatively soft rock, it is vulnerable to wear geology, supplemented by more durable stone and fracture, although harder, denser variants, Fig 3.2.7d: Pennant products from adjacent areas. Consequently, sometimes veined, are particularly attractive. Lias flagstone paving due to their relative scarcity (due to damage and can still be sourced from quarries in Somerset. replacement) and their relationship to their locality, Pennant; this carboniferous sandstone from north they should be considered as Heritage Assets. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Somerset, the Bristol area and south Wales, is an Where construction work is undertaken in the ideal paving material (see Fig 3.2.7d), being durable, proximity of areas of traditional paving materials, non-slip and can be cut to fine tolerances. It can these should be given appropriate protection. Fig 3.2.7e: Buff-coloured be seen in places throughout the district, used as clay paver The main materials are:- flagstones, crossovers, kerbs and steps.
Cobbles; usually dark brown small river stones, Clay Pavers; in a characteristic incised geometric DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 or grey blue beach cobbles, mainly found in the pattern. Usually buff in colour (see Fig 3.2.7f), Fig 3.2.7b: Small cobbles north and west of the district (see Fig 3.2.7a). These although variants in red and blue can also be seen. with paver access are laid on edge, tightly packed. In some cases Traditionally they were mainly used for footpaths they were laid in attractive patterns, highlightedCONSULTATION by and margins in front of shops. DRAFTFig 3.2.7c: Lias flagstones lighter coloured cobbles. They are usually found as short areas of pavement, margins in front of SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 buildings and in churchyards. Due to their relatively uncomfortable texture as a footway surface, Fig 3.2.7f: Clay paver narrow pathways of clay pavers have often been pathway inserted for ease of accessibility (see Fig 3.2.7b).
Rough-hewn cobbles of chert (local flinty material) APPENDICES 7.0 can be seen in limited areas in the south of the district.
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3.3 Character Areas THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The district, being quite extensive, is composed of a rich variety of geology and landscape types. It ranges in elevation from the levels and moors to CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 the high ridges of the Quantocks, Blackdowns and Exmoor. Its settlement patterns range from the dispersed farm groups to sizeable towns, whilst always being of a relatively modest scale, rooted in the landscape. It is natural therefore to regard the district character as containing a number of SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 character areas, rather than being homogenous.
The map on the following page (see Fig 3.3b) shows these character areas. This section highlights the character of each area under the headings; Landscape, topography & geology;A Settlement DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 types & form, Built form, Materials, Views, Issues.
The design of development should respond sensitively to the scale, form and appearance of the character area in which it is located. CONSULTATIONSensitive DRAFT design solutions can be innovative and do not necessarily replicate the existing. The following SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 descriptions should provide a useful introduction to any character appraisals. You should also consult any conservation area appraisals or village design statements which may be available for the area within which your site is located. APPENDICES 7.0 Fig 3.3a: View of Exmoor from Minehead
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Map of Character Areas
Fig 3.3b THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
District Boundary National Park or ANOB CONSULTATION DRAFT Major ridgeline SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 1 Minehead Environs 6 Vale of Taunton Deane
2 Donniford Valley 7 Taunton (Urban)
3 Quantocks 8 Blackdowns Plateau
4 Quantock Vale 9 Fivehead Vale APPENDICES 7.0
5 Exmoor Fringes 10 Sandstone Ridge
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Map of vernacular building materials
Fig 3.3c THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The complex geology of the district is reflected in its range of building stones. This variety is further enriched by the way that the stone is laid; either CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 coursed, or rubble. The map shows the general distribution of stone as seen in the vernacular buildings of the area. Most of these stones can still be sourced.
Brick, historically from Wellington and Bridgwater, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 ranging from dark to orangey red and buff, is used on its own or as quoins and lintels around openings in stone walls. Roofing tiles, (pantiles and Double Roman) are characteristic. Painted render is widespread throughout the district. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Hard (old) Red Triassic Marls Sandstone (CobCONSULTATION etc.) DRAFT
Shillet Slatey Blue Lias Rock (Limestone) SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Soft (new) Red North Curry Sandstone Sandstone
Hard Red Chert Shale (similar to flints)
Brick & Tile Render used APPENDICES 7.0 mainly from Wellington & B'water throughout area
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3.3.1 Minehead Environs THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
1 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology spacious and elegant tree-lined Avenue. Minehead The character area is a combination of upland, grew considerably in the 20th century with typical lowland and coastal landscapes types. The area lower density suburban development (Fig 3.3.1a). CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to the west and south-west of the town falling within the National Park boundary forms part of Built form a larger wooded coastal landscape that offers a The older settlements of High Town and Quay striking and picturesque backdrop to Minehead Town have some excellent examples of the town, its harbour and promenade. To the west and local vernacular; one and half and two storey south-west of Minehead open field agriculture is cottage scale stone houses (some painted, some SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 practised in Porlock and the Dunster Vales, and unpainted) with combed wheat thatch roofs Fig 3.3.1a: Terrace houses with characteristic along the coastal fringe to the west. (Fig 3.3.1b). The linear development of both continuous pent roofs at ground floor. Minehead. constrained and defined by topography such as To the west of the town and forming the the narrow building line along the quay with its Fig 3.3.1b: Cob and thatch, underlying geology to Higher Town, the geology backdrop of tree lined cliffs is particularly notable. Higher Town, Minehead of Devonian Old Red Sandstone (Hangman The quality and scale of Arts and Crafts style DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Sandstone formation) is a relatively hard rock, and villas of late Victorian/Edwardian Minehead has eroded to a lesser extent than the soft rocks (Fig 3.3.1c) are an architecturally significant feature which surround it, leaving at least parts of this of sub-regional importance; they also display an character area at relatively high altitude. CONSULTATIONinteresting use of Delabole slate roofs and slate DRAFT hanging and render. The late 19th century terraces Settlement types & form have a distinctive continuous pent roof over bay SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Minehead is the main town and comprises three windows and front doors and many are faced settlements; High Town, Quay Town and Lower in a rubble-coursed dark hard sandstone. The Town (including Alcombe). This has been encased inheritance of coach houses and workshops in within the seaside resort development which side streets is an attractive mixed use feature. began in the late 19th century. The tight, attractive hillside village-like townscape of the High Town APPENDICES 7.0 gives way to the mainly 18th and 19th century planned streets of the Lower Town, centred on the
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3.3.1 Minehead Environs (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
1 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Fig 3.3.1c Materials Minehead villas Good examples of the red sandstone walling particularly to boundary walling throughout, often CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 dressed and squared rather than rubble stone (although the latter is also seen). Good survival of groups of thatched houses, some clay tile but mostly natural Welsh slate (Fig 3.3.1d). Some tile and slate hanging reflective of the Arts and Crafts
period which permeates through much of the SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 suburban development (Fig 3.3.1e).
Fig 3.3.1d: Render and natural slate DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Fig 3.3.1e: Tile Hanging; Delabole Slate, Higher Town APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.1 Minehead Environs (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
1 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Views Issues Views to the higher ground surrounding Minehead • A challenging and sensitive topography which are memorable and attractive (Fig 3.3.1f) with built makes urban extension difficult CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 form often secondary to small (well-appointed • Poor transport links to the principal routes gardens) and larger (treed slopes and backdrops) through the district landscaped settings to High Town and long views to the semi-open ridges of the edge of the Exmoor • Most of the local vernacular materials are in short National Park to the south and south-west of the supply or no longer available town. There are also good town-defining views SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 • The character and scale of each of the defined from the higher slopes of the fringes of the town. areas will be a determining factor in successful design interventions Fig 3.3.1f: View from Higher Town looking south towards the Exmoor National Park • The visual impact of development; scale, form, skyline, colours and textures of materials
against the backdrop of the Exmoor National DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Park is critical
• Consider reconciling views to the sea with CONSULTATIONthe need for strong structural landscaping inDRAFT new development
• Boundary treatments in the street scene will SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 be critical throughout APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.2 Donniford Valley THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
2 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology Settlement types & form Fig 3.3.2a: Williton within its setting This part of the district is characterised by Williton, (Fig 3.3.2a) the local centre, has close rolling relatively low rise hills, rarely over 100m associations with its coastal neighbour, Watchet, CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 AD divided by numerous streams and rivers in a settlement whose fortunes have risen and fallen generally narrow but not steep-sided valleys. The on its ability to trade from its harbour. The further hills of Exmoor (to the south and west including village settlements of Bicknoller, Stogumber the notable conical hill of Dunster Castle) and (Fig 3.3.2b) and Monksilver are historic nucleated the Quantocks (to the east) visually enclose the settlements with strongly defined fine-grained area with the relatively low lying landscape to the townscape, often integrating streams into the SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 sea to the north providing an openness of view streetscape. (Fig 3.3.2c) not seen elsewhere. To the south towards the boundary with Exmoor National Park, there is a still readable medieval landscape with small fields and frequent narrow lanes and tracks. The geology is Jurassic, Blue lias rock overlaying Mercia DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Mudstones and Permian sandstones towards Exmoor Hills. A vale of Red Marl is drained by the Donniford Stream (the dominant catchment in the area). CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.3.2b: Stogumber within its Quantocks setting Fig 3.3.2c: Water management
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3.3.2 Donniford Valley (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
2 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Built form Issues Fig 3.3.2d: Stone and cob, Monksilver Small scale traditional cottage scale residential • Area is highly sensitive to flood risk and in places, buildings, in small plots often fronting streets. coastal inundation. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Farm buildings and groups are also small • Water forms an important feature of most and sometimes found in linear arrangements settlements and future development should incorporating a long house (this has often been pay careful attention to the sustainable and much altered). sensible management of changes to settlements and/or sites. Materials SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The locally distinctive stone, a small component • Small scale characteristic urban centres such sometimes shale-like red/orange stone, as Williton and Watchet should form the design sometimes rendered or part-rendered with a lime framework for proposed development (this is mortar combined with combed wheat thatch, particularly relevant for infill schemes) natural slates and pantiles. Some evidence of cob • Any new development is likely to require a (earthy red colours where exposed) (Fig 3.3.2d). DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 sensitively considered countryside edge subject to context and site appraisal. Views To the south of the character area views are often • The imaginative and sustainable design foreshortened or closed due to townscapeCONSULTATION or and management of flood risk is likely to DRAFT landscape (woodland, tree and hedge boundaries) be a significant aspect of the design of and constant changes in topography. The views new development. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 towards the lower lying coastal plain north of • This landscape is vulnerable; the openness Washford and Williton are longer with a stronger of views means that any new development sense of openness. This is particularly the case proposals need to consider views from nationally when travelling along the A39 and transitioning protected landscapes. towards the Minehead environs character area. APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.3 The Quantocks THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
3 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography and geology This is an area notable for larger manor houses The Quantocks rise to a smooth rounded summit and mansions (Nettlecombe Court, Hestercombe,
(up to 381m AD), incised by deep combes. They Crowcombe Court) dating from the medieval CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 curve inland from the Bristol Channel, and have a period. These are particularly characteristic of dramatic ridge land form with varied land cover. this area, especially its western edge, and Much of the character area lies within the Quantock including a high proportion developed from Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). medieval deer parks. This is mixed landscape of heathland, coombes and Predominant Mixed patterns of settlement, wooded escarpments; a visually dominant feature SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 with nucleated villages (for example Bicknoller) for much of the district (Fig 3.3.3a). The east side is concentrated on western scarp edge and characterised by deep wooded combes whilst the intermixed with high density of dispersed west is a steep scarp from the Upland plateau. The hamlets and isolated farmsteads, indicative of Fig 3.3.3a: Quantocks backdrop, Bicknoller slopes are often a mix of ancient oak and holly trees reorganisation of settlement in 8th-11th centuries, with southern slopes more commercial plantation; largely pre-14th century assarting from woodland larch, pine, spruce, and fir. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 and also of post-14th century settlement linked Liassic Limestone from outcrops towards the to enclosure. coast has been used as a local building stone. In addition, numerous remnants of former CONSULTATIONlime kilns Built form DRAFT confirm the significance and value of the complex A good survival of pre-1750 houses (Fig 3.3.3b) and geological pattern. Lower Old Red Sandstone farmstead buildings, mostly combination barns, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 appears as pockets of red sandstone throughout concentrated on home farms of gentry estates. the character area. Many farmsteads were rebuilt in the mid/late 19th century: regular courtyard plans, with buildings Settlement types & form including combination barns to 3 or 4 sides of yard, The settlements are based along the spring- are common to this part of the district. lines in order to utilize both the open upland and surrounding, more sheltered lowland margins. APPENDICES 7.0 Fig 3.3.3b: Stone and thatch, Bicknoller
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3.3.3 The Quantocks (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
3 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Materials Issues Red sandstone is the dominant building material: • New buildings can be prominent on open Devonian Hangman Sandstone from the hills to hillsides with excessive glazing and large-scale CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 the north; Devonian Ilfracombe Slates (with thin roofs being inappropriate interventions in an limestones) and Morte Slates to south; Red Triassic otherwise ancient and highly sensitive landscape. sandstones to south and east. Liassic limestone • The specification of materials needs very (a kind of shale type stone) towards the coast. careful consideration in terms of their potential The stone is generally of a more grey to purple impact when seen against a backdrop of the hue (Fig 3.3.3c) rather than the stronger reds SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Quantock hills. seen to the Central West Somerset. Roofs are a combination of thatch (combed wheat), natural • Materials where possible should be natural slate and clay tiles (with some pantile). (not artificial or artificially distressed) so that their weathering properties enable them to Views Fig 3.3.3c: Stone boundary wall, Bicknoller blend into their surroundings. There are excellent panoramic views (which have DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 historically influenced Romantic poets and artists) • Light pollution from urban centres can from the ridge and its upper plateau. The views to detract from muted views of the landscape the lower slopes are more contained by landscape and traditional buildings. features and enclosure to roadsides (hedges CONSULTATION• Sinuous landforms can make it difficult to DRAFT and trees). However, views to settlements and accommodate geometric built form, Artficial small groups of buildings are important with the moulding of the landscape is unacceptable SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 backdrop often described by wooded combe or as it changes landscape character. scarp sides. • Large visibility splays for sight lines at the entrances to development can be disruptive to the character of ancient lanes. APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.4 Quantock Vale THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
4 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology Built form Fig 3.3.4a: Stogursey This area comprises a more flowing lowland Settlements and hamlets generally comprise landscape. The Quantock ridge is a dominant closely packed small cottage scale houses CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 feature to the west. The coastal cliffs are and former farm groups of simple form (Fig 3.3.4b). internationally important for their geology, used In the case of Stogursey, the medieval street as a geological standard for Jurassic Blue Lias. grid pattern is an important part of the settlement’s To the east side of the ridge, numerous streams character. There is a high concentration of drain off the Quantock dip slopes and flow into pre-1750 farmstead buildings to this part of the the River Parrett. In certain areas (Stogursey for district, these mostly comprise threshing barns SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 example) lias stone sits close to the surface. (including combination buildings with cattle at one end), farmhouses and some early examples Settlement types & forms of linhays for cattle. Cider houses are typically There is a mixed pattern of settlement, with incorporated with stabling and other functions nucleated villages (for example Stogursey) into combination ranges.
(Fig 3.3.4a) intermixed with a high density of DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 dispersal of hamlets and isolated farmsteads, indicative of pre-11th century settlement and also of post-14th century settlement linked to enclosure. Many hamlets, characteristicallyCONSULTATION DRAFT with churches, developed from small manorial centres. Villages are likely to have a church and SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 manor house. APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.3.4b: Farm group, Kilton
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3.3.4 Quantock Vale (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
4 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Materials Issues Fig 3.3.4c: Farm Cottages, Kilton A form of sandstone is seen to the far west of • The exposed and expansive landscape is the valley in buildings and walls. Elsewhere, the challenging for most modern building materials CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 random rubble construction in lias stone because and requires careful consideration of both the of the poor quality of this material is mostly open aspects of the landscape and its proximity rendered. A later adaptation to historic materials to the sea and exposure to prevailing weather. which has been adopted by the 20th expansion to • The conversion of farm buildings will require villages. Traditionally, common building materials sensitive and imaginative solutions to working are red Triassic sandstone, with brown-grey SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 with the building form and it probable semi-open Lias near coast (Fig 3.3.4c). Thin render coats and or open setting. limewash was commonly applied historically. There is some (but only limited examples of) use of • Infill development in settlements needs to cob and some thatch remains but roofs are mostly pay careful attention to street alignment and a covered in slate from north Cornwall or Wales. generally modest scale of built form.
It is notable that there are no stone dressings to Fig 3.3.4d: Open coastal views, Kilve environs DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 windows and doors (as found further inland). The original thatch has gradually been replaced by Bridgwater tiles and Welsh slate and this is often combined with a raising of the eaves level.CONSULTATION DRAFT
Views SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 There are some open coastal views particularly around Kilve environs and Kilton (Fig 3.3.4d) although the coastline is never actually viewed due to topography. Areas inland are surprising devoid of extended views although the Quantocks to the west often provide a sense of enclosure on APPENDICES 7.0 travelling through this part of the district.
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3.3.5 Exmoor Fringes THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
5 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology Built form This area comprises a varied landscape of larger Predominant farm groups and plans comprise more open fields to the north-east of Clatworthy small-scale courtyard including U and especially CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 reservoir and a more ancient landscape (small L-plan layouts, sometimes with the farmhouse fields, hedges, small woodlands) to the south- attached to the working buildings. There are west and east of the reservoir (Fig 3.3.5a). The also significant numbers of linear and parallel escarpment and ridgeline of the Brendon Hills farmsteads, the latter with their working buildings overlook Watchet and the coastal plain. There are set in parallel to the house with occasional Fig 3.3.5a: Landscape, Clatworthy environs some good examples of enclosure landscape; attached working buildings. Open-fronted linhays SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 larger (beech) hedged fields and woodlands of are frequently found facing into cattle yards. They coniferous plantations to generally hilly terrain. are concentrated in the eastern half of the area, The younger Devonian rocks, the Pickwell Down where they form part of the major concentration beds and the Pilton beds to the south of Dulverton of this distinctive building type in south west is interspersed with a Morte Slate fringe. England. The use of circular stone piers for linhays
and shelter sheds (Fig 3.3.5c) is a distinctive feature; DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Settlements types & form later linhays and shelters typically use timber The compact hill town of Wiveliscombe is the posts. Milverton is an elegant, urbane village with main settlement in the area; otherwise, Milverton is its main streets, some with raised pavements, Fig 3.3.5b: Farm cottages, Clatworthy large village with some fine examples ofCONSULTATION Georgian lined with Georgian houses. Wiveliscombe is DRAFT vernacular. Settlements (such as Clatworthy and characterised by continuous street frontages of 2-4
Huish Champflower) are frequent but mostly storey buildings, radiating from an informal square. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 small and loosely grained; often hamlets (Fig 3.3.5b) Larger farmsteads are mostly regular U-plan but also and larger farm groups (such as Higher, Middle dispersed and regular multi-yard plans, developed and Lower Farm) have large farm houses and in some areas (such as those seen to Higher, Middle agricultural buildings. To the north, the Brendon and Lower Farm and Sperry Barton). These are Hills the few farmsteads are isolated, partly due associated with larger fields that retain the irregular to the heavily wooded hills and combes. APPENDICES 7.0 forms of ancient and piecemeal enclosure. Fig 3.3.5c: Farm group, Bury
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3.3.5 Exmoor Fringes (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
5 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Materials Views The predominant traditional materials are a Views within this character are generally darker brown sandstone, often more shaley than constrained by topography or ‘big’ landscape CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 elsewhere and natural slate for roofs. Buildings features such as wooded slopes to generally were historically mainly roofed in local slate (now hilly terrain. There are some open views across rare) and with 19th century Welsh slate particularly the reservoir which accentuates the ancient found to the north. The use of cob and survival of agricultural landscape to much of the character now-rare stone slate and combed wheat thatch area (Fig 3.3.5e). is highly distinctive. Lime plaster coats typically SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 used for weather protection, notably finished in Issues compressed trowelled lines particularly in the • General topographical constraint to this part of east (Fig 3.3.5d). Limewash was commonly used as the district with most settlements at a capacity in further protection. terms of urban expansion
Combed wheat thatch was formerly widespread • Water management in future development is DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 except on the higher sections of the moor. very important and should be a high priority in Roofs were often half hipped and may be steeper design terms than later slated roofs. Roofs were originally • Due to the relative isolation of settlements unguttered, to allow rainwater to fall onto yards CONSULTATIONoutside Wiveliscombe sustainable development DRAFT to facilitate cleaning. is likely to be very limited SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • It is recommended that where application locations are situated within Exmoor National Park, or are likely to be within the setting of the National Park, applicants consult the ENP Landscape Character Assessment SPD and the ENP Design Guide. See References, section 7.2. APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.3.5a: Troweled mortar joints
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3.3.6 Vale of Taunton Deane THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
6 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology Settlement types & form Built Form The area is characterised by a low-lying but Settlements within the character area comprise In the larger settlement of Wellington there are occasionally rolling vale landscape centred around the market town of Wellington, villages, dispersed some fine Georgian buildings and high quality CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 the River Tone and Taunton, extending up to the hamlets and farms. The latter are in high density, red brick Victorian villas to its suburbs. There are northern boundary of Wellington and beyond to indicative of pre-11th century settlement and a number of high quality and archaeologically the north as far as Lydeard St Lawrence. The area also of post-14th century settlement linked to significant industrial buildings surviving inside and is underlain by a solid surface of Keuper Marls (of enclosure. Many hamlets, characteristically outside the urban centres, notably the extensive the Triassic Mercia Mudstone Group) giving rise with churches, developed from small manorial multi storey Tonedale Mill complex, now ‘at risk’. The to well-drained soils of good agricultural quality. centres. Later mansions and manor houses (and historic built form outside of the settlements often SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 ornamental gardens) at the foot of Quantock Hills comprises farmhouses (and their former working This part of the district provides a strong sense indicate an agriculturally prosperous area, which buildings) extensively altered, and in some cases of being within a contained landscape bowl with continues today. Wellington itself is essentially replacement (in the 18th and 19th centuries). This the Quantock Hills (to the north and north-east) linear along its main streets, with a well-defined can often include extensive sections of (local and and Blackdown Hills (to the south). Both these market place, lined with long, narrow plots. regionally distinctive) stone wall enclosure (Fig 3.3.6b). higher land masses give a strong sense of visual DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 and physical containment throughout the character area.
The floodplain has given rise to a linear infrastructure of road (M5), rail, pylon andCONSULTATION formerly DRAFT canal. Pylon lines in particular are prominent features and dominant elements in some open SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 views (Fig 3.3.6a). APPENDICES 7.0 Fig 3.3.6a: View from Church of St Peter, Langford Budville Fig 3.3.6b: Tonedale Mill
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3.3.6 Vale of Taunton Deane (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
6 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
There is a high concentration of pre-1750 and alluvium of the Low Vale. Slate roofs • The issues of flooding will be important in this farmstead buildings (although still relatively few and clay tile roofs are seen throughout the vale. area with the sensitive design of alleviation as a percentage of all pre-1900 farm buildings), measures being a high priority in proposals CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 mostly comprise, farmhouses, threshing barns and Views for development some early examples of linhays. Wellington boasts Views are generally open and extended (across a fine inheritance of Georgian townhouses and the floodplain from higher sections of ground) former 19th century industrial complexes. often associated with a church location or ornamental grounds of higher status houses.
Materials They are contained by the rising landform of the SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The main settlement is Wellington which has a encircling Quantock or Blackdown Hills. At times strong materials palette with its Georgian and these views can be far reaching and extensive. Victorian urban extensions and industrial buildings The obelisk of the Wellington Monument standing notable for their high quality red brick and tile on the ridge of the Blackdowns, is a familiar sight tradition. Building materials vary considerably from the M5. across the vale given the complex geology DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 within and to the edges of this character area. Issues Fig 3.3.6c: Boundary wall enclosure, Bradford on Tone In the north and west red sandstone (often laid • The retention and careful conversion of historic in random rubble courses) (Fig 3.3.6c) is seen to industrial buildings will be an important dominate a number of villages (some ofCONSULTATION these consideration throughout the character area DRAFT(but stone buildings are painted and/or rendered – but particularly in Wellington) this is a later alteration), relating to the underlying SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • The containing of the suburban growth of sandstone geology of the surrounding Quantock Wellington will be a significant design challenge Hills and High Vale. In the south and east, stone- built properties are often of Blue or White Lias, • The erosion of field patterns, water meadows, reflecting the changing underlying geology on ridge and furrow, loss of parkland and orchards moving eastwards towards Taunton. Brick buildings and other landscape features such as hedgerows occur throughout, but are more common in the are important issues for this vulnerable landscape. APPENDICES 7.0 vicinity of Wellington, reflecting the underlying clay Fig 3.3.6d: Red sandstone walls, Runnington
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3.3.7 Taunton THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
7 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Taunton Garden Town information
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Landscape, topography & geology Settlement types & form A low-lying, typically flat floodplain landform. The settlement of Taunton has early medieval Defined by the tributaries and main watercourse origins and an historic core of Castle and Priory of the River Tone. Surface geology predominantly lying on the south bank of the River Tone and has defined by Alluvium and River Terrace Deposits. expanded in all directions in key phases most The town is encircled by ridges and hills which notably the 18th and 19th century. (see the map SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 provide visual containment to much of the urban sequence in the document Taunton the Vision area of Taunton. for our Garden Town). The pattern of settlement Fig 3.3.7a: Elegant tree lined avenue is firmly based on historic plot boundaries and with villas and short terraces. Taunton. From Wellington towards the urban edge of the sub-divisions which give the town such a fine Taunton (urban) character area, the Floodplain is grain and some interesting townscape on both at its widest with its tributary brooks merging with an intimate and large scale. The stone church the Tone. Around both of the towns the Floodplain DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 towers of Taunton are particularly prominent in takes on an urban-edge character, with historic the town and are glimpsed throughout and for and more recent industrial buildings, commercial some distance from the town and on approach. property, sewage works and houses all forming part of the relatively flat landscape flankingCONSULTATION the A series of satellite villages to the town (and linkedDRAFT river. At Taunton, the influence of the urban area is by the river and former canal) has been absorbed
strongly felt where relatively recent and ongoing to degrees into the suburban expansions of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 development on or adjacent to the Floodplain has town but have still managed to maintain their increased the sense of human intervention into cores (often distinguished by a change from brick this natural bowl. to stone for walling materials). APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.7 Taunton (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
7 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Taunton Garden Town information Fig 3.3.7f: Urban Residential Forms above two storeys These characteristic terraces are formal, relatively short and of varying designs. Similar forms can be found in Wellington. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Built form There is a wide variety of built form throughout the town with perhaps the best representative historic industrial buildings surviving (closely followed by Wellington) in the district. These are on both a modest scale (workshops, stables SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 and outbuildings) and larger scale (former shirt and textile factories and buildings relating to the railway/canal infrastructure) (Fig 3.3.7d). The terrace house on both small (Fig 3.3.7e) and large scales (Fig 3.3.7f) is a notable building type. There are numerous quite inventive versions throughout the town, Georgian and Victorian, ranging from 2 to 3.5 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 storeys in height. Large Victorian villas are found around the periphery of the historic core, often along tree lined streets. As befits the county town, it has a range of civic buildings, of modestCONSULTATION scale. DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0 Fig 3.3.7d: Firepool Pumping Station, Taunton Fig 3.3.7e: Terrace housing, Taunton
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3.3.7 Taunton (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
7 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Taunton Garden Town information frame the views to church towers. Taunton has • Medium rise development is appropriate with a
benefitted from a lack of tall buildings which has town context, but should be subject to enhanced Materials helped maintain the dominance of the church appraisal of their impact, see section 5.9. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 The diversity and mixing of building materials in towers. Views into the town are equally important, the town is a feature, with the churches being such as those from Cotlake Hill for example which particularly notable for their extensive (and in is strongly characterised by one of the number of Fig 3.3.7g: Hard sandstone some cases comprehensive) use of local materials green wedges particularly to the south of the town and buff bricks, Taunton for both main wall coursing and detailing. The which form part of its setting. is perhaps best illustrated by the Church of St SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 John, Park Street. Stone is seen frequently in Issues older buildings and to the grander early Victorian • Development within this part of the district is very terraces, mostly red sandstones, coursed and material sensitive and materials vary across the sometimes used for ashlar work. To the suburbs character area. The recent lighting towers for the red (and to a lesser extent buff) brick and natural cricket ground and their illumination and their slate is dominant but often supplemented and impact with the skyline demonstrate the issues DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 enhanced with stone dressings (and vice versa) associated with taller structures. (Fig 3.3.7g). • The document Taunton The Vision For Our Garden Town (July 2019) provides a more detailed Views CONSULTATION DRAFT understanding of the different characteristics Views within this character area are often of parts of the town and the importance in constrained by development and/or the relative SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 maintaining that local distinctiveness throughout. flat character of the topography, with the exception of some of the northern suburbs which sit on the • New development to the boundaries of the base of the Quantocks. The tall square church Garden Town has to be sensitively treated towers and a spire are always strong landmarks • River frontage in design terms should be carefully and define the ‘centre’ of the settlement (Fig 3.3.7h). handled and used to positive wider gains to the Views out to ridges particularly to the south (to APPENDICES 7.0 site itself (by, for example, wherever possible Fig 3.3.7h: View to church tower, the Blackdown Hills) are often combined and Taunton (Church of St James) maintaining public access)
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3.3.8 Blackdowns Plateau THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
8 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology Built form An elevated and dramatically simple, flat landform. Apart from the compact village of Churchinford The Plateau comprises a strong landscape (Fig 3.3.8a & b), (which has some good examples of CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 framework of consistent field patterns principally recent infill), settlements and built form on the as a result of enclosure which in-turn has plateau is limited. There are a number of dispersed produced long straight roads, drainage ditches farmhouses, grouped with their associated and the legacy of WWII airfields. agricultural buildings. The large agricultural sheds and units are visually prominent, particularly when Farmland is generally defined by improved pasture viewed against an open skyline. Many farmhouses, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 reflecting the poorer, acidic soils compared with attached to working buildings are of lower status many other parts of Taunton Deane. Stabling and (than elsewhere within the district). There are paddocks are a recent feature. some enclosed regular courtyard plans, mostly Fig 3.3.8a: Courtyard group, Churchinford on larger and high-status farms, often developed Settlement types & forms or remodelled in the early-mid 19th century. Churchinford is an unusual settlement form in Notably, there are numerous small field barns are DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 that it comprises the junction of six radial roads a characteristic of the Blackdown Hills. at its heart. Otherwise, villages such as Blagdon Hill are linear in character, often only a single plot deep throughout. Outside the villages, settlement Further information CONSULTATION DRAFT form is predominantly individual and groups of farms and their associated buildings. These are The Blackdown Hills AoNB ‘Design Guide SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 partly located on the character area boundary to for Houses’ (2012) is a useful reference for the north, adjacent to the plateau but mid slope. understanding the existing built form and for However, village settlements tend to be set upon guidance on residential design in the AoNB the plateau. Fig 3.3.8b: Good recent infill creating strong corner, Churchinford APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.8 Blackdowns Plateau (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
8 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Materials Views The Upper Greensand stone formation is capped There are very limited opportunities for views once by Clay-with-Chert. The Chert is a hard orange- onto the plateau although the long straight roads CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 light brownish stone (Fig 3.3.8c) similar geologically provide a good depth of vision to a generally open to flint and, both whole and knapped. This landscape. There are spectacular and almost district material is widely used across the Blackdown defining views (Fig 3.3.8d) to the northern edge of Hills and is particularly prevalent on the plateau the character area, across the vale to Taunton and (and in buildings within the adjacent Greensand Wellington and beyond to the Quantocks and the
Valleys) where it is easily sourced. Examples of Brendon Hills (and Exmoor National Park). These SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Chert cottages are found aligning the numerous views give a strong sense of landscape structure of lanes that converge at the centre of the village of the district and the importance of the ‘circle’ of hills Churchinford. Traditional roof finishes are generally around the central vale. Fig 3.3.8c: Use of chert for cottages, Churchinford clay tiles (including Bridgwaters), some thatch Issues (combed wheat reed) and some natural slate. • Limited and sensitive opportunities for DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 development may still exist. Edge conditions, layout and form will be particularly important in this character area CONSULTATION• The presence of large agricultural sheds can DRAFT have a disruptive impact on the tranquil and
open views of this part of the district SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.3.8d: View of Taunton from Blagdon Hill
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3.3.9 Fivehead Vale THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
9 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology. Settlement types & forms This character area comprises a vale landscape There are individual dwellings and farm groups based around a number of tributary streams dispersed across the Vale with settlement CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 of the Fivehead River, in the adjacent district clusters at the nucleated villages of Corfe, Staple of South Somerset. The elevation varies from Fitzpaine (Fig 3.3.9a) and Hatch Beauchamp, as 35-200m AOD producing a rolling terrain – the well as a number of hamlets (generally dispersed landscape being lower and flatter to the east settlement) such as West Hatch and Curland. and north rising and becoming more undulating in the west and south. Built form SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Simple vernacular building form. Generally simple The area is strongly defined by a geology of two storey, gables with steeply pitched roofs. Farm Blue Lias; blue-grey and honey coloured stone groups are generally regular courtyard types with used consistently, forming a strongly defined Fig 3.3.9a: Staple Fitzpaine multi-function buildings on a small scale. local vernacular. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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3.3.9 Fivehead Vale (continued) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
9 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Materials Issues The entire character area is underlain and • A general lack of supply of Blue Lias stonework therefore strongly defined by Blue Lias comprising (this is also a district-wide issue) means a default CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 limestones and clays. This area forms the use of rendered walls which can lead to an erosion westernmost part of the Blue Lias dip slope that of the distinct character of some parts of this extends east, beyond Taunton Deane. Blue Lias character area where the stone is so dominant. is widely seen to buildings has a blue-grey (Fig • In new development locally distinctive materials 3.3.9b) and sometimes honey-coloured (White Lias) such as Blue Lias should be used to their colour and is often combined with other materials SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 maximum effect, such as for key buildings or for dressings such as Ham stone. Its friable boundary walls characteristics mean that it has often been later rendered and painted with this walling finish often • Infill should reflect the character, form and layout forming part of the character of groups of buildings. of host settlements and buildings. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Views Fig 3.3.9b: Blue Lias rubblestone, Corfe Views within this character area are often intermittent or broken due to the landform, woodland cover and strong hedgerows. There are areas of higher ground that do offer well-definedCONSULTATION DRAFT views with Staple Fitzpaine church forming a strong landmark (Fig 3.3.9c). There are also more SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 extensive open views descending into the Vale of Taunton Deane, for example. These can extend to the Quantock Hills and also east into the gently rolling landscape of South Somerset. APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 3.3.9c: Tower, Church of St Peter, Staple Fitzpaine
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3.3.10 Sandstone Ridge THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
10 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41
Landscape, topography & geology extended along these radial routes giving it The North Curry Sandstone Ridge is a relatively a relatively dispersed character beyond its prominent landscape feature comprising an well-defined centre. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 undulating, well-defined ridge that rises out of the surrounding Clay and Peat Moors. It is the sharp juxtaposition of ridge and flat surrounding moorland (drained inland marsh) that defines this character area. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Distinctive pollarded willows flank embanked rivers, drains, rhynes and droves that form strong linear patterns across the Moors. Fields of withies reflect the tradition of willow-weaving.
Settlement types & forms DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 The ridge is a settled landscape, comprising two main villages North Curry and Stoke St Gregory – as well as the linear hamlets (Meare Green and Knapp) in addition to a large number of individualCONSULTATION DRAFT farms throughout.
North Curry is the larger of the two settlements SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 with both having nucleated urbane centres; North Curry is unusually focussed around a village green (Fig 3.3.10a) and comprises groups of 18th century terraced brick (and rendered) cottages as well as larger houses which strongly define the green and Fig 3.3.10a: Townscape, North Curry The strong building line, informal terraces and give a strong sense of place. Six roads converge the relationship to small greens makes this an APPENDICES 7.0 at North Curry and the settlement pattern has attractive precedent for new housing groups
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3.3.10 Sandstone Ridge (continued) THE 2.0
DESIGN 10 See Map (Fig 3.3b) on page 41 PROCESS
Built form Views Both North Curry and Stoke St Gregory have Extensive views from the ridgeline and sides prominent churches that form part of views to the across the low-lying surrounding wetland CONTEXT 3.0 ridge from some distance within the hinterland. (Fig 3.3.10c) and beyond can be enjoyed and
& The church of St Peter and St Paul at North Curry these can extend across the Vale of Taunton DISTINCTIVENESS and the church of St Gregory are both notable for Deane and Quantock Hills as well as to the east their octagonal bell towers, two of a number of across the Somerset Levels. such towers found in the region. SUSTAINABLE Issues 4.0 Materials • Attractive informal street terraces should define
The North Curry Sandstone (a green-grey stone) the design approach to development both within PLACEMAKING (Fig 3.3.10b) is a consistent building material found and to the fringes of settlements and hamlets Fig 3.3.10b: North Curry Sandstone cottages across the ridge, as is red brick, painted render • The prominent character of the edges of (usually over stone) and clay pantiles. settlement (particularly in long views) makes DESIGN Fig 3.3.10c: View north from 5.0 them particularly sensitive to change. Church of St Peter and St Paul
TOPICS CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0
INFO 7.0 APPENDICES
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Key Requirements THE 2.0
DESIGN PROCESS
Checklist for 3.0 Context and Distinctiveness:
3.2 Are there local features eg in 3.2.1 – CONTEXT 3.0 3.2.7, which could inform or be adapted to
& contemporary design proposals? DISTINCTIVENESS
3.3 Has the proposed development been located in its character area (maps 3.3b, 3.3c) SUSTAINABLE and the relevant character area appraisal 4.0 consulted, regarding Landscape, Topography
and Geology, Settlement types and forms, Built PLACEMAKING Form, Materials, Views, Issues?
If the proposal is located in the Taunton DESIGN Garden Town area, have you responded to the 5.0
document ‘The Vision for our Garden Town’? TOPICS
Has your proposal been informed by the Context and Setting Appraisal (2.3) andCONSULTATION Site DRAFT Appraisal (2.4)? SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0
INFO 7.0 APPENDICES
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4.1 Integrating placemaking with sustainability 69 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 4.2 Site structuring 74
4.3 Designing house types which make streets and places 78
4.4 Streets, places & parking 84 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0
SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 4.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUSTAINABLE SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 PLACEMAKING APPENDICES 7.0
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4.1 Integrating placemaking with sustainability THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The design agendas for Placemaking and Zero Carbon Impact Sustainability are often considered separately, as Taunton Garden Town information different disciplines. However, the reality is that CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Many aspects of placemaking and climate action the aims of one can be reconciled and integrated For new schemes within the Taunton Garden Town intersect and coincide. For instance, reducing with the other, producing resilient, healthy and area, this is especially relevant, given the Vision, the need to travel (climate action), and creating attractive places. Similarly, the design of the built Charter and Checklist for the area. In schemes places with identity and purpose (placemaking environment and the green infrastructure should for allocated sites in other parts of the district, aim), such as locating services and facilities within be considered together. it is expected that the majority of the features walking distance of homes. Furthermore, nature shown will be incorporated, subject to individual SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The indicative diagrams, (see Figs 4.1.1a and 4.1.2a) based solutions to flood management (climate circumstances. Where schemes have been illustrate Placemaking principles and Sustainable action) and creating attractive and useful places, consented subject to reserved matters, relevant principles integrated within the same scheme. responsive to people (placemaking aim), resulting aspects shown will be the subject of negotiation, in multifunctional, connected green spaces. The diagram illustrates the design framework with the aim of incorporating as many features as Planting trees for carbon sequestration, air quality for a new neighbourhood. For the purposes of possible. Similarly, when existing neighbourhoods and biodiversity (carbon action), coincides with illustration and clarity, the scheme is compressed are being renewed or improved, it is likely that DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 placemaking aims of contributing to attractive somewhat and an actual neighbourhood would many of these features should be retrofitted. places through street trees, which aid investment be larger. Nevertheless, it is expected that in quality public realm and regeneration schemes. prospective schemes would demonstrate that they are including the features of good practiceCONSULTATION DRAFT shown in the diagram. Neighbourhood facilities and services should be incorporated as much as SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 possible, dependent on size of the neighbourhood and convenient distance to existing facilities, in order to reduce the need to travel and enable people to live healthy, local lives. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.1.1 Sustainable principles within an indicative scheme THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
Green and blue infrastructure shapes the spaces • Bicycle storage is integrated into individual house and places between buildings. design or in small housing groups to maximise usage. Similarly, recycling storage is integrated CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 • Sustainable urban drainage system includes into house design. the retention of existing drainage ditches. New swales reinforce this pattern. The green wedge, • Buildings are predominantly designed to rain gardens, allotments and other green spaces integrate photovoltaic panels. Alternatively, they absorb water, as well as the hedgerows, trees, could be fitted with air sourced heat pumps. verges, boundary hedges and private gardens. • Extensive tree planting in the streetscape, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Semi porous paved surfaces for footpaths and rain gardens community orchard and the hardstandings also contribute to water absorption. reinforcement of hedgerows fosters biodiversity, • Opportunities for food growing are provided in contributes to air quality, CO2 capture, aesthetic the micro allotments and community orchard. quality and sense of wellbeing. Other potential opportunities could be urban • Bat, swallow and owl nesting is encouraged in smallholdings, managed through a community DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 the integration of nesting boxes into some gable spaces trust. ends. Sedum planting on flat roofs and ‘green • Active travel is facilitated through the dense, walls’ also encourage biodiversity. legible and attractive network of foot andCONSULTATION cycle DRAFT paths which permeate the neighbourhood, linking to the neighbourhood hub and bus priority SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 routes. Play areas, formal sports provision and fitness tracks. APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 4.1.1a: Indicative scheme incorporating sustainable principles THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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4.1.2 Placemaking principles within an indicative scheme THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The same layout demonstrates the use of Area 2: Urban Blocks • Higher density terrace family housing. good practice principles in placemaking and Housing is designed within urban blocks, with a
• Semi detached and short terrace 2 storey CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 placeshaping. clear distinction between frontages accessible housing. from the public realm and private rear gardens. In • Legible hierarchy of streets (major to minor), larger blocks, permeable mews yards are inserted • Lower density housing. public spaces, footpaths and shared spaces. and the rear spaces can also accommodate rain • Flats over garages. gardens, toddler play spaces or micro allotments. Area 1: Neighbourhood Hub (see also 4.2.1, residential block design). • Single storey patio houses. May vary in size depending on population and SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 distance from existing facilities. Car parking is accommodated in ‘parking streets’, • Focal point building; with ground floor small courts, some ‘on plot’ spaces in townhouses, mixed use option. • Square. Nodal point of foot routes. Bus stop. flats over garages and in lower density houses. Event and market space. Direct access to the • Key Group. school, community centre, shops/businesses, A clear density hierarchy is demonstrated both health centre. within blocks and the scheme overall. Higher
density housing is located in close proximity to the DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 • School; usually primary/middle. community hub and/or to the bus route. Medium • Community centre; library/resource centre, and lower density respectively is located further from meeting rooms, office, place of worship, etc. the hub, although easily connected within walking CONSULTATIONdistance. The density range also incorporates DRAFTa • Shops/n/hood mini market, café, business/ variety of house types and tenures, see list below:- service premises. (as illustrated in Fig 4.1.2a on following page) SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • Health centre/pharmacy. • Apartments, 3&4 storey, many over shops and • Shared car park, serving all the Hub uses. businesses, adjacent to hub. (as illustrated in Fig 4.1.2a on following page) • Sheltered housing or similar, within easy walking distance to hub and bus stops. APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 4.1.2a: Indicative scheme incorporating placemaking principles THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Area 1: Neighbourhood Hub
a Square. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 b School; usually primary/middle. b e i c Community centre; library/resource centre, meeting rooms, office, place c of worship, etc.
d Shops/n/hood mini market, café, a business/service premises. f d e Health centre/pharmacy. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 a f Shared car park, serving all the Hub uses. d
c Area 2: Urban Blocks b c a Apartments, 3&4 storey, many
over shops and businesses, DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 adjacent to hub. d b Sheltered housing or similar, within f e easy walking distance to hub and bus stops. CONSULTATION DRAFTf c Higher density terrace family housing. d h d Semi detached and short SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 d terrace 2 storey housing. g
e Lower density housing.
f Flats over garages. e
g Single storey patio houses.
h Focal point building; with ground
floor mixed use option. APPENDICES 7.0
i Key Group.
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4.2 Site structuring THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Initial decisions regarding the structure and form of the proposed development should include the consideration of grading of CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 density and the hierarchy of places, spaces and connections.
The example shows the theoretical density of 30 dwellings per hectare. However, the expectation will be that in many contexts SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 higher densities will be appropriate, to reduce land-take and contribute to the viability of facilities and public transport. Good site planning will avoid ‘spaces left over’. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 4.2.1a: Residential perimeter 4.2.1 Residential blocks block within a street context THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The block, whether informal and organic, as in older towns, or the more regular form which characterise the Victorian ‘by law’ terraces in CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Taunton or similar layouts in Wellington and Minehead, is an efficient layout providing logical plots, direct street access and clear distinction between the public and private side of a property.
The example shown (Fig 4.2.1a) combines the SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 informality of the organic form, (providing streetscape interest and different types of street design and hierarchy) and the flexibility to fit in within an existing townscape, with the efficiency of the by-law type. Additionally, the example shows how a variety of house types can be DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 accommodated within a block, A shared surface street bisects the block and safe areas for play and allotments or a rain garden are provided. Normally intersections or deflections in the streetCONSULTATION should DRAFT occur at about 60m intervals (see section 4.4).
The simple terraced forms, set at subtle angles SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 to each other could easily be constructed either traditionally or by using Modern Methods of Construction. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.2.2 Higher density blocks THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Taunton Garden Town information
Perimeter Blocks can be developed at a range of Fig 4.2.2a: Higher density residential perimeter block densities. In some cases, densities can be varied within the same block and should be designed CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to ensure that tenures are undifferentiated.
This indicative sketch illustrates a typical block, in a higher density area, eg, in neighbourhood centres, and on bus routes. The depth of blocks should be related to building height, shading SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 factors and ‘privacy by design’ (see section 5.5). Minimum frontage to frontage should be about 65-70m. Building heights should normally be between 4 and 7 storeys.
Best practice indicates that residents’ communal rooms/meeting spaces reduce loneliness and DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 encourage engagement. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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4.2.3 Building within the landscape setting THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Taunton Garden Town information Fig 4.2.3a The hilly topography of the district means that The roofline of the proposed development ridgelines and rising ground often form the should be considered for its long-view impact. background and setting for development, not For instance a repetitive ‘sawtooth pattern of gable CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 only in rural settings, but in towns, particularly ends, especially in an assertive colour scheme in Taunton and Minehead. Indeed, the Taunton (eg white or yellow) could be excessively intrusive, Garden Town Vision document refers to the fact whereas a more varied roofline, interspersed with that part of the character of the town is that the trees might be more appropriate. Of course, and surrounding hills can be seen from the centre. exceptionally, it may be appropriate to introduce
Most of the ridgelines form part of either the skyline interest above an established line. The SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 National Park, or the two Areas of Outstanding case for this would have to be justified. Beauty within the district. Moreover, views of the celebrated medieval church towers, often seen within the landscape setting, should be Fig 4.2.3b: The full range of building heights should taken into account in the siting and height of be utilised within the hierarchy of places and character new development – see section 5.10. areas of a scheme, depending on the overall design DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 concept and its landscape and townscape setting. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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4.3 Designing house types which make streets and places THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Good places can be created by forming townscapes It is expected that larger developments should and streetscapes from the way that individual make full use of the range of house types in a Taunton Garden Town information
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 houses fit together and are grouped in streets, coherent manner, in distinctive character areas. blocks and the way they relate to green spaces. The principles of this guidance are relevant See also Public Realm Design Guide for Taunton Good places succeed when they achieve the for developments of the range of sizes, from Garden Town balance between variety, (creating a range of intimate individual groups to major residential different house types, scales, materials and neighbourhoods, although the scale of the density creating a sense of character and aesthetic building designs should be appropriate to village, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 satisfaction) and unity, (providing structure and suburban or urban contexts, at a range of densities. hierarchy of streets, spaces, building forms, It is likely that some house types may embody creating a sense of coherence and legibility). more than one condition, eg; key group and focal Fig 4.3a: Diagram showing the relationship between point, or curvature and continuity. house types and the general structure of a scheme. Good places are also formed by street design and hierarchy, as much as building design; Local distinctiveness can be responded to and guidance on street design in section 4.4 should enhanced through the use of house types which DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 be read in conjunction with this section. can follow contours, relate to hilly situations and respect and, in places, enhance skylines. In Developers and designers are encouraged to particular, these house types can form coherent evolve and utilise a range of house types which CONSULTATIONstreet frontages, relating to existing streets. DRAFT can work together to address the aims above. Key groups can relate to or incorporate existing The following guidance and indicative illustrations distinctive features, whether trees, greens, ponds, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 suggest a typology of house types, acting stone walls or existing buildings. The palette of as components, which when organised in local colours and materials and details can be different combinations, can form varied yet referenced at key points, if not throughout. structured townscapes. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.3.1 This type represents the majority (a) In existing settlements; on streets where the THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Continuity of cases, where the aim is to maintenance of character is important; new create coherent street frontages development should respect existing building along a building line or zone. lines, front boundaries (walls, hedges, railings), House types are likely to be spacing between houses, density, grain, height terraces of variable length, and possibly roof pitch, fenestration, materials.
semi detached, or wider fronted CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 (b) In new development areas; the character of individual houses, linked by the street frontage house types should be garages or walls. Consistent established in Design Codes addressing the boundary wall treatment can features as in (a) above, especially where also create street continuity. different developers are building different Street continuity is relevant at parts of the street. NB; it is likely that different village, suburb or urban scales. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 developers may have different detailed house designs. However, these should conform to the parameters set out for street continuity.
4.3.2 Where the continuity of the Occasional accents can include slight projections Accent street design is enlivened by in front of the building line, change of alignment DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 slight interruptions to heighten of roof ridge, (eg from eaves to gable frontage), visual interest and aid legibility. change of material or the addition of an extra By definition, an accent is storey. Accents are most effective if they are an occasional event inCONSULTATION the used to offset what otherwise would be long DRAFT streetscape and therefore is continuous ranges of similar house types. used sparingly. Accents can be used formally, such as gable SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 ended ‘bookends’ to a terrace.
The location of accent buildings or features works well associated with street bends or slight changes in alignment. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.3.3 Street continuity can be A curving street frontage can be achieved by: THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Curvature ‘nudged’ to follow contours (a) Introducing a simple angled house type, or to follow existing street for instance the setting of one party wall at, alignments or site boundaries. say, 100 degrees, rather than 90 degrees Curvature can be used to to the façade. townscape effect in deflecting
(b) Changing the alignment of garages, CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 views, or opening up new vistas stores or above eye level boundary walls. along the length of a street. (c) Configuring short terraces at angles to each other. In both cases wider frontage or semi-detached types can more easily accommodate curved effect, rather than narrow frontage deep plan types. However, short groups of narrow front, deep plan units can be SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 set out in curving street alignments, if the spaces between these groups are resolved satisfactorily.
4.3.4 Where street junctions occur, A corner building (or buildings) presents an Corners often creating an abrupt change architectural opportunity, as it is seen in three DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 of the character of the street dimensions and often incorporates a change of or building form. The design of scale, eg from major street frontage to minor corner buildings can influence street. Corner building types will be an essential driver behaviour, throughCONSULTATION the component in any range of house types. DRAFT limiting of sight lines. Chamfered corners can be effective, but the
internal corner on the private side of the building SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 should be designed to avoid overlooking or overshadowing. A concave chamfered frontage type avoids this problem and allows for a less abrupt corner, especially in lower density contexts. The level of architectural/stylistic response should
be appropriate to context. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.3.5 Typically, a focal point is located The design should be designed to be legible THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Focal Points to terminate the vista at the end at a relatively long distance, terminating the vista. of a street. It gives coherence to The building may or may not be symmetrical, the street design and conveys but should assert itself, for instance by presenting the message to drivers the need a gable end or extra storey, to emphasise its to come to a halt at a junction. effect. It may be that window and door size and
proportion should be increased, in relation to its CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 neighbours, or that a relatively assertive colour be employed. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0
4.3.6 Where small groups of units Key Groups can be formal, such as a square Key Groups are grouped at critical points or setback green, or a more informal massing, DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 in the townscape/streetscape, depending on the context and scale of the to address a green, a boundary proposals and the setting. at a settlement edge, an entry Key Groups can be configured by using some of the point to a development, or a CONSULTATIONtypes above; for instance, corners and focal point DRAFT square. Key groups may also be buildings linking continuity terraces, or curving appropriate to address existing
frontages, to coherently address a green or square. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 landscape features, such as large trees. Individual units will be closely grouped in terraces or other linked arrangements to enclose or to coherently address and enclose a space. Alternatively, Key Group locations may be regarded as the opportunity to introduce more bespoke APPENDICES 7.0 architectural solutions.
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4.3.7 Where the proposed The roofline of the proposed development THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Building on development is visible against should be considered for its long-view impact. slopes or protruding above a valued For instance, a repetitive ‘sawtooth pattern landscape skyline, as seen of gable ends, especially in an assertive from certain key viewpoints. colour scheme (eg white or yellow) could be The roofline design may also excessively intrusive, whereas a more varied
be critical within the wider roofline, interspersed with trees might be CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 townscape, especially when more appropriate. seen against landmarks or Of course, and exceptionally, it may be established rooflines which appropriate to introduce skyline interest above contribute to the character an established line. The case for this would of a place. have to be justified. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0
4.3.8 Where smaller scale, enclosed These can be deployed in two ways: Villa/Pavilion groups are required; usually a) A single freestanding unit, usually square DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 at the lower end of the street on plan. A single larger house. Two or more hierarchy and in subsidiary elevations designed as formal frontages visible spaces. The building types are from the street. Windows and doors should be designed to address shared CONSULTATIONdesigned to be seen from longer distances. DRAFT surface streets and courts. b) As group villas, semi-detached or apartments, with sufficient space between, to allow for views SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 between them, some outlook from side elevations and to emphasise their individuality. They should be designed as a set of identical or closely related units. They are usually successful if designed as symmetrical elevations, with entrances either
side of the centreline, or at the side. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.3.9 Where smaller scale, enclosed There are usually two main types: THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 Mews/ groups are required; usually (a) Flats over garages. Mainly 1-2 bedroom flats courtyard at the lower end of the street over 3-4 garages, plus access staircase. hierarchy and in subsidiary They are predominantly single aspect. If no spaces. The building types are external private space at ground level, a roof designed to address shared terrace, balcony or Juliette balcony must surface streets and courts. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 be provided. Space in front of the front door should be designed to deter parking and allow personalisation, (such as planting etc). Height ‘1 ½ ’ - ‘2 ½’ storeys. (b) patio-type single storey houses. Mainly 1-2
bedroom small houses arranged in ‘L’ shaped SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 plan, enclosing a patio garden surrounded by a wall. Roof design is most convenient as a combination of monopitch and flat, with a sedum finish. This allows for photovoltaics and preventing overshadowing adjacent patios.
Both types are self-contained, single aspect and DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 limited garden areas. Visual privacy will be a prime consideration and will influence window design and location. Shared space design shoul include CONSULTATIONlandscape. DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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4.4 Streets, places and parking
Relevant Policies > D9 (SADMP) and TR2 and NH13 (WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The approach Fig 4.4a: Street design is an integral part of placemaking and requires a comprehensive approach. Taunton Garden Town information Streets are places, they are for everyone, of all ages and abilities; they are not purely roads for CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 STREETS The guidance also relates to the Taunton Garden vehicles. The importance of prioritising active FOR EVERYONE travel, walking and cycling has achieved a Walkers, cyclists, drivers Town area, where street designers should and all ages/abilities much higher priority in the design and layout additionally consult the TGT Public Realm Guide.A of our streets. Placemaking, using townscape principles, can be used both for creating groups STREET STREET References
SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 of buildings and for making streets which are DESIGN DESIGN driven SOLUTIONS Manual for Streets. Department for Transport, Department by TRACKING APPROPRIATE safe and attractive. sustainable, TO CONTEXT for Communities and Local Government, 2007. technical & The Design Guide in adopting this approach, Towns, suburbs, Manual for Streets 2. Chartered Institute for Highways and management villages/rural, reflects that of Manual for Streets 1 and 2, (and considerations 'greenfireld' Transportation, 2010. & infill their successor guidance documents), latest good Better Planning, BetterATransport, Better Places. Chartered practice guidance from CIHT *and the guidance Institute for Highways & Transportation, August, 2019. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 from Somerset County Council, in ’Streets in STREET DESIGN as an integral Gear Change. Department for Transport, 2020. Residential Developments; layout and appearance’ element of PLACEMAKING including townscape, legibility, LocalATransport Note 1/20; Cycle Infrastructure Design. (2020), replacing the ‘Red Book’. Indeed, this connectivity & hierarchy Somerset County Council. section has been developed through negotiation CONSULTATION DRAFTCreating Better Streets; Inclusive and accessible places. with the County Highways Department. Scope Reviewing Shared Space. CIHT, 2018.
The character of the Somerset West and Taunton This Districtwide guidance relates predominantly Guidance on the use ofATactile Paving Surfaces. DETR, 1998. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 area requires a context driven approach to street to new residential streets, mainly in new The Inclusive Transport Strategy; achieving equal access forA design, placemaking and parking provision. The developments at all scales, from small infill disabled people. DfT, 2018. approach taken will differ between town centre, to housing groups, to large neighbourhoods. It Statutory Instruments 1999 No 1025. The Highways (Road suburb to small town and village and to dispersed excludes trunk roads and all county strategic Humps) Regulations, 1999. rural settlements. Moreover, relative density in distributor roads, except at junctions with new Statutory Instruments 1999 No 1026. The Highways (TrafficA these contexts will also be a determinant. residential groups. Calming) Regulations, 1999. APPENDICES 7.0
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4.4.1 Street and placemaking principles THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Development areas should be designated Street and place networks should be designed Places in this hierarchy are defined as points 20mph zones with a coherent and legible Hierarchy of intersection of vehicular and/or pedestrian routes and/or meeting places. They can be CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 20mph delivers safer, friendlier streets, lower carbon A Hierarchy (see diagram) comprises a network formal squares, parking squares, site entry areas, emissions and improves the appeal of active travel of streets and places progressing from the entry intersections with raised tables, etc. for shorter journeys. Within this area, beyond the (or entries) to the development site (1) to main signage at each entrance, streets will be designed to approach street (B) progressing down to the most The hierarchy has a three-dimensional aspect in control the speed of traffic by: minor streets and yards. that buildings play their part in creating conditions to ensure a design speed of 20mph. Hence, as 1. Frequent junctions and slight changes of street Streets should be defined by perimeter blocks. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 seen in the diagram, buildings are designed and alignment, etc to disrupt street continuity, by at Cul de sacs/dead ends should be kept to a minimum, located to terminate street vistas, signalling a slow least every 50m. in order to optimise connectivity and aid legibility. approach to junctions through the foreshortening Opportunities for connectivity with the existing built up 2. ‘Tight’ junctions with constrained sight lines. effect, create tight corners to reinforce the need area should be maximised, by foot, bicycle, bus, utilities The optimum corner radii 3m. to approach at low speed and turn with caution and the car, especially to local facilities and schools. 3. Street alignment/dimensions will be determined and enclose streets and places, which again has DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 by vehicular ‘tracking’. In any scheme above approximately 15 housing an inhibiting effect on speed. Street trees reinforce units, there should be a discernible hierarchy of the sense of enclosure, contribute to air quality 4. Buildings enclosing the streets and places and streets and places. A Hierarchy in this context is a and create a sense of place. terminating street vistas. CONSULTATIONnetwork of streets and places progressing from DRAFT 5. Raised platforms or tables at street intersections entry point, main approach street terminating at a and other places, to create pedestrian main junction, with branch streets of diminishing SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 uncontrolled or informal crossings. levels of traffic, circulating the blocks comprising 6. Footways and cycle lanes will be designed to the scheme. In larger schemes it is likely that there be direct, to achieve legible connectivity, with would be Shared Surface Streets, sometimes vehicular traffic being subservient to this. referred to as homezones, usually bisecting perimeter blocks. In exceptional cases there will be 7. The use of changes in surface materials. courts, for example, behind major frontages at the APPENDICES 7.0 Each of these measures is explained further in entrances or edges to the site. this section.
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4.4.2 Hierachy of streets and places THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Diagram showing the elements of a street Fig 4.4.2a and place hierarchy for a larger neighbourhood scheme. Smaller schemes would have some CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 of these components of a hierarchy. Note that the neighbourhood area would be designated C as a 20mph zone. Note also the different 3a forms of connectivity between the new G neighbourhood and the existing residential 4 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 area. Streets are shown in a rectangular grid 4 5 perimeter blocks, but the degree of formality 5 C and informality will depend on the context C 2 and the character of the development. B 3b D DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
F C E A Streets (see page 84) 4
1 Places (see page 86) CONSULTATION DRAFT 5
20 mph neighbourhood zone D 3b 1 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Main foot/cycle connectivity
Building elevation terminates street vista. A 5 Pivotal building
Building forms a ‘pinch point’. APPENDICES 7.0
Bus stop
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4.4.3 Elements of the hierarchy THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Streets non parallel alignments determined by tracking. Footways 2m either side, with street trees. On- CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 A Distributor road outside the system, often a street parking in groups of 5 bays, parallel or classified highway. perpendicular, separated by trees/planting.
B Main entry street with the character of a E Peripheral Lane Entered via 3m radius corner, boulevard or avenue in larger schemes. The from Minor Street. Width determined by tracking width of clear carriageways should be a and changes in alignment, or either 3.6m wide maximum of 6m wide, possibly with a median with passing places, or 4.8m wide. 2m footpath SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 strip. Footways at least 2m wide, plus planting on one side. Parking in groups of a maximum of strip. Parking should be parallel to the kerb, 5 bays. Divided by street trees and/or planting. on plot or by private drive. In larger schemes F Shared Surface Street At 90 degrees to street; designated cycle lanes could be included. A entered via a crossover, nominal width 4.1m bus route could be diverted into the scheme. to maximum 5.5m wide, with 2mx2m footway
C Secondary Street These would permeate visibility splays. Shared surface with planters, trees DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 throughout the neighbourhood. 5.0-5.5m wide, and seats defining parking spaces and creating with 2m footways on either side. These streets chicanes. Preferred layout as ‘through’ access Fig 4.4.3a: Raised no-priority junction crossing: This example should have their continuity disrupted at least rather than dead ends. Design speed; 10mph. shows a retrofitted junction, but the same principles apply every 50m by abrupt changes in alignment,CONSULTATION raised DRAFTto new streets. Raised platform pedestrian crossings can G Pedestrian/cycle or bus gate connectors be used at frequent intervals. pedestrian informal or uncontrolled crossings, These are links to the adjacent existing local narrowing by build-outs or changes in SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 residential area. They should be designed surface material. Parking should be either/and to give a physical and time advantage to parallel or perpendicular on street, or on plot. sustainable modes over the private car and D Minor street Extension of secondary street, provide legible connectivity to the existing street usually marked by abrupt change of alignment and footway network. of street and building enclosure plus the APPENDICES 7.0 measures as (C) above. Width 4.8m, or informal Fig 4.4.3b: Clifton, Bristol
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Shared Space Street (Homezone) Street and place design is a Indicative layout three-dimensional process
Fig 4.4.3c Fig 4.4.3d CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Design principles: CONSULTATION DRAFTStreet sections can only show a limited amount of information and can give the impression that • A calm, green place, ‘owned’ by its • Parking in small groups of bays
streets are uniform in their length. The use of SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 residents, with trees, planting, seats, • Mainly shared space, with central perspective or axonometric drawings conveys playspace and bicycle storage drainage channels the effects of changing street width and sense • Design speed maximum 10 mph of enclosure in a street and can illustrate the ways • Shared Space Street entered via crossovers in which built form influences junction design. • Vehicle circulation determined by tracking • Key building terminates entry view
• ‘Through’ design rather than cul de sac APPENDICES 7.0 • Surface should be appropriate to the ‘static’ allows easier servicing character of the space, eg block pavers
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Fig 4.4.3e: The area could be defined as an informal street pedestrian crossing. The raised crossings should ‘Squareabout’ junction platform with pedestrian comfort zones. This be long (about 10m) and narrow, (min 4.1m). place should be enclosed by buildings with Street trees or planting should help to define the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 active frontages, with elevations designed to space. Building elevations to terminate street terminate street vistas, to inhibit vehicular speeds. vistas should be employed, as well as buildings In medium to larger schemes parking for bicycles forming ’pinch points’ on entering the place. The and cars should be provided, interspersed by space will be defined through vehicular tracking. street trees. Neighbourhood-scale Main Places 5 Rear parking court These will be used could have provision for bus stops. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 sparingly, usually at the peripheries of the 3 Parking Square Either a) a place surrounded by development. They should be small scale and local facilities in a neighbourhood hub, where directly overlooked by houses and/or flats over car and bicycle parking is primarily for users of garages. Typical locations are likely to be at the the facilities (school, nursery, medical centre, rear of key groups addressing Entry Points (1), library/community facilities, local shops, and at tight corner locations. They should be Places DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 etc), or b) a square devoted to residential shared surfaces and entered by openings of parking, allocated or not, enclosed by housing 3.6m-5.5m max wide, consisting of a footway 1 Entry place ‘Square-about’ arrangement is frontages, which provides extra spaces for crossover and 2mx2m footway visibility splays. preferred (see fig 4.4.3e above). Roundabouts other housing within an approximately 100m are unacceptable, as they do not sufficientlyCONSULTATION DRAFT6 Private Drives Located in association with radius of the place. Parking bays should be reduce entry speed and are unfriendly to Boulevards (B) and possibly Peripheral Lanes in clusters of 4-5, separated by street trees. pedestrian/cycle access and crossing. The (E), the purpose to reduce the number of on- SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Bicycle accommodation and some seating entry point should be framed and enclosed plot drives accessing the street. Six maximum would be likely. The optimum number of by groups of buildings with active frontages. properties accessed by each drive. The entry spaces would be 35, with a maximum of 55. point should be via a crossover and have a 2 Main place A place where the Main Entry Street 4 Platform intersection These are at junctions dwelling terminating the forward view. They ‘arrives’. Secondary streets spring from this. The of secondary and minor streets, or at main should have a shared surface and turning areas place should have the character of a formal corners. Usually designed as a raised should be defined by tracking. Layout should be APPENDICES 7.0 square, even in relatively small developments, pedestrian informal crossing, encouraging designed for vehicles to egress in forward gear. with vehicular routes defined by tracking.
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Fig 4.4.3f: Rear parking yards Fig 4.4.3g: Private Drives; indicative types Rear parking yards are not generally recommended, In all cases the size of the drives is determined as they are usually underused and inconvenient. by vehicular tracking. Emphasis on informal layout However, in cases of major corners and entry points, with shared surfaces. Entry view terminated by CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 as in this drawing, they are necessary. Yards should a dwelling (NB: avoid garage or wall terminating). normally serve only 3 or 4 dwellings. Vehicles should In infill locations within established town and be able to egress from them in forward gear. They village contexts, the design principles of both should be accessed by a crossover and be block Shared Surface Streets and Private Drives may paved. They should have at least one front elevation be relevant. See also section 5.6. looking onto them (to enable passive surveillance) and be screened from view from the street. Storage
for recycling and for bicycles should be integrated SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 into the design. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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4.4.4 Parking
Relevant Policies > A1 (SADMP), T/7 and T/8 WSLP2006, CP6 (Core Strategy), A2 (SADMP), TR1 (WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Objectives a) In town centres served by frequent bus b) In inner suburbs, served by bus services and a Parking provision will be determined by context services, within a 10-15 minute walk from local well-connected foot and cycle network, with and density. As the hierarchy diagram indicates, it shops and services and railway stations, in a density of approx. 40dph and above, in infill CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 is envisaged that most parking will be integrated conservation areas characterised by fine grained schemes, or parts of a new neighbourhood at into the design of the streets. Only in exceptional morphology and continuous frontages, and that density, an average of 1.5-2 spaces per cases will rear parking courts be permitted, as higher density housing areas: average of 1.25 dwelling, where the principal car is parked on they tend to be underused, insecure inconvenient spaces per dwelling, but in limited numbers plot, the secondary car and visitors located in a and they disrupt what should be the greener more 0-0.5 spaces will be expected. It is advised in parking square (3 above), maximum 200m from tranquil ‘private’ side of the housing group. these schemes that car club provision will be the furthest front door. It is likely that in these SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 installed. Parking could be allocated or non- contexts, terraces including ‘town house’ type Zero Carbon Impact allocated and in Parking Squares, see (3) on houses with integral garages will be developed page 89, parking courts, see (5) on page 89, or in as well as flats over garages. With the declaration of a Climate Emergency by the undercroft arrangements (see fig 4.4.4a below) c) In peripheral residential areas, served by less Council and the planned replacement of new internal frequent bus services or where bus stops are combustion cars with electric vehicles, it will be expected DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 located further than an about 8 minute walk and that all developments will either provide charging where density is approximately 30-39 dph and points on plot or in convenient density in on-street less, 2 spaces maximum on plot, with secondary parking bays. The Somerset Councils ‘Electric Vehicle cars/visitors in a parking square, as above. Charging Strategy Final Report’ (October 2020)CONSULTATION should DRAFT be consulted and early engagement with the Highway d) In low density areas (up to 29dph) up to 4
Authority is advised in this rapidly developing area. spaces per dwelling, on plot or in very small SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 courts. In these cases, car parking should be Bicycle storage will be required, either on plot, designed to minimise the visual impact of the within an apartment block or within a secure storage parked car. area no more than 5 front doors away from any Fig 4.4.4a: Semi basement undercroft parking beneath apartments. Indicative section showing relationship to street It is expected that most car parking spaces on house. (see guidance in section 5.7). It is essential frontage allowing active frontage with enhanced view from that bicycle storage is conveniently accessed in habitable rooms above. street will be unallocated, to make most efficient APPENDICES 7.0 order to provide an easy option over local car travel. use of space.
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Residential Parking Square On-street and on-plot parking It may be necessary to accommodate parking The layouts (right) show two options for on- in larger groupings of 35-55 spaces. Parking street parking. The higher density option shows CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 squares should be enclosed by housing and how alternating parallel and perpendicular generously populated by trees, which should parking bays can be used to create speed be used to divide small groups of parking reduction chicanes, possibly integrating flush bays. The whole square should be a raised blockwork courtesy crossings. platform and be approached via a ‘pinch point’ The lower option shows parallel parking on a or deflected roadway. Footways should create SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 boulevard. Note the narrow lanes and flush a direct link to dwellings which may use the median strip, to encourage lower speeds. parking spaces. Normally the spaces would be unallocated. In both cases groups of 5 bays are separated Fig 4.4.4c: Higher Density Parking Street by street trees. It is expected that a high proportion of bays are fitted with electric Fig 4.4.4c: Higher Density Parking Street vehicle charging points. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Fig 4.4.4b: A scheme in Taunton showing on plot CONSULTATIONparking with townhouses, associated with tree planting. DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Fig 4.4.4d: Boulevard APPENDICES 7.0
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4.4.5 Street and public realm materials THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Roadway surfaces It is assumed that these will Zero Carbon Impact Taunton Garden Town information be ‘blacktop’ conforming to the Highway Authority specification. Where raised pedestrian crossings CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 and median strips are located, these will be paved NB. Within the Taunton Garden Town area, Electric Vehicle Charging Points In view of the in concrete blockwork (200x100x80mm), laid applicants should consult the TGT Public Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency and in herringbone pattern. A ‘burnt ochre’ colour is Realm Guide. commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and the appropriate. The ramp to these areas could be government’s target to accelerate the introduction market by granite setts. of electric vehicles, it is essential that new housing Street Trees Street trees can be located within areas provide a vehicle charging infrastructure. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Footway surfaces Normally these should be either the footpath zone (see fig 4.4.5a), between parking This not only includes ‘on-plot’ charging, but an precast concrete paving slabs (400x400mm), bay groups, or within a shared surface area on-street strategy to serve a high proportion of or bitumen, surface-dressed with fine aggregate. (subject to tracking). Cast iron tree grilles or low on-street parking spaces. This will require the In key areas such as Main Places, higher quality planters should normally be used. The spread of consideration of the design of footways and items pedestrian paving should be used, such as the mature street tree should be considered in of related street furniture. 450x600 precast slabs, or Pennant or Forest choice of species and the location adjacent to the DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 of Dean stone, as advocated in the TGT Public highway and dwellings. Applicants should consult the Somerset Councils’ Realm Guide. joint document; ‘Electric Vehicles Charging Drainage Should be handled through verges, rain Strategy’ 2020.A Crossovers should be blockwork, as above. All gardens and SUDs. The Highway authority should Kerbs should be conservation grade units.CONSULTATION Service be consulted at an early stage regarding the useDRAFT strips should be incorporated within verges and of semi porous surfaces, which may not Signs, lighting and street furniture Signs, lighting the design of the footway. Narrow strips of grass be recommended.) and street furniture are key components in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of tarmacadam should be avoided. public realm and they should be given careful consideration, especially to facilitate access for all In established areas, existing paving materials and to create a legible, connected street network. which could be considered locally distinctive or Wherever possible, street nameplates should be heritage assets should be retained in situ and affixed directly to boundary and building walls, where necessary relaid.
preferably at a height between 1.5 and 2.5m. APPENDICES 7.0
Fig 4.4.5a: Indicative footway section
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DESIGN PROCESS
Seating Seats should be provided in main places. Questions of adoption of streets, parking areas Parking near habitable rooms Parking bays These can be specific items of street furniture and other spaces should be discussed and (whether allocated or not) should be set back CONTEXT or items which are used to define areas, such as agreed with the Highway authority, together with from the windows of habitable rooms, to ensure 3.0 concrete cubes or planters, which are of a height matters regarding commuted sums and allocated some level of privacy and reduce nuisance,
& which act as informal seats. Seating should also or unallocated parking spaces. Usually parking from doors closing, car lights and fumes from DISTINCTIVENESS be available in shared surface streets, play areas, spaces on the highway will be unallocated. non-electric cars. It is advisable to provide bus stops and on longer footways. boundary treatment between parking bays and It is recommended that applicants consult the windows of habitable rooms. Where existing items of signs, lighting and street the Somerset Technical Advice Note 14/18 SUSTAINABLE 4.0 furniture are considered as heritage assets, as ‘Commuted Sums Protocol for Highway Fig 4.4.5c they are locally distinctive and/or have aesthetic Infrastructure’. Somerset County Council. merit, these should be retained in situ and PLACEMAKING well maintained.
DESIGN Taunton Garden Town information 5.0
TOPICS NB. Within the Taunton Garden Town area, applicants should consult the TGT Public Realm Guide, regarding signage, lighting and streetCONSULTATION DRAFT furniture. This guide should also be used as an SUPPLEMENTARY advisory reference in other areas of the district, 6.0 although context will be a major factor in smaller scale settlements and in rural areas, regarding Fig 4.4.5b: The Hedgerows, Bradley Stoke: Scheme
in South Gloucestershire, showing informal street INFO appropriate materials and design character. design integrating parking and landscape APPENDICES 7.0
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Key Requirements THE 2.0
DESIGN PROCESS
Checklist for 4.0.Sustainable Placemaking: Proposals in the Taunton Garden Town area should have regard to ‘The Vision for our Garden CONTEXT 4.1 Does the proposal demonstrate the Town’, ‘Design Charter and Checklist’ and ‘The 3.0 integration of both the principles of placemaking
Public Realm Design Guide’. & and sustainability, (including a continuous green DISTINCTIVENESS infrastructure, use of renewables, etc)? Have you referred to the guidance for the relevant Design Topic? (eg 5.2-5.11, 5.13) 4.2 Is the proposed scheme structured with
a graded density related to its context, clear SUSTAINABLE 4.0 distinction between fronts and back and a
coherent hierarchy of places and links? PLACEMAKING
4.3 Is the range of house types designed to create good placemaking? DESIGN 5.0
4.4 Does the street design approach of the TOPICS proposed scheme reflect the principles as set out in ‘Manual for Streets’ and in this section? Is there a coherent hierarchy of streetsCONSULTATION and DRAFT places? Is there evidence of the priority SUPPLEMENTARY given to active travel, rather than the car? Are 6.0 streets designed around tracking, rather than standardised layouts? Is the design speed in
the proposed residential area 20mph? Does INFO street design accommodate the parked car? Is there provision for street trees and electric APPENDICES vehicle charging points? 7.0
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PAGE 96 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS
5.1 Introduction 97 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 5.2 Towards zero carbon design and construction 98
5.3 Lifetime homes, designing for accessibility; ergonomic design 106
5.4 Developing smaller residential sites 107 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 5.5 Infill and intensification 110
5.6 Privacy and sociability 113
5.7 Storage for bicycles and recycling 114 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 5.8 Property boundaries and the streetscape 116
5.9 Flood resilience 117
5.10 Taller buildings 118 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 5.11 Non-residential development 120 CONSULTATION5.12 New agricultural DRAFT buildings 122 5.0 5.13 Mixed uses 125
5.14 Shopfront design and conversion 128 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 DESIGN 5.15 Residential alterations and extensions 130 5.16 Heritage and community assets 135 TOPICS APPENDICES 7.0
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5.1 Introduction THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The following Design Topics provide guidance on particular aspects of development. They should be considered within the context of the overall CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 guidance in this document, namely the design process, understanding context, the principles of sustainable placemaking and the commitment to zero carbon. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0
Taunton Garden Town information
Many of these Topics will be relevant to development in Taunton Garden Town. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Fig 5.1a: Effective streetmaking. A recent informal terrace which is appropriate for a village or smaller town scale and setting. Good massing includes slight variants in house elevations, porch design and slight projection/recession along the building line. Accent is
provided by the gable end. The blank walled structure is a garage APPENDICES 7.0 accessed from the rear. Hatch Beauchamp.
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5.2 Towards Zero Carbon Design & Construction THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
The Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency and Elsewhere in this Guide, the advice about the These principles are based on RIBA guidelines commitment to working towards carbon neutrality design process (Section 2.0) and sustainable (RIBA Plan ofAWork, 2020, & RIBA SustainableA CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 by 2030, reflects a locally determined contribution placemaking (Section 4.0) demonstrate how Outcomes Guide, 2019) those in the LETI guide towards meeting the legally binding national Net the commitment to active travel and a green (ref; https://www.leti.london/cedg) which can all Zero target set by the amended Climate Change infrastructure play their part in achieving carbon contribute to the ways that applicants respond to Act. This Act requires that local plans conform with neutrality in a development project. the requirements set out in adopted planning policy its stipulations. The Council’s existing adopted (principally DM5 of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy, In this Topic, the decisionmaking process is NH13 of the West Somerset Local Plan to 2032 local plans pre-date both the local commitment outlined to guide developers and designers and saved policy BD/9 of the West Somerset and the restating of the national commitment SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 on the choices involved in design, siting and Local Plan 2006). Naturally a principal source to Net Zero, but nevertheless include policies construction and materials. Nationally, buildings of requirements is the Building Regulations, designed to ensure that developments contribute predominantly Part L,2013, which provides the account for around 45% of all energy use, and towards the mitigation of, and adaption to, climate basis of adopted policy. However, greater aspiration heating accounts for 37% of emissions; which change. The Council’s document Climate Positive is required, in order to deliver new development in clearly demonstrates the scale of the issue. This line with the commitment to carbon neutrality. Planning; Interim Guidance Statement on Planning highlights the need to ensure that new buildings for the Climate Emergency provides additional DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 do not further add to this problem and that the explanation and guidance, clarifying the continuing existing built stock will require retrofitting in terms relevance of existing policies in this regard. of energy efficiency and heat sources. The built environment generally accountsCONSULTATION for 45% DRAFT of total carbon emissions; therefore designers, developers and all applicants can make significant SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 and essential contributions to the reduction of carbon achieving the aim of net zero carbon in the decisions made from the outset, in the design and construction of development projects, whether new build or refurbishment. APPENDICES 7.0
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This Topic provides design guidance on how the Two basic strategies should be adopted: design process can be enhanced in order to aspire
a) Net Zero Operational carbon design principles. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to these improved outcomes. (indicative considerations regarding the use and From the outset, Preliminaries, in the Design performance of the building) Process (2.2) the principle of considering the life b) Net Zero Embodied carbon design principles cycle or circular economy of the project should (indicative considerations associated with sourcing be adopted (see fig 5.2a). materials, fabrication, transportation and assembly,
maintenance, repair and replacement, as well as SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Fig 5.2a: Towards a zero carbon final demolition and disposal). circular economy in design, construction and management Net Zero Operational design principles:
• Prioritise the retrofitting of existing buildings.
• Prioritise passive and fabric-first design principles DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 for building form and envelope, especially high insulation levels.
• Fine tune internal environment with highly efficient CONSULTATION DRAFTbuilding services and mechanical systems. • Provide responsive and easy to use local controls. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • Specify highly efficient and ultra-low energy appliances and IT.
• Prioritise maximum use of on-plot renewables and site-wise energy solutions, appropriate to context.
• Offset remaining carbon through a recognised APPENDICES 7.0 scheme (although this should be the last resort).
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Net Zero Embodied design principles: Fig 5.2b illustrates how by following this design process, an operationally net zero building can
• Prioritise the re-use of existing buildings on site. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 be achieved. (Heritage assets or not).
• Carry out whole-life carbon analysis of all Fig 5.2b building elements. PASSIVE DESIGN APPROACH • Adopt the ethical and responsible sourcing of all materials. BRIDGING THE 7% PERFORMANCE GAP operational SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 energy reduction RENEWABLE • Use low embodied carbon and healthy materials.
ENERGY GENERATION 8% M operational energy • Minimise materials with high embodied energy reduction 3% operational energy Energy Monitoring impacts. reduction
17% Energy Storage operational • Record, minimise and target zero construction energy 4% reduction Improve Form operational Factor Renewable Energy energy DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 waste diverted to landfill. Improve Glazing reduction Generation Ratios
Improve Building • Promote the use of local natural materials. Fabric Low Carbon Improve Heating System OPERATIONAL Glazing U-value NET ZERO Improve • Aim for net zero build in selected construction Airtightness 7% 22% operational operational Utilising MVHR energy reduction energy method. CONSULTATIONreduction DRAFTEnergy Efficient Applicances
LED Lighting
• Detailing should be long life and robust. FABRIC FIRSTAPPROACH A+ SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 • Design for disassembly and the circular economy. 5% 12% operational operational energy energy • Offset remaining carbon emissions through a reduction reduction recognised scheme. 5% operational 10% energy operational EFFICIENT reduction energy reduction SYSTEMSBUILDING APPENDICES 7.0
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Passive Design The adoption of MMC however, should also have Conversely, it is vital that the building design This passive approach (not necessarily Passivhaus) regard to the street and placemaking aims of avoids overheating. The Chartered Institute of advocates the appropriate siting, orientation, this Guide. Alternatively, the improved versions Building Services Engineers provides guidance CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 massing and shading of a building to aid solutions of the use of traditional and offsite materials on the avoidance of overheating risks in their note (eg maximising daylighting, balancing solar and construction can yield very high levels of CIBSE TM59, which should be consulted. gain, ventilation and cooling in order to reduce insulation, especially if their energy costs are or negate the reliance on services requiring lower. In some cases, the use of cob/mud brick, additional energy). Designing in this way may rendered and properly detailed, or rendered include for example, a major elevation to face straw bale represent the emergence of a new local SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 a southerly direction, with the wall having up vernacular. The benefits of building with biomass, to about 30% of its area double glazed. This including sustainably sourced timber as well as the can generate solar gain, although it may need above, can help ‘lock in’ already sequestered carbon. moderation through adjustable external shading to minimise overheating. Conversely, the northern Fabric First elevations should have no more than 15% double The Fabric First approach is that which emphasises DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 or triple glazed wall area. the design of the building envelope as being the primary source of de-carbonising, through the It should be noted however, that strict adherence insulation of the walls, windows, roof and ground to a southerly aspect may not always be desirable CONSULTATIONfloor to the highest standards. This includes DRAFT or possible, as it may conflict with street elevations/ increased thermal efficiency of the above, thus massing/layout. reducing the need for heat input in all but the SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Modern Methods of Construction, using coldest conditions. The most thermally efficient predominantly offsite fabrication to high standards, designs require the elimination of thermal bridging can play a significant part in achieving the general and an airtight building, mechanically ventilated, aims, if the choice of materials does not involve in order to maintain air quality and avoid cold spots high energy input or excessive transport costs. and condensation. APPENDICES 7.0
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Renewable energy Efficient building services Climate Indicators for new dwellings Resulting energy demand should be met through Developers and designers should aim for the In following this approach and in responding to the use of renewable and low carbon sources. avoidance of fossil fuel heat sources. Where the requirements of both the Building Regulations CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 This could be done initially by considering on-plot building services are required, they should be and existing adopted planning policies, developers and site-wide solutions. The use of photovoltaic low carbon, highly efficient and support the and designers could look to achieving the and solar water heating panels can be successfully high-performance fabric measures. Energy use following indicators. The table (fig 5.2c) includes the integrated into pitched roof design and even if they is regulated through the Building Regulations, requirements of the Building Regulations together are not initially provided, roofs should be designed and although that used for appliances and IT is with four illustrative standards. The Base Standard to accommodate future mounted installation. not, high efficiency and low energy specification illustrates the level of response that might meet SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Air sourced heat pumps, often integrated into models are encouraged. policy compliance, whilst the Improved Standard, the design of the front external areas of individual Low Carbon Standard and Zero Carbon Standards houses, are an effective alternative energy source. Offsetting provide illustrative responses for increasing levels According to good practice, it is only after all of aspiration. In some circumstances, site-wide or multi-building of the above measures have been feasibly and energy solutions, such as heat networks or Whilst existing adopted planning policy does viably been exploited, should remaining emissions DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 microgrids can provide a cheaper, more efficient, not require any of the specific indicators to be be offset. Where offsetting is used, as the last lower carbon solution to meeting energy demands, achieved, policy is clearly intended to encourage resort, it is important to ensure that this is carried particularly where they make use of waste heat. the ‘Fabric First’ approach, as well as the tackling out through a recognised and accredited scheme. of embodied carbon within development. As Where on-site renewables are not feasible,CONSULTATION DRAFT The design approach outlined is integral to such, the table (fig 5.2c) sets out the ambition which connection to nearby off-site generation can achieving high quality building design, resulting the Council encourages the design of help meet remaining demand. All the above SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 in the highest performing buildings, minimising new development to aspire towards. options will contribute to 80% zero carbon the need for future retrofit. homes, avoiding fuel poverty. APPENDICES 7.0
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5.2c: Illustrative key performance indicators for new dwellings towards zero carbon design and construction
Building Base Standard Improved Low Carbon Zero Carbon Regulations (illustrative of Standard Standard Standard policy compliance)
Carbon emissions reduction improvement over Building 0% 20% 40% 80% 100%+
Regs Part L 2013 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Energy Use Intensity (kWh/m2/year) N/A N/A N/A N/A < 35 Space heating demand (kWh/m2/year) 80 < 50 < 25 < 55 < 15 Fabric thermal properties (U-Values – W/m2K): External walls 0.18 0.14 - 0.16 0.14 - 0.16 0.14 - 0.16 0.13 - 0.15 Ground floor 0.13 0.10 - 0.11 0.14 - 0.16 0.10 - 0.11 0.08 - 0.10
Roof 0.18 0.10 - 0.11 0.10 - 0.11 0.10 - 0.11 0.10 - 0.12 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Windows 1.4 < 1.2 (Double Glazing) < 1.2 (Double Glazing) < 1.2 (Triple Glazing) < 0.80 (Triple glazing) Air tightness (air changes per hour @ 50Pa) N/A < 5 < 3 < 3 < 1 Thermal bridging ( ΨW/m.K) N/A < 0.04 (LETI Target) < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 Ventilation Natural Natural MVHR with MVHR with MVHR with > 80% efficiency > 90% efficiency > 90% efficiency
Lighting N/A LED throughout LED throughout LED throughout LED throughout DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Percentage of operational energy demand met by on-site N/A N/A ≤ 100%, including < 100%, including > 100%, including renewable energy generation investment off-site if investment off-site if investment off-site if not feasible on-site not feasible on-site not feasible on-site Likely renewable technologies on-site CONSULTATION– – Roof-mountedDRAFT PV Roof-mounted PV Roof-mounted PV Battery storage (optional) Battery storage (optional) Battery storage (optional)
Space heating peak load (W/m2) 40 30 20 10 < 10 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Fossil fuelled heating source? ** Yes Yes No No No Water consumption (litres/person/day) 125 110 95 (RIBA 2025 target) 95 (RIBA 2025 target) 75 Upfront embodied carbon emissions (kgCO2/m2) N/A N/A < 800 < 650 (RIBA 2025 tgt) < 500 Environmental Product Declarations provided? N/A Yes Yes Yes Yes Materials re-used in development N/A Yes (no specific target) Yes (no specific target) > 10% > 30%
Materials used that can be re-used in the future N/A Yes (no specific target) > 10% > 20% > 50% APPENDICES 7.0 Monitoring and verification N/A Internal processes and Proportion of properties Proportion of properties Full monitoring and quality controls monitored & accredited monitored & accredited accredited verification verification considered verification considered as standard
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The attainment of the indicators is dependent on The remaining 20% emissions reduction would Energy Use Intensity the form, elevational design and materials of the be achieved in time through the decarbonisation The primary indicator for Building Regulations building, the specification of the building services of the National Grid. This standard aligns Part L, 2013 is carbon emissions, hence the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 and the process of quality assurance which will approximately with the currently intended scope existing planning policy requirements relating be applied. It is therefore important to design-in of the Future Homes Standard, which Government to emissions reduction. However, with carbon the appropriate level of aspiration from the outset is intending to introduce as national policy from intensity factors used for assessing compliance of the design process, in order to avoid abortive 2025. Embodied emissions should be tackled with Building Regulations through SAP now being work, minimise costs and maximise opportunities. more significantly. outdated, a focus on carbon emissions can result
The ’Base Standard’ illustrates the indicators which in a building which is energy inefficient, served SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The ‘Zero Carbon Standard’ is a further level a policy-compliant building might be designed to, by electrified heat, using more energy than of aspiration, based around a 100%+ carbon equivalent to a 20% carbon emissions reduction necessary, which can have serious fuel poverty emissions reduction improvement over Building improvement over Building Regulations Part L, 2013. implications for future occupiers. Consequently, Regulations Part L, 2013, with an ultra- efficient the LETI Guide promotes the adoption of the The ‘Improved Standard’ is aspirational, based fabric and very low space heating demand and Energy Use Intensity metric as the primary around a 40% carbon emissions reduction over at least 100% of operational energy demand indicator. Energy Use Intensity (EUI) is an DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Building Regulations Part L, 2013, with a focus on met on-site, as well as low embodied carbon annual measure of the total energy consumed, improved fabric, reduced space heating demand emissions, in line with best practice targets. expressed against the Gross Internal Area of the and up to 100% of operational energy met on-site. This standard is based around the specifications building. EUI being solely dependent on the Embodied emissions begin to be tackled as an underpinning the Council’s Zero Carbon Affordable CONSULTATION DRAFTbuilding performance, covers both regulated initial aim of the design process. Homes Pilot and the work of the London Energy and unregulated energy use, and can be Transformation Initiative (LETI). The ‘Low Carbon Standard’ is aspirational and estimated at the design stage and is easily SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 based around an 80% carbon emissions reduction monitored in use. The table and graph (fig 5.2d) improvement over Building Regulations Part L, include an illustration of the EUI that might 2013, with a similar level of fabric properties as result from different levels of aspiration and the Improved Standard, but with improved air interventions included in each. tightness and thermal bridging, creating a very low space heating demand. APPENDICES 7.0
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5.2d: Interventions. Diagram illustrating how the introduction of interventions in fig 5.2c can incrementally reduce the Energy Use Intensity of a dwelling towards delivering zero carbon. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0
Interventions to Achieve Each SWT Standard 140
Renewable Generation Reduction
5% 120 4% 3% SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Emissions 9%
3% Reduction 100 20%
10% Emissions
80 Reduction 18% 40% Reduction 10%
60 10% Emissions 5% Emissions 8% DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 + 80%
EUI (kWh/m2/yr)
18%
40 100% 4% 2% 5% 5% 8% 20 CONSULTATION DRAFT
0 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
-20
-40
ASHP
APPENDICES 7.0
LED Lighting LED
Airtightness 1 Airtightness Airtightness 3 Airtightness Base Standard Base
Wall U-value 0.15 U-value Wall Roof U-value 0.11 U-value Roof Wall U-ValueWall 0.13 Roof U-Value 0.10 Floor U-value 0.08 U-value Floor Floor U-value 0.11 U-value Floor Improved Standard Building Regulations Window U-value 1.2 Window U-Value 1.0 U-Value Window MVHR 90%MVHR Efficiency MVHR 80% efficiency Low Carbon Standard Window U-Value 0.08 Zero Carbon Standard Thermal Bridging 0.01 Bridging Thermal Direct Electric Direct Electric Heating
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5.3 Lifetime homes, ergonomic and universal design
Relevant Policies > DM4 (of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy), D10 (of SADMP), SC3 (of WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The design of the home should be centred on the The London Housing Design Guide summarises requirements and activities of the people occupying much of this advice and gives useful, well the house or apartment. With average residential researched house space standards and CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 floor areas being some of the lowest in Europe, it is dimensions for average furniture sizes. (see essential that house types are rigorously designed References, section 7.2). Many of the Design around the ways people live and are adaptable to Topics in this Guide are also relevant. their changing needs over time. NB; It will be a requirement that all house House designers should be able to demonstrate plans should show typical furniture, kitchen SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 in the detailed layout and design of not only the and bathroom layouts demonstrating how the house, but its garden and amenity spaces, and occupants can use the space. For instance, Fig 5.3a the approach to the house, how it is responsive Lifetime Homes advice recommends corridors to its range of occupants, adults and children of of 900mm wide, to allow wheelchair movement, different ages and abilities. a ground floor toilet and a room that could be adaptable as a bedroom. This ergonomic approach to design has a DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 considerable resource of information and literature for the designer. The basis of this approach is the ground breaking government guidance ‘Homes for Today and Tomorrow’ and its technical handbookCONSULTATION DRAFT ‘Space in the Home’ both produced in the 1960s.
This advice is updated and expanded in Building SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 for a Healthy Life, Lifetime Homes Standards 16, and the Lifetime Homes Design Guide.
Fig 5.2b APPENDICES 7.0
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5.4 Small site development THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Many applications in the area will be related to and a turning head, see fig 5.4c. This approach is footpath on a busy road, then the proposed smaller sites, usually up to about 10 units of houses unnecessary, wasteful of space and dominates the building line might be set back sufficiently to allow and gardens, perhaps more, if the development space between buildings. There is no such thing as for a front porch, bin store and maintenance, whilst CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 includes smaller units and apartments. In all these ‘traffic flow’ in these confined spaces and therefore not being set too far back, or buildings spaced too cases the general placemaking principles as in a more informal approach, more like a yard or a widely, to disrupt the streetscene. A new boundary section 4.0 will be applicable, but modified to the private drive is appropriate, as in section 4.4.3. wall along the original building line, would help to smaller scale of the site. re-establish the frontage. The main determinants governing the dimensions Smaller sites occur in a wide variety of contexts and of the access area include; Site entrance SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 the design response to the specific context of the • Can a car exit the area onto the road in forward It is often the case that proposed site entrances are site and its setting will be a key factor in determining gear? This will mean that a vehicle should be able over-wide, given the capacity of the development the suitability of the application. For instance, a to turn around within the site. The area required and the impact of the loss of existing frontages higher density urban-character scheme is likely to can be determined by ‘tracking’, as in fig 4.4.3g. (eg hedgerows, boundary walls etc), see fig 5.4a. be inappropriate for a greenfield site on the edge Current highway guidance advocates narrower site of a dispersed rural setting, and similarly a low- • Are there adequate sight lines for vehicles entrances, usually with shared surface, with more DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 mid density suburban character scheme would be entering or leaving the site? The angle of these restricted sight lines, thus influencing drivers to slow inappropriate in either an urban or rural setting. lines will vary, depending on the speed limit of down significantly to walking speed on entering a the road and local conditions. Therefore, the design process outlined in section small site. In some cases, the pavement, lowered to 2.1, namely the appraisal of the context andCONSULTATION site of DRAFTa crossover, can reinforce this slowing device and Frontages a proposed development and the design concept acknowledge that pedestrians have priority at this In the overwhelming majority of cases, it will stemming from this, is particularly important in point. Obviously, the type of road running across the SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 be appropriate that the street frontage of the establishing the guiding principles which should frontage will influence the design. proposed development site should generally underpin the design. maintain any existing building line, hedgerow or other boundary treatment. This may have to Vehicular Access be modified somewhat in some situations. For Small developments on small sites require a instance, if the existing building line consists of different approach to access than the conventional APPENDICES 7.0 houses situated on the back edge of a narrow engineered roadway, pavements either side
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PAGE 108 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.4 SMALL SITE DEVELOPMENT THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Enclosure, layout and massing Fig 5.4a: Indicative layouts of small site developments in different contexts, shown at slightly different scales. Usually, the design of small sites should be considered The number of units could be more or less than is shown. as a coherent group of buildings related to each other, Aspects common to all three cases are that a ‘place’ is CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 around a central space. Depending on context, this may created, enclosed by buildings and walls, with a building terminating the view into the space, to emphasise its small be like a farm group, a mews courtyard, a formal square scale, pedestrian character. Generally, there are shared or a short street. Whilst the core may be inward looking, surfaces, which are designed around vehicles turning. Trees and hedges soften the spaces and enhance the where a street frontage exists, that frontage should outlook from houses. normally be outward looking. Above all, on entry to the site, the view should be properly terminated by a SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 building or key group, rather than, for example a minor structure such as a garage or wall. Whilst this always appears more satisfactory, it also conveys the message that a vehicle is entering a place for people, enclosed by buildings, not dominated by a highway. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Landscape An integrated landscape plan can reinforce all these aims. Of prime importance is the retention and enhancement of any existing landscape elementsCONSULTATION on DRAFT site; trees, hedges, ditches, etc and to use these as to help establish the character of the development. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 The use of shrubs and hedges can define private and public external space. Trees can provide shade and colour, softening the outline of buildings. Landscape also contributes to natural drainage and fosters biodiversity. The nature and extent of any new landscape should be appropriate to the context APPENDICES 7.0 and the intended character of the development.
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PAGE 109 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.4 SMALL SITE DEVELOPMENT
Case study: Redevelopment of a redundant yard area on the edge of a large village THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Fig 5.4b The larger indicative scheme drawing (See fig 5.4b on left) shows a contextual approach, incorporating placemaking principles and the flexible approach to vehicular access advocated in section 4.4. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0
The smaller drawing (See fig 5.4c below) shows an inappropriate approach to this context, with a standard estate road and suburban house types.
Fig 5.4c SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 110 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.5 INFILL AND INTENSIFICATION
5.5 Infill and intensification THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
A significant amount of development in the As infill and intensification occurs in towns, Fig 5.5a district takes place within settlements, usually villages and suburban locations, the overall on previously developed land and usually with scale of development should be appropriate CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 frontages onto streets or in the rear of plots, to each environment. For instance, town scale behind existing frontages. This is normally a development will be inappropriate to a village positive state of affairs, as development within setting and suburban scales and forms will be settlements is a sustainable principle as it means inappropriate in the tighter streetscape of a town. less expansion into greenfield sites and potentially Therefore, it is essential that an applicant’s Design the creation of more users of local services and SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 & Access Statement demonstrates that the design businesses within walking distance. solution responds to and derives from an appraisal However, this positive trend has to be balanced both of the context of the site (its wider landscape with the pressure to increase the volume of new setting and the immediate streetscape) and the Fig 5.5b development, the scale of new buildings and the site itself (adjacent properties, boundaries, on-site requirements of parking and vehicular servicing. features, changes of level and possible heritage DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 assets). The subsequent Design Concept should The NPPF, National Design Guide and Local Plans demonstrate how this appraisal helps to establish all require that new development respond to the bulk, scale, impact and visual character of the the distinctiveness and character of the existing proposals. The guidance in section 2.5 will help environment. Moreover, development proposedCONSULTATION DRAFT to inform this process. within a conservation area, or the setting of one, or involving the extension of a listed building or SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 affecting its setting, will require particular design sensitivity. See section 5.16. Where Conservation Area Appraisals, Neighbourhood Plans and/or Village Design Statements have been compiled for specific settlements, these will provide useful information and should be consulted. APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 5.5c Fig 5.5d Acceptable Unacceptable CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 5.5e Fig 5.5f Acceptable Unacceptable CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 113 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.6 PRIVACY AND SOCIABILITY
5.6 Privacy and sociability THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Conventionally, visual privacy in housing layouts construction of party walls, floors and double and the need for the ‘public ‘side of houses to has been addressed by applying a rule of thumb glazing, but can also be addressed through the overlook the street and other public spaces. This measurement of 21metres (and in some cases use of soft, sound absorbing landscape. is particularly true for elderly people who may not CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 18 metres) between facing rear windows. This be able to move far outside the house, but who Privacy, however should not exclude the need to dimension, originating about a century ago, has value the chance to see other people and have the foster wellbeing through social interaction; to have been a major determinant of 2 storey suburban possibility to engage with them. a chat over the front or side garden fence housing ever since. This, together with standard house types and road layouts has resulted in
Fig 5.6a SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 the medium density suburban housing familiar throughout the country.
Whist this standard is often desirable, it is not necessarily a guarantee of visual privacy. Furthermore, the increasing pressure on land supply and the need to increase density require DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 that privacy be achieved through design and not purely by dimensions.
Higher density housing can enjoy levels of privacy through layout, massing, internal room layout,CONSULTATION DRAFT boundary design and window location and design.
The designer should demonstrate that reasonable SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 levels of privacy can be achieved for living rooms, bedrooms and private sitting out space, using the factors above. The indicative diagrams show how some of these factors can influence design for privacy.
Aural privacy can also be a significant factor in APPENDICES 7.0 housing groups. This should be tackled in the
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PAGE 114 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.7 STORAGE FOR BICYCLES AND RECYCLING
5.7 Storage for bicycles and recycling
Relevant Policies > DM5 (of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy), A1 and D12 (of SADMP), TR2 and NH13 (of WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
Bicycles and recycling bins are bulky items and Fig 5.7a: Indicative options for individual homes if not considered in the initial stages of house design, either for individual houses or in groups, CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 ‘off the peg’ retrofitted solutions are often visually intrusive, inconvenient or have a short design life.
As cycling is one of the preferred options for active travel, then bikes should be stored where they can easily be accessed, which usually SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 means near the front door, preferably in the front garden or front boundary area. Similarly bins and recycling boxes should be located for ease of access at collection times and within the curtilage, to avoid cluttering pavements, creating hazards for pedestrians and wheelchair users. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Where garages are provided, they should be wide enough to accommodate bicycles and bins, without having to move a car. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Refer to Somerset Waste Partnership Developer Guidance - see: https://www.somersetwaste.gov.uk/ developer-guidance/ APPENDICES 7.0
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As an alternative to on-plot storage, bike and Fig 5.7b: Possible layout for group bin storage accommodation for small groups of storage houses should be considered. It is likely that the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 store structure should serve no more than 8 units, in order that it is a convenient distance from all the units and in order that the structure does not become too large or bulky. Additionally, the small number of households served means that those using the facility become known to each other, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 reinforcing a sense of responsibility and security. Lighting and passive surveillance of the area Fig 5.6d: should be design factors. Garage storage
Overall, the aim should be to integrate this storage Fig 5.7c: Indicative within the design of house types and/or smaller option for individual DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 groups of housing. The diagrams suggest some homes design approaches. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 116 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.8 PROPERTY BOUNDARIES AND STREETSCAPE
5.8 Property boundaries and streetscape THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
The type, design and condition of frontage The erosion of street continuity through the loss of property boundaries is an important element all or part of individual front boundaries, usually for contributing to the character of a streetscape. This the creation of on-plot parking, is highly detrimental CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 is particularly true of residential areas, where they to the maintenance of the character of a street and contribute to continuity of the street scene, as well is inappropriate, especially in Conservation Areas as their traditional function of providing a level of and as part of the curtilage of Listed Buildings. privacy and security. In the rare cases where limited loss of frontage Fig 5.8a may be appropriate, original features such as gate Front boundary planting plays a significant role piers and stretches of wall and planting should SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 in the local green infrastructure, through hedges, be retained and the size of openings kept to the bushes or trees (Fig 5.7a), all contributing to air quality, minimum. Hardstanding for vehicles must be biodiversity wildlife corridors and natural drainage. allow rainwater absorption on-site eg through In established areas, the materials and design gravel stabilised by a mesh matrix, or pavers with of boundary treatments reinforce the urban, absorbent jointing. suburban, village character of an area; they DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 also convey a sense of formality or informality, appropriate to an area. For instance, in certain locations, railings may be appropriate and fencing not so, and in others the opposite may beCONSULTATION true. DRAFT In new developments, design codes should SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 establish the character of the streetscape through the specification of the front property boundary design, materials and planting. In frontages which address the countryside edge to a settlement boundary design, materials and planting are critical elements and the maintenance of their APPENDICES 7.0 continuity is essential. Fig.5.8b: Hedgerow boundaries in new street development, Churchinford
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PAGE 117 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.9 FLOOD RESILIENCE
5.9 Flood resilience
Relevant Policies > CP8 (of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy), I4 (of SADMP), CC2 (of WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Zero Carbon Impact
Due to the topography and drainage of the Fig 5.9a district and the effects of climate change, the design and layout of new development CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 should build in flood resilience, especially but not exclusively in areas designated as having a risk of flooding. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
The co-benefits of using nature-based solutions should be applied wherever possible and appropriate. Refer also to the West of England SuDS guidance: http://www.somerset.gov.uk/waste-planning- and-land/sustainable-drainage-in-somerset/ APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 118 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.10 TALLER BUILDINGS
5.10 Taller buildings
Relevant Policies > CP8 (of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy), D1, D2, D7 (of SADMP), NH1, NH5, NH13 (of WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
This Design Topic draws on and expands upon • Relationship to key long and short views to Taunton Garden Town information these sources and relates them to the context of the church towers of St Mary Magdalene, St the district. James and St John. (These specified on the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 accompanying map). Context It is important to ensure that the design, height The centres of the three largest towns in the and location of tall buildings (whether point • Relationship to long views from the Quantock District, Taunton, Wellington and Minehead, have towers or ‘slabs’) are considered as a contribution Hills and Blackdown Hills AoNBs and views pre-1960 individual buildings of no higher than 5 to placemaking; ie; what is their ‘role’ in the between the proposal and the backdrop of storeys (excluding church towers) and most town townscape? Landmark, gateway, a component of these hills. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 centre buildings of between 3.5* to 4.5* storeys. new streetscape making (boulevard architecture, • Assessment of immediate streetscene impact. Since the 1960’s Taunton has seen a few individual new square, etc.). Overall, they should be Street vistas, impact on rooflines. Frontages, buildings of up to 8 storeys (eg; County Hall, 8 considered a positive contribution to the skyline, (active or not). storeys* maximum, Debenhams support centre, respectful of established views to existing 7 storeys). Recently, a few more buildings of this landmarks and views to the countryside beyond. • Assessment of neighbourhood impact; height range have been constructed (Viridor overshadowing, overlooking, microclimate. offices, Firepool apartments and those on the Indicative criteria. These aspects should be DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 north side of the Cricket Ground). analysed rigorously in a Design and Access • Assessment of proposed materials; colour, Statement, where the evolution of the design texture, reflectance. rationale should be shown. Computer generated Assessing Impact • Assessment of fenestration/elevational design. This trend towards increased building heightsCONSULTATION imagery is likely to be used. DRAFT • Assessment of proposed profile, especially the is likely to grow. Hence it is important to set out • Proposed building type/use, storey heights/ skyline. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 guidelines to assess the impact and appropriate building height, quantum/volume. height of buildings above 6 storeys, or 19 metres. It will be expected that taller buildings will be of • Proposed location. Site and building footprint exceptional architectural quality. The existing Planning Policy for Taunton (Policy (setbacks, boundaries, car parking, etc) CP3, D1, D2) for assessing the impact of taller Building projects within this category will • Relationship to Conservation Areas, Heritage building proposals and Tall Buildings: Historic automatically be referred to a Design Review Panel. England Advice Note 4 contains useful guidance. Assets and the setting of these. APPENDICES 7.0
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The design and appraisal of tall buildings should be considered in three stages; the base storey/s at street level; the main storeys; and the cap or top storey/s. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Policy D1: Taunton’s Skyline “Development which would detract from the Ground/Base storey. How does the building relate to the street, in terms of footprint related to building line distinctive character and attractiveness of and neighbouring buildings; scale, the relationship Taunton’s skyline will not be permitted.” with adjacent buildings; whether the proposed Development Management Policies, Taunton Deane Adopted building has active frontages and the location of Site Allocations and Development Management Plan, 2016. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 entrance/s; servicing arrangements; mitigation of possible microclimate effects, eg downdraughts. Policy D2; Approach routes to Taunton & Wellington
Main or intermediate storeys. Consider the impact “Development which would harm the visual of elevational design; eg fenestration, expression of qualities of routes into and out of Taunton and structure and scale; colour/s, material/s, glare. Possible Wellington will not be permitted.” overlooking. Potential for integration of photovoltaic Development Management Policies, Taunton Deane Adopted
panels and/or living walls in elevational design. Site Allocations and Development Management Plan, 2016. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Top storey. Has the design of the capping storey
integrated the plant room/s and other service equipment housing, including telecoms masts,
to create a memorable positive skyline? CONSULTATION DRAFT Further information
*Storey heights SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Storey heights obviously vary considerably and Fig 5.10a: Taller buildings (over 6-7 storeys within the district context), can make a positive contribution to a townscape, ‘The Setting of Historic Assets; Historic England therefore specifying building height by number of if sensitively and responsively designed and can make Good Practice Advice in Planning Note 3.'A storeys, whilst convenient, might not always reflect an efficient use of brownfield sites. They are perhaps most (Historic England, 2017.) sets out advice and expected building height. For instance, a modern office appropriate in new urban development areas, especially if considered as part of a key group, or as a landmark, providing criteria for assessing the effects of development, building may have a floor to floor height of anything legibility and coherence to an area. However, if poorly located including tall buildings on the setting of Historic between 3.5 and 4.5m, whereas an apartment and designed within existing town centres and not addressing APPENDICES 7.0 the factors shown, they can be disruptive in the streetscape Assets, for instance church towers. building may have a floor to floor height about 3m. and the wider setting.
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PAGE 120 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.11 NON-RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
5.11 Non-residential development THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
This topic encompasses a wide variety of eroding effect on the streetscape. The only development types, including offices, retail, exceptions are likely to be around the entrances of leisure, manufacturing, educational, community buildings which generate significant footfall, such CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 and healthcare buildings at different scales. as major retail developments, places of worship, Therefore, each application will be determined schools, etc. In these cases, the setback should on its merits. be designed as a forecourt, framing the entrance. Sometimes these areas can be set behind Due to their impact, especially in established boundary railings, which serve to re-establish street scenes or on the edge of settlements, the building line. Car parking, servicing bays and SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 where landscape impacts are crucial, it is essential recycling storage should be located towards that developers and designers undertake the the rear of the site and appropriately laid out to appraisals of context and site and develop minimise nuisance for neighbouring properties. sensitive design concepts as set out in section 2.0 and produce well considered Design and Massing, scale and height Access Statements, section 6.2. Additionally, these Where the proposals are generally larger in Fig 5.11a: Sensitively designed community centre, DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 developments may be located in conservation scale than adjacent properties, the volume of the with welcoming entrance area, interesting roofscape and use of local materials as cladding. Trull. areas, which require context responsive design building should be articulated to avoid abrupt solutions. It is likely that most schemes will be changes in height and storey heights, especially considered at Design Review panels sectionCONSULTATION 6.5. adjoining the neighbouring properties. Consider DRAFT developing the site in depth or recessing the taller The following general design considerations are elements behind the perceived general zone of likely to be relevant, wholly or in part. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 storey heights. It is generally appropriate to avoid Footprint and site planning excessive horizontal elevational emphasis within In general, the street building line should be the established street scene see also fig 5.5d. followed, to ensure appropriate continuity and This can be done, for example, by emphasising enclosure in the street scene. Frontage set structural bays and using vertically proportioned backs for car parking, servicing or hard or soft windows. In shopping developments, avoid long APPENDICES 7.0 landscaping should be avoided, as this has an continuous fascias for the same reason.
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Active Frontages Fig 5.11b As a general rule within a busy street scene, new development should enhance street vitality by CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 locating entrances on the street frontage and placing all the populated internal spaces (offices, concourses etc) on the frontage with extensive glazing. Large stretches of blank wall should be avoided. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Roofscape On larger buildings, roof design can have a considerable impact, at close quarters and on long views. Within established townscapes and on edge of settlement sites, it is usually desirable to break down the perceived volume of larger buildings. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 This can be done by varying the height of different elements of the building, or by using the discipline imposed by the geometry of pitched roofs to give skyline interest, incorporate photovoltaicCONSULTATION panels or DRAFT accommodate rooftop plant. Roof design can also offer opportunities for daylighting, roof terraces or providing green roofs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Colour, texture, materials and signage. The elevational use of these can be used to create surface scale and interest, relate to the townscape or landscape setting. Signage should be considered
as an integral part of the design. These aspects APPENDICES 7.0 should be shown on application drawings.
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PAGE 122 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.12 NEW AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS
5.12 New agricultural buildings THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Due to their large scale, compared with traditional buildings by the softening or blurring effect of a farm buildings, and their comparatively high Generally, if the proposals are located within 400m modest group of local-species trees. Similarly, on 2 visibility, especially from and within the National of a dwelling, or it exceeds 465m in area, they will sloping sites, avoid the creation of excessive cut CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 require planning permission. If the existing farm Park and two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and fill building platforms, which can have buildings are listed, then the siting of the proposed in the District, proposed farm buildings require development might affect the setting of the Listed an intrusive visual effect. However, on slightly considerable thought in their siting, layout, Buildings. Additionally, the Environment Agency is sloping sites, gently graded cut and fill of less design and materials. In most cases they will likely to require notification, regarding run-off. than approximately 2m may be appropriate. require planning permission. Otherwise, if permitted development, prior Siting decisions will of course involve other SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 As a first stage in the development process, notification should be sent to the Local Planning considerations, such as access (which again Authority. If in doubt, contact the council, or engage consider the re-use, repair and re-purposing of should be carefully sited and following natural a planning consultant with relevant agricultural any existing under-used or vacant existing farm development experience. features), drainage and the possible presence buildings. This is particularly important if these of archaeological features. In this last case, structures are traditional, in that they may be the Somerset Historic Environment Record part of a farmstead group and are constructed can be accessed on somersetheritage.org.uk Siting and Setting DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 using locally sourced materials. These features Additionally, the South West Heritage Trust has Consider the choice of site of the building/s. are significant, as they contribute to the an Archaeological Officer who can be consulted. Avoid hilltop or exposed locations, as the visual distinctiveness of the district. (See References, section 7.2.) impact of the buildings will be greatest. Instead, CONSULTATIONconsider siting in lower situations, in relation toDRAFT key Design and Layout views from high ground and vantage points along Typically, new farm buildings are wide span,
roads. Locations with woodland backgrounds, constructed with steel portal frames; they can SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 behind hedgerows or partially masked by trees be long and sometimes very high, depending on can be particularly successful. It is not necessary their function. This results in large ‘boxy’ buildings, to completely screen the buildings, for example with very low-pitched roofs, contrasting with the by lines of high, quick-growing trees or the inherited assets of smaller scale groups of steeper construction of bunds (both of which can be pitched buildings.
visually intrusive). Instead it is advisable to interrupt APPENDICES 7.0 the appearance of the stark silhouette of large
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In addition to the considerations regarding siting Materials and colours would be effective, remembering that rooflights above, it is recommended that the visual impacts The choice of a sensitive colour and materials provide a high level of natural lighting and so a of these large-scale buildings can be mitigated in palette can make a significant contribution to relatively small number of rooflights will usually CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 a number of ways: mitigating the impact of large-scale buildings. be adequate. Light spillage and pollution can be It is important to consider the choice of colours an issue with rooflights where internal lighting a) The wide single span could be subdivided into on site, taking into account the range of colours is required at night. External lighting should be one or two ‘lean-to’ roofs at a slightly lower within the landscape setting of the proposals, mounted as low as requirements permit and they height, to achieve a break in the profile and a preferably taking into account the seasonal should be mounted and designed to prevent up shadow line. It could also aid natural ventilation. differences of colours. and side lighting. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 (See Fig 5.12b). Overall, it is advisable to avoid reflective b) Overhanging eaves and gable end bargeboards materials and galvanised or light colours. can help to soften building. Assertive colours such as reds, yellows or c) The setting back of the cladding behind the whites will almost certainly be inappropriate. structural frame can break down the stark form Recessive colours, such as mid to dark greens, DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 of the building into bays. greys and grey-blue, dark blues, browns and black will be generally appropriate. d) Open sided storage shed space can be added as a lean-to in some cases. Fibre-cement roofing panels or tiles, self-coloured CONSULTATIONin blue grey are effective roofing materials and DRAFT e) Two or more of these buildings can be placed would complement photovoltaic panels (avoiding at right angles to each other, to form a yard and those with silver-grey aluminium frames). SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 provide shelter. This would have the effect of Generally, vertical timber wall boarding, stained, ‘breaking down’ the overall mass, which could with open jointing, is an appropriate solution, be highly intrusive, if arranged in a line. with a concrete blockwork plinth. f) Other structures, such a silos, could be located Care should be exercised when considering in the yard formed by the buildings as in (d). the choice and location of lighting. Translucent APPENDICES 7.0 sheeting integrated with the roofing finish
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Fig 5.12a Fig 5.12b CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 125 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.13 MIXED USES
5.13 Mixed uses THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Buildings incorporating more than one use are Fig 5.13a: Considerations for successful mixed use developments usually grouped in order to maximise footfall CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to the premises and foster interaction between Robustness Scale Good neighbour Types or group small scale enterprises. Location is often critical, of new building form Usually smaller scale: when uses: of uses (new or existing) • units are best • are not noisy to ensure visibility and footfall and therefore • Commercial neighbours at between • don’t disturb at unsocial • Community traditionally these uses are to be found on well ADAPTABLE 20m2 – 400m2 hours • Leisure used routes (especially foot and bus) especially Long life/loose fit • fine grain • have low traffic • Studio/workshop Uses will change generation • Professional at intersections, or in squares. Where uses rely on • have negligible • Cultural footfall, it is likely that these will thrive in higher pollution/hazards SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 • are well designed density locations or places which attract visitors.
Locations where mixed uses are unlikely to thrive are in ‘cul de sacs’, in the centre of low density Horizontal or Proximity areas, on upper floors. By definition, mixed of support and vertical mix? Successful mixed use developments are varied in type, size, and • Viability of upper complementary uses floor uses? use developments DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 scale. Additionally, their impact in terms of traffic • Living over the shop? generation, noise and smell, activity in anti- social times must be taken into account when LOCATION IS KEY determining these uses within residentialCONSULTATION areas. DRAFT Therefore, each case has to be considered on its merits. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Viability? Access Visibility Critical mass Is the amount, scale, Routes to mixed use • Frontage locations on of users nearby? type, location, rent areas should be direct, busy routes essential Is there a viable density and tenure of uses safe and legible by bus, for most uses within walk or short economically viable? foot, car and delivery • Footfall past entrances journey catchment area? vehicle APPENDICES 7.0
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New build mixed use premises require a structure which is flexible in terms of layout options and which is appropriate to, for example, residential CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 accommodation on the upper floors. It is likely therefore, that a frame structure is appropriate.
The indicative scheme on the following page shows a building with a 6m structural span, (or 5.5m minimum), which is appropriate for a shop SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 unit and residential accommodation above. This structural grid can also accommodate two car parking spaces. A structural grid allows for business display windows and for two or more units to be amalgamated. As many uses require a floor to ceiling height above the usual residential DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 2.4m, the illustration shows a ground floor height of between 3.3-3.6m. allowing for a service zone, suspended ceiling (if required) and fascia. In the initial stages of a new neighbourhoodCONSULTATION DRAFT development, conditions may not be such that a business is viable. The scheme shows an option SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 where the ground floor can be designed for apartments, with the ability for future conversion to business premises. Similarly, the rear space can be a patio garden for the apartments, or the option for premises to extend the ground floor Fig 5.13b: Mixed use development in Taunton to a limited degree. APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 5.13c: Key building designed for flexible uses at ground floor (retail, service or commercial) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 128 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.14 SHOPFRONT DESIGN
5.14 Shopfront design
Relevant Policies > D4 (of the SADMP) and NH13 (WSLP) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Well designed shopfronts enhance a shopping Fig 5.14a area and add to its vitality. They also challenge the perception of the ‘cloned’ high street. The well CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 designed shopfront respects its ‘host’ building, and is welcoming to all its users, by being accessible to all, regardless of age or ability.
In some areas, night time security can be an issue, but a row of shops with opaque roller shutters can SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 reinforce the atmosphere of stress and insecurity. The guidance illustrates an alternative approach.
It is stressed that continuous deep fascias running across two or more properties is unacceptable, as they ignore the vertical pattern of the original buildings. Large scale photo images on adhesive DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 material covering whole shop windows are also unacceptable. Externally lit fascias are appropriate in allCONSULTATION but DRAFT exceptional cases, especially in Conservation Areas and on Listed Buildings. In these situations SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 see also section 5.16.11. APPENDICES 7.0
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Relevant Policies > TC1, TC2, TC3 of SADMP and EC12 of WSLP2032. Permitted Devlopment rights may apply. THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Conversion of retail premises Fig 5.14b Where shop premises are no longer required, they will probably be converted to residential CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 or business uses, (See fig 5.13b). Shopfront character should be respected in conversion design, important features retained and access to upper floors maintained. Continuity of remaining shopping frontages should be retained, to foster viability. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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PAGE 130 5.0 DESIGN TOPICS / 5.15 RESIDENTIAL ALTERATIONS AND EXTENSIONS
5.15 Residential alterations and extensions
Relevant Policies > DM5 (Core Strategy), D5 and D7 (SADMP), NH13 (WSLOP2032), BD/3 and BD/9 (WSLP2006) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Alterations and extensions which respect and Whether proposals for extension or alterations enhance the character of the original house tend Would the extension need Planning Permission? require planning permission or not, the following CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to retain or improve the appearance and value of Most smaller scale residential alterations questions and guidelines set out design the property. However, the valid ambition to create and extensions are deemed to be Permitted considerations for both householders and planning more space and improve the insulation, amenities Development, if they are within specific limits, officers. The aim is to balance the requirements and convenience of the original building have to be regarding size, location on the plot and height, for alterations and extensions, with their impact on: etc. If the proposals exceed these parameters, balanced against the capacity of the house and its a planning application will be required. 1. The original house site to absorb the proposals and the impact on the neighbours, their properties and the street scene. These parameters and rules are set out in the 2. The curtilage or plot of the house SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 document ‘Permitted Development rights for householders; Technical Guidance’ Published by 3. The adjacent properties Zero Carbon Impact the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local 4. The setting or street scene Government in September 2019. Householders The decision to alter or extend houses, whether by and their agents are urged to consult this 50 page individual householders or by housing associations document prior to commencing a project. If there is Fig 5.15a present significant opportunities to reduce carbon doubt regarding whether a development would be DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Permitted Development, advice should be sought consumption in the housing stock, through first, from the Local Panning Authority. increasing insulation and air-tightedness and second, through the replacement of carbon heat It should be noted that Permitted Development Rights do not remove the requirements for permissions and lighting sources by installing low carbonCONSULTATION DRAFT or consents from the Building Regulations and the alternatives, such as photovoltaic roof panels or air Party Wall Act, amongst others. Additionally, if the or ground source heat pumps. original building is Listed, or within a conservation area, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 or within the setting of these or other heritage assets, then any alteration is likely to require permission) see also Section 5.13, Heritage and Community Assets). In a limited number of areas, Article IV Directions or specific planning conditions remove Permitted Development Rights for specific alterations to, for example, windows, boundary walls and hedges. APPENDICES 7.0
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Fig 5.15b THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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1. The original house materials/details are unavailable, to either adopt Some questions to ask; a ‘neutral’ design approach, where the extension (This list is indicative, as every case is different)
What is the character of the house? Is it typical of CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 is recessive in colour, materials, volume and its period or style? Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, footprint, or contrasting yet complementary in Why are alterations and extensions required? Cottage vernacular? Interwar (eg ‘Tudorbethan’ Would re-considering the reordering the function these aspects? This latter approach requires a high half timbered), Postwar? Does it have design of the existing rooms achieve improvements? quality of design skill and perceptiveness. Whilst characteristics that could be affected by the use of uPVC windows and doors is widespread, If extending outward, would this mean loss of daylight, alterations? For example is the principal elevation this material (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) would by creating deep rooms, or the creation of long corridors? symmetrical either side of its central axis, in terms If extending sideways, would the effect be to close the release toxins if affected by a house fire. Moreover, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 of bay windows, number of and proportion of gap between adjacent semi-detached houses, if the this material is difficult to recycle at the end of its windows? Would the insertion of extra windows adjacent property proposed a similar side extension? life. Consider the use of timber, or steel or aluminium or the removal of windows erode the essential If extending into the roofspace, is there space on the first clad timber double glazed products instead. character of the building? Would extra or floor for a staircase? Given the angle of the roof pitch, will replacement windows be of the same proportion What is the capacity of the house? In principle, the there be sufficient headroom, without extending higher or details? (eg window surrounds, cills etc?) If a volume of any extensions should not dominate than the roof ridge? Is the type of roof structure appropriate for conversion into rooms, or is it constructed of trussed DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 side extension is proposed, would this affect the that of the original (host) house; they should rafters, which allow little or no space for conversion? original ‘balance’ of the elevation? Would a new be subservient in volume, and visual impact. Would the loft floor be strong enough to bear the dormer or rooflight be obtrusive in the design, Maintaining and enhancing character of the increased loading of habitable rooms in the roofspace? especially if it does not line up with the windows original house should guide the general approach CONSULTATION DRAFTIf seeking to create open plan spaces within the original below? Would the removal of a chimney or bay to any proposals. The guidance for Permitted building by removing internal wall/s, consider which walls windows harm the character of the house? Development (see page 130) is specific regarding are loadbearing and structural implications of this action, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 the height, position and size of extensions as well as the change of room character and proportion, Whilst in many cases it will be appropriate allowable. This is summarised in the diagrams. often resulting in ungainly long room with less ‘focus.’ to replicate the original design details of the Similarly, the removal of chimney breast would yield original building, especially when replacing minimal gain of space, yet loss of structural stability and previous unsympathetic alterations and generally the inherent character of the house. Consider whether reinstating the design to its original intensions, the changing needs of the different household members (eg for privacy, space for home working etc) aren’t better it can also be appropriate where matching APPENDICES 7.0 served by having a different choice of rooms.
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2. The Plot • Would the proposals have an impact on the character of the original house or harm the street
foundations of an adjacent property? (which may scene? This question will be particularly relevant
What would be the impact of the proposals on the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 extend onto the property). Similarly, might the within a conservation area or within the setting of plot or curtilage of the original house? proposals involve alterations to a Party Wall? a conservation area. • Would the proposals create useful, convenient • Where the side wall of an adjacent property has • Would the character of the street scene and the and attractive spaces in the front, side (if any) or windows, would the proposals affect the privacy, houses in it be harmed if the cumulative effect of rear of the plot? outlook, ventilation, daylight to any habitable side extensions to detached and semi-detached • Would the proposals result in the loss of valuable room? Additionally, there may be ‘Ancient Lights’ houses resulted in a terracing effect? SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 trees or hedges, either through removal or by rights to consider. Fig 5.15c significantly cutting into the spread of the roots? 4. The Street Scene • Would the proposals, either through the increased building footprint, or the provision What would be the impact of the proposals on the of extra impermeable paved surfaces increase view from the street or the setting of the house?
surface water run-off at a time when increased DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 • Are the features of the street scene which could be rainfall requires sufficient on-site absorbency? considered when designing the proposals? These might include; a) a common building line, with only 3. The Adjacent Properties CONSULTATIONporches and bay windows projecting forward fromDRAFT What would be the impact of the proposals on the it; b) gaps between properties; c) dormers, or a adjacent/neighbouring properties? lack of them, d) characteristic bay windows and/ SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 or porches; e) predominant window proportions, • Would the effect of a rear extension be to eg vertical, with sashes and set back from the front significantly overshadow or overlook the adjacent • It should be borne in mind that on corner sites or face of the wall; f) predominant building materials, property/s? The government guidance stipulates those sites in hillside or other prominent locations, colours or details; g) characteristic front boundary the length of projection of an extension for Permitted that the rear elevation of a house may be visible treatment, eg walls with hedges railings, gate piers, Development, but even that can have a negative from the public realm and as such should be hedge and bank, etc. Would the loss of any of these impact if the house plots are narrow or the orientation closely considered as design solutions for a front APPENDICES 7.0 features in the design of the proposals affect the of the plots preclude adequate daylight and sunlight. or principal elevation.
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Fig 5.15d: The loss of original elevational and Fig 5.15f: Extensions should normally be structural features results in the erosion of the subservient in volume, footprint, height, character (and often the value of) the house. material and colour to the original building. THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0
Fig 5.15e: The appropriate location, proportion, design and materials of new windows is critical, if the character of the original building is to be maintained.CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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5.16 Heritage and community assets
Relevant Policies > CP8 (Core Strategy), ENV4, ENV6, D4, D7 (SADMP), NH1, NH2, NH3, NH4, NH13 (WSLP2032), CA/5 (WSLP2006) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
5.16.1 Introduction and perform well in terms of the energy needed A Listed building is graded I, II* or II. Buildings The historic environment is central to the district’s to make and use them. Their removal and are ‘listed’ by central government on the advice cultural heritage and sense of identity, and hence replacement would require a major reinvestment of Historic England. The basic criterion for listing CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 a resource that should be sustained for the benefit of energy and resources. a building is that it must hold special historic or of present and future generations. This section architectural interest. The ‘listing’ of a building of the design guide is intended to enable a 5.16.2 What is a heritage asset? means that it is recorded on the National Heritage sensible decision-making on all aspects of the The difference between a heritage asset and List for England. It means there will be additional historic environment. other components of the environment is that a controls over what changes can be made to a
heritage asset holds meaning for society over building’s interior and exterior. Owners will need to SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Interventions into historic buildings and areas and above its functional utility. It is this heritage apply for Listed Building Consent for most types of are often required to ensure they remain fit for significance that justifies a degree of protection work that affect the ‘special architectural or historic purpose or can be adapted to new uses. The in planning decisions. interest’ of their home. Listing can also cover other need to improve building performance can also attached structures and fixtures, later extensions lead to the need for changes to your building. There are a number of different types of or additions and buildings built before 1948 on Interventions might also be required to respond to heritage asset. These will often be referred to land attached to the building, what is called in DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 changes in building legislation or for the purposes as designated or undesignated heritage assets. planning terms, the curtilage. of conservation, for example in the reinstatement These are as follows: of missing features or the reversal of harmful Conservation areas are designated by the Council. • Scheduled Monuments alterations. Where changes are planned,CONSULTATION the DRAFTThe definition of a conservation area is an area significance of an asset should be maintained • Listed Buildings of special architectural or historic interest the or enhanced. desirability of which is to preserve or enhance that • Conservation Areas SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 special character or appearance. The historic built environment makes a significant • Registered Park and Garden (and battlefields) contribution to addressing the climate emergency, Parks and gardens and battlefields may be due to the carbon and energy embodied in the Scheduled Monuments are nationally important registered if they are of special historic interest. built fabric. Traditional landscape management due to their historic, architectural, artistic, traditional All of these criteria have two components: the patterns of Somerset West and Taunton have or archaeological interest. They are desginated by nature of the interest or significance that defines been sustained over centuries. Many traditional central government on the advice of Historic England. the designation and the relative importance locally APPENDICES 7.0 buildings and building materials are durable and nationally of that interest or significance.
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In addition to the national and statutory 5.16.4 Setting The use of materials is important to the character designations (see above), Somerset West and Setting refers to the surroundings in which an of a place. We must guard against the use of Taunton has formally identified heritage assets asset is experienced. All heritage assets have a poorly detailed, ‘watered-down’ versions of the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 that are important to the area. These buildings are setting; elements of a setting may make a positive local vernacular and a general ‘cherry-picking’ of local interest and may be considered as non- or negative contribution to the significance of an of local details; a stone facade (often the type of designated heritage assets. asset, may affect the ability to appreciate that stone and cut finish do not reflect local tradition), significance, or may be neutral. the use of thatch (often the wrong type and finish) 5.16.3 Understanding of heritage assets or the use of false plastic chimneys (moulded to Change, including development, can sustain, The conservation of heritage assets requires mimic brick). SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 enhance or better reveal the significance of judgement based on an understanding of an asset as well as detract from it or leave it In many cases complementary but contrasting principles informed by experience and knowledge unaltered. Any development or change capable materials can be more effective in relating to to be exercised when decisions are made. of affecting the significance of a heritage asset original materials than poorly/inappropriately Good conservation depends on a sound research or people’s experience of it can be considered as matched ones. evidence base and the use of competent advisors falling within its setting. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 and contractors. 5.16.5 The use of materials Understanding character and place on its very The correct choice of materials for building work many levels, including the recognition of local is especially important for historic buildings. distinctiveness, and its potential and capacityCONSULTATION for DRAFT Where possible, existing materials should be change, is crucial in order to successfully propose investigated and tested so that good performance interventions which will not harm the character SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 and aesthetic matches can be achieved. In cases and local distinctiveness of a place. where the existing material source is not available, re-use of suitable materials from salvage might give better results than newly formed materials. However, sources should be verified to ensure this does not cause degradation of other historic APPENDICES 7.0 buildings and to ensure that repairs are identifiable.
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5.16.6 Repair 5.16.7 Alteration Fig.5.16.7a (&b): Excellent example of Materials and construction methods embodied New work or alteration to a heritage asset should contemporary and sensitive subservient in historic building’s fabric illustrate changes in normally be acceptable if: additions to a historic cottage. Monksilver. CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 people’s ideas, tastes, skills and the relationship a. there is sufficient information to with their locality. Historic materials hold an comprehensively understand the impacts of the attraction and character in and of themselves; proposal on the significance of the place; the surfaces, blemishes and undulations of old buildings speak of the passage of time and of b. the proposal would not materially harm the lives lived. Wear and tear adds patination that new values of the place, which, where appropriate, SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 work can only acquire through the slow process would be reinforced or further revealed and; of ageing. This is particularly true of the materials c. the proposals aspire to a quality of design and which make West Somerset and Taunton so execution which may be valued now and in the locally distinctive. future and are commensurate with the design A careful choice of materials is essential to the quality of the host building DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 sympathetic and effective repair of old buildings. Alterations should be carried out only if there Fig.5.16.7b Often it is best for new materials to match the old, is no suitable alternative option. They should ensuring materials remain compatible in terms be designed to minimize their impact on the of structural movement and/or ‘breathability’. CONSULTATIONsignificance of the historic building, and should DRAFT Sometimes though, use of alternative materials may avoid losing features that contribute to that be more fitting and effective, allowing new work significance. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 to be distinguished from the old, and illustrating that an intervention has occurred. Equally, use The principle of reversibility should be used, for of alternative materials can sometimes assist example, new insertions, such as sub-dividing the maximum retention of historic materials in a walls, should be contoured around original building project (Fig 5.15.7a and Fig 5.15.7b). features and mouldings so they can be removed in the future, leaving the original fabric intact. APPENDICES 7.0
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The main issues to consider in proposals for 5.16.8 Old and new work 5.16.10 Sub-division additions to heritage assets, including new Where possible it is preferable for new work to be The sub-division of listed buildings, such as development in conservation areas, in addition reversible, so that changes can be undone without threshing barns and churches, that are significant CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 to careful consideration of national and local harm to historic fabric. However, reversibility for their open interiors, impressive proportions plan policy requirements, are proportion, height, alone does not justify alteration. New openings and long sight lines, may have a considerable massing, bulk, use of materials, durability and need to be considered in the context of the impact on significance. In these circumstances adaptability, use, enclosure, relationship with architectural and historic significance of that part the use of living pods (for kitchens and bathrooms adjacent assets and definition of spaces. In of the asset. Where new work or additions make for example) or other design devices (such as addition you should consider the design of streets, elements with significance redundant, such as sympathetic extensions) that allow the entirety SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 alignments, active frontages, permeability and doors or decorative features, there is likely to be of the space to be read may be appropriate. the treatment of setting. Replicating a particular less impact on the asset’s aesthetic, historic or The introduction of new floors into a building or style may be less important, though there are evidential value if they are left in place. removal of historic floors and ceilings may have circumstances when it may be appropriate. It a considerable impact on an asset’s significance. would not normally be acceptable for new work 5.16.9 Plan form of a building The insertion of new elements such as doors and to dominate the original asset or its setting in The plan form of a listed building is frequently one DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 windows, (including dormers and roof lights to either scale, material or as a result of its siting. of its most important characteristics and internal bring roof spaces into use) has the potential to Assessment of an asset’s significance and its partitions, staircases (whether decorated or plain, adversely affect the building’s significance. In some relationship to its setting will usually suggest the principal or secondary) and other features are circumstances the unbroken line of a roof may be forms of extension that might be appropriate.CONSULTATION likely to form part of its significance. Proposals DRAFT an important contributor to its significance making to remove or modify internal arrangements, The historic fabric will always be an important part any intervention problematic and contentious. including the insertion of new openings or SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of the asset’s significance. Retention of as much extension underground, will be subject to the New features added to a building are less likely to historic fabric as possible is therefore a fundamental same considerations of impact on significance have an impact on the significance if they follow part of any good alteration or conversion, together (particularly architectural interest) as for externally the character of the building. In a barn conversion, with the use of appropriate materials and methods visible alterations. for example, new doors and windows are more of repair. It is not appropriate to sacrifice old work likely to be acceptable if they are agricultural simply to accommodate the new. rather than domestic in character, with the APPENDICES 7.0 relationship of new glazing to the wall plane
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reflecting that of the existing and, where large 5.16.11 Historic shopfronts Fig. 5.16.11a (& b): Victorian shopfront saved intact from demolition in the 1970s, including its fine threshold, door openings are to be glazed, with the former Removal of, and change to, historic shopfronts enhancing the character of the historic building. doors retained or replicated so that they can be may damage the significance of both the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 41 closed. Over-use of opening windows and glazing building (Fig 5.15.11a & b) and where relevant the bars in agricultural building conversions can be wider conservation area, as may the introduction particularly problematic. of new shopfronts to historic buildings where there are none at present. All elements of new Although some works of up-grading, such as shopfronts (stall-risers, glazing, doors, fascias new kitchens and bathroom units, are unlikely etc.) may affect the significance of the building it SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 to need consent, new services, both internal is located in and the wider street setting. External and external can have a considerable, and often steel roller shutters are unlikely to be suitable for cumulative, effect on the appearance of an historic historic or modern shopfronts in listed buildings building and can affect significance. The impact of or conservation areas. Laminated glass and necessary services can be minimised by avoiding internal chain-link screens are likely to be more damage to decorative features, by carefully appropriate alternatives in most instances. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 routing and finishing and by use of materials appropriate to the relevant period, such as cast Fig. 5.16.11a iron for gutters and down-pipes for many Georgian and Victorian buildings. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
Fig. 5.16.11b
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5.16.12 Viable use 5.16.13 Archaeology Zero Carbon Impact It is important that any use is viable, not just for the Sites, places and buildings having, or suspected of
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 owner but also for the future conservation of the having, archaeological interest can be particularly References regarding historic buildings and asset. Viable uses will fund future maintenance. sensitive to development. Sometimes even very climate change: If there is a range of alternative ways in which an minor works can irrevocably damage the interests asset could viably be used, the optimum use is the of a future investigation of the site. In such cases The joint heritage sector statement on tackling one that causes the least harm to the significance the applicant and local planning authority will climate change of the asset, not just through necessary initial need to: https://historicengland.org.uk/whats-new/ changes but also as a result of subsequent wear statements/climate-change/ SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 1. Properly understand the nature, relative and tear and likely future changes. The optimum importance and physical extent of the There's no place like old homes: Re-use and viable use may not necessarily be the most archaeological interest in these sites through a Recylcle to Reduce Carbon profitable one in the short term but may have desk-based assessment (DBA), field evaluation, https://historicengland.org.uk/content/heritage- longer term value. basic appraisal or recording of the asset, counts/pub/2019/hc2019-re-use-recycle-to- as required. reduce-carbon/ DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 2. Consider proposed uses that are benign to General information on HE approach to the conservation of the asset’s significance. climate change https://historicengland.org.uk/research/current/ 3. Seek to eradicate or minimise impact through CONSULTATION DRAFTthreats/heritage-climate-change-environment/ design (for example, foundations that span reponses/ sensitive areas rather than penetrate them). SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Please note, this can also extend to the Guidance on generating renewable energy landscaping of new areas, introducing new in older buildings trees for example. https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/your- home/saving-energy/generating-energy/
Guidance on energy efficiency in historic buildings
https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/your- APPENDICES 7.0 home/saving-energy/guidance
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5.16.14 General design considerations New extensions should normally be subservient 7. Green landscaping. Design in historic areas (as with any other area) to the historic building in terms of scale, height
8. The current and historic uses in the area and the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 should always seek to reflect its context as well as and massing. New works should not obliterate urban grain. fulfil the basic requirements of its brief. Contextual or destroy features of interest in the historic analysis should be carried out so that a bespoke, building. It might be necessary for extensions to Some or all of these factors may influence the site-specific design solution can be arrived at. be attached by a smaller link section rather than scale, height, massing, alignment, materials and directly to the original building. proposed use in any successful design. Where new development affects the context of historic buildings or involves their extension, The following checklist will help in determining SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 analysis of the historic building should be whether your new building is responding positively undertaken. This would include the following: to its context: Further information a. the significance; 1. The significance of nearby assets and the contribution of their setting. The Historic Environment Record, held by the South b. the style of the building, including any West Heritage Trust, is an invaluable resource underlying design theories or principles; 2. The general character and distinctiveness of the for identifying possible historic or archaeological DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 local buildings, spaces, public realm and the c. scale, massing and composition; interest on any site in the District. landscape. d. features of interest; 3. Landmarks and other features that are key to a e. materials and construction; CONSULTATIONsense of place. DRAFT f. previous alterations, including an assessment 4. The diversity or uniformity in style, construction, SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of whether they enhanced or harmed the materials, detailing, decoration and period of building’s integrity; and existing buildings and spaces. g. the relationship of the building to surrounding 5. The topography. buildings and features. 6. Views into and from the site and its surroundings. APPENDICES 7.0
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5.16.15 Additional information with a brief explanation of how the impacts relate societies, including the National Amenity Societies. An applicant will need to undertake an assessment to the significance of the asset as a whole. 3.0 of significance to an extent necessary to understand 5.16.19 Recording of buildings CONTEXT the potential impact (positive or negative) of the 5.16.17 The use of Heritage Impact Assessments (HIAs) The compilation of any but the most cursory
& proposal and to a level of thoroughness proportionate The purpose of Heritage Impact Assessments is to building record requires a significant commitment DISTINCTIVENESS to the relative importance of the asset whose fabric gain an understanding of the effect of developments of time. No recording should be undertaken, or setting is affected. and changes on the historic asset, and how the impact therefore, without first establishing whether relevant of change might be mitigated. HIAs can be carried information already exists and assessing its merits. Engagement with the relevant local authority 4.0 out at various levels of scale and complexity, from the An appropriate form and level of recording will build SUSTAINABLE specialists can be particularly helpful in developing effects of building works on a small structure to the upon existing knowledge and will be shaped both by an understanding of significance and in identifying
effects of major development in a world heritage site. the nature and perceived significance of the building the level of information needed to support an PLACEMAKING and by the circumstances prevailing at the time, application. It can also be helpful to consult national HIAs should identify the significance of the element including the intended purpose of the record and amenity societies and groups or individuals (such as concerned on the relative scale of values, the nature of the needs of its likely users. A clear understanding local civic and historical societies) with relevant links the proposed change, an assessment of whether the of these issues will help to determine the format in DESIGN 5.0 to the site and it’s past. change needs to be mitigated and if so how this can be
which the resulting information is presented and will TOPICS achieved. The mitigation measures should be justified also enable an estimate to be made at the outset of 5.16.16 What information is required? on the basis of the heritage asset’s significance. the resources needed to carry out the work. All applicants should provide a level of informationCONSULTATION DRAFT that is proportionate to the significance of 5.16.18 Using appropriate expertise Most records will incorporate some form of written the asset and the potential impact upon that Compliance with the policies of the Council requires description and analysis, drawing on either an SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0 significance of the proposals. For example, for a expert advice to inform their decision-making where investigation of the building’s fabric, or research in substantial demolition it is reasonable to expect the need to understand the particular significance of documentary sources, or both. They will also typically the applicant to provide detailed information on a heritage asset and any proposed impact demands include a visual record made by photography and/or the asset as a whole and a thorough explanation it. This may be from in-house experts, experts drawing. However, the time devoted to each activity, INFO of the impact. An application for a minor alteration available through agreement with other authorities, and consequently the content of the record, will vary to part of the asset is likely only to require detailed or professional consultants. This advice may be considerably according to the nature of the building APPENDICES 7.0 information on the affected part of the asset, along complemented by advice from heritage amenity and the circumstances of the recording project.
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Checklist for 5.0 Design Topics: 3.0 Have you referred to Design Topic 5.2 (Towards CONTEXT Zero Carbon Design & Construction)? All
& proposals should consider the achievement of DISTINCTIVENESS relevant Carbon Zero or Carbon Reduction aims.
Has/have the relevant Design Topic or Topics 4.0 been consulted to inform the design of the SUSTAINABLE proposed development?
PLACEMAKING Proposals in the Taunton Garden Town area should have regard to ‘The Vision for our Garden Town’, ‘Design Charter and Checklist’ and
‘The Public Realm Design Guide’. DESIGN 5.0
TOPICS CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0
INFO APPENDICES 7.0
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6.1 Information required for making a Planning Application 145 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 6.2 Design and Access Statements 146
6.3 Masterplans, Parameter Plans and Design Coding 148
6.4 Heritage Statements 151 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 6.5 Design Review 153
SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 6.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 INFORMATION APPENDICES 7.0
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6.1 Information required for making a Planning Application THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Local Validation Checklist This checklist is intended to provide applicants/ It is recommended that prior to making an agents with clear advice as to the planning Local Validation Checklist contents:
• Introduction CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 application the developer checks the Local information that is considered necessary to – Adoption/Review How to use this document Validation Checklist. This document provides a allow Case Officers and Statutory/Non-Statutory • Guidance for All Applicants/Agents detailed list of the necessary information that consultees to properly consider proposals – What is Validation will need to be submitted at validation for each being put forward and to ensure a streamlined • Submitting an Application – Personal or Sensitive Data/Submission direct to application type to ensure the application can submission process. Somerset West and Taunton Council/Submission be processed in a timely manner. Where a document or plan is listed for a particular via the Planning Portal • Pre-Application Advice SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 This local validation checklist has been produced type of application or consent, such an application • Householder Planning Application to inform applicants/agents of the type of may not be validated without this information. • Change of Use documents and level of information required to Everything that is required from applicants will be • Full Planning Application for Minor Development validate a planning application or other similar justified by policy or legislation so you know why • Full Planning Application for Major Development • Outline Planning Application for Minor Development consents. There are National Requirements we are asking for certain information. Links to other • Outline Planning Application for Major Development and Somerset West and Taunton (SWT) has bodies and documents that will help you get your
• Reserved Matters Application DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 local requirements. SWT’s Local Validation submission right can be found under the Glossary • Application for Advertisement Consent Checklist reflects both the National Guidance at the end of this document. • Listed Building Consent • Certificate of Lawfulness of Existing Use or on the validation of applications and the local If you consider a required item is not applicable to Development requirements. To avoid confusion, this document CONSULTATIONyour particular application then please contact DRAFT our • Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Use or will merge Local and National requirements to Development Development Management Team on 0300 304 enable use of this document as your one-stop • Tree Works or Hedgerow Removal Application 8000 7805 for further advice. • Removal or Variation of Condition (Section 73 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 shop, with the aim that your application can be Application) registered as valid for determination by the • Other Application Types Council first time round. – Discharge of Condition/Non-Material Amendments/ Permission in Principle (PiP)/Hazardous Substance Consents/Applications in respect of Crown Land • Other Supporting Information • Maps and Plans APPENDICES 7.0 • Glossary
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6.2 Design and Access Statements THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
6.2.1. What are they and why are they required? 6.2.2. What is the scope and content of a Design forms, massing, grain and scale, materials palette, Design and Access Statements (DAS) are concise and Access Statement? distinctive features and styles), character areas; documents prepared by applicants to accompany The DAS should be written both as the ‘narrative’ types of green spaces trees and hedges and CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 all but the most minor planning applications and of the evolution of the scheme and as a public realm; landmarks and other features valued in particular major projects, and/or those that description of the final proposals. It is suggested by the local community. Pattern and scale of are likely to have significant impact or which that the Design Process section of this Guide in predominant uses (existing, trends and past). are located in sensitive contexts. Design and section 2.0 could provide the structure for most Map regression showing the evolution of the site Access Statements are required for buildings of the DAS. For example; and its context. of more than 1,000m2, housing developments SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 a. Preliminaries. c. Appraisal of the site of the development. of 10 dwellings or more and developments The developer’s brief; the use and size of the (annotated map and illustrations, with text). requiring Listed Building Consent. They provide proposals. Reasons for the proposals and Topography of the site; drainage and areas the applicant with the opportunity to explain the analysis of local need or demand. The choice of flood risk. Areas of exposure, shelter and reasoning behind the design approach taken of site. Response to likely impacts. Conclusions orientation to the sun. Areas of contamination and the designer’s response to the local context. drawn from appraisal of relevant policies. and other sub-surface constraints, including These Statements are useful to planning officers in DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 The influences on the proposals as a result archaeology. Hedgerows, trees and other providing additional information to the application of meetings with planners and other agencies vegetation; condition, habitats and biodiversity. drawings for their understanding and assessment and the outcome of engagement with the Structures on site and potential for re-use. of a scheme. Similarly, they can be helpful for local community. Boundaries:- condition, character and sensitivity councillors, neighbours and the communityCONSULTATION to DRAFT (eg privacy/overlooking). Existing and potential appreciate the reasoning behind the drawings, b. Appraisal of the context of the development. access points. Areas of the site within the setting which otherwise may prove difficult to understand. (annotated map and illustrations with text) SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of heritage assets. Assessment of the landscape and /or The ‘Access’ part of the title refers primarily to the townscape setting of the site; Long views to importance attached to ensuring that development and from the site, including key ridgelines and proposals will be equally accessible to all users, rooflines; topography. Setting of heritage assets; residents and visitors, regardless of age, ability, or connections (existing or potential) between the gender. Access can also be taken to mean the ease to site and local facilities. The character of the built APPENDICES 7.0 which the scheme can be approached, by active travel, environment context (Building types, densities, vehicular access and for deliveries and servicing.
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d. The development of the design concept. Series of diagrammatic sketch plans demonstrating how the requirements of the CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 brief, outcome of engagement and key factors of the appraisal of context and site coalesce into design options. These plans typically would show the broad character of the development (relative density ranges; formal/informal, general
layout and main frontages, character areas and SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 key groups, green infrastructure. These may be supplemented by 3D visualisations or the use of (valid) examples of similar developments. At this stage it is advisable to engage with all stakeholders and perhaps design review. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 e. Description of the proposals. A more detailed set of plans, elevations and visualisations of the preferred option, short of the full application information. CONSULTATION DRAFT It is stressed that the DAS should be as concise as appropriate to cover the points raised above. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 It should be written in an accessible style and wherever possible should have a high illustrative/ graphic content. APPENDICES 7.0
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6.3 Masterplans, Parameter Plans and Design Coding
Relevant Policies > DM4 (Core Strategy - explicitly referenced), and D7 (SADMP) and NH13 (WSLP2032) THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Taunton Garden Town information
6.3.1 What are masterplans? 6.3.2 How can masterplans b. Whoever prepares them, masterplans can a. Masterplans set the vision and implementation be used most effectively? benefit from a collaborative approach between strategy for a development. They are distinct a. Masterplans are most likely to be produced the local planning authority, site promoters CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 from local design guides by focusing on site by local authorities or developers and should and local communities so that aspirations and specific proposals such as the scale and layout be based on the principles as set out in this constraints are understood early on. Masterplans of development, mix of uses, transport and Design Guide. For local authorities, they can produced by local planning authorities may be green infrastructure. Depending on the level of help to clarify design expectations early in adopted as supplementary planning documents detail, the masterplan may indicate the intended the planning process, set a clear vision for to give them weight in decisions on applications.
arrangement of buildings, streets and the public the site, inform infrastructure and viability Masterplans often apply to schemes that are SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 realm. More specific parameters for the site’s assessments and identify requirements for developed over a long time period and so may development should be set out in separate developer contributions or other investment. need to be subject to regular review and be Parameter Plans and/or a Design Code which Moreover, many site allocation policies require flexible to adapt to changing circumstances. can accompany the overall Masterplan. masterplans as part of these processes. c. Care should be taken to ensure that masterplans Developers may produce a masterplan to help b. A range of other plans and technical reports are viable and well understood by all involved assess options and evolve their own vision, in DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 may be needed alongside a masterplan, to and that graphic representations of what the support of an outline planning application for provide supporting evidence and set out related development will look like do not mislead a site, but the scope and content should be proposals, such as a local character study, the public by showing inaccurate details or agreed with the local planning authority and in landscape assessment, transport assessment significant elements not yet decided upon. CONSULTATIONwider engagement with the community in pre-DRAFT and proposals for securing biodiversity net application discussions. gain. An implementation strategy could also SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 be included, especially where development is expected to be brought forward in a number of phases. APPENDICES 7.0
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6.3.3 What is the role of parameter plans in 6.3.4 What are design codes? b. Design Codes can be commissioned or achieving well-designed places? a. Design Codes are a set of illustrated design prepared by either the local planning authority or a. Parameter plans can include information on requirements that provide specific, detailed developer, but are best prepared in partnership CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 the proposed land use, building heights, areas parameters for the physical development of a to secure agreed design outcomes and maintain of potential built development, structure of site or area. The graphic and written components viability, particularly across complex sites and landscape and green infrastructure, access of the code should be proportionate and build phased and multi-developer schemes. They and movement and other key structuring upon a design concept, such as a masterplan can also be prepared for smaller sites, including and placemaking components. They can or other design and development framework self-build or custom build projects, where codes
be prepared to inform an environmental for a site or area. Their content should also be can be used to maintain a degree of certainty SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 impact assessment, where one is required to informed by this local Design Guide and the whilst allowing for design freedom. On large accompany an outline application. 10 characteristics of good places set out in the sites it can be important to allow for the code to National Design Guide. Additionally, the National be reviewed as development proceeds, so that b. Parameter plans can provide elements of the Model Design Code sets out a comprehensive lessons from its initial implementation can be framework within which more detailed design illustrated agenda for the scope and content of addressed, provided that any changes do not proposals are generated, but they are not a design code. subvert the overall design concept or weaken DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 a substitute for a clear design concept and the quality of development. masterplan, and need to be used in a way that One of their most important roles is to ensure does not inhibit the evolution of detailed proposals. that the Urban Design Framework for the project c. Design Codes can be applied to all development For example, setting maximum parametersCONSULTATION for is implemented. In this way, codes help to DRAFTtypes including residential, commercial, aspects such as building heights can still allow maintain quality by identifying the elements of mixed use, open space, landscape or public flexibility in determining the detailed design a Masterplan that are fundamental in creating a realm requirements. They can be adopted SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 of a scheme. sense of place, and translating these into a set of as a supplementary planning document, or detailed design instructions. appended to a Neighbourhood Plan, Community c. The Parameter Plan which confirms the key Right to Build Order or Neighbourhood structuring and placemaking components (an ‘Urban Development order. Design Framework’) is an essential link between the Masterplan and any subsequent Design
Codes. The Design Codes can then be clearly APPENDICES 7.0 constructed to deliver these place-making ideas.
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d. Before attempting to construct a Code then a f. A Regulating Plan that assigns the various rules clear brief should be established and agreed to the different parts of the Masterplan layout, which identifies the specific design issues that showing where they apply, will be a key drawing CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 the Code will deal with. A generic Code that within the Code. It should serve to coordinate merely confirms that normal development the accumulated design intentions provided by practice will be acceptable is clearly unlikely those individual rules and therefore act as the to raise design quality. The content of Codes first and main point of reference for those using should vary according to context and be the document.
specifically constructed for each project to SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 create a coherent sense of place. e. Design Codes can include some associated guidance to be applied in a discretionary manner, but the central core of the Code should be a set of mandatory rules set out DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 and described in unambiguous illustrations and language. These will directly inform the preparation of Reserved Matters applications and should provide an ‘easy to use’ frameworkCONSULTATION DRAFT for use by development management officers when assessing those submissions. A well- SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 constructed Code will maintain essential principles but allow for an appropriate level of variety and flexibility in those aspects of the design which are not critical in achieving the place-making aims. APPENDICES 7.0
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6.4. Checklist for Heritage Statements THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
A Heritage Statement is a document which will The minimum requirement will be the You may wish to consider the specialist input form part of applications for planning permission consultation of the Somerset Historic by an appropriate professional. This will often Environment Record (HER) for information on be required. This could be an historic buildings CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 and/or Listed Building Consent (LBC) and should the history of the building, site or area as well specialist, archaeologist or conservation provide the justification for the changes proposed as (where the building is listed) the National architect to properly assess the heritage asset to the heritage asset. Heritage List produced by Historic England. and its significance. Statements will define the heritage assets affected Sources such as historic maps, deeds, Other information may inform or be needed and provide analysis of the significance of these
photographs, plans etc are available to help to understand the potential impact upon SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 heritage assets and how (if at all) the significance inform heritage statements and to enable the heritage assets, such as the proposed will be affected. The Heritage Statement should understanding of significance and the degree schedule (specification) of works and/or provide justification for the changes proposed of change which has taken place over time. structural surveys.
What should Heritage Statements include? The Somerset HER is likely to be the principal In respect of archaeological sites an Heritage Statements should identify and define source of information about the historic archaeological desk-based assessment or the extent and the significance of the asset and environment for the district archaeological survey/evaluation may be DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 its setting. required in the form of professional research PLEASE NOTE: Applications for permission or and investigation, such as geophysical survey The document should be detailed enough that consent may not be validated or processed or necessary archaeological evaluation via the impact of the proposals on significance and unless the necessary heritage statement has CONSULTATION DRAFTtrial trenching. setting can be properly assessed by the Local been submitted Planning Authority (LPA). It is important that SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 statements are a balanced; evidence-based assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed development, and should not simply express a personal view on whether the works should be approved. APPENDICES 7.0
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The following headings should be used as a Description guide to the contents of a heritage statement: description of the site and its setting CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Discussion Introduction objective (avoid value-laden statements) defining the heritage assets; location and any understanding of the changes which have designations (for examples listed building? taken place to the site over time include the list description, conservation area? include any information which is useful to the Name and date of designation, is there a understanding of the building/site SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 conservation area appraisal – is the building/ site mentioned discussed? Significance of the Asset A summary statement defining the significance Historic context of the asset (culmination of the headings to include map regression, historic above) associations, documentary evidence
Proposed changes and impact DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Describe the changes and what impact (if any) they will have on the significance (as defined) CONSULTATION Identify any mitigation (how can the impact DRAFT be minimised/avoided) is the work reversible for example, is recording of the building required? SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Conclusion Brief summary of proposals, their impact and possible mitigation APPENDICES 7.0
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6.5 Design Review
Relevant Policies > Taunton Deane adopted Site Allocations and Development Management Plan, 2016, policy D7. THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
6.5.1 What is Design Review? The independent advice given by the panel is Design Review is used to support the Council in most effective when given before a scheme achieving high quality and sustainable places. becomes too fixed at the pre-application stage CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 The Council considers the incorporation of a design but may also be used once an application NPPF para 129: review process in the evolution of proposals is has been submitted. The panel’s advice may “Local Planning Authorities should ensure that they important in ensuring the design and delivery of assist officers in negotiating improvements have access to, and make appropriate use of, tools high quality developments within the District. As and may support decision making by the and processes for assessing and improving the such the Council will generally expect schemes Planning Committee. design of a development. These include…………design of more than 50 homes or 5,000 square metres advice and review arrangements………These are of SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The purpose of a design review panel is to of commercial/other floorspaces to be informed most benefit if used as early as possible in the provide ‘critical friend’ advice to the site promotor by review. Other smaller complex schemes may evolution of a scheme. In assessing applications, and the local planning authority and their advice also benefit from the review process. local planning authorities should have regard to is a material planning consideration in the the outcome of these processes, including any The Design Review process is used to assess determination of applications. Where possible recommendations made by design review panels.” significant development proposals through an the process will be informed by briefings and DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 independent panel comprising professionals and engagement so that local views can be taken The Design Council recommends criteria for experts drawn from a range of relevant disciplines. into consideration in the panel’s comments. Design Review, stating that they should be: Schemes are submitted to a Design Review Panel Design Review is a recognised process as the “1. Independent; 2. Expert; 3 Multidisciplinary; preferably at an early stage to identify and consider CONSULTATIONNational Planning Policy Framework, 2019 states: DRAFT 4. Accountable; 5. Transparent; 6. Proportionate; the key assumptions of the proposed design. (see right) 7. Timely; 8. Advisory; 9. Objective; 10. Accessible." SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES 7.0
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6.5.2 What schemes are invited to Design Review? 6.5.3 What is the Design Review procedure? Design review can be an effective assessment A Design Review Panel for Somerset West and 3.0 tool for large scale developments, developments Taunton will be established by the local planning CONTEXT proposed for sensitive locations, taller buildings authority to cover proposals within the District
& or those of particularly novel or innovative design. following a tendering process for a specified DISTINCTIVENESS It is strongly advised that applicants are invited period. The applicant will be responsible for the to design review at an early stage in the design fee payment and the body operating the panel process, preferably when the design concept is covers the panellists’ fees, administration of the 4.0 being developed. It is at this stage when creative event (which usually lasts between 2 and 4 hours) SUSTAINABLE dialogue between the panel and applicant is and the issuing of written advice which is sent to
most effective. There can be instances where an the applicant and the local planning authority. PLACEMAKING applicant wishes to return to a subsequent panel For each scheme a small number of panel (preferably with the same panel members) to members from the wider pool will be selected discuss the further evolution of a design. for their expertise in relation to the skills and 5.0 DESIGN As set out above the Council will generally expect knowledge required to assess the proposal. schemes of more than 50 homes or 5,000 sq TOPICS metres of commercial/other floorspaces to be informed by review. Other smaller complexCONSULTATION DRAFT schemes may also benefit from the review process.
Additionally, a Design Review Panel might be SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0 consulted by the Local Planning Authority when they are considering relevant policy documents, masterplans, design briefs or codes for key sites. INFO APPENDICES 7.0
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Checklist for 6.0 Supplementary Information: 6.4 Heritage Statements If your proposal involves a heritage asset you will need to submit 3.0 6.1 Has the Local Validation Checklist been a Heritage Statement. Sections 5.16 and 3.0. CONTEXT consulted to check if all necessary planning should provide additional information. Has the & documentation has been provided? guidance in this section been addressed? DISTINCTIVENESS
6.2 Is a Design and Access Statement required 6.5 Design Review Significant schemes will for your application? If so, the Design Process be considered for Design Review. If the Local 4.0 (items 2.2-2.6) should be used to structure Planning Authority has requested this, has the SUSTAINABLE your statement. developer/designer team consulted the advice
in this section? It is also advised that the Design PLACEMAKING 6.3 If a Masterplan is proposed, has the Process items 2.2-2.6 are addressed. guidance been addressed? (particularly section 4.0) If the proposal is located in the Taunton 5.0 Garden Town area, the ‘The Vision for our Garden DESIGN
Town’, ‘Design Charter and Checklist’ and ‘Public TOPICS Realm Design Guide’ should be consulted. CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY 6.0
INFO APPENDICES 7.0
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7.1 Glossary 157 THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0 7.2 References 160 CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT 7.0 SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 APPENDICES APPENDICES 7.0
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7.1 Glossary THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Active frontage/s playspaces, greens, local facilities, etc. Density other environmental benefits for communities. Building or street fronts which have a high alone is not a measure of residential quality. proportion of windows and pedestrian entrances The assessment of density should have regard Hierarchy CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 which generate interaction between the building to design quality, layout and context, as much This can be taken as the critical range of streets, interiors and the street outside. For example, a as a specific figure. spaces or building types, from major to minor. For street with a large number of smaller, narrow instance, one can design a range of connected fronted shops, coffee shops and restaurants, Footprint spaces and streets from boulevards, central perhaps with displays or seating ‘spilling’ onto The plan shape and area of a building, especially squares, secondary streets, lanes, and yards. the street would constitute a very active frontage. in relation to an existing building line and site SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 Conversely, a street with a high proportion of boundaries. The design and layout of the building Key Group/Building blank walls with a few solid doors would be footprint should be considered in relation to Key buildings or groups are designed to act as a characterised as a ‘dead’ frontage. adjacent existing footprints. The spaces on the site focus to a small area, for instance at the entrance outside the footprint should be carefully designed to a development, at the ‘gateway’ to a settlement, Density regarding their function, effect of shading and or where the topography of the site suggests
Density is commonly defined as a ratio of population privacy; they should not be merely ‘space left over’. emphasis, or as a focus for local facilities. It is DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 related to a given area of land. In most planning likely that these features may have a different but and development contexts this is expressed as Form related scale, massing or footprint. ‘Dwellings per Hectare’ (dph). This is a relatively The three dimensional layout (structure and vague measure in that a dwelling can beCONSULTATION designed urban grain), density, scale (height and massing), DRAFT Legibility for anything between, for example, one and six appearance (materials and details) and landscape A scheme can be described as having a good level people. Similarly, the plot size per unit can vary. of development. of legibility if its system of foot, cycle or vehicular SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 One of the more accurate measures of people per routes is coherent to its users, it connects logically, hectare is Bedspaces per Hectare; thls allows for Green Infrastructure. safely and attractively to local hubs, without undue many different house sizes. Net Density includes the Is an integrated network of multi-functional green use of signs, but instead relies on landmarks and area taken up by each house unit, the immediate spaces and other green features, urban and the arrangement of the public realm. garden or amenity space and the area of parking for rural, which can deliver quality of life, aesthetic those houses and the access road. Gross density will enjoyment, air quality, wildlife habitats, increased APPENDICES 7.0 include the wider residential environment, including biodiversity, sustainable drainage systems and
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Local Distinctiveness penetration into the rear and the blocks can be Scale The positive features of a place and its ‘cranked’ in plan, to follow contours or create The impression of a building when seen in relation communities which contribute to its special streetscape interest. Parking is usually located to its surroundings. It is also the size of elements of CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 character and sense of place. on the street side. a building or its details, particularly as experienced in relation to the size of a person. Sometimes it is Massing Place the total dimensions of a building which give it its Massing is the three dimensional arrangement The concept of place is a space endowed with sense of scale: at other times it is the size of the of the volume of development into a coherent unique features that establishes the identity of elements and the way they are combined. whole, when perceived from within and from its the location or space. Place can be differentiated SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 streetscape or townscape setting. It involves from space in that a place is not only a three Shared Space the consideration of the constituent parts of the dimensional space but it is defined by the activities Minimises the segregation between different scheme and the handling of critical heights, scale that take place there and the meanings and modes of road user. This is done by removing and footprint. associations people have with it. features such as kerbs, road surface markings, traffic signs and traffic lights. Often used in urban
Perimeter Block Placemaking settings that have been made largely traffic free. DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 A development parcel surrounded by streets, Is a multi-faceted approach to planning, design usually on all four sides, with housing or other and management of public spaces. It facilitates Sustainable Development forms of development arranged around the outer creative patterns of use, paying particular attention Development which meets present needs without edges of the block, with frontages facingCONSULTATION the to the physical, cultural and social identities thatDRAFT compromising the ability of future generations to streets and private gardens or communal spaces define a place and support its ongoing evolution. achieve their own needs and aspirations. It aims in the centre, to the rear of the housing. This towards a better quality of life and seeks the need SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 arrangement provides a clear distinction between Rain Garden for environmental improvement, social justice and public (street-facing) and private (garden–facing ) A depressed area in the landscape that collects economic success to go hand-in-hand. sides. It is the optimum method of achieving higher rain water from a roof, driveway or street and densities at lowest height. Perimeter development allows it to soak into the ground. Planted with Terminating Building can be designed at low, medium and high density, grasses and flowering perennials rain gardens can This is a building or monument that stands at the end can be continuous, or more logically, semi- be a cost effective and beautiful way to reduce or in the middle of a road or vista, so that when one is APPENDICES 7.0 continuous, which allows for better air and sunlight runoff from buildings. looking up the street the view ends with the site.
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Townscape basic form, configuration and scale and even The inheritance of the pattern of vernacular Is the landscape of a built-up area including their specific architectural style and era. building is an important indicator of local buildings, the relationship between them, the distinctiveness and is often used as a reference CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 different types of urban open spaces including Topography point for design cues in a locality. green spaces, boundary walls, street furniture This usually relates to the three dimensional and the relationship between buildings and open nature of the terrain; steep or shallow slopes, spaces. Townscape can be perceived at a range of undulating or level, etc. scales; from small groups of buildings, to villages, towns and cities. Urban Grain SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 The pattern of the arrangement and size of Tracking buildings and plots in a settlement and the The use of the turning areas and characteristics degree to which an area’s pattern of street blocks of a range of vehicles, from cars to recycling and street junctions is respectively small and vehicles to removal vehicles, to determine the frequent (fine grained), or large and infrequent, critical width of streets, size of junctions and areas (coarse grained). DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 of courtyards. This method is recommended by ‘Manual for Streets’ 1&2, to achieve distinctive Vernacular streets and places, where vehicular access and the This relates to the pre-industrial pattern of arrangement of buildings are consideredCONSULTATION together. everyday buildings, constructed with local DRAFT This approach contrasts with the conventional materials, usually without the input of architects. application of standard dimensions for roads and The vernacular tradition declined from the SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 footpaths, which usually result in generic, road second half of the 19th century, with the onset dominated layouts. of mass produced building materials and their transportation across the country, first by canal Typology then by rail. The vernacular, however, is defined Buildings can be classed in sets which have not solely by the use of local materials, but also similarities in their type of function or form. by building type, siting and form and also reflects APPENDICES 7.0 Usually building types are distinguished by their local economic and social conditions.
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7.2 References THE DESIGN PROCESS 2.0
Technical Housing Standards; Nationally
Taunton: The Vision For Our Garden Town. National Planning Policy Framework. Described Space Standards. Ministry of Housing,
CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 Somerset West & Taunton Council, 2019. Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Communities and Local Government, 2015. Government, 2019. Taunton; Design Charter & Checklist. www.nationalplanningpolicyframework-gov.uk Gear Change. Department for Transport, 2020. Somerset West & Taunton Council, 2019.
National Design Guide.Ministry of Housing, Public Realm Design Guide for Taunton Garden The Councillor’s Guide to Urban Design. Communities and Local Government, 2019. Town. Somerset West & Taunton Council, 2021. Design Council/CABE. 2003. www.nationaldesignguide.gov.uk Taunton Deane Landscape Character Assessment. Better Planning, Better Transport, Better Places. SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 National Model Design Code. Taunton Deane Borough Council, 2011. Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local 2019. Climate Positive Planning; Draft Interim Policy Government, 2021. Statement for the Climate Emergency. Climate Emergency Design Guide. Building for a Healthy Life; a Design Toolkit Somerset West & Taunton Council, 2021. London Energy Transformation Initiative, 2020.
for Neighbourhoods, Streets, Homes and https://www.leti.london https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/ DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 Public Spaces, Design for Homes, 2020. media/2584/climatepositiveplanningapproved.pdf Trees in Hard Landscape; a Guide for Delivery. Lifetime Homes Standard 16. Carbon Neutrality & Climate Resilience Action Plan. Trees & Design Action Group (with CIHT, CIBSE, www.lifetimehomes.org.uk Somerset West & Taunton Council, 2020 ICF, ICE) 2014. CONSULTATIONLifetime Homes Design Guide. IHS/BRE, 2011. DRAFT London Housing Design Guide. Design Guide. Exmoor National Park, 1995. Manual for Streets* Greater London Authority, 3rd edn, 2018. SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0 Landscape Character Assessment. Exmoor Department for Transport/Department for Housing, www.london.gov.uk National Park, 2011. Communities and Local Government, 2007. Shaping Neighbourhoods. Design Guide for Houses. Blackdown Hills AoNB, Manual for Streets 2* Barton, H; Grant, M; Guise, R. 2012. Chartered Institution of Highways and Routledge, 2021 (3rd edn) Transportation, 2010. Streets in Residential Developments; Layout & www.ciht.org.uk APPENDICES 7.0 Appearance. Somerset County Council, 2021. *These will be superseded in late 2021
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Compiled and designed by: Richard Guise, Context4D
With contributions from: CONTEXT & DISTINCTIVENESS 3.0 James Webb, Forum Heritage Services Mark Pearson, Design Action Devon &Cornwall Hydrock and officers of Somerset West & Taunton Council Graphic design: ollyandtom.co.uk SUSTAINABLE PLACEMAKING 4.0 If you need this document in an alternative format, please contact the Planning Policy Team of Somerset West and Taunton Council on: 0300 304 8000 DESIGN TOPICS 5.0 CONSULTATION DRAFT SUPPLEMENTARY INFO 6.0
Compiled and designed by: Richard Guise, Context4D and associates
APPENDICES 7.0 Graphic Design: ollyandtom.co.uk
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DESIGN GUIDE DRAFT SPD, 2021