Design and Sustainability Supplementary Planning Document

July 2018 Foreword

This Supplementary Planning Document has been prepared by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in its role as Local Planning Authority to support the delivery of the Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan 2011-29. It has been informed by extensive consultation including a six week formal consultation with residents and other stakeholders.

It has been prepared in accordance with The Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 and is a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.

Table of contents Section 3 – Spatial Structure Section 6 – Arrangement of 19 buildings and creation of spaces 48 Section 1 – Introduction 4 Creating a grid of routes and blocks 19 Continuous active frontages 48 Aims and objectives of urban design Grids 20 5 Density 50 Blocks 21 Context and character 5 Mixing uses 51 Giving form to blocks 22 Sustainability 6 Bringing life to spaces 52

Design and sustainability objectives for Enclosure 53 the borough 7 Section 4 – Formation of Variety 54 Relevant planning policy 8 structure 31 Corners 54 How to use this document 10 Shape 31 Rhythm 55 Routes and connections 33 Views and Vistas 55 Section 2 – Starting point for Routes/linkages 33 Green Infrastructure 56 achieving good urban design: Street hierarchy 34 Biodiversity 59 contextual survey and Focal spaces 37 Interface with the public realm 59 analysis 12 Green Infrastructure and external Topography 59 Process of conducting contextual environment 38 Maintenance and protection of spaces survey and analysis 12 Local centres 40 61 Compiling and conveying the results of Legibility 41 Specific types of building arrangement the analysis 16 Character areas 41 (rural layouts and commercial Creating a vision/design framework developments) 62 17

Section 5 – Movement and walkability 43

Section 7 – cycle storage and Housing 99 Internal spaces 133 vehicle parking 67 Flats 103 Cycle storage 67 Office buildings 104 Section 11 – Extensions 135 General design principles for vehicle Industrial/logistics 105 Residential buildings 135 parking provision 68 Educations buildings 105 Site analysis 135 Residential development 69 Sub-division of dwellings and houses Neighbour impacts 136 Public squares/central open space of multiple occupation 107 Design and impact on the character of 69 Shopfronts 108 the area 138 Central reservation parking 70 Specific types of extensions 142 Parking areas within the curtilage Sections 9 – materials and Fenestration 145 70 detailing 111 Materials and detailing 145 Parking courts 72 Elevations 111 Extensions and refurbishment of non- Undercroft and basement parking Roof materials and detailing 120 residential buildings 147 73 External spaces 122 Non-curtilage parking 73 Preventing the deterioration of Glossary 149 Commercial development 73 materials and detailing through the Appendix 1 – Village Design planning process 125 Statements 154 Section 8 – High quality Appendix 2 – Basingstoke and Deane buildings 75 Section 10 – Residential Conservation Areas 155 Important design concepts for amenity 126 Appendix 3 – Waste/recycling 156 individual buildings 75 External spaces 126 Appendix 4 – Nationally Described Space Standards (for reference) 167 Important elements of buildings 81 Flats 128 Sustainable design approaches 87 Privacy 129 Tall buildings 93 Natural light and outlook 131

sustainability issues, both in shaping the arrangement of Section 1 - terms of key principles, and built form and the creation of Introduction how they are applicable to the a network of streets borough. This section also o movement and walkability – 1.1 This document sets out considers the relevant planning stressing the importance of guidance in order to support the policy context at both the creating a positive achievement of high quality national and local level. environment for walking and sustainable development, which  The process of contextual cycling responds positively to the survey and analysis as the o urban design principles for context. This guidance is part of foundation for achieving the arrangement of buildings the council’s goal of raising the designs which respond and creating successful quality of new development in positively to the context. This spaces the borough and will help to includes guidance in relation to o design considerations in ensure that key priorities set out the factors which need to be relation to vehicle parking in national and local level policy considered as part of this and cycle storage are met, along with the process. o guidance for ensuring the objectives of the Council Plan  Detailed consideration of high quality design of new and Sustainability Community specific urban design and buildings Strategy, such as making the sustainability principles, starting o sustainable design borough an even better place to with macro scale issues and approaches in relation to live, enhancing levels of then progressing down to more built form physical and mental wellbeing, micro level issues. The issues o specific guidance in relation improving the local economy, covered encompass the to certain types of buildings delivering well-planned growth following: – including tall buildings, and maintaining and enhancing housing and commercial the built and natural o spatial structure – mainly development environment. focusing on grids and blocks o materials and detailing and how this influences o residential amenity 1.2 The document encompasses street patterns and the o extensions to existing the following elements: character of places buildings – including o formation and expression of housing.  Introduction – encompassing a structure – issues such as general overview of design and

1.3 Each section includes a set of  creating places which are for important to ensure that the specific principles which people first and foremost following principles are followed encapsulates the guidance set  influencing the development when designing new out and how it will need to be process to provide better places development: reflected in the design of new for people development.  harmonising the full range of  design solutions should be elements affecting the process orientated (a creative Aims and objectives of Urban development process in order approach based on the Design to create well designed, high context), as opposed to being quality environments product-driven (standard 1.4 Firstly, it is considered helpful to  recapturing some of the solutions imposed regardless of clarify the general ethos which conceptual qualities of context) underpins urban design theory traditional townscapes, with  new design should be an and practice. their strong sense of place, original response to the context continuity of built form and  the overuse of standard designs which are not informed by the “…It is the collaborative and multi- richness in terms of variety and specific site context will not be disciplinary process of shaping the details acceptable, as this inherently physical setting for life in cities, towns  preventing fragmentation and fails to respond to the context or and villages; the art of making places; ensuring successful integration create a distinctive character design in an urban context. Urban of different townscape elements design involves the design of to create a richly varied whole.  where the existing character is buildings, groups of buildings, spaces undistinguished, opportunities and landscapes, and the Context and character must be taken to help solve establishment of frameworks and those problems, i.e. create a processes that facilitate successful 1.6 In addition, overarching urban distinctive character and raise development.…” (Urban Design design principles which the standard of design in the Group, 2017) underpin the principles set out locality in this document, are the  poor pastiche or simply 1.5 Other key urban design importance of context and the replicating mediocre design is principles are considered to be need to protect, or where it is not good design as follows: lacking create, distinctive  innovative design approaches character. Consequently, it is can provide a positive and

interesting solution, but the Sustainable urban design  respond to local climatic design needs to be sympathetic principles conditions to the context (e.g. utilise  provide and protect green and traditional layouts, building Strategic principles: open spaces forms, materials and detailing).  encourage ‘walkability’  minimise loss of planting/natural  it is important to ensure that  provide extensive, well features there is a high quality, well connected cycleways and  make generous provision for designed external environment, pedestrian routes new planting and new development needs to  support the use of public support the delivery of the  use sustainable drainage transport council’s Green Infrastructure systems  make urban areas better places Strategy.  retain and enhance habitat to live, and hence facilitate linkages and corridors.  provide extensive, well sustainable patterns of connected cycleways and development pedestrian routes, which protect Buildings:  increase densities in and enhance on-site public  provide energy efficient sustainable locations in a rights of way, and where buildings sensitive manner, particularly appropriate, connect to the  incorporate renewable energy central urban areas and around surrounding access network. technologies in a contextually public transport nodes sensitive manner  minimise urban sprawl  use environmentally friendly Sustainability  provide a wide range of uses, materials (i.e. low embodied including mixed-use schemes. energy), from sustainable 1.7 It is considered vital to ensure  preserve and enhance Green and/or local sources that urban design and Infrastructure.  incorporate suitable features for sustainability considerations are the enhancement of biodiversity integrated. The text box below Layout:  re-use existing buildings encapsulates the way in which  provide permeable layouts, with wherever possible, especially sustainability principles high quality footpaths and cycle those of historic significance. underpin urban design. routes in order to encourage sustainable modes of travel

Design and sustainability Key urban design and sustainability  Ensure that the character of rural objectives for the borough principles for the borough settlements are maintained and enhanced by ensuring that new  Ensure new development is high 1.8 There are a number of high quality, well designed, provides development responds positively quality areas and developments uplifting places for people, and to their distinctive local characters. in Basingstoke town and protects, enhances and increases  Support provision of more facilities numerous attractive towns and the provision of natural features. and services, and encourage the villages located within the provision of a wide range of  Improve the standard and borough. However, an inherent appropriate uses, within the principle of good design should distinctiveness of architecture in the borough. various neighbourhoods located always be the goal of around Basingstoke town, and in  Enhance the appearance, vitality continuous improvement and the rural parts of the borough, in and vibrancy of the Basingstoke innovation. It is also important order to improve the vitality and town centre. to ensure the protection and vibrancy of those communities.  Make the borough a more enhancement of positive  Support opportunities to refurbish ‘walkable’ place, including qualities, while also finding and/or redevelop existing providing better connectivity and solutions to address existing employment sites (for employment enhanced public transport and weaknesses and learning from and complementary uses) and improve the experience for the past. increase the vitality and vibrancy pedestrians and cyclists. of the borough’s employment 1.9 Therefore, it is considered  Achieve better quality residential areas. helpful to set out what urban areas, which have a more  Increase the resilience of the design and sustainability distinctive character and create borough in relation to climate principles are particularly better places for people to live. change. relevant for helping to achieve  Create a more legible townscape,  Maintain and enhance Green the council’s goal of improving with clearly defined character Infrastructure. design standards in the areas.  Enhance mental and physical borough, enhancing the quality  Respect for the historic street wellbeing. of new development, and pattern.  Ensure high quality and well- meeting the council’s corporate  Enhance the setting of historic designed external environment. and sustainability objectives. buildings.

1.10 The council is also very a more efficient application particular through the emphasis concerned about build quality, process, all of which supports on contextual design solutions. . which has become a significant the government’s goal of issue in relation to some new boosting the supply of high 1.14 The council supports the NPPF development in the borough. quality homes and furthering requirement that great weight Therefore, the council considers economic development. should be given to outstanding that it is vital that new or innovative designs which development is well-built and 1.12 This SPD does not attempt to help raise the standard of the council will take whatever impose architectural styles or design more generally in the measures it can to ensure particular tastes, nor does it area. This SPD provides a rigorous enforcement of seek to stifle innovation, positive framework for building regulations. originality or initiative. Rather it successfully achieving such provides a clear framework to outcomes. support both traditional and Relevant planning policy contemporary design solutions 1.15 The council’s approach to the which are high quality and consideration of new National Planning Policy development also accords with Framework (NPPF) respond positively to local distinctiveness. the NPPF encouragement for 1.11 This SPD is a positive response having local design review to the NPPF and the 1.13 The NPPF stresses that the arrangements in place in order government’s commitment to visual appearance and to facilitate high standards of well-designed places and architecture of individual design. Accordingly, this guide establishes a strong framework buildings is very important. will help to inform the for supporting the creation of However, securing high quality considerations of the Design high quality buildings and and inclusive design goes Review Panel in providing places in the borough. The SPD beyond aesthetic design advice to BDBC. The also facilitates the delivery of considerations. Therefore, this council also makes use of new development by providing guidance also ensures Building for Life when reviewing clarity concerning the council’s connections between people the quality of new development, design requirements, which and places and the successful as reported through its annual allows developers to make integration of new development its Authority Monitoring Report. more informed investment into the natural, built and decisions, as well as supporting historic environment, in

1.16 This SPD also supports the  adopt an innovative approach durable, adaptable and able to delivery of sustainable to meeting the challenges respond to changing social, development, by improving the faced by the borough environmental, technological attractiveness of the borough  supporting the revitalisation of and economic conditions for residents, workers, Basing View  positively contribute to the businesses and visitors, helping  provision of high quality new appearance and use of streets to create stronger community homes and other public spaces cohesion and supporting  delivering regeneration  promote the efficient use of land sustainable patterns of schemes and achieve appropriate development as well as the use  reduce energy use and utilise housing densities which of sustainable design solutions renewable energy technology respond to the local context and technologies.  promotion of stronger  provide a co-ordinated and communities. comprehensive scheme that Council Plan does not prejudice the future 1.17 The Council Plan 2016 – 2020 Local Plan development or design of adjoining sites encompasses the following key 1.18 The most relevant local level principles which are of  minimise energy consumption policy is EM10 in the adopt through sustainable approaches relevance to, and are supported Local Plan (2011 – 2029) by this document: to design (ALP). This policy will ensure  positively contribute to local  making the borough an even that all development proposals distinctiveness, the sense of better place to live will be of high quality, based place and the existing street  ensuring future growth is well upon a robust design-led scene planned approach. The policy  provide a high quality of  preserve and protect local requirements encompass: amenity for occupants of character and distinctiveness  ensuring places are well developments and neighbouring  maintain and enhance our built connected, accessible, safe, properties, having regard to and natural environment easy for people to find their way such issues as overlooking,  ensuring the borough has a around and, function well in access to natural light, outlook prosperous future practical terms and amenity space  are accessible to all and  have due regard to the density, promote buildings that are scale, layout, appearance,

architectural detailing, materials aspects of new development,  Sherfield on Loddon and history of the surrounding such as policies SS3 – SS3.12 Neighbourhood Plan: D2 area, and the relationship to (site allocations), CN9  Old Basing Neighbourhood neighbouring buildings, (Transport) and EM1 Plan: OB&L 1, 4, 7 landscape features and (Landscape), EM4 (Biodiversity,  Emerging Kingsclere heritage assets Geodiversity and Nature Neighbourhood Plan: K1,  are visually attractive as a result Conservation), EM5 (Green K3,K4, K5, K6, K7, K14, K15, of good architecture Infrastructure), EM7 (Managing K16, K17;  provide appropriate parking Flood Risk), EM11 (Historic  Emerging Wootton St Lawrence provision (including bicycle Environment), EM12 (Pollution). Neighbourhood Plan: WSL4, storage), in terms of amount, WSL5, WSL6 and WSL8. design, layout and location, in Neighbourhood Planning accordance with the adopted 1.21 Various policies within the 1.22 This guidance will aid in the parking standards ‘made’ and emerging application of those policies. It  provide appropriate internal and neighbourhood plans within the will also be necessary to external waste and recycling borough relate to design and interpret those policies in the storage areas and accessible sustainability issues: light of relevant Village Design collection points for refuse Statements (VDS), which vehicles.  Oakley and Deane provide additional design

Neighbourhood Plan: Policy 8, guidance and contextual 1.19 From a sustainability Policy 13 information (please see perspective, it will also be Appendix 1 for a full list of  Overton Neighbourhood Plan: important to have regard to current VDSs). LBE1, H3 policy EM9, concerning water  Bramley Neighbourhood usage, which requires that How to use this document improved water efficiency Development Plan: D2 standards are achieved in  Sherbourne St John 1.23 This document covers a broad relation to new development. Neighbourhood Plan: Policy 2 range of urban design issues,  Whitchurch Neighbourhood and provides clarity regarding 1.20 There are also a number of Development Plan: GD1, GD7, the council’s requirements. other policies which will be  St Mary Bourne Neighbourhood However, there will also be relevant to certain urban design Plan: P5, P6 and P7 instances where more detailed,

specialist guidance will also 1.25 Following on from the site that larger scale issues such as need to be applied, such as in analysis the subsequent spatial structure and block relation to Conservation Areas sections focus on how urban arrangement have already been and Listed Buildings, where it design and sustainability established. It may still be will be necessary to have principles are to be applied to necessary to have regard to the proper regard to Conservation specific sites and developments larger scale sections in terms of Area Appraisals and the in order to achieve a positive understanding how the forthcoming response to the context and site/development fits with the Conservation/Historic deliver high quality wider context, however, for Environment SPD. Another development with a distinctive smaller scale schemes the most example is where development character. relevant sections of this has landscape or biodiversity guidance are likely to be more implications, in which case it will 1.26 The guidance set out begins by detailed issues, such as layout, also be necessary to have considering macro level issues the design of the buildings, and regard to the Landscape and such as the structure of issues concerning materials Biodiversity SPD. It will also be development at the larger scale. and detailing. necessary give full attention to It then moves down towards Village Design Statements. more micro level issues such as materials and detailing. 1.24 One of the core principles of the urban design is the need to 1.27 The application of this guidance begin with a thorough will depend on the type of contextual survey and analysis development being considered. of the site and its surroundings. For example, development This must establish the covering large areas of land will constraints and opportunities need to consider all of the which will inform the design difference scales, i.e. from large process. Consequently, this scale spatial structure issues, document begins with guidance right down to the detailed regarding the contextual survey issues. and analysis process. 1.28 However, in the case of smaller scale development it is likely

Section 2 - Starting Process of conducting  layout and arrangement of contextual survey and buildings point for achieving  scale of buildings analysis  relationship buildings have with good urban design: the public realm contextual survey 2.3 The contextual survey and  identify important buildings, analysis needs to be conducted including historic/listed buildings and analysis at the start of the design and other heritage assets, process. It should be conveyed along with their setting 2.1 The starting point for good via plans, diagrams and photos,  roofscape urban design is an emphasis on and involve consideration of the  plot sizes and characteristics understanding and responding factors set out below. The  style of architecture and positively to the context. The material produced should be articulation of external goal is to integrate submitted with the application. elevations The following list sets out consideration of the full range of  the plan form of buildings considerations likely to need contextual factors, in order to  window styles create high quality holistic assessment during the initial analysis process, though this  external finishing materials and design solutions. Therefore, this detailing guidance begins with a will depend on the nature of any particular site and type of  boundary treatment/interface consideration of this process, with the public realm before moving on to consider development being considered.  natural environment features. urban design and sustainability principles in more detail. Townscape Uses of buildings and land 2.2 Contextual survey and analysis 2.4 This comprises the built form comprises an assessment of characterising the locality in 2.5 Identify important land uses in the constraints and which the site is situated. the area and consider how they opportunities of the site and Characteristics which need to can be protected and integrated how its surroundings have be considered include: in new development. When informed the principles of the considering larger design.  shape and size of streets and developments, opportunities spaces should be explored to provide a

broad range of compatible land uses.

History of the area 2.6 Consider the history of the site and locality, as this will help in understanding the way the area has developed and/or how it may be best developed in the future. Identify key aspects of the historic environment which need to inform the design, which need to be protected and which could be enhanced.

2.7 The borough contains a large number of Conservation Areas, listed buildings and important archaeological remains, and it will be vital to consider the impact of any such proposals One means of assessing certain townscape issues in urban design involves using figure ground on their significance. It will be drawings, as these enable the understanding of features such as the shape and size of streets and necessary to have regard to spaces and the layout and arrangement of built form. This example shows the centre of Whitchurch. any information available in related guidance/analysis such be consulted when assessing Movement and highways as Conservation Area the historic context: Appraisals and Village Design 2.8 Consider roads, cycle and Statements. A full list of such https://historicengland.org.uk/research/ pedestrian routes as well as documents is set out in methods/characterisation-2/urban- public transport connections. Appendix 2. Historic England characterisation/ Opportunities should be have also published guidance identified to connect with and on characterisation which may enhance existing movement

networks and maximise access 2.12 From a highways perspective it Orientation to sustainable modes of travel, is also useful to establish at this and to create a variety of point what parts of the site 2.14 This will be important in relation convenient routes in order to constitute public highway1, and to the arrangement of the built encourage walking and cycling. also investigate whether there form, i.e. the fronts and backs are any public rights of way of new development need to be 2.9 Movement patterns can also which could be affected by the well-related to the street scene, inform how development needs proposed development2. and it is vital to consider how to to be shaped and orientated. ensure new development does Topography not back onto important parts of 2.10 There may also be the public realm. opportunities to raise densities 2.13 Pronounced variations in in more sustainable locations topography can impact on 2.15 This is also a particularly (i.e. the areas with the best building construction, neighbour significant issue in relation to access to services and public relations and highways layouts. sustainability. For example, transport). They can also have landscape paying proper regard to implications, for example an orientation creates opportunities 2.11 Consider any existing highways elevated site may be to maximise passive solar gain issues affecting the area which constrained in landscape terms. and facilitate the use of certain may influence the proposed However, changes in level, if renewable energy technologies development. Also consider properly utilised can make a such as solar panels. whether there are any parking development more interesting issues being experienced in the and attractive, and therefore do Views locality and assess their sometimes present an implications concerning parking opportunity in design terms. 2.16 Includes consideration of views

options for new development. into and out of the site,

especially from roads, footpaths

1https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/searchesri 2http://localviewmaps.hants.gov.uk/LocalView ghtscharges/maintainedroads; maps/Sites/ROWOnline/# https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/searchesri https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvi ghtscharges/highwayextent ronment/rightsofway/definitivemap/definitivest atements

and open space, particularly https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/ENV0 Flood risk any long views and views from 9#elem_27396 high land and sensitive 2.21 While water features can create receptors such as designated 2.19 Have regard to relevant opportunities in a design sense, areas including Conservation analysis and guidance set out in it is important to consider the Areas and the North Wessex the council’s Landscape and impact of flood zones. These Downs Area of Outstanding Biodiversity SPD and the can be identified on the Natural Beauty. Countryside Design Summary Environment Agency flood along with any relevant VDS. maps3. Landscape and environment Biodiversity 2.22 This is a particularly significant 2.17 Identify important landscape issue in certain parts of the features, both within and 2.20 Consider the potential borough, as there are areas of around the site, having regard biodiversity implications of the Basingstoke and other towns to the council’s Green proposed development. For and villages which experience Infrastructure Strategy. It is example, is there the potential severe flooding problems. important to consider how these for the development to impact can be retained and protected, on protected species such as Pollution and how they could be bats and great crested newts, successfully integrated into new and designated areas such as 2.23 It is necessary to identify and development. SSSIs or SINCs. In addition, the consider the implications related to unneighbourly land 2.18 Identify key elements of green opportunities to incorporate biodiversity mitigation and uses and/or sources of infrastructure and consider how pollution. these can be integrated and enhancement should also be established, for example enhanced. Further information concerning the green through the creation of native infrastructure is accessible via species, bird and bat boxes, the link below: wildlife friendly water features or by maintaining and extending habitat corridors.

3 https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/

Social factors 2.24 The analysis needs to consider the social context of the area. For example, consideration should be given to how new development can benefit the This diagram wider community, e.g. by provides an providing access to new example of the sort of facilities and/or a wider mix of contextual accommodation, or survey and accommodation and/or uses analysis which are particularly needed material in the local area. Also consider which should be produced, issues such a community in this case safety and opportunities to identifying reduce the risk of crime and constraints antisocial behaviour. and opportunities. 2.25 It is also important to establish at the outset what community particular for sensitive land development and possibly new facilities will be needed, both in uses such as residential facilities and services provided. terms of meeting the council’s properties. requirements, and how such Compiling and conveying facilities can most effectively Facilities and services meet the needs of the the results of the analysis community. 2.27 Facilities and services either onsite or directly adjacent 2.28 The process set out above Neighbours should be identified so that they should culminate in the can be protected. There may production of a diagram or 2.26 It is important to consider the also be opportunities for them series of diagrams identifying constraints created by to be enhanced by new the key contextual issues, neighbouring occupants, in constraints and opportunities.

This should then provide a framework for shaping the subsequent detailed design process, beginning with the creation of a vision/conceptual framework for the proposed development. This diagram illustrates the formulation of a design Creating a vision/design framework, in framework which certain elements of 2.29 Once the contextual survey and the site are analysis has been completed, a assigned to guiding vision or design different functions, and framework should be devised in the structure order to create a structure for of new the detailed design work. This is development likely to be conceptual in the is given some first instance, but can then be definition.

refined to form the basis for more detailed design work.  identifying the style and  landscape design concept topology of the proposed (including how it relates to 2.30 This should draw together the development Green Infrastructure Strategy). analysis which has been  main movement routes and conducted, clarify the 2.31 The design framework should connectivity with the constraints and opportunities, spatially organise proposed site surrounding area and encapsulate what kind of uses and the location of new  density place can be created in built form and spaces. This is a response to those factors. This  uses good means of testing out ideas process may encompass:  character areas and assessing the feasibility of various options.

2.32 At this stage it may be advisable to carry out pre- application consultation with the Local Planning Authority, as this allows the developer and council to consider the conclusions drawn from the contextual survey and analysis the appropriateness of the vision for the new development. This should then allow the detailed design work to be done with more confidence, and lead to greater clarity regarding the likely outcomes of the application process. 2.33 In creating the vision for a place, consultation with the local community will also help to ensure that proposals reflect community aspirations. Therefore, public consultation at this stage is also advised. It will be necessary to have regard to the council’ Statement of Community Involvement when carrying out this process.

Section 3 - Spatial structure 3.1 The spatial structure has a huge impact on the character of a place, for example medieval market streets, Victorian terraces, suburban culs-de-sac and modern blocks of flats all have very distinct spatial structures. Therefore, in the first instance it is important to understand the different types of spatial structure influencing the context of any particular site, and then establish how new development will respond positively to that context. For example, attempting to incorporate a curved culs-de- sac arrangement into an area This figure ground drawing shows different types of grids within the central area of Basingstoke. defined by terraces is likely to The arrangements created all show a certain sense of order, however, the grids defining different be inherently incongruous and parts of the town centre are all somewhat irregular, as is the overall arrangement. unsuccessful. Creating a grid of routes and routes and blocks. This will 3.2 It is important that the spatial blocks need to be informed by the structure is ordered and well spatial characteristics of the expressed. This is in order to 3.3 In order to ensure that a clearly area and the type of ensure that people are able to defined spatial structure is development being created. easily understand, appreciate produced, it is necessary to and feel comfortable in the create some form of grid of places they are engaging with.

3.4 The identification of the network of routes, focal spaces and green corridors, and how connections between these can be created across the development will establish a ‘grid’ of linkages, which will then inform the creation and shaping of blocks, streets and spaces. Grids 3.5 Grids provide a mechanism for creating structured arrangements, and come in a wide variety of different forms. These diagrams shows a comparison between regular and irregular grids. The red arrows show how this arrangements allows for closed vistas in visual terms. Regular grids provide very clear

definition to built form but can be overly rigid, monotonous and a sense of order and continuity. edges of the blocks will frame lacking in vitality. Such grids are An irregular grid allows flexibility views, meaning whatever is not characteristic of to create variety and respond to located at the end of the vista Basingstoke or the borough contextual issues such as will be accentuated. It is generally, which is typified by a topography, landscape features consequently advisable to offset variety of different grid and movement networks. This the blocks, so that rather than structures. form of grid is also more continuing the lines of streets reflective of the spatial directly along the whole 3.6 An irregular grid is often an arrangements found in the development, each vista is ideal arrangement. The blocks borough. instead terminated with the view utilised in such an arrangement of another block, i.e. creating T- involve some variety in terms of 3.7 When creating grids and junctions at the end of each shape and size. Consequently, arranging the blocks, it is block rather than crossroads. the grid appears distorted, but important to consider the vistas This gives the streetscape is still present and provides for which will be created. The

greater definition and enclosure.

Blocks

3.8 Blocks comprise groups of buildings and associated spaces surrounded by streets. Therefore, in essence they comprise a single unit within a wider grid. A key message of urban design is to establish an effective pattern of blocks, which give continuity to the built form and facilitate efficient movement. 3.9 The appropriate arrangement and size of blocks will depend to a large extent on the context. For example, in a very urban context, the block structure would tend to be tight (referred to as fine grained), whereas in a more suburban or rural area the structure will generally be looser.

3.10 It will be important to consider the context, and establish how These diagrams illustrate some of the different types of blocks which can be created and new development can relate how they are shaped by the built form. successfully to existing block shapes and sizes in the locality,

either in terms of reinforcing existing successful patterns of development, or seeking to address weaknesses.

Key design principles – spatial structure

SS1 – Analyse and respond positively to the spatial structure of the area. This diagram provides an SS2 – Create a clearly defined example of structure, which can be easily how higher understood by the people using density perimeter the development. blocks can SS3 – Create an effective grid of be formed so blocks, which should be clearly as to create streets and defined and well-expressed. public SS4 – Incorporate blocks or a spaces. range of shapes and sizes in order to provide variety and Giving form to the blocks High density respond to relevant constraints 3.11 The manner in which buildings and opportunities. are positioned and arranged 3.12 High density development is an within the block needs to important component of reinforce the structure of supporting sustainable patterns connected network streets and of development, particularly in central locations within large spaces. The sections below set out how different forms of settlements such as blocks can be created. Basingstoke. However, high

density development still needs to be integrated with urban design principles. This requires that rather than large buildings standing in isolation, the development is instead arranged to form clearly defined blocks, which create well defined streets and spaces.

Perimeter Blocks 3.13 Urban design generally emphasises the use of perimeter blocks. These are based on an approach where each of the frontages of a block This example illustrates how has a public, active/outward relatively high looking facade, generally density creating a continuous frontage development along the street. has been arrange in a 3.14 Perimeter blocks have several series of advantages, including: perimeter blocks,  clearly defining the public and creating a private realm with built frontage permeable street pattern  ensuring that private gardens which (or the backs of houses) are connects with inaccessible from the public the realm, making them less surrounding movement vulnerable to intruders networks.

 ensuring that rear boundaries and or servicing areas are masked from public view  their ability to accommodate most forms of development, including non-residential and open space  concentrating activity in public spaces and ensure that windows and doors face onto the street and provide surveillance. 3.15 Perimeter blocks are a very flexible urban form, they can be a variety of shape and sizes,

This diagram and can encompass anything illustrates the from high density flatted flexibility of schemes, to low density perimeter suburban development. The blocks. In this variation between these instance the development forms can be concept is achieved in a number of ways, applied to such as the scale and typology suburban of the buildings, size of the development. In this case the block, degree of set-back from blocks are the pavement edge, type and looser and the amount of space within the overall block. arrangement much less dense than the example above.

Courtyard development

3.16 This form of arrangement can This is an urban take on various forms. It is often style courtyard predicated on creating intimate scheme, which spaces within fairly compact relates to a relatively tight blocks or parts of blocks, and urban site. The hence is often associated with arrangement is higher density development in compact and fairly tight spaces. allows the development to 3.17 There is also a rural variant to be focused on a this approach, as farm buildings small central are often arranged around a green space.

courtyard, and hence this can be useful component of rural style housing layouts. 3.18 Like perimeter blocks, courtyard

development has the benefit of This diagram giving strong definition to illustrates how streets and spaces, while also the courtyard creating a semi-private space in arrangement the centre of the can be utilised in a rural block/courtyard, though the context. This space in the centre is often approach is smaller than is the case with a based on a perimeter block. traditional farmyard layout, 3.19 The dimensions of the block with a barn style and height of the buildings dwelling and needs to be carefully houses arranged considered in relation to the around a rural impact this will have on the courtyard.

courtyard space. This is particularly important in terms of considering how to ensure This is a sunlight can penetrate into the photograph of terraced courtyard. For example, the development in buildings at the southern end of Brookvale, the block may need to be lower Basingstoke. It or even removed in order to illustrates the allow sunlight to penetrate into way in which this form of the courtyard, though this development needs to be balanced with the creates a well- goal of retaining privacy. defined streetscene. 3.20 It is important to think about how the courtyard will be designed and used. For example, traditionally these spaces have provided good opportunities for children to This figure play, in which case the ground drawing courtyard could be designed to illustrates the spatial facilitate those activities. structure of the terraced Terraces development shown above, 3.21 Terraces are a useful housing with long, thin, typology, which has the benefit clearly defined for helping to raise densities blocks. It is interesting to and hence encourages efficient compare these use of land. As a result they are with the other supported in principle. building However, they should generally typologies in only be used where they are the vicinity.

sympathetic to the context. 3.25 Sometimes a lane or alleyway quiet, peaceful neighbourhoods Where they are considered can be located to the rear of the and can be beneficial in terms appropriate the following two outward facing sides of the of highway safety and crime guidance sets out advice for terrace/row and provides reduction. helping to ensure they are parking to the rear of the arranged and used effectively. properties (such an 3.28 However, Culs-de-sac often arrangement is used in parts of undermine the goal of achieving 3.22 Terraces should be used to Brookvale, Basingstoke). a coherent, clearly defined grid provide perimeter blocks i.e. However, it will be important to and block structure based on with the housing on the outward ensure that such features do continuous outward looking facing sides of the blocks, with not result in potential anti-social development, as they are the gardens in the centre. behaviour. essentially predicated on insular loops/lollipops. 3.23 A difficulty with terraces is the 3.26 Housing can also be arranged incorporation of parking, as this in tight, regular rows of 3.29 Culs-de-sac have often been generally needs to be provided detached and semi-detached criticised for leading to a lack of to front of dwellings, meaning houses. This produces a very vitality and social cohesion and the public realm is dominated similar arrangement of built hence need to be used with by vehicles and hardstanding form when compared with caution. Culs-de-sac also and set-backs from the road are terraces, but provides greater create less clearly defined increased. It is also difficult to flexibility, such as the potential space, are less efficient in properly address corners, as to provide parking to the sides density terms, and much less the side elevation is likely to be of dwellings and the flexibility to permeable than grids. presented to the public realm. provide a more sinuous layout. 3.30 However, where their use is 3.24 Therefore, when using terraces considered justified, it is it is important to consider how Culs-de-Sac recommended that the following the parking can be provided in a 3.27 Culs-de-sac are a significant approaches are considered in manner which does not feature of some parts of order to improve the undermine the enclosure of the Basingstoke town and other effectiveness of this approach: street scene and does not result settlements in the borough.  Create a permeable network of in the frontage/streets being They can have the benefit of dominated by car parking. safe and usable pedestrian and preserving amenity, creating cycle links.

 Within larger schemes try and streets, but leaving them open incorporate some mix of uses, for pedestrians and cyclists. in particular uses such as schools, community buildings, children’s day nurseries and Key design principles – local shops and cafes should be spatial structure incorporated where possible.  Ensure efficient use of land, but SS5 – It is recommended that still with verdant frontages and development is based on the incorporation of sufficient perimeter blocks, with outward open space in suitable facing buildings, and more locations. secluded spaces (such as  Consider incorporating gardens) in the centre of the residential ‘courts’ into more clearly defined frontage block. development. These are shorter SS6 – Culs-de-sac need to be and more compact than typical legible, efficient and permeable. culs-de-sac and hence do not rely on the need for a turning head at the end for emergency vehicles. These can generally only serve a very small number of dwellings (possibly no more than 5).  Another option is to seek to bring some of the advantages of culs-de-sac to the grid/block arrangement, for example by introducing measures to prevent through traffic e.g. by blocking off the vehicular connections between certain

Example of a cul-de-sac style arrangement with a clearly expressed structure and incorporating some higher density development.

Section 4 - Formation and expression of structure 4.1 This section focuses on the considerations which will guide the formation and expression of the spatial structure of grids and blocks. This includes aesthetic considerations, along with more functional aspects such as creating effective movement networks. It is important to create a clearly defined, attractive structure, which functions effectively. Shape

4.2 A key issue is the shape of This example from Brookvale, Basingstoke, illustrates how straight streets provide a very clearly defined structure, but can suffer from weaknesses such as dominance by car parking and quite blocks, streets and spaces. This poorly defined vistas (i.e. the building at the end is lost in the distance). has a significant impact on the character and visual effects Straight lines lines can be rigid and static in created by a layout, and on the visual terms which is then appearance of the buildings 4.3 Straight lines can have the reflected in the atmosphere themselves, as well as how the benefit of creating very clear, they create. Therefore, they spaces feel for the people ordered and sometimes should be used with caution, inhabiting them, and also their impressive streets/spaces. This unless they form a key part of functionality. is generally considered a very the existing context. urban and formal approach to site planning. However, straight

4.4 Straight streets/spaces tend to emphasise whatever is at the end of the vista, as opposed to the buildings forming the edge of the street/space. Therefore, it is essential to terminate the vista with an important and high quality visual feature such as a distinctive, attractive building, well defined area of significant planting, or attractive view towards the landscape beyond. 4.5 Following on logically from above, it is important to ensure that less attractive features such as sides of houses/blocks, garages and parking areas are not at the end of a vista. Parking also needs to be kept

back from the frontage In this example the curve creates a more interesting shape, brings the buildings more clearly into wherever possible, as otherwise view, provides a greater sense of enclosure, and allows the street to unfold gently. it will be overly prominent visually. more emphasis to the design of experience. Curved streets also the buildings along the street. provide a greater sense of Curves enclosure, as there are not so 4.7 While straight streets create a many long views. Curves also 4.6 Artistic theory suggests that greater sense of order, curved encourage lower traffic speeds curves are more aesthetically streets allow the townscape to and are also more flexible. pleasing than straight lines, and unfold more gently and generally this option is more sequentially, providing 4.8 The choice between a straight interesting visually, and gives interesting and intimate spaces, and curved street will obviously which enriches the pedestrian depend hugely on the

contextual analysis, but 4.10 A successful spatial structure Routes/Linkages whichever option is utilised comprises a connected network needs to be executed of: 4.12 The starting point in designing a effectively. successful scheme is often to  routes (active space: streets, establish the routes through the paths, roads etc) site, which create linkages with Key design principle –  focal spaces (static space: existing routes and/or facilities formation of spatial squares and greens, etc) and services outside of the site. structure  landscape features and green This will then inform the corridors. structure of any new layout, and FS1 – Decide on an appropriate the shape and size of the 4.11 The integration of these blocks. shape of streets and spaces, which different components will have will need to respond appropriately a significant impact on the 4.13 A key goal of urban design is to to the context. formation of the spatial create permeable structures. A structure. All the elements of high degree of permeability will the movement network promote walking and cycling Routes and connections proposed as part of new and can therefore help to development need to accord reduce dependence on cars 4.9 Routes and connections have a with the policy criteria set out in and improve sustainability. key role to play in the way policy CN9 (Transport) of the Therefore, it is necessary to settlements develop, the ALP, while the landscape maximise the level of shaping of the spatial structure related aspects will need to connectivity. These connections and the layout of new comply with policy EM1 also need to be designed in development. Given the (Landscape), EM4 (Biodiversity, order to encourage pedestrian importance of securing Giodiversity and Nature and cyclist usage, for example sustainable modes of transport, Conservation), EM5 (Green by being easy to navigate, safe including walking and cycling, Infrastructure) and the Adopted and convenient and with good these should be given at least Green Space Standards. surveillance from buildings the same level of consideration looking onto them. as vehicular routes when 4.14 These connections should be considering how to incorporate based on: routes and connections.

 connections with routes, public transport and local facilities beyond any particular site  desire lines running through the site. 4.15 The contextual survey and analysis should identify key movement patterns and desire lines. It should then be possible to form a structure based on these routes, and design the buildings to be well-related to them.

Street Hierarchy 4.16 The routes created will need to have a hierarchy, with primary routes being the main sources of activity, supported by secondary and local routes. This is an example of a primary street running through the Sherfield Park development in the north This hierarchy needs to be of Basingstoke. The street is sinuous and its importance is signified by the taller buildings fronting onto the street. clear, and hence signified by features such as street width Main/primary streets development and connect it to and appropriate building design the surrounding urban fabric (such as taller buildings along 4.17 These will be at the top of the and highway network. They main streets) in order to ensure street hierarchy, and will tend to provide the primary vehicular that places are legible. carry the highest volumes of access to the area, and link with traffic and non-vehicular other street types within the movement within an area, new development to form the including through-traffic. These provide structure for

back-bone of a permeable network of streets. 4.18 These streets provide a good opportunity to incorporate significant large specie tree planting. This should help to mitigate the impact of the traffic and helps to separate pedestrian and cycle paths, and adjacent housing from the road. A verge or hard margin between the footway and carriageway should be provided to increase separation between vehicles and pedestrians. 4.19 In order to signify the importance of main streets, respond to the level of traffic, along with the potential to This is an example of a secondary street within Popley in Basingstoke. The building heights and incorporate tree planting, degree of enclosure are lower than would be the case with a primary street. The shape of the setbacks of buildings from the street and road width also encourages lower vehicle speeds. The small front gardens and tree road are likely to be more planting improve the pedestrian experience and soften the character of the development. generous than other street types. The increased setbacks 4.20 These streets should be down traffic speeds, such as are likely to require that designed in order to naturally mini-roundabouts. This will buildings are taller along these reduce traffic speeds, and need to be balanced with streets, which will ensure there consequently a relatively consideration of how vehicles is still adequate enclosure and sinuous shape is likely to be such as buses can navigate the definition of the street and required. It may also be streets in a practical manner. signify the rank of the street in necessary to incorporate other the hierarchy. features which naturally slow

Secondary streets 4.21 These are the general streets within residential areas or business districts. They carry a This is an example of a wide range of movement types tertiary street. and provide the main setting for It is more homes and businesses, intimate and allowing direct access for informal than occupants and users of the example of a secondary buildings. street above, with the 4.22 Secondary streets are more pavement focused towards local traffic. blending into These streets are generally the road narrower and lined by lower surface, buildings as well as being though still with some characterised by lower demarcation. densities. particular street. A change in involve a greater degree of Tertiary streets surfacing can assist with the informality, emphasising the 4.23 Tertiary streets can be used in need to signify the nature of the space as a place rather than residential areas and involve space and the different being predominantly a piece of more informal streets with a functions within it, while also highway infrastructure. As a less clearly defined helping ensure low vehicle result they seek to reduce the differentiation between the speeds. level of dominance by motor various functions (e.g. roadway, vehicles, encourage walkability footway). Tertiary streets should Shared surfaces and emphasise placemaking, all only be considered where the of which helps produce 4.24 These are in many respects successful urban design. volume of vehicular traffic is similar to tertiary streets, though expected to be low and consist they involve even less definition 4.25 However, these spaces still mainly of residents of that of different functions and need to function effectively.

Key design principles – formation of spatial structure FS2 - Ensure new development is as permeable as possible and contributes to making Basingstoke a more walkable place. FS3 - Establish where the routes across the site can be located so as to reinforce and wherever possible enhance existing networks. FS4 - The course these routes take will give structure to new layouts. FS5 - There needs to be a clear hierarchy to the routes defining the spatial structure. This is an example of a focal space in Basingstoke town centre. Various routes converge, providing a space for people to congregate. This provides a good location for uses such as restaurants and for people to sit in a public place. Therefore, it is important to ensure that they are designed aspects of these spaces is and provide opportunities for in order to reduce traffic speeds available via the following link: people to come together, which and facilitate safe interaction enhances individual and https://www.gov.uk/government/public community wellbeing. Focal between vehicles and ations/shared-space pedestrians, and these spaces spaces tend to be located at are only likely to be successful Focal Spaces points where routes and if they involves relatively low connections converge. traffic flows. More detailed 4.26 Focal spaces create distinctive Therefore, the location and information on the technical elements within the urban fabric function of these spaces needs

to be considered in conjunction with the establishment of the movement structure. 4.27 The most important focal points traditionally accommodate public spaces and/or buildings that are of significance to the community. However, in any large to medium sized layout the intersection of routes create opportunities to provide focal points, which can incorporate uses such as community buildings, public open space and/or play areas. These spaces will enhance the legibility of the layout and provide a focus for generating community cohesion.

4.28 The uses proposed in these In this example from Basingstoke the mature trees have a very positive impact on the character of the new development and provides a very attractive outlook and living environment for residents. locations, along with the arrangement of buildings and their design needs to reflect the landscaping, which will have a Green Infrastructure and importance of the focal point very positive impact on the External Environment location and facilitate quality of both the spaces, and opportunities for community the overall character of the 4.30 The structure of a scheme interaction. development. should not just relate to the urban features. Environmental 4.29 These spaces also provide an psychology has shown that opportunity for structural views of, and opportunities to planting and high quality hard engage with, the natural

environment have a huge impact on the levels of wellbeing, as well as the reduction of stress in residents, employees, and visitors. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that natural features are integrated into the urban structure, and that they are in prominent position in order to maximise their utility value. 4.31 Existing landscape features should serve to shape the structure of the built form. Consequently, it is necessary to identify and protect these elements, while ensuring that the proposal responds

positively to features such as In this example from Popley in Basingstoke the open space is very well integrated into the layout, existing trees/tree belts, field meaning the play spaces are well overlooked, residents enjoy a pleasant outlook, and the open patterns and the topography of space makes a very positive contribution to the character of the development. the site. In addition, if any protected habitats are present network. Consequently, such 4.33 A strong landscape structure within the site, then the features will also have a also creates opportunities to structure of the new significant impact on the layout strengthen the biodiversity of a development would have to and site arrangement, and how scheme, creating new habitats take this into account. it is defined. Sufficient distances for wildlife. Green corridors can should be allowed between the include a variety of sites and 4.32 Consideration also needs to be soft landscape structure and spaces such as linear parks, given to creating green links new buildings. woodland, allotments, or which connect with the existing playing fields. and wider green infrastructure

Open Space need to be directly overlooked Local centres by the fronts of houses, and 4.34 It is important to consider how located within prominent 4.38 If a development is of such a open space can be integrated positions within the layout. size and/or is in a location that it effectively into the structure. For requires a local centre, the example, areas of open space 4.37 The relationship with following principles should be will constitute important focal neighbouring residents is also adhered to with respect to the points for activity, recreation an important issue in terms of location and design of the local and interaction, so need to be in safety and community centre: prominent places within the cohesion. For example, if the layout, such as at the space would be used for  The local centre should be intersection of pedestrian informal sports (such as kick- located in the most accessible routes. This will maximise the about), then it may need to be location for pedestrians and positive influences these further away from houses so as cyclists, as well as cars. This is spaces can have on the to prevent any detrimental likely to be at a junction of the character of the area, as well as impacts in the form of noise and highest order streets within the improving the legibility of the disturbance. Alternatively, if development. area. such spaces are located more  Local centres will be a major centrally within a development local destination so the 4.35 These spaces should also be then space will need to be movement network should located where they are visually provided around it, for example provide direct and convenient prominent and can take a 10m buffer between the edge pedestrian and cycle routes advantage of attractive views. of the space and surrounding from housing to the centre. 4.36 It is also vital to think about how houses. In relation to equipped  Local centres must be designed the space is likely to be used play areas separation distances as areas of social gathering and and consider the community with neighbouring properties will hence must have a high quality safety implications. In this need to be 20m for local play public realm and uses which regard it is important to ensure areas and 30m for facilitate social interaction. open space benefits from high neighbourhood play areas.  Ensure that commercial levels of natural surveillance. Please see Green Space premises are in a location Therefore, public open spaces Standards for further details4. where there is the maximum

4 Appendix 4 in the Adopted Local Plan.

possible opportunity to attract raised above, is the need to monotonous and helps express passing trade. create layouts which are legible the different functions of the i.e. easy for people to layout. 4.39 Community facilities have an understand and navigate. This important role in supporting depends on structures which 4.42 The creation of these different community well-being. They are clearly defined, and well areas needs to be informed by need to be located and expressed. This can be the context and site designed in a manner which achieved by utilising: characteristics, as opposed to maximises their viability and being arbitrary. For example, usability. For example, by co-  a clear spatial structure where a site is on the edge of a locating community facilities  clearly defined outward facing settlement, it may be (e.g. community centres need blocks appropriate to have a more to be next to outdoor sport  landmark/marker buildings in urban/suburban character area facilities/open spaces). Further key locations adjacent to the existing building guidance is set out in other  variations in the architecture in form, but a more rural character council documents which order to create clearly defined on the edge. Alternatively, the should be referred to when character areas character areas within a devising relevant schemes:  a clearly defined street development may be informed hierarchy, which is reinforced by the variety of architectural https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/conte by the design and scale of traditions within a particular nt/page/52613/Community%20Buildin development addressing the locality, which can then be g%20Strategy%20V2%20Jan%2017.p different parts of the street reflected in the new df hierarchy development. It may also be  open space and distinctive appropriate to create a more https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/comm natural features located in urban character around any unity-investment-framework prominent positions. existing public transport interchanges or commercial uses. Legibility Character areas 4.43 The character areas need to be 4.41 A key part of legibility is 4.40 An overarching issue in relation coherent and well expressed. It creation of clearly defined to spatial structure, which draws is also necessary to consider character areas. This prevents together many of the issues how the different character the development appearing

areas will be integrated, as if Key design principles – the differences are too formation of spatial pronounced then this could lead to a lack of harmony between structure the different components of the development. FS6 - Focal points can be created at the intersections of important 4.44 The creation of different routes, and the land uses and character areas will need to be building design will need to respond achieved by utilising various positively to such opportunities. different design techniques, FS7 - Ensure that important existing such as: and new landscape features are  arrangement of buildings incorporated into the structure, and  shape and size of streets and are placed in prominent positions. spaces FS8 - The landscape structure will  building design (including also help define the arrangement of materials and detailing) built form, and green links will be  scale of development and needed across the site in order to density ensure the continuity of the  land/building uses structural landscape framework and  landscape design wildlife habitats.  relationship with the movement FS9 – Ensure that open space is network. designed so that it supports community safety, is well integrated 4.45 It is also important to consider into the layout (located in a the relationship and prominent position), and has transitioning between the development fronting onto it. different character areas. This FS10 – Ensure that the structure of should not appear forced or the development is legible/easy to contrived. In addition, there can understand and navigate. also still be variety within the different character areas.

development, it may be Key design principle – Section 5 - Movement necessary for schemes to be and walkability supported by a non-motorised movement and walkability 5 user audit . Increasing the attractiveness of walking and MW1 – An overarching objective 5.1 In order to support policy CN9 cycling also needs to be for the borough, and particularly in the ALP, a fundamental emphasised in order to help Basingstoke town, is making it a principle of urban design is improve the sustainability of the more walkable place. This requires ensuring that places are borough, improve health and increasing the quality and designed for people, not just wellbeing, and help lower traffic connectivity of pedestrian routes vehicles. This is vitally congestion levels. Research and ensuring that footpaths are: important in terms of making into walkability has also shown the borough, and particularly that improving the environment  Useful: i.e. they take Basingstoke town, a more for pedestrians and cyclists is people to useful walkable place. This means economically beneficial in terms destinations such as giving emphasis to considering of allowing residents to make facilities and services. how existing and new financial savings on  Safe: i.e. the routes need to development will provide a transportation costs, and makes feel safe for people using positive environment for places more appealing to new them. pedestrians and cyclists, and workers and attractive to  Comfortable: i.e. the routes ensuring vehicles do not visitors. need to be practical and dominate. pleasant for pedestrians to 5.3 Other key principles for use. 5.2 Therefore, pedestrian and cycle encouraging walkability are:  Interesting: i.e. routes routes need to be given at least need to be attractive and the same amount of attention stimulating. as vehicular infrastructure when  design places for people  Legible: well signed and designing and assessing new  mix uses, as people need easy to understand. development. As part of this places to walk to process, for larger

5http://www.standardsforhighways.co.uk/ha/sta ndards/DMRB/vol5/section2/HD4217_May.pdf

parked vehicles or street furniture  safety: designs need to minimize actual and perceived danger for pedestrians, while traffic volumes and speeds should also be reduced where necessary to create a safer environment for walking  comfort: local facilities need to meet design standards for footway widths, gradients, quality of surface; and cater for all types of user including disabled people  attractiveness: footpaths need to be located in parts of the site which are attractive and routes should be interesting

Example of a pedestrian and cycle route in Popley in Basingstoke. The route is separated from  legible: footpaths need to be traffic, is spacious and also well overlooked. easy to navigate, including through the provision of raised  support public transport  permeability: new development tables and appropriate signage. provision must provide multiple routes,  support cycling infrastructure. connecting with existing 5.5 In addition, the following movement networks beyond the considerations also need to be Pedestrian routes site and local facilities employed when designing  accessibility: routes need to be footpaths: 5.4 Infrastructure for pedestrians continuous and direct must be planned using the  ensure that footpaths respond  convenience: there needs to be following design criteria, which to desire lines minimal delays at crossings and also ensures that disabled  footpaths need to have routes should be unimpeded by users are taken into account: development fronting onto them

in order to ensure proper and therefore it is necessary to surveillance It is also vital to ensure that any consider how routes will be  it is also vital to avoid dark, work done to Public Rights of used by both experienced and secluded alleyways and Way are carried out in inexperienced cyclists. underpasses (either below accordance with the HCC Dedicated cycle routes should ground or under parts of Countryside Service Design be provided, where suitable, as buildings) Standards: many experienced cyclists will  it is also important to think avoid shared paths in order to about the practicalities of https://www.hants.gov.uk/landpl prevent conflicts with pedestrian routes. For example, anningandenvironment/countrys pedestrians. think about means of avoiding ide/designstandards  Take account of cyclists space abuse of pedestrian routes, requirements, manoeuvrability such as vehicles parking on the Cycle paths and speed in all infrastructure, footpath not just specific cycle facilities. 5.7 It is vital that additional routes  Wherever possible, aim to  existing and proposed PROW and linkages are created and minimise energy loss through should be retained within a are coherent, well signed, stopping, hills and sharp green corridor, separate from joined-up and link to a range of corners; cyclists shouldn’t be estate roads. destinations. The following required to dismount on cycle principles should inform the 5.6 Additional technical guidance in routes. A cycle route will not be design of new development relation to the design of convenient if cyclists are where cycle paths need to be pedestrian routes is available required to stop or give way incorporated6: via the following links: frequently. http://www.standardsforhighways.co.u  Routes need to be clear,  Where segregation of traffic is k/ha/standards/dmrb/vol6/section3/ta9 coherent, attractive, safe, appropriate this should be 005.pdf comfortable and direct. achieved through reallocation of  Recognise that cyclists will road space – taking space from https://www.gov.uk/government/public have different levels of ability, the footway should be the last ations/inclusive-mobility resort.

6http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sites/default/files/fi le_content_type/sustrans_handbook_for_cycle -friendly_design_11_04_14.pdf

 Ensure the design of the route considered in order to ensure influence travel choice, it must enables it to be used effectively they are not overly steep or be remembered that public life in the dark and in poor weather. circuitous. is concentrated in them, and  Take account of the real world that consequently they are 5.8 More detailed guidance on the behaviour of all users – places for interacting, playing design of cycle routes is set out including how pedestrians and and relaxing, not just the sole in: drivers may interact with preserve of vehicles. cyclists and vice versa. http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sites/defaul More sustainable and attractive  Facilities for cyclists must not t/files/file_content_type/sustrans_hand places can be created by: only be safe, but they must be book_for_cycle- perceived by users to be safe. friendly_design_11_04_14.pdf  dispersing traffic safely and at Both the risk and fear of crime slow speeds It is also recommended that can be reduced by allowing  minimising the need for traffic- reference is made to the long sight lines, removing hiding dominated roads within council’s Cycle Strategy when places along routes, providing residential neighbourhoods designing new development. In adequate lighting, and the  dispersing traffic can be presence of natural surveillance particular the need to connect into the principal cycle corridors achieved by creating a more from nearby properties or other permeable layout, with drivers users. that have been identified. being offered more choice of  Wherever possible, pedestrian https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/cycles possible routes. and cycle paths should be trategy separated out, as shared paths 5.10 The design of the street can create conflicts between the two Highway Design also encourage drivers to and undermine safety. reduce their speed by:  Wherever possible cycle paths 5.9 The highway makes up a large should link in with the existing proportion of the public realm,  enclosing the street with cycle path network. and improving the design of building frontages  Ensure that cycle routes are streets will have a significant  tight bends, frequent junctions practical to use. For example role in improving the quality of and visual narrowings they need to be easy to get the built environment. While it is  reducing the visual dominance onto and off from, and the important to be aware of the of the road, with it becoming gradient needs to be potential for the street design to

‘lost’ in the overall design and a forward gear (e.g. a looped Key design principles – treatment of the space layout or where there is a movement and walkability  using raised tables as central open space to turn continuation of footways at around). MW2 – Foot and cycle path crossings and junctions. 5.13 Tracking/vehicle swept paths provision needs to be emphasised 5.11 Buildings, landscaping, will also be required to ensure and must be given at least as surfacing and junction design that the movement network can much attention as provision for can therefore all contribute accommodate refuse collection motor vehicles. towards reducing vehicle speed and emergency vehicles. For MW3 - Ensure foot and cycle and making the development detailed guidance on the design paths are safe and user friendly. more pedestrian-friendly. of residential streets, please MW4 – Ensure streets are public consult the government’s spaces design primarily for people 5.12 It is important to ensure that the ‘Manual for Streets’ and and are not overly dominated by highway design functions Hampshire County Council’s vehicular traffic. effectively. For example, it is Companion Guide to Manual for MW5 – Design streets so that necessary to ensure that streets Streets. and spaces can accommodate they naturally slow traffic speeds. refuse and delivery vehicles and can be serviced in a practical manner. This is potentially another reason for adopting a cautious approach towards culs-de-sac, as they often involve a need for turning heads, which are then occupied by parking, making manoeuvrability difficult. Therefore, from a highways perspective it is preferable if culs-de-sac are designed in such a manner that larger vehicles can enter and leave in

Section 6 - Arrangement of buildings and creation of spaces

6.1 Once the grid, block structure and key routes and connections have been established it is necessary to ensure that the buildings are arranged effectively within the structure which has been established. It will be necessary to create an attractive, uplifting townscape, with streets and spaces which

can be enjoyed by the people This is an example of active frontages in the centre of Basingstoke, with outward facing development using them. fronting onto streets, with large windows, outside seating, which creates an attractive street.

Continuous, active frontages  frequent doors and windows at  a sense of rhythm and 6.2 Buildings must be arranged to ground floor level movement through regular create active and continuous  clear, accessible and prominent repetition of certain features frontages to the public realm entrances to buildings such as projecting gables or wherever possible. Design  balconies and features such as street trees. features which facilitate active bay windows frontages are:  large amounts of glazing  outside tables and chairs in  outward facing development, connection with suitable uses with fronts addressing the (e.g. restaurants) public realm

attractive interface with the public realm.

6.5 Establishing a consistent building line is also important in terms of achieving continuity of frontage. While some variety in the building line is not necessarily harmful, and can sometimes be helpful in terms of providing visual interest, it is important to ensure that incongruous relationships are avoided.

6.6 It is vital to avoid features which undermine the achievement of active frontages. Often this will stem from layouts and designs resulting in sides or backs of

This is an example of active frontages in a residential context. The buildings face onto the street, with buildings, service areas, car prominent doors and windows. The impact on residential amenity (privacy) is mitigated by the planting parks and large areas of blank along the frontage. walls facing the public realm.

6.4 Residential development needs 6.7 Where there are necessary 6.3 Active uses such as shops, to have active frontages, but breaks in the continuity of restaurants and cafes are must be carefully designed in frontage, i.e. where it is particularly conducive to active order to retain sufficient privacy required for practical purposes, frontages. Other commercial for the occupants. For example, appropriate means of boundary uses can also be suitable, such defensible space along the treatment such as brick walls or as offices. frontage and/or front gardens high quality fencing can be allow privacy to be increased used to tie the buildings whilst also ensuring an

together, screen private areas, and secure gardens.

Density 6.8 The density of development will have a big impact on the arrangement of buildings and the type of spaces they create. It will also hugely influence the character and sustainability credentials of the proposed development. 6.9 In general terms urban design principles encourage an ambitious approach to density, as this is considered to be beneficial in terms of:

 ensuring efficient use of land  preventing urban sprawl This is an example of fairly high density development in a relatively central part of Basingstoke,  supporting a range of uses which avoids being over-scaled and provides space for good quality open space.  increasing the viability and hence availability of public still have a reasonable degree interchanges is generally transport of privacy and tranquillity. encouraged in principle.  encouraging social interaction. However, in suburban and rural 6.11 Furthermore, the density of areas the density levels will 6.10 However, this needs to be proposed development needs need to be sympathetic to the approached in a sensitive to be responsive to the context. character of the area and have manner and it is vital to ensure For example, raising density due regard to the density of that the occupants of buildings levels in central areas, development defining those particularly around transport localities.

6.12 In addition, the density levels and vibrancy, encouraging the each other, for example office need to be well related to the creation of healthy communities uses ideally need to be well overall design concept. For and underpinning sustainable related to other uses such as example, large, high density patterns of development by shops, bars, restaurants, cafes, blocks within a very traditionally reducing the need to travel by gymnasiums, public transport designed development may be car. and childcare facilities. inappropriate unless they can be very sensitively integrated. 6.15 Certain uses also depend on High density development also being effectively integrated with shouldn’t be construed as inevitably requiring large or tall buildings, as densities can be raised through techniques such a small blocks of flats or terraces. 6.13 Therefore, while the Local Plan does not set specific density targets/requirements, and an ambitious approach to density is encouraged, this needs to be balanced against ensuring that such an approach is sympathetic to the context, the quality of life for the inhabitants, and the effect the density has on the overall design concept. Mixing uses 6.14 Mixing uses is a key urban

design principle. This is This is an example of mixed-use development in Basingstoke, which helps in terms of creating an important for ensuring vitality active frontage and hence brings more vitality and vibrancy to the street scene and the local area.

6.16 However, an important general principle in relation to mixing uses is ensuring that the various uses are compatible, both in a particular locality and/or within individual buildings.

Bringing life to spaces 6.17 In addition to mixing uses, and particularly in terms of encouraging uses such as shops, restaurants, pubs and other entertainment venues in central areas of settlements, it is also necessary to provide facilities which support a convivial atmosphere, public use of spaces and add to visual In this example from central Basingstoke, life has been brought to the public spaces by providing outdoor sitting areas and active uses such as restaurants and food stalls. interest. An important part of this is taking opportunities to attractiveness and atmosphere contribute to an uplifting provide features such as of streets, such as public art, atmosphere. outside tables, chairs and fountains and pocket parks. benches7. Such features, along with 6.19 The design of such spaces spaces for street performances needs to ensure they are safe 6.18 Opportunities should also be and accessible for all users, taken to incorporate other will further encourage people to spend time in streets and and minimise risks of anti-social features which enhance the behaviour.

7 It is important to remember that such features may need planning permission and/or a highways licence.

Enclosure 6.20 An enclosed public realm is necessary in order to give clear definition to the townscape, and is important from a psychological standpoint as it creates a feeling of intimacy and security, which encourages walking and cycling. This means that it is vital to ensure that spaces are defined by a continuous building line, which comprises buildings of sufficient height relative to the street. 6.21 Various ratios of building height to street width have been recommended in different pieces of urban design guidance, for example, the

urban design compendium In this example from London, there is a high degree of enclosure, stemming from a combination of refers to a ratio of 1:15 to 1:3 as building height, street width, tree planting and the verticality of the entrance features. being generally effective, and this provides a general guide in trees can be very important in verticality, as horizontality is terms of effective building terms of providing enclosure. generally less interesting height to street width visually, and essentially reads relationships. However, this 6.22 Beyond the spatial aspects of as background, whereas the enclosure, there is also an needs to be considered in a contrast created by verticals is important visual dimension. Part flexible manner, taking into more stimulating. Vertical of the process of achieving a account the context and type of features can be achieved suitable level of enclosure relies development proposed. In through various mechanisms, on providing a suitable sense of addition, features such as street such narrow frontages,

chimneys and double height surrounding area, aid wider- bland and unsuccessful in projecting elements such as scale orientation. urban design terms, whereas a double height bay windows.  Marker Buildings – visually street with too many foreground distinct from the surrounding buildings is likely to be visually 6.23 The degree of enclosure needs buildings, and orientation in the chaotic. Consequently, the goal to be carefully related to the local context. is often to strike a balance, with importance of the street, for  Terminal Buildings – a building most buildings being example the level of enclosure which terminates a view. background buildings, but some is likely to be higher in more foreground buildings in order to central and important streets. 6.25 Landmark buildings tend to be create visual interest. For local residential streets the taller than the surrounding degree of enclosure is likely to development, as they need to Corners be less, though should still be visually prominent. However, incorporate some vertical marker and terminal buildings 6.27 When arranging buildings to features such as chimneys, only need to be conspicuous form effective blocks, the double height bay windows or and stand out in the local area. corners will have a significant street trees. This can be achieved through bearing on the continuity of the changes in height, but also built form. Variety through changes in elevational 6.28 Often this issue is only 6.24 Variations in the townscape treatment or materials. Given the importance and prominence addressed in a superficial provides opportunities to create manner, for example by adding visual interest, and can also of these buildings they need to be very high quality. some windows or decorative improve legibility by acting as feature to a side elevation. markers at important locations. 6.26 It is also important to consider However, a more holistic There are three main types of the concept of background and solution must be utilised. The building which create foreground buildings. This block should be arranged to townscape variety, each theory is predicated on the ensure that side performing a different role in concept that some buildings are elevations/blank walls do not improving legibility: designed to be more prominent face directly onto important  Landmark Buildings – visible and eye catching than others. A streets, and the design needs to both within the site and the street with no foreground buildings is likely to be very

ensure the building turns the corner. In housing layouts there This needs to be specific house development in types incorporated at the outset Basingstoke incorporates which can address two streets. specific corner features Rhythm throughout the scheme. This 6.29 Streets need to convey a sense helps improve of movement in visual terms, the continuity of which often requires the the frontages and enhances repetition of certain architectural the architectural features in order to draw the quality of the eye along. This principle can design. apply to either a street or an individual building.

6.30 Generally this will need to be based on the repetition of In this example certain vertical features. These from the features do not need to be Fairfields identical, but should have Conservation Area in common characteristics, for Basingstoke, a example, a street defined by strong sense of narrow frontages will create rhythm has rhythm, but the frontages do not been achieved need to be the same. through the regular repetition of the Views and vistas gable features. 6.31 Vistas are framed views, and this requires the designer to consider how the buildings and

planting can be arranged and Key design principles - Green Infrastructure located in order to create arrangement of buildings and successful vistas. In so doing it Landscape design is necessary to have particular spaces regard to views from key 6.34 High quality landscape design vantage points, such as site ABS1 – Provide continuous, active is fundamental to the creation of entrances. frontages. high quality spaces and an ABS2 – Ensure density responds 6.32 It is important to ensure that attractive public realm, and positively to the context and character of hence is vital from an urban vistas are not overly long or the proposed development. meandering, and that they are design perspective. Therefore, ABS3 – Mix uses where possible, but in suitably framed and terminated. it is recommended that a a manner which ensures they are Vistas need to be terminated Landscape Architect is engaged compatible. with high quality, distinctive to design the spaces around buildings, mature planting or ABS4 – Ensure streets and spaces new development. benefit from suitable levels of enclosure. frame an attractive long view 6.35 The goal of the design process (such as out into the ABS5 – Provide a positive interface with must be to ensure that the countryside). the public realm, and ensure natural external spaces are visually features are provided along frontages. 6.33 The location of buildings should attractive, respond positively to ABS6 – Buildings need to turn corners the context, support the overall also consider the views into and effectively, specific corner building out of a site. For example, design concept, and create a designs are likely to be needed, high quality environment for buildings should be located especially in large scale development. where they can utilise attractive people. ABS7 – The buildings along streets views over the countryside. needs to convey a sense of movement, Conversely, attractive views Open space this is generally provided through from the public realm should not creating rhythm and using repetition of 6.36 It is important to ensure that be blocked by new certain features. development fronts onto areas development. of open space, with active ABS8 – The townscape needs variety, frontages overlooking it. This which requires the inclusion of some ensures that there is more prominent and distinctive surveillance of the open space, buildings.

reduces antisocial behaviour within those spaces and improves the outlook for the occupants of the buildings.

6.37 It is also vital to ensure that the role and function of the open space within the layout is considered and that the design of the open space itself will ensure the safety of the users of the facility and neighbouring residents and minimise risks of anti-social behaviour. For example, ensure that open spaces such as kickabout areas are not located in positions whereby there will be conflicts created with housing, parking areas or roads.

In this example from the north of Basingstoke the trees and open space provide a wonderful setting Natural features and outlook for the development, creating a very uplifting environment for the residents. 6.38 Research in relation to environmental psychology has prominent positions in order to Trees improve feelings of wellbeing. shown that views of the natural 6.39 There are numerous wider environment significantly Furthermore, the positive feelings created by landscaping benefits to tree planting, increases happiness levels and including: reduces stress. Therefore, it is are maximised where it is more important to try and incorporate informally arranged, and where soft landscaping (including trees have broad crown trees and hedging) into new spreads. development, and ensure it is in

 improvements in air quality  urban cooling  Solar shading  biodiversity  green infrastructure  storm water attenuation. 6.40 Consequently, the site planning process should protect good quality existing trees wherever possible and ensure that opportunities are taken for new tree planting, especially in prominent positions. If any trees need to be removed then replacement planting will be necessary.

6.41 It is important to ensure that the buildings are arranged In this example from Popley in Basingstoke the interface between the development and appropriately to allow for the public realm is extremely attractive owing to the planting along the frontage and trees lining the pavement. This softens the character of the built form and enhances the suitable tree planting. The character of the development and streetscene. design process therefore needs to consider species choice and maintained during the 6.44 New development should be building layout so that trees and establishment period. designed in such a way that buildings do not conflict with prominent retained trees, 6.43 In addition, species will need to one another. groups of trees and woodlands be chosen to ensure adequate are located and integrated into 6.42 It will be important to ensure diversity and resilience to pests, areas of open space, rather that suitable tree species for the disease and climate change, than being incorporated into site and context are selected, both within the development private gardens. To safeguard and that they are adequately site and across the wider woodlands, adequate buffers landscape.

must be provided to separate it these habitats and maintaining metres privacy zone between from nearby development. a suitable buffer to enable such windows and the pedestrian habitats to be accessed and routes. This also has the benefit 6.45 It is likely that specialist managed. of providing space for planting, arboricultural advice will be which will also contribute to the required in terms of assessing 6.47 New landscaping also needs to level of privacy enjoyed by the existing trees, setting out have regard to how it can most occupants. appropriate protective effectively provide measures, and concerning what enhancements for biodiversity. 6.51 The primary means of access form of new planting will be should be from the street. suitable. It will also be Interface with the public realm Entrances should be visible and necessary to consider how the frequent along the street in proposed tree planting will be 6.48 The relationship between the order to ensure a direct compatible with constraints frontage and the pavement relationship between the such as nearby infrastructure. edge will have a significant buildings and the street. impact on the character of the Biodiversity streets and spaces. Topography 6.46 The arrangement of built form 6.49 Following on from the reference 6.52 Topography provides both needs to protect existing above to the importance of opportunities and constraints for biodiversity features, and natural features, it is important new development. For example, maintain green/habitat to ensure that planting is it can create interesting and corridors. In addition, the visually prominent, and hence dramatic layouts and buildings, arrangement of new needs to be provided along but can also result in overly development needs to have a frontages. prominent development (for successful relationship with 6.50 It will be important to ensure example in the case of an existing habitats, for example that the interface with the public elevated site) and increase by ensuring that these are realm does not undermine the development costs. retained and that new living environment of adjacent development does not back 6.53 New development must development and ensures a onto important woodlands and respond positively to the sense of privacy for the hedgerows, thereby avoiding existing landform and minimise occupants. The building line disposal of garden waste into the extent of any earthworks. should be designed with a 1-3

New development proposed on the need for unattractive 6.56 New development should take elevated sites needs to be features such as large retaining the opportunities created by carefully considered in order to walls. sloping land to incorporate ensure that it doesn’t have a features such as detrimental impact on the 6.55 Any changes which need to be undercroft/underground car character of the area and may made to the landform should parking in order to benefit the be inappropriate in some appear as natural as possible. scheme as a whole. circumstances, particularly Balance cuts into the land with where the site is important in fill, instead of only using cuts or landscape terms or contributes fill alone. positively to the setting of any nearby settlement, unless the development of the site can be robustly justified. Where development can be justified on elevated sites, it must not be on, or obscure, the ridge line, except in exceptional circumstances. The degree of justification required will need to be proportionate to the importance of the site in question in relation to the character of the area. 6.54 Generally it is considered that new development should step down slopes as opposed to traversing across. This is considered a more appropriate

way of reflecting and In this example from Basingstoke the buildings step down the slope. This reflects the landscape expressing the landform. This character of the area and increases the visual interest of the street scene. approach should also minimise

6.57 The topography can also have Key design principles – Maintenance and protection of significant impacts on the spaces effects created by the arrangement of buildings and spaces arrangements of buildings, for 6.60 The provision of open spaces

example, locating a building on has a significant impact on the ABS9 – Ensure open space is higher ground is likely to character and identity of places integrated effectively and that the accentuate the perception of its (village greens for example). arrangement and design of buildings scale. However, open spaces which responds positively to it (i.e. the have no clearly defined function 6.58 Sloping sites often result in the buildings look onto the open space). need for retaining walls. It is often fail to properly utilise their important to consider from the ABS10 – Protect and incorporate potential to have a positive outset where these will need to natural features, these need to be influence on new development, be, how they will impact on the placed in prominent positions and especially if they are used layout and the visual effects of ensure that the arrangement and inappropriately and poorly such features. design of buildings responds maintained. It is also vital to positively to these features. avoid SLOAP (Space Left Over 6.59 Where an application is ABS11 – Ensure that the After Planning). submitted for development on a arrangement of new development sloping site, it is recommended 6.61 Therefore, it is vital that open prevents harm to biodiversity. that details are provided spaces and landscape features showing existing and proposed ABS12 – Respond positively to the are well defined, both in relation levels. This is important in topography. to their physical layout and also terms of being able to assess their function. These spaces ABS13 – Ensure that the function of must be effective in meeting visual impact of the proposal, spaces are clearly defined and that and how it will relate to any their functional requirements in they are designed to reflect that order to count towards meeting neighbouring development. function. the council’s green infrastructure requirements (including open space standards). Open spaces and landscape features also need to be located and arranged in a

manner which facilitates their incorporated into the terms of detached properties with efficient and effective management agreements for attached/integral garages. maintenance. open spaces.  Rural arrangements are often based on detached houses and 6.62 A common problem within 6.64 The use of attractive, but also short terraces/rows of rural style layouts is where attempts are durable, protection for, houses. made to create small areas of landscape features is also  Space in villages is traditionally open space in order to provide recommended, for example quite clearly defined, so open focal points. However, if these estate railing has been used undefined frontages (which are have no clear function, and successfully to define edges, particularly characteristic of comprise hardstanding, there is prevent parking on grass suburbs) should be avoided. a danger of them becoming verges, and ensure that a high areas for inappropriate car standard of visual amenity is  It is important to consider how parking. As a result such preserved. front boundaries will be defined, spaces then need to be having particular regard to how protected by bollards and can this has traditionally been done Specific types of building in the local area. become superfluous spaces arrangements which don’t contribute positively  There is often quite a lot of to the layout. Therefore, it is 6.65 The subsection below considers variety between the style and recommended that the function certain types of specific building appearance of the houses of such spaces is considered arrangements which often entail (reflective of the iterative and the design needs to clearly consideration of particular development of many villages) reflect that function. issues, and hence go beyond  Buildings are often located quite the general principles set out close to the street, but there will 6.63 In addition, landscape features above. be a variety of relationships with such as planting areas and the street, i.e. some houses grass verges need to be Rural arrangements may be set back from the road adequately protected and 6.66 The following should be further than others. maintained. For example, considered when designing timber fences often require rural layouts: replacement and brick walls need to be repaired. The  Avoid suburban style layouts, responsibility for this should be i.e. which contain lots of semi-

 Consider incorporating specific rural arrangements such as farmyard style courtyards.  It may also be appropriate to incorporate centrally located areas of green space. Traditionally these can take on a wide variety of shapes and sizes.

Key design principles – arrangement of buildings and spaces

ABS14 - Ensure that rural development has a rural as opposed to suburban character, and reflects the local context.

Commercial development layouts 6.67 The layout and design of new development will be expected to front buildings onto the public realm and enclose external spaces, such as yards, external storage areas, waste disposal

This example of a rural style layout involves a very clear definition of space and incorporates facilities and car parks, behind rural features such as a village green and a courtyard layout in the top right corner. However, the them. layout still incorporates important urban design principles such as perimeter blocks and buildings which turn corners effectively.

6.68 The public ‘fronts’ of buildings uses this can be achieved by Pedestrian/visitor entrances require the most architectural locating any ancillary office should also be located to the attention, and the frontage must functions to the front of the front, and this should be be clearly defined, with as many building, which will naturally expressed architecturally in active features as possible. For provide greater articulation in order to convey that this is the example, even with industrial the form of windows etc. front of the building. 6.69 For new industrial or logistics developments it will be expected that plot ratios will generally be between 35 to 40%, and no greater than 50% on any one plot. Planning applications to extend or provide new buildings within existing industrial plots need to maintain plot ratios below 50%. 6.70 Landscaping can have a dramatic impact upon the appearance of office, industrial, logistics development and will be an essential natural foil to the scale and appearance of such buildings, while also improving the environment for employees and visitors. The following principles should be applied in relation to the landscape elements of such sites: This example from Basingstoke shows commercial development which addresses the public realm, giving clear definition to the street. The site and its surroundings are also verdant and parking and service areas are located away from the frontage.

 it is essential to consider at the 6.72 Boundary treatments alongside consistent with the overall outset how landscaping will be streets, roads, footpaths or design concept for the site. used positively, to integrate the other public areas will need to 6.75 In rural areas the following building within its surroundings provide permanent, effective principles should be followed in  the type, size and location of screening to any service yards, order to ensure that new planting must be appropriate to storage areas, and car parks, commercial development is the scale and layout of the plot etc. This screening must be sympathetic to the context: and buildings. Small, narrow attractive and practicable. and isolated planting areas are 6.73 Poor quality, badly sited, or  The architecture of traditional of limited value, and will not be excessive signage can have an farm buildings can offer a useful able to create an acceptable adverse impact upon the image blueprint for new commercial landscape framework. of both the wider area. Signage buildings in rural areas.  Existing tree belts, hedgerows must be identified and  Alternatively, designs which and other biodiversity features ‘designed in’ from the outset. respond to the natural will be important features Signage can be designed as environment are another means around which to structure the part of front elevations where of ensuring the architecture is layout of new development. buildings face, and are close to, locally distinctive, for example  In urban areas, where land is at the street. by using sloping and/or green a premium, it is essential that roofs. new landscaping is used where 6.74 As a general guide, one sign  It is vital that new commercial it will have the most positive per plot, if sited carefully, development is integrated effect. should be sufficient to identify within the local topography by relevant businesses. Where setting buildings, yards and car 6.71 Large areas of car parking must mounted on buildings, signs parks within a clearly defined be subdivided with tree and should be framed within the landscape framework. Other shrub planting. This applies elevation and must not protrude than in the centres of some of particularly where car parks are beyond walls, eaves, roof the larger villages, the visible from the public realm on verges, and other structural characteristic pattern of ‘pavilion’ type development, but elements. Signage should not development in the borough’s also to large car parks provided be excessively large or rural areas is one where the within perimeter blocks. prominent and needs to be buildings are set within the

landscape and where the landscape is dominant.  In seeking to reduce the visual impact of new commercial development in the countryside, breaking the skyline with buildings, and excessive cut and fill of the natural ground, should be avoided.  In locations where new commercial buildings are visible in longer views, cladding materials need to be visually recessive, with dark and non- reflective finishes generally being more appropriate than light colours. Light colours are more prominent over longer distances and are less likely to be characteristic in the landscape setting of the rural areas. Light colours can also make a building appear larger than darker, more sombre colours.

 it needs to be secure against 7.3 More specific design guidance Section 7 - Cycle theft and vandalism, and is available via the following storage and vehicle appropriate to the type of area link: and length of stay expected http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sites/defaul parking  parking stands should enable t/files/images/files/Route-Design- the bicycle frame and at least Resources/Cycle-Parking-31-10- one wheel to be locked, 14.pdf Cycle storage catering for different sizes and 7.1 The quality and location of cycle shapes of bikes 7.4 It is also recommended that parking must encourage this  longer stay facilities need to be consideration is given to using mode of travel. Cycle parking covered, well-lit and have street pods (or similar device) needs to be incorporated in new CCTV, where practical/feasible for the provision of cycle development to a level which  where two-tier parking is storage, as they offer improved accords with the council’s introduced, low-level parking levels of security. should be provided for the adopted parking standards 7.5 Many of the factors above are convenience of those who are SPD. essentially practical unable to lift their cycles considerations. However, from 7.2 The general principles  the facilities provided needs to a more aesthetic perspective, underpinning the provision of be free of charge, unless a the following principles need to cycle storage facilities are as charge can be robustly justified. follows: be employed when providing  there needs to be sufficient cycle storage:  it needs to be accessible and capacity for existing peak convenient: the storage space demand plus future growth  Wherever possible it is should be as close as possible  the facilities need to be clean recommended that cycle to the destination entrance, and well maintained storage is provided in high prominently located, with plenty  ensure there is adequate quality, attractive storage of space to get bikes in and out, provision at locations likely to structures. without unnecessary detours or draw large numbers of people flights of steps such as train and bus stations,  there needs to be good natural shopping centres and surveillance employment areas.

 In streets, cycle storage is best located where it is not visually or physically intrusive, but still in a prominent enough position to ensure surveillance for security purposes.  The visual impact of cycle stands can be reduced if placed between other street furniture, such as tree planting, benches and bus stops.  Opportunities should be considered to incorporate high quality, distinctive cycle storage, which can enhance the character of the area, for example the paperclip cycle racks in Minneapolis USA.  When provided as part of new development cycle storage needs to be incorporated in a The images above show an example of high quality cycle storage in Winchester (Railway Station). The structure itself is attractive, clean and well maintained. It is also located in a manner which is consistent with prominent position where it benefits from high levels of surveillance. the design and character of the proposed development. For General design principles for Key design principles – cycle example, in specially designed, vehicle parking provision secure cycle storage structures, storage which reflect the architecture of 7.6 Where, and how, cars are the wider scheme. CSVP1 – cycle storage needs to be parked can have a significant safe, user friendly, attractive and well impact on both the quality of the integrated with the buildings and proposed design and the spaces it relates to. character of the area. The following principles need to

underpin parking provision from it is also likely to be In larger developments it is an urban design perspective, unsuccessful from an urban likely that a range of different namely: design perspective, for example parking solutions will need to be by resulting in extensive parking employed. This will help ensure  ensure that parking does not on pavements. that the design is flexible and dominate the public realm helps provide variety.  integrate parking in a manner 7.8 This document addresses the which is sympathetic to the more aesthetic aspects of Public squares/central open space design of the proposed parking provision in relation to development and the character design. Please refer to the 7.10 Parking around a public square of the area council’s Parking SPD for more or central area of open space  prevent large areas of parking, detail in relation to the parking can have the benefit of especially along frontages standards (in terms of numbers incorporating parking within an  provide sufficient and suitable and sizes of spaces) and the area which can also provide soft landscaping and tree more technical aspects of townscape and/or recreational planting around and within parking provision. benefits.

parking areas, particularly any 7.11 It is important to ensure that the large areas of hardstanding. Residential development movement network still makes 7.7 From a highway perspective it 7.9 For residential development, provision for sufficient space for is important to provide the right the main types of car parking it to operate effectively, even number of the right spaces in arrangement are considered to when the parking is in-situ i.e. the right places. In addition, it is be as follows: there needs to be sufficient important to ensure that the space for the required range of parking provision provided is  public squares/central open vehicles to manoeuvre around practical and convenient to use. space the parked vehicles.  central reservation parking This is also intertwined with the need to consider measures to  private parking areas within ensure that the form of parking curtilage provision provided is not  parking courts misused. If the means of  undercroft or basement parking providing parking is not  non-curtilage parking areas. effective in highways terms then

parking spaces. It also has the advantage of providing parking to the front of houses, in a position which is clearly visible from the host dwelling. This option also potentially supports higher densities, as it means there is less need for spaces to the side of dwellings. This approach also encourages activity within the street. 7.14 It will also be necessary to ensure that the road width around the parking bays is sufficient for vehicles to pass and for cars to manoeuvre in and out of the spaces.

Parking areas within curtilage

The image provides an insight into how parking could be provided around a central green space. 7.15 Providing suitable parking The parking could be in a vertical, diagonal or linear arrangement, and provides a mechanism by within the curtilage is an which parking is in front of houses, but does not dominate the public realm, owing to the prominent mature planting and open space. important way of preventing inappropriate on street parking. Central reservation parking order to reduce its visual Providing parking within the impact. curtilage also has the 7.12 Parking can be provided within advantage of facilitating a central reservation with cars 7.13 This option needs to be used movement of people going from arranged both sides of a strip carefully as it can result in the front entrance to their car, dividing traffic flows. Significant streets being dominated by car creating more activity within the amounts of landscaping must parking, but this approach does street scene. However, it is be incorporated within and have the benefit of keeping the around the parking area in frontage unencumbered by

important that the car parking and any garaging does not create a negative interface with the public realm. 7.16 Where parking is provided within the curtilage, this should wherever possible be located to the side of the property, set back from the main building line. Parking to the sides is preferable to parking within/along the frontage of properties, as the latter approach often makes the parking overly prominent, undermines the appearance of the houses and expands the street width, making effective enclosure of the street difficult.

7.17 It is important to think about the In this example in Basingstoke the side parking provides a very effective mechanism for practicalities of driveways and maintaining the continuity of the frontage and minimising its impact on the street scene. to remember that they are multi- 7 .18 Where garages are provided, dominate the entrance to a use spaces. For example, they the design needs to be high development or become a focal need to be sufficiently wide for quality, and respond positively point at the end of a vista. More bikes and bins to be moved to the context and the design of specific stipulations in relation past parked vehicles. It is also the other buildings within the to the requirements concerning necessary to consider the development. Garages must not garages are set out in the practical implications of tandem be excessively large in scale or Council’s Parking Standards parking, as this can often lead overly prominent. For example, SPD. to vehicles being parked on the they must not be in front of the highway. dwellings and must not

Parking Courts 7.19 Parking courts can potentially constitute an effective means of ensuring that car parking does This is not dominate the frontages of considered to be a good new development. This can be example of a achieved by locating the well-designed parking courts either to the rear parking court in or side of the properties. Winchester. The space is 7.20 Parking courts need to be well clearly related to and overlooked, with high overlooked by the buildings quality hard they serve. They should also and soft ideally have a controlled landscaping. access, through a break in the continuous street frontage or under a carriage arch. inaccessible areas at the the perimeter of the parking 7.21 Parking Courts need to be extremity of the development. court. convenient to use and feel safe and secure. This will require 7.22 Where parking courts are 7.23 There are two ways to design direct access to/from the provided to the side of the parking courts: surrounding dwellings and the frontage then it will be important provision of adequate lighting to ensure that the parking is  As private places, with a single (dusk to dawn energy efficient integrated in a manner which way in/out that is clearly lighting to appropriate levels). does not undermine the overlooked from dwellings. Boundary treatment may need continuity of the frontage. In Generally this approach should to be designed to allow addition, the car parking can be only serve a relatively small observation from dwellings over partially hidden by providing cluster of dwellings. the parking spaces. Parking extensive landscaping around  As semi-public places, with courts should not be located in pedestrian routes passing through, and buildings within

the court overlooking the use, as otherwise it will lead to then it should be in the form of parked cars and pedestrian on-street parking. This option is laybys. These spaces should routes. This approach demands likely to be most effective in not erode the footways. There extremely careful attention to situations where there are on- should also be tree planting design and materials to avoid street parking controls. provided along streets where these areas appearing layby parking is provided (in functional and car dominated. Non-curtilage parking between the spaces, and hence allowing the footway to be Undercroft and Basement Parking 7.28 On street parking is a traditional unimpeded). means of providing parking, and 7.24 Undercroft, basement or has the advantage of facilitating 7.31 Such spaces should be decked parking can also be an a flexible and efficient means of distributed throughout the efficient means of providing supplementary layout, and should also be accommodating cars, often vehicle parking. On street incorporated in a manner which within higher density residential parking is also likely to provide considers the role of the spaces schemes. a practical and sensible solution within the layout, e.g. some for short-term visitor parking visitor spaces/laybys should be 7.25 It is important that such parking and service vehicles. provided near play areas/open does not make street elevations spaces. ‘dead’ and lifeless. One way of 7.29 However, on street parking can avoiding this is to make sure lead to very congested streets, Commercial development that the parking does not fill the with overly prominent parking, whole of the front elevation of and should not be relied on- 7.32 Commercial development is each unit, i.e. allowing for some upon for the allocated parking likely to involve more active frontage at ground floor provision i.e. it should only be consolidated car parking areas next to each parking space. used for visitor parking. than is the case with residential development, for example in the 7.26 Undercroft or decked parking 7.30 Where it is to be provided in case of large supermarkets or can be located behind single new development, on-street office developments. aspect flats to provide a more parking must be considered at appropriate frontage. the outset in order to ensure it 7.33 The main design principles in is effectively integrated into the such instances are going to 7.27 It is important to ensure that design. If it is to be provided, revolve around the location of undercroft parking is practical to such parking, and mitigating its

impact. In particular this means convenient access for service accommodate storage tanks not locating the parking to the vehicles. Therefore, it is and associate infrastructure for front of the building, where this important to consider at an any required sprinkler systems, would mean it is adjacent to the early stage how proposals will etc. public realm. It also means it is accord with the Freight necessary to ensure that Transport Association’s (FTA) sufficient planting is provided design guide8. This provides within and around the parking detailed and comprehensive area in order to ensure its visual design standards with respect impact is sufficiently mitigated. to manoeuvring of a range of rigid and articulated service 7.34 From a highways perspective, it vehicles. is important to ensure that parking and servicing are 7.36 Where sites adjoins the public considered in a co-ordinated highway, designers need to manner, as the relationship demonstrate that all service between the two is likely to be vehicles will be able to freely very important. There also enter, turn and exit the needs to be consideration in development in forward gear terms of how the parking and (the FTA guide provides various servicing arrangements will example of suitable onsite relate to external storage and turning facilities, etc.). It is also waste areas, as conflicts recommended that designers between these different give early consideration to the functions needs to be avoided. provision of suitable access arrangements for the 7.35 It is easy to underestimate the emergency services, the means amount of space which will be of escape, as well the need to required for safe, suitable and

8http://www.fta.co.uk/media_and_campaigns/p https://www.shop.fta.co.uk/p-181-designing- ress_releases/2016/20160610-FTA-publishes- for-deliveries-guide.aspx updated-guide-to-truck-turning-and- manoeuvring.html

opportunity any lack of strong how this is perceived, whereas Section 8 – High character creates to raise the massing concerns the Quality Buildings design standards and help arrangement of the bulk of the create a distinctive place. An building to create a certain existing lack of strong character visual effect. Design of individual buildings also potentially creates an opportunity to pursue 8.5 In terms of designing buildings 8.1 Urban design principles do not interesting architectural this means ensuring that the seek to impose particular solutions in order to make basic shape of the building, or architectural styles. However, places which are more combination of shapes, is urban design principles do characterful. attractive, balanced and necessitate: elegant. This is likely to mean it 8.3 This section sets out some is necessary to avoid very  high quality design of individual practical guidance to help boxy/monolithic forms. buildings ensure that the design of  design which responds individual buildings achieves Combination of forms/shapes positively to the context these objectives. 8.6 Quite often the most successful  design which creates a approach to bulk and massing distinctive character and sense is through clustering/combining of place. Important design concepts for different forms or shapes, which

individual buildings come together to create a 8.2 Unimaginative, characterless balanced composition of design which has no regard to Bulk and Massing different elements. This allows the context cannot be good 8.4 Bulk and massing has a the bulk of each element to be design. If the surrounding significant impact on the design reduced, and then the various development is not high quality of the building and how well it elements to be combined so or imbued with a distinctive relates to other buildings, the that the massing is composed character, then replicating that street scene and spaces in of a series of attractive is also not good design: it is the general. These concepts elements. designer’s role to help solve essentially relate to the general problems rather than replicate shape of the building and the 8.7 In addition, combining forms them. In such instances it will visual impression it creates. can produce impressive and be necessary to take the Bulk focuses on the shape and interesting effects, while

juxtaposing different forms can also create visual interest, though such an approach needs to be skilfully handled. 8.8 Even when a single shape is used to define a composition, there is often a need to incorporate a subsidiary shape, which needs to be well integrated with the overall design. Generally, similarity of shape, size and character is vital in terms of ensuring different parts of a building form a successful overall composition. Scale 8.9 Scale refers to perception of size, and this is often understood in relative terms. Generally there are two types of scale:  Generic – the size of building elements relative to other forms in its context e.g. the size of the building in relation to the building next to it.  Human – the size of building This image illustrates the process by which the basic bulk of buildings is converted into elements or spaces relative to an effective design solution via skilful manipulation of massing.

the dimensions of human beings. 8.10 Scale is very important in urban design terms, as a fundamental principle of urban design involves seeking to create successful relationships between buildings, and also with the context generally, and if a building appears excessively large within the street scene or landscape context then that probably means it is over-scaled. 8.11 There are various techniques which can be employed in order to ensure that that the scale of a building is appropriate, for example the massing of building will impact on the perception of its scale, as an The building in the centre of this photo from San Francisco displays an excellent approach to scale, unbroken boxy shape is likely to bulk and massing, which is well related to the context. However, the white rendered building at the appear larger than the attractive end of the row shows exactly how not to approach scale, bulk and massing. combination smaller elements. 8.12 In addition, when designing often appear smaller than the buildings, particularly for larger residential buildings the same sized building with a structures. perception of scale will often be higher eaves line. Stepping affected by features such as back upper stories is another ridges and eaves height, i.e. a means of regulating the scale of building with low eaves will

8.13 Scale needs to be considered holistically. More specifically, the appropriateness of the scale of building will be influenced by various contextual factors such as topography, visibility and its relationship with natural features such as trees. 8.14 The use of the building can also be important in terms of our perception of scale, for example an important building from a social perspective sometimes has more scope to be larger, as this will seem appropriate for its function. Proportions 8.15 Proportions are very similar to scale, though are focused on relationships within a larger whole as opposed to external factors. Therefore, proportions

will have an important impact This image gives an idea of the importance of proportions, as they have a significant effect on even a on the overall composition of simple design, and if they are wrong can undermine what would otherwise be a very attractive the building. When proportions design. are right, the various elements of the building will appear This can be as simple as excessively large in relation to harmonious and elegant. whether an elevation appears other elements, for example a excessively thin or deep. In large flat roofed dormer window 8.16 Consideration of this principle addition, if one element appears on a house, then again, the can encompass various issues.

building is likely to appear poorly proportioned. Complexity 8.17 Research in relation to environmental psychology has shown that the public respond most positively to buildings which exhibit a medium level of complexity. Therefore, it is important to ensure that buildings are visually interesting, but avoid designs which are overly plain, along with approaches which are excessively complicated. Order and coherence 8.18 Additional important aesthetic principles which need to inform the design of buildings are the

need for a sense of order and In this example from Winchester, while the building is not symmetrical, the design is still ordered coherence. This isn’t to imply and coherent, with a consistency of form and proportions, while the materials reinforce the that this means that buildings concept of a traditional form with a contemporary language. need to be symmetrical, though

that is a potential mechanism building. Consequently, the 8.19 Other ways of achieving order for achieving that goal. Rather overall goal is a sense of unity, and coherence is to incorporate this means that buildings need where all the different aspects a hierarchy of visual features, to repeat certain elements, and of the design are well related to for example it may be the different facets of the each other and the overall appropriate to create a focal building need to be consistent design concept. point, for example an entrance, with the overall design of the and then have subservient

features which are related to 8.22 These principles also apply to needed around it, i.e. larger that, which will then serve to the way in which the design of buildings generally need more integrate the different elements individual buildings need to space around them. of the design within an overall relate to their context. For visual framework. example, a street involving 8.25 It is also important to consider similar buildings will generally what will occupy the space Harmony appear very harmonious. around the building, for example, if it is car parking, this 8.20 Another important design However, it is possible for streets to involve the use of is not likely to be nearly as principle is harmony. This effective as soft landscaping. principle relates back to that of contrasting buildings, provided coherence, in that it is the visual effect is balanced; predicated on the different indeed such an approach can Key design principles – high aspects of the design having a be more interesting, and is quality buildings positive relationship with one typical of many older streets

another. However, this does not (such as those in South View, HQB1 – The bulk and massing of imply that all of the different Basingstoke), where the streets elements of the building need to have evolved over time to buildings needs to be attractive, be the same in terms of their include a variety of building and well related to the context. character. styles. HQB2 – Ensure that the scale of buildings is well related to the 8.21 Harmonising similar elements Space context. creates a very clearly defined 8.23 Buildings need to have an and calm composition. HQB3 – Buildings need to be well appropriate amount of space proportioned. However, it is possible to around them, as buildings harmonise contrasting which fill too much space are HQB4 – Designs need to be elements, and this can create a likely to appear over-scaled and ordered, coherent, balanced and dynamic and exciting will make the street scene and elegant. composition. In such instances public realm generally appear it is important to ensure that a compressed and oppressive. balance is achieved between these different elements. 8.24 The size of the building is likely to govern how much space is

Important elements of buildings In this example from Entrances Basingstoke the entrance is 8.26 Clearly defined entrances to emphasised buildings are important in terms and expressed of achieving active frontages, by the form and and in giving the street scene articulation of definition and rhythm. the building. Entrances are also important in relation to the design of an individual building. In essence it is important that the entrance to the building is clearly defined and expressed visually. Prominent entrances also provide an opportunity to give some modulation to the façade. In this example from 8.27 The form of entrance chosen Basingstoke also needs to be carefully the entrances related to the design of the to the dwellings are building and the wider context. expressed by For example, in some locations the projecting this is a distinctive porches, which characteristic, such as recessed give definition or gabled porches in Victorian to the façade and reinforce areas. Whereas the design of the character commercial buildings may of the involve expressing the entrance dwellings. as an integral part of the

architecture (through its form and/or articulation). In this example 8.28 In a residential context porches from Twyford have an important role to play in the the design of buildings from an fenestration helps create urban design perspective, as the neo- they provide a mechanism for classical clearly signifying the entrance. character of They need to be high quality the design and and designed in a manner is vital to the success of the which is consistent with the design. character of the overall design of the building (e.g. in relation to features such as form, materials and detailing). Fenestration

8.29 Often referred to as the eyes of buildings, windows are an In this example important element of the design from Tadley, and significant in urban design the fenestration is terms in relation to enlivening a key aspect of the facade and providing a the design. successful relationship with the The window public realm by achieving active surround is frontages. dynamic and crisply 8.30 The approach to the detailed, giving fenestration should be depth and modelling to consistent with the overall the façade. design ethos for the building. For example, an arts and craft

design may have asymmetrical fenestration and varying window sizes, whereas a neo- In this example classical design will generally from Basingstoke need symmetrical fenestration the balconies and consistent window reflect the proportions. A contemporary traditional, design will also often involve Regency style using the fenestration to create character of the design. interesting visual effects, for example through deep recesses. Balconies 8.31 Balconies can have a very positive impact from an urban design perspective, as they facilitate the engagement of buildings with the public realm. In this example Balconies also give the building from Winchester the a sense of modulation, which balconies have adds to its visual interest and clean, crisp improves the quality of the appearance street scene. They also provide and reinforce a valuable outdoor amenity the contemporary space for the occupants. nature of the 8.32 However, the design of the design. balconies needs to be carefully related to the overall composition. Accordingly, it is important that the balconies are

an integral part of the design, that new development is considered. In areas where and not an ‘add-on’ feature. successfully integrated, even there is a high degree of Similarly, balconies are often when utilising a different uniformity of roof design in also more successful if they are architectural style. which dormers are not present, recessed into the building as then the incorporation of they will be less exposed and 8.36 However, contemporary roof dormers can be unacceptable feel more secluded for the forms can often be incorporated where they would be occupants. provided they are sensitively detrimental to the street scene. related to the context. This is 8.33 It is important to ensure that the most likely to be successful 8.39 Dormers must not dominate the balconies do not undermine the where it involves reinterpreting roof, and need to complement residential amenity of a traditional, locally distinctive the overall composition of the neighbours, so they should be form as opposed to introducing building(s) in terms of designed in a manner which an alien typology. For example, proportion, size, position, achieves some privacy between in an area characterised by detailing and materials. Dormer them, for example by using gabled roofs, using a mono- windows must be well related to privacy screens along the sides pitched roof, or series of mono- the windows below (e.g. either of the balconies. pitches (of a similar angle/pitch directly in line, or equidistant to those in the locality) is likely between windows where for Roof-form to be more successful than a example there is one dormer 8.34 The design of roofs will have a flat roof from a contextual above two windows below), and significant impact on the perspective. be kept well away from the ridge and edges of the roof. appearance and character of 8.37 In addition, it should be noted buildings, along with their bulk, that a variety of roof shapes can 8.40 Very large dormers which massing and scale, as well as make for a more interesting dominate the roof are unlikely to how well they relate to the street scene, and help to create be acceptable. street scene and context in a distinctive skyline. general. Dormers 8.35 Where roof shapes in an area are very consistent, then 8.38 The impact of dormers on the reflecting those shapes in new shape, form and character of design can often help to ensure the roof needs to be carefully

Service details and flues 8.43 Providing equipment for services, such as utility meter boxes, as well as features such as flues, is necessary but can undermine the quality of the architecture. 8.44 Services features should be hidden as much as possible, and located sympathetically from a design perspective. Ideally these should be incorporated as specifically designed elements which are consistent with the overall design of the building. 8.45 The need for flues should be

In this example from Overton the dormers are well related to both the existing fenestration, in considered as early as terms of alignment, the roof form, in terms of their scale and location, and reinforce the overall practical, and where possible design concept, through their traditional, gabled design. they need to be incorporated in a manner which does not Rooflights profile. They also need to be undermine the design of the kept as small as possible so as buildings. 8.41 There are potential benefits to not to dominate the roof. The using rooflights as opposed to quantum also needs to be kept dormers, as they have less of to a minimum in order to reduce an impact on the character and the impact on the visual appearance of the roof. appearance of the roof. 8.42 Rooflights must not protrude significantly from the roof

Key design principles – high quality buildings

HQB5 – Entrances should be clearly expressed through the form and/or articulation of the building and/or high quality entrance features (such as porches which are consistent with the design of the building). HQB6 – The fenestration needs to be consistent with and reinforce the character of the building. HQB7 – Balconies need to be designed as an integral part of the architecture should be consistent with and reinforce the overall design concept. HQB8 – Roofs need to respond positively to the overall design In this example from Winchester the service features are incorporated within the timber cupboard concept, the bulk, scale and massing features integrated within the porches in order to maintain the crisp uncluttered character of the design. of the building, and respond positively to the context.

HQB9 - Dormers must not dominate the roof, and must complement the overall composition of the building(s) in terms of proportion, size, position, fenestration, detailing and materials.

Sustainable design approaches 8.46 Turning to some more specific design approaches in order to improve the sustainability of buildings. The approach to this issue as set out in policy EM10 (and supporting text) of the ALP emphasises minimising energy consumption through the use of passive solutions such as appropriate orientation and improved insulation. However, the council is very keen to support more ambitious approaches. 8.47 The guidance below seeks to explain some of the design related considerations associated with sustainable building techniques and technologies and how they can be successfully incorporated in a manner which is sympathetic This image illustrates various sustainability features which can be incorporated into to the context. buildings, such as passive solar gain and vehicle charging points.

Passive Solar Design and minimising heat loss), and is at the initial stage of the 8.48 Passive solar design seeks to provide natural ventilation. The process, because matters such enhance natural light, improve only truly effective opportunity as layout, orientation, internal energy efficiency (through to consider passive solar design space design and landscaping maximising passive solar gain

are critical. The following considerations will help achieve effective passive solar design: In this example from  Orientation – solar gain will be Rooksdown in maximised by orientating the Basingstoke, various main glazed areas within 30 features have degrees of due south. been  Room layout – the main incorporated in living/working rooms should be order to help in the south facing part of utilise passive solar gain, buildings, with storage and such as large lesser used rooms to the north. windows, roof  Avoidance of overshadowing – overhangs and consideration needs to be given louvers. to the siting, spacing and height of buildings to minimise overshadowing of southern and ventilation. They should be incorporation of rooflights, atria, elevations by other buildings, effectively insulated from the light/sun pipes can all increase structures or landscaping. main building to avoid problems natural lighting and reduce the  Window size and position – of excessive heat losses and need for artificial lighting. north-facing windows need to gains, but should not be heated  Thermal buffering – unheated be small and kept to a in the winter. spaces, such as porches and minimum. Larger  Natural ventilation – atria and garages, which are attached to windows/glazing on the south- internal ventilation stacks can the outside of heated rooms, facing elevations will increase be used to vent air as the can act as thermal buffers. solar heat gain, although building warms during the day, summer overheating and winter  Landscaping – this can be used with cool air being drawn in heat loss are to be avoided. as a buffer against prevailing through grills in the building cold winds and shading for  Conservatories and Atria – façade. summer cooling. these need to be carefully  Lighting – avoidance of deep- designed to manage solar heat plan internal layouts and the

Solar Electricity - Photovoltaics (PV) In this 8.49 These convert the sun’s energy example from into electricity and can be Rooksdown in incorporated on buildings as Basingstoke, the solar tiles, cladding or other roof panels sit covering. PV cells can be roof comfortably mounted or free standing, or against the integrated into the roof or slate roof and facades of buildings through the are easy to reconcile with use of solar shingles, solar the overall slates or tiles, solar glass design laminates and other solar concept. building design solutions. PV cells come in a variety of shapes and colours, ranging from grey ‘solar tiles’ that look like roof tiles, to panels and that faces within 90 degrees of materials of the building e.g. transparent cells that can be due south and at an angle of tiles, and this is preferable in used on conservatories and between 20 and 40 degrees – design terms in order to ensure glass. the inclination and orientation they are incorporated in a affect performance. manner which is consistent with 8.50 The generated electricity can be the overall design concept. stored in batteries, powered  They should not be shaded by direct to some appliances, or trees, buildings or other  Consideration must be given to surplus energy fed into the obstructions. visual impact – e.g. colour and National Grid supply.  They need to be ventilated. materials, impact on sensitive  The need for sufficient areas of buildings and locations such as 8.51 Design considerations for solar modules to produce the listed buildings and photovoltaics include: required energy output. conservation areas.  They have the potential to be  PV systems need to be installed integrated as part of the on a building with a roof or wall

Water Usage Sustainable Drainage Systems  reducing the volume and the (SUDS) frequency of water flowing 8.52 Reducing water usage is a key directly to watercourses or sustainability objective as set 8.53 A Sustainable Drainage System sewers from developed sites out in the Local Plan is a set of measures to drain  improving water quality over (specifically in relation to policy surface water in a more conventional water sewers by EM9). There are various sustainable fashion than removing pollutants from diffuse technical mechanisms available previous conventional sources in order to achieve this goal: techniques. The philosophy behind SUDS is to mimic as  reducing the demand for  effective plumbing design e.g. a closely as possible the natural drinkable water through the use gravity hot water system drainage from a site before of rainwater harvesting to delivering low pressure water development and to remove supply water for other uses uses less water than a mains pollutants from the runoff. In  improving amenity through the pressure hot water system. this respect, appropriate provision of public open spaces  low flush, dual flush and dry landscaping techniques, and wildlife habitats composting toilets including the minimisation of  replicating natural drainage  water efficient taps e.g. push hard landscaping and, instead, patterns, including the recharge taps, sensor taps or spray taps the use of semi-permeable of groundwater so that base  low-flow shower heads materials, can ensure that run- flows are maintained  high efficiency dishwashers and off is minimised and infiltration  use of semi-permeable washing machines occurs in situ. SUDs can also materials that can provide  rainwater harvesting systems incorporate drainage into reed improvements in the visual  grey and blackwater recycling beds, in order to collect, store quality of public space.  water efficient landscaping e.g. and filter dirty water. ensure landscape design 8.55 To be effective, SUDS need to 8.54 SUDS offer several key benefits reduces the need for extensive be properly designed and including: watering, if watering is required maintained, and the requirements for this will differ use water efficient mechanisms,  reducing peak flows to from conventional systems. It is use plants which do not require watercourses or sewers and therefore important that before large amounts of water. potentially reducing the risk of flooding downstream

a scheme is implemented, the drainage to ground, water improving the sustainability following should be considered: courses or surface water sewer. credentials of buildings. It must not be allowed to drain  Early discussion with relevant to the foul sewer, as this is the stakeholders (e.g. including the major contributor to sewer Key design principles – HCC as Lead Local Flood high quality buildings 9 flooding. Authority , Environment Agency HQB10 – Ensure that the layout and relevant local water Green Roofs company) in order to realise the of new development and the optimum contribution from a 8.57 Green roofs are a good means design of buildings supports sustainable approach of improving the sustainability passive solar gain.  Ground and groundwater credentials of buildings. They HQB11 – Incorporate renewable conditions must be taken into can form part of a site’s account sustainable drainage system, energy technologies where  Drainage impact assessment increase thermal insulation, and possible, in a manner which is undertaken to ensure that the are a good way of securing sympathetic to the character of possible impacts are biodiversity contributions where the area and the design of the understood and managed there are limited opportunities proposed development. for habitat creation around  Long-term maintenance HQB12 – Utilise water efficiency proposed buildings. requirements are properly technologies and techniques. considered 8.58 Similarly, there may be scope to HQB13 – Employ sustainable  The findings of the Council’s incorporate roof gardens and drainage systems wherever Strategic Flood Risk green walls. These can be feasible. Assessment (SFRA). effective mechanisms for

incorporating green 8.56 In addition, it should be noted infrastructure into urban that it is the responsibility of environments while also developers to make proper provision for surface water

9 http://documents.hants.gov.uk/flood-water- management/Surfacewaterandpre- applicationguide-Nov2015.pdf

Design guidance in relation to specific building types

8.59 This section turns to look at certain types of buildings more specifically, and aims to provide practical guidance to help inform their design and assessment.

Tall Buildings

Definition of tall buildings

8.60 For the purpose of this document, a tall building is defined as a building which is higher than 18 metres (approximately six storeys). This is considered to be an This photograph shows the Skyline Plaza and Crown Heights buildings, which are significant appropriate benchmark to landmarks in the centre of Basingstoke. determine whether a building is classified as being tall in light of building is of a high standard,  create a visually stimulating and the local context. then tall buildings can create a dynamic skyline dynamic skyline, and a sense of  reinforce the existing ‘vertical’ Role of tall buildings vibrancy. character of the town centre  act as beacons for areas of 8.61 The high profile nature of tall 8.62 There are several advantages regeneration buildings means they can have to having tall buildings in  stimulate further investment a major impact upon the image Basingstoke, they: of a place. If the quality of the

 improve the legibility of the town by signifying important areas  improve the viability of public transport and local services  maximise the efficient use of the land.

8.63 Therefore, high quality, distinctive tall buildings create an opportunity to enhance the character of Basingstoke town centre.

Assessing the impacts of tall buildings

 By their very nature, tall buildings will be very visually prominent, therefore, a very This diagram identifies what are considered to be the key shorter range views towards the existing area of tall buildings in Basingstoke town. high standard of design is

essential.  In terms of topography, However, it should be noted  Consider the impact on the Basingstoke is situated on that this is not an exhaustive list streetscene, this is of most rolling hills which are typical of of all views of the town from the relevance in relation to the the Downs area. The openness surrounding higher ground. design of the base of the and topography of the  It is vital to ensure that the building, which needs to surrounding countryside creates impact of tall buildings is respond positively to the long-distance views into and out carefully considered in terms of character of the area, but also of the town. The diagram below views into, and out of the town, relates to issues such as illustrates some of the principle for example the potential for tall daylight reaching streets and long-distance views into the buildings to provide effective funnelling wind through town, looking towards the tall termination in relation to certain particular streets. buildings in the centre. views, but also the need to

ensure that tall buildings don’t block views out towards. important landscape features.  Tall buildings can have a major impact upon the local area, and must therefore have particular consideration towards the sensitive character and setting of conservation areas and listed buildings; it is important that the design and location of tall buildings has regard to landmark historic buildings and that they do not block such views or detract from them by competing with the historic landmark.  Tall buildings involve raising densities, therefore, they must be placed in sustainable locations, particularly in areas which are accessible and have good provision of public This diagram identifies what are considered to be the key long views of the tall buildings in Basingstoke. transport. Therefore, areas closest to the railway station  Consider impacts on assessment and analysis of the and bus station are most likely neighbouring buildings, in terms potential impacts. This will need to be appropriate for tall of issues such as privacy and to encompass consideration of buildings. overshadowing. the factors set out above along  It is important that tall buildings with any other relevant site do not overshadow or dominate 8.64 Applications for new tall specific and contextual factors. open spaces. buildings will need to be supported by detailed

Location and arrangement of Tall Buildings

8.65 Tall buildings should generally be located within the cluster strip to the south of the railway line in Basingstoke, as illustrated in the diagram below. Any exceptions to this must be fully explained and justified, particularly in relation to how the development responds to the local area. It should be emphasised that the tall buildings zone does not mean that all buildings in this area should be tall.

8.66 There are considered to be 3 clusters within the tall buildings zone. The most prominent is the combination of Skyline

Plaza, Churchill Plaza and This diagram shows what are considered to be the key clusters of tall buildings within Crown Heights. This is quite a Basingstoke, also where there is scope for potential expansion. well-defined cluster, with Skyline Plaza being the tallest, but it is considered that these but not appearing over-scaled should not compete with 8.67 The other two clusters are less in relation to the other two Skyline Plaza, but rather step well expressed, and more linear buildings. Any new buildings in down in order to ease the in character. The first is Basing that location should be transition with the surrounding View, which is particularly integrated within this cluster, townscape. distinctive owing to the

presence of Fanum House. However, this building appears isolated and somewhat incongruous in relation to the rest of the cluster, and makes the grouping quite disparate and incoherent. The buildings within this cluster are also somewhat dated now, and the buildings are generally quite ‘slab-like’. Therefore, it is considered that this cluster would benefit from the sympathetic addition of other tall buildings and/or the refurbishment of the existing buildings in order to revitalise the locality, and give it greater The top diagram illustrates a well-defined cluster, with the buildings being well related to each visual interest. other and stepping down to the lower development either side. The second diagram shows a less well-defined arrangement of tall buildings, with no continuity to the arrangement and some 8.68 The third cluster is to the south tall buildings standing in incongruous locations, and relating poorly to lower development of Winterthur Way. This cluster outside of the zone of tall buildings. is more compact than Basing View, and does not comprise Design principles for groups of tall  Stand-alone tall buildings any particularly prominent buildings should be avoided, as they are buildings. This group does not likely to appear incongruous signify any particularly 8.69 The following principles set out and dominate the surrounding important function within the the more specific design built form. town, nor does there appear to considerations which should  Widely spaced tall buildings are be much scope to expand this inform the location of tall also likely to appear disordered cluster. buildings: and incoherent.

 In light of the above, clusters of  Within a cluster there is likely to likely to be the most elegant tall buildings are likely to be the be a building which is taller than solutions. most appropriate approach to the others, this should act as  Avoid free-standing towers their provision, and so the the centre point of the cluster, without bases or a direct location of new tall buildings and the other buildings should relationship to the street. should reinforce and respond be lower.  Avoid monolithic, bulky towers positively to existing clusters.  The buildings on the edge of with ‘slab-like’ floor plates.  Clusters should be close the cluster need to drop down in  The form of the building should enough to appear harmonious height, and ideally should be interesting, well expressed and well-related to each other. create a harmonious transition and coherent. However, there does need to be to the lower buildings and  The design of the base will sufficient space between the landscape features outside of need to be well related to the towers in order to ensure that the cluster. existing street scene in terms of the cluster does not become  The cluster needs to be visually issues such as alignment, overly congested. coherent in terms of active frontages, well designed  The spacing will need to be architectural language, form, and expressed entrances. informed by the existing materials, detailing and colour.  The height of the base also separation distances, but it is  However, some variation in needs to be well related to the likely that at least approximately terms of form, height, materials existing street scene. 25m between each building will and architectural language is  The building needs to be be required. important in terms of creating appropriately orientated and  The location and design of tall visual interest. designed in order to maximise buildings needs to support the energy efficiency, for example arrangement and legibility of the Design of individual buildings with glazing designed to cluster. facilitate passive solar gain etc.  Avoid regimented alignment of 8.70 The following design principles  The use of balconies is buildings. focus more specifically on the encouraged, but they need to  It is possible to have multiple individual buildings themselves: be effectively integrated with clusters of tall buildings, but the overall design for the each cluster needs to be  Slender towers, rising above building, and should not coherent and distinct. well-proportioned and undermine the expression or articulated base buildings are the form of the building, or

increase its massing. Wrap Key design principles – tall Housing around balconies in particular should be used with caution. buildings Traditional approach to housing design  The top of the tower will be TB1 – Ensuring the tall buildings particularly important, generally respond positively to the character 8.71 This style of housing essentially this needs to have a more of the town. seeks to draw on the traditions slender, subservient or lighter of English domestic massing in relation to the rest of TB2 – Rigorously assess their impact from key viewpoints. architecture, often from the time the building below in order to of the Victorian period up until TB3 – Ensure tall buildings are ensure an elegant meeting with the early-mid twentieth century, arrange harmoniously, and produce the sky. though sometimes also with coherent clusters.  Any mechanical or references to the vernacular or telecommunications equipment TB4 – Ensure tall buildings are Georgian periods. However, required to be placed at the top well-designed, with attractive such designs often fail to of the building needs to be proportions, and bases which are adequately reflect the design attractively integrated with the well related to the public realm. characteristics of the buildings top of the tower in order to form they seek to reference. part of the architecture.

 It is vital to consider how the 8.72 The following principles need to building will appear in key views be adhered to ensure that this (including how it will appear in design approach is successful: context), and how it will impact  The design needs be well upon those views. execute and be an effective  Incorporate/facilitate ‘active’ representation of the traditional uses at the base of the building, design principles underpinning such as cafés, restaurants, the approach taken. retail or leisure uses.  Traditional architectural

features need to be

incorporated in order to enliven the composition, such as

chimneys, half dormers, projecting or recessed porches.  Ensure the massing is elegant, This example of good quality in particular this requires that traditional deep floorplans are avoided. housing in Rather than deep floorplans, Micheldever larger houses should utilise Station has a features such as rear out-shots strong rural character, and combining different forms in reflecting the order to reduce the bulk of the local context, building. and utilises  The buildings need to have traditional, attractive proportions, for rural forms and materials. example individual elements must not be over-scaled in relation to overall composition, for example, this means that features such as oversized dormers must be avoided.  Utilise high quality materials In this example from and detailing, which have an Winchester the attractive traditional character. housing has a For example, stock bricks and strong clay tiles, recessed windows traditional and segmental window arches. character, with good quality materials and detailing throughout.

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Contemporary approach to housing design In this example 8.73 The conceptual essence of from Oslo, the contemporary approaches to design utilises design draws on the modernist a modernist form, but is tradition, which involves: skilfully softened with  an absence of ornament natural  using the form of the building materials such and the appearance of the as timber and materials to create visual stone along interest with prominent soft  crisp, precise detailing. landscaping.

8.74 However, while this aesthetic draws on the modernist tradition, the contemporary approach is generally now much more flexible, with a far more sympathetic attitude to the In this example context and the needs of the from Winchester, occupants. There is generally this house also an attempt made to added to the incorporate some more end of the traditional features, though terrace echoes sometimes reinterpreted in a the form and proportions of contemporary manner. the existing houses, but 8.75 The most pronounced utilises a expression of this approach is contemporary likely to involve utilising both a language.

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contemporary form and also language (i.e. through the

fenestration and/or detailing). In this example This can be based on modern from Sutton or traditional materials. The Scotney, the latter approach is likely to be design utilises a traditional preferable from an urban design crooked timber perspective, as it allows for frame, and contemporary forms to be blends the integrated in a more traditional and contextually responsive contemporary in order to manner, for example by utilising reinterpret the locally distinctive materials such cottage as brick or timber. typology. 8.76 Alternatively, it is possible to make use of a traditional form, for example a gabled form, but with a contemporary language. For example, by using modernist style elevational This example treatment and modern from Basingstoke materials, or detailing, or merges traditional materials utilised in a traditional and contemporary manner. contemporary forms and 8.77 This approach is generally quite materials in conducive to good urban order to create design, as it is easier for people an interesting design which is to relate to, and allows successfully contemporary architecture to be integrated with more easily integrated with the the context. local architectural tradition.

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8.78 A middle ground between these two approaches can be to utilise a traditional form, but This example reinterpreted in a contemporary of apartments in Winchester manner. This allows reference utilises a to be made to locally distinctive contemporary architectural traditions, but in a approach but manner which allows for an integrates expressive and interesting traditional elements, such approach to form, in a manner as a gabled which is easier to integrate with roof form, in the context. order to ensure it 8.79 For all of these options the form responds needs to be clearly expressed, positively to and the quality of the materials the historic and detailing will be key to the townscape. success of the design. It is also important to ensure that the

composition is cohesive and This example in coherent. For example, this Winchester approach is unlikely to work if a illustrates how contemporary façade is simple flats can be applied to a standard house reconciled with traditional type, or if contemporary architectural elements are combined with approaches, standard detailing. with the building having the Flats appearance of a large arts and 8.80 Lessons drawn from experience crafts house in of this building typology in the a verdant borough are set out below: setting.

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 By their very nature blocks of flats tend to be large buildings, therefore, particular attention needs to be paid to their scale, bulk and massing. Unfortunately flats in housing estates tend to be overly bulky and fail to integrate successfully with the rest of the development.  Designs based on inflated, simplistic domestic forms are not considered to be satisfactory, as they tend to be poorly proportioned, overly bulky and lack visual interest. They also tend to suffer from an unsuccessful relationship with surrounding traditional style housing which they seek to reference, as the juxtaposition This is an example of a high quality office building in Basingstoke. The strong emphasis on glazing between the two tends to ensures that the internal spaces are well-lit and the form and articulation of the building are ordered accentuate the weaknesses in and coherent. the design.  It is important to ensure these combination of forms and/or by Office buildings buildings have visual energy, using projecting and recessed which can be achieved though features such as balconies. 8.81 A high quality appearance is interesting form, articulation, vital in order to create a positive modulation, materials and impression of the businesses detailing. For example, consider occupying the building, and in order to create a conducive creating interesting visual effects by utilising an interesting working environment for the

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employees. Principles likely to  consider incorporating and prevent the building simply ensure successful designs are complementary uses such as looking like a large box by considered to include: cafés or gymnasiums. seeking to give the appearance of the building being a  the building needs to have Industrial/logistics buildings combination of more elegant visual energy, which can be shapes. generated by adopting 8.82 Industrial/logistics buildings interesting approaches to form, must respond to modern day 8.84 The texture and combination of articulation, modulation, requirements and can produce the materials can also be used materials and detailing attractive, contemporary in order to articulate the facade  first impressions are very architecture. However, too and create visual interest. A important, so provide an many industrial buildings good example is the Jaguar impressive entrance area, both appear to have little Land Rover Factory in the west internally and externally architectural input and are midlands10. rather the result of standardised  the space created needs to be Educational buildings flexible and high quality (for construction. example in terms of allowing 8.83 These buildings inevitably tend 8.85 A recent study by the RIBA the different floors to be to result in expansive, regular highlights the importance of subdivided if necessary) shaped floorplans, and this is improving the design standards  maximise the penetration of generally unavoidable from a of schools11. This sets out the natural light within the internal functionality perspective. The enormous benefits of high spaces goal from a design perspective quality school buildings for  wherever possible, allow views is then to reduce the bulk and educational attainment and the out towards natural features massing of the buildings wellbeing of teachers. Good  achieve energy efficiency through techniques such as school design provides a through plan form, depth and articulation and modulation of comfortable, responsive design of the façade the facades and roof form. In environment which effectively other words, the goal is to try and efficiently supports

10 https://www.dezeen.com/2017/05/23/arup- associates-jaguar-land-rover-sawtooth-factory- 11 https://www.architecture.com/knowledge- architecture-industrial-west-wolverhampton- and-resources/resources-landing-page/better- midlands-uk/ spaces-for-learning

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educational activities, whilst minimising operational burdens and risks. 8.86 The RIBA report sets out the following requirements for good school design:  Good quality natural light, supported by good artificial lighting.  Pupil sense of ownership. School design that creates dedicated social or self-directed learning spaces, incorporate child centred furniture, and allows for the display of work or imagery pupils can identify with on the walls. End users from the school should help develop these elements rather than imposing something upon the Example of a high quality school building in Basingstoke. school to represent their identity. to allow air quality to be easily interest but not become a  Simple, natural ventilation maintained. distraction. systems. Flexible natural  Thermal comfort and control  An optimum level of visual ventilation with variable levels over temperature. Thermal interest in terms of design. of ventilation, and higher controls should be easy to use  Appropriate provision for the ceilings to absorb stale air. Or and quick to adapt to changing display of work and storage where that is not possible or uses of space. solutions which are developed appropriate, mechanical  Optimum amount of colour in with the school are integral to ventilation, which is simple to learning spaces. To create good design. operate and quickly responsive

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 Flexible spaces. That can be visual interest. The materials more dwellings, the latter being zoned for various activity areas and detailing also need to be preferable to avoid the creation to help facilitate learning. robust. of two front doors which can  Good acoustics. For effective adversely alter the appearance learning, pupil engagement, Sub-division of dwellings and of the dwelling. and wellbeing. houses of multiple occupation 4. Self-contained facilities for each dwelling: including exclusive  Simple design that reduces 8.89 In order to ensure that full use and access from within the reliance on complex mechanical consideration is given to the dwelling to the kitchen, systems. possible impacts of subdividing bathroom or shower-room and a dwelling into separate 8.87 Circulation routes within and lavatory. dwellings or an HMO, the around buildings need to be 5. Windows and natural light: all following sets out the minimum effective and efficient in terms areas or rooms providing living, requirements necessary for the of allowing pupils to move eating or sleeping space or sub-division of a dwelling to be around buildings quickly and acting as kitchens must have considered appropriate. easily. It is also important to one outside wall and window to consider the provision of 1. Ensure that any external afford natural lighting and appropriate break out spaces, alterations to the appearance of ventilation. both internally and externally. the property in order facilitate 6. Location of rooms: needs to be The location of external the intensification in the use of arranged to avoid locating living circulation and congregation the building are sympathetic to rooms, bathrooms and kitchens spaces needs to be carefully the design and character of the next to, above or below considered in light of their property, and are not proposed and/or neighbouring relationships with any sensitive detrimental to the character of bedrooms. Instead, rooms of a neighbouring uses such as the area. similar kind should be located in residential properties. 2. The main access needs to be order to avoid noise 8.88 The external finishing materials by way of a separate lockable disturbance. Appropriate sound and detailing needs to entrance to the front or side insulation will be required. In contribute to ensuring that the aspect of the property. addition, it will be necessary to design of the building is filled 3. Access must be direct to the avoid locating new bathrooms with natural light, is sustainable street or through a common and WCs at the front of and achieves a high degree of entrance lobby serving two or properties, given the potential

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harm that this can result in to 10. Ensure there is not a of the building which the visual appearance of a proliferation of HMOs in any accommodates the shop. A dwelling. particular locality, where this shopfront needs to be seen as 7. Refuse store: refuse and results in a detrimental impact part of a building rather than a recycling storage provision on the character of the area, separate entity, and it is must be made for a communal particularly in relation to important for a fascia to be well- bin storage area. This must be Conservation Areas. related to the building in which it provided in a well-designed is set. storage area, which minimises Shopfronts the visual impact and forms an 8.93 If a shop occupies the ground integral part of the 8.90 This section applies to floor of two or more buildings, a development; be accessible; shopfront design generally. continuous fascia running have regard to the impact of However, there will be across the facades of all the noise and smell; must not be in additional important buildings, disregarding overly prominent position; must considerations which apply to architectural detailing and not have a detrimental impact Conservation Areas and Listed decoration, is not considered to on the character of the area, Buildings, and which will be be acceptable. particularly in Conservation covered in the SPD covering Areas; and for larger schemes the Historic Environment which 8.94 The principles of design on should have appropriate will sit alongside this document. which traditional shopfronts are signage. based may also be applied to 8. Ensure that residents enjoy a 8.91 Good shopfront design, modern shopfront design, whilst satisfactory standard of appropriate to the location is avoiding pastiche copies. amenity, including through the good for business. A well- Modern interpretations of provision of gardens and designed shopfront can be traditional features can be outdoor spaces. considered as an advert in its successful. Reproduction 9. Parking and cycle storage: own right. shopfronts applied to facades of provision will need to be made, modern buildings in new areas which accords with the council’s 8.92 New shopfronts must respect should be avoided - good Adopted Residential Parking their surroundings, and relate to modern shopfront design is Standards Supplementary both the design of adjacent preferable. Planning Document. properties and the upper floors

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8.95 While it is recognised that a must be at least 2.1m above  At the lowest point, blinds and corporate style is important to pavement level. canopies must be at least 2.1m certain traders, this must still be  Internally illuminated projecting above pavement level. successfully related to the signs are unsuitable for older  Canopies must not extend context, and hence may require shopfronts, especially within across more than one shop some modification. conservation areas. frontage.  If illumination is required,  Non-traditional or reflective 8.96 Specific design principles which external spotlights, or finishes and fixed plastic must inform the design of concealed trough lighting are an canopies are not considered to shopfronts include the following: acceptable alternative. be acceptable.  Projecting signs on modern  Materials for shopfronts must  The fascia must be designed as shopfronts need to be be of a high quality and durable, an integral part of the shop and positioned within the fascia while colours need to be building. panel. appropriate to the setting;  The fascia should not be too  Vertical features should be historically, the traditional deep and must not extend incorporated in order to materials for shopfronts have above the first floor window cill. subdivide large windows, in been brick, timber and glazing.  Cluttered, oversized, or brightly- order to avoid excessive  Contemporary designs and lit signs can detract from the horizontality. materials need to be high shopfront, building and street  The design of doors needs to quality, durable, and well and are not considered be in keeping with the other related to the context; the acceptable. elements of the shopfront. detailing also needs to be  Lettering on the fascia should  Blinds and canopies can add clean, crisp and precise. be painted, engraved, fixed or interest and diversity to the  The choice of colour scheme is projecting in a style and colour, street scene, but it is important important, as it can affect the appropriate to the shopfront and they are sensitively designed overall street scene. Generally, building. and appropriate to the locality. subdued dark colours are more  Projecting signs must be Blinds and canopies should be traditional and help to designed and positioned so as of a high quality, with a non- emphasise lettering and window not to damage or conceal reflective finish, and canopies displays. architectural features, must be should be retractable. placed below fascia level and

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8.97 All items of security, including shutters must be avoided, burglar alarms and additional unless a robust justification can lighting, must be an integral part be provided and is considered of the design of a shopfront. acceptable by the Local Planning Authority, as they are 8.98 If security grilles or shutters are detrimental to the relationship deemed essential, they must be with the street scene and carefully designed and their present an inhospitable impact on the overall frontage, particularly where appearance of the building and untreated metal is used. the character of the area must be minimised. 8.101 New shopfronts must allow convenient access for all, with 8.99 Where shutter boxes are provisions for disabled persons Example of high quality shopfronts in provided they need to be and special user groups. Winchester. installed behind the fascia Wheelchair users, parents with board or incorporated onto the prams, and persons with visual shopfront design. Removable disabilities have difficulties grills are a secure alternative to negotiating steps and opening roller shutters/grilles which do doors. Entrance doors must not require shutter boxes and have a minimum opening width therefore do not affect the of 1500mm, with door appearance of the shopfront. handles/hand rails positioned no higher than 1m above floor 8.100 Decorative security grilles, level. which can be seen through are preferable, and may be situated either in front or behind the shop window. They allow passers-by to view the shopfront and the display, while premises remain secure. Solid

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mean that the number of irregular shape and soft finish. Section 9 - Materials conditions can be reduced, and These more closely reflect and detailing make it easier for the quality of traditional brick making the detailing to be maintained techniques and give a more during the construction process. textured appearance to the 9.1 The external finishing materials elevations. Sharper brick and detailing are very important shapes can be appropriate on from an urban design Key design principles – more contemporary designs, perspective. These must be materials and detailing although soft stock bricks are high quality, reinforce the suitable as well when utilising overall design concept, and MD1 – Materials and detailing need take account of the context of to be good quality, durable, and the site. consistent with, and also reinforce the overall design concept of the 9.2 Materials are also very important from a sustainability proposed development. perspective. The materials chosen need to have regard to their sustainability credentials. It Elevations is necessary to consider issues such as the processes involved Bricks in the production of man-made 9.4 Bricks are generally the materials, and the sustainability traditional external finishing credentials of naturally sourced material used in the borough materials in terms of their and their use in new location of origin, transportation development is encouraged. and durability. The most locally distinctive 9.3 It is strongly recommended that types of bricks in the borough the materials and detailing are are generally orange/red, dark specified in as much detail as red, or a warm brown. possible in the planning 9.5 Bricks should ideally be ‘stock’ application. This will hopefully bricks, i.e. those with a slightly

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that approach. Generally, ‘multi’ definition to the shape of the Dark Bricks bricks are the most successful bricks and a more restrained as they give a gradation of colour tone. 9.8 Dark bricks can be very colour which adds to the texture effective in certain situations, in of the brickwork and improves Buff bricks particular in relation to more the level of visual interest. contemporary designs. As an 9.7 When using a buff brick, it is architectural device, they give 9.6 It is important to consider the necessary to ensure that the the ground floor a very solid mortar as well as the bricks, in brick is not too yellow or bright appearance. It is important to terms of colour and technique, in appearance. A sombre, more colour match the render when e.g. raked joints give greater cream coloured tone is likely to using dark bricks. be much more successful.

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Key design principles – For example, the tiles on the walls should accord with those materials and detailing used on the roof (in terms of MD2 – Where bricks are proposed, character), but often it is most effective if the tiles on the wherever possible, use good quality external elevation are a slightly stock bricks. lighter colour tone than those MD3 – Avoid overly dark brown/red on the roof. bricks or buff bricks which are overly yellow. 9.11 Slate hanging is not common in the area, as slate is not a locally indigenous material. However, it Tile hanging is a traditional approach in English architecture more 9.9 Bricks can also be used in generally, so may prove an conjunction with tile hanging, or appropriate solution in some tile hanging alone can be instances. utilised. This is a traditional form of elevational cladding in 9.12 Both of these approaches can Hampshire, and can be very be utilised in relation to both effective in terms of creating traditional and contemporary visual interest. Consequently, designs. the use of clay tiles as an external finishing material is encouraged. 9.10 Tile hanging needs to give the walls texture, this is often best achieved by using tiles with a slightly rough surface, and which are cambered. It is important to consider the relationship with the roof tiles.

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Key design principles –

This example in materials and detailing Bramley shows how tile hanging MD4 – Tile hanging can help in adds texture adding texture to the external and visual elevations, but the tiles need to be interest to the façade. This high quality, and well related to the example also roof tiles. shows how the colour tones work effectively, with the darker Render roof contrasting with the lighter 9.13 Render is a very versatile colours below. material, and can be used in a variety of ways in both traditional and modernist styles of architecture, and in both urban and rural areas. This example in Tadley uses 9.14 Smooth render is very effective contemporary at expressing form in a pure slate cladding. way, and consequently is often This achieves a associated with the modernist balance period. However, it can appear between giving texture to the cold, stark and bright. Rough elevations, render gives a softer and more while also textured in appearance, and is expressing the generally associated with rural form in a crisp, environments and vernacular contemporary manner. and arts and crafts architecture. It can also be rusticated in some instances (made to

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imitate stone), an approach which is associated with Georgian/Neoclassical This is an architecture example of the use of render in 9.15 In urban design terms render Overton, in this case as part of needs to be used carefully, as a design with a light coloured render can strong appear very prominent, and is traditional likely to weather poorly, character. especially in verdant sites or next to busy roads. It can also become strained through poor integration of fixtures and fittings, or if used inappropriately in relation to other materials, e.g. it can become stained when used with timber. This building in 9.16 Accordingly, the use of render Rooksdown in is discouraged and it must only Basingstoke be used where it can be uses render in a demonstrated that it will be contemporary adequately maintained and will manner, and the different colours not become severely are employed in discoloured. order to provide visual interest 9.17 Applications involving the use of and express the render must demonstrate how it different can be ensured that its elements of the appearance will not building. deteriorate/discolour. Ensuring

115 that the appearance of render is Timber comes from a sustainable suitably maintained will be source. dependent on various factors. 9.18 The use of timber as both an Examples include the use of external cladding, and a 9.23 Timber also needs to be self-cleaning finishes/types of structural system, is traditional considered in relation to render such as silicone and in the borough, and has Building Regulations using through-coloured render. regained popularity more requirements, as it can be a fire The applicant must also recently, for both aesthetic and hazard if used in close proximity demonstrate that suitable sustainability reasons. to boundaries, in which case it procedures are in place to will need to be treated in order 9.19 As an external cladding system to make it fire retardant. ensure the ongoing timber cladding can be left to maintenance and cleaning of weather naturally, or 9.24 Staining/coating timber the render, and this will need to stained/coated via various removes the potential for the be secured through the methods. material to weather gracefully planning process. over time. However, there are 9.20 There is a notable distinction certain benefits, in particular, it between soft and hardwoods, allows for a much more with hardwoods being the more consistent appearance, durable, and hence preferable especially in relation to from an aesthetic and weathering, and improved sustainability perspective. durability. 9.21 The durability and weathering 9.25 It is important to have regard to will depend to a large extent on how the staining fits with the regulating the moisture content, overall design concept and the so timber clad elevations context. For example, staining generally need direct sunlight timber black can look so that they dry effectively. particularly appropriate in a rural context, as this is a 9.22 Sustainability is very important in relation to timber cladding, traditional finish in Hampshire.

and in addition to the durability 9.26 Problems with the weathering of aspects, it is also vital that it timber cladding is already

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evident in relation to a number of developments in the borough. Therefore, where These houses timber cladding is proposed it in St Mary will be important to demonstrate Bourne employ black stained that it will be maintained in a horizontal suitable manner, will be durable timber cladding and will weather in an attractive in order to give manner. the buildings a strong rural character. Key design principles – materials and detailing MD6 – Timber cladding needs to be sustainably sourced, durable and This building in Rooksdown in consistent with the overall design Basingstoke concept. utilises vertical timber cladding MD7 – It is vital to ensure that the in a timber cladding is used in a manner contemporary which allows it to weather/age manner, which combines visual attractively and can be suitably interest and maintained. texture with a crisp modern appearance. Contemporary materials 9.27 Modern materials can be very effective when used as part of contemporary design solutions, utilising either traditional or contemporary building forms.

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9.28 The materials chosen still need to be high quality, and carefully related to the context. It is also This important to have regard to the contemporary extension in weathering qualities, both in Winchester terms of the aesthetic aspects, utilises standing as well as the durability of the seam zinc material. cladding in order to provide a 9.29 Examples of contemporary juxtaposition with materials are fibre cement the historic building, though cladding and various types of with the metals such as Copper, Zinc or greyness of the Aluminium. These materials zinc creating a allow for crisp detailing and relationship with effective expression of form. the neighbouring Fibre cement and metal flint-work. cladding can be used to create

interesting textures, patterns In this example and articulation, and can be a in Tadley, the means of employing various crisp colours. contemporary detailing is a key defining Contemporary detailing characteristic of the design, and 9.30 Contemporary designs are gives it a often predicated on clean, crisp dynamic modern lines and regularly seek to character. express forms in a pure way. This design approach also often seeks to integrate modern materials and detailing as an integral part of the design. As a

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result, contemporary detailing needs to be crisp, precise and elegant. In this example from New Alresford every Key design principles – aspect of the materials and detailing window design is good quality. The MD8 – The use of modern materials windows are well proportioned needs to be well related to the overall sashes, which are design concept, and should be combined with sympathetic to the context. attractive arch, cill and recess MD9 – Contemporary detailing needs detailing. to be crisp, precise and elegant.

Window materials and detailing 9.31 The choice of windows, and

associated detailing needs to In this example in be consistent with the Winchester the architectural language of the contemporary building. For example, in window materials traditional designs timber and detailing, with the grey windows are ideal and it is window frames, important to ensure that the recesses and windows look as traditional as coloured panels, possible, i.e. they should not are vital in terms have an excessive number of of giving the design its glazing bars, and it is better that dynamic contemporary character.

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the glazing bars are external as opposed to being inserted within the glass, as this will engender a more traditional appearance. 9.32 Proportions are also important in relation to traditional windows. This relates to both the windows themselves, the ratio of wall to window and in terms of the detailing (e.g. proportion of frame to glass). 9.33 On contemporary designs windows are often large, prominent and used to add visual interest to the form and articulation of the building. Therefore, it is vital that the detailing is clean, crisp and precise. It is also common to incorporate windows as part of

projecting or recessed In this example from Basingstoke the plain clay tiles provide texture to the roof and help elements, and sometimes with ensure that the building has a high quality, traditional character.

Key design principles – coloured panels. Contemporary Roof materials and detailing materials and detailing architecture is often associated with grey or black window Plain tiles MD10 – window design/appearance, frames, with aluminium being a materials and detailing need to be common material. 9.34 As with bricks, plain tiles need high quality and well related to the to be appropriate in terms of overall design concept. colour tone, texture and shape.

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Generally, orange/red or a Slate Key design principles – warm brown is the most 9.37 Slate has been common in the effective colour and best reflect area since the Victorian period. materials and detailing the traditional local vernacular. Natural slate needs to be MD12 – Slates need to be good carefully sourced, as it varies quality and durable, and natural 9.35 The roof tiles should ordinarily enormously in terms of slate should be used wherever be slightly darker than any brick appearance, quality, durability or tile cladding used for the and price depending on its possible. elevations below. Though they origin. shouldn’t be too dark initially, as MD13 – Where artificial slates are the weathering process will 9.38 Man-made slates are available. used these must be as similar in mean they generally darken However, these often lack the appearance to slate as is possible. naturally. subtle variation of colour tone Grey interlocking concrete tiles are which is characteristic of natural not a suitable substitute for slate. 9.36 The tiles should ideally be slate. It is also important to double cambered, with a slightly rough surface, in order to give the roof texture.

In this example Key design principles – in Winchester materials and detailing the slate roof blends well MD11 – Plain roof tiles must be with the buff good quality and textured (in brick and helps in achieving relation to both the shape of the tile the balance and its surface), and should be between the darker than the bricks on the traditional and contemporary elevations. aspects of the design.

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establish that their appearance quality of the design. In External spaces will not degrade significantly particular this is through the use over time. of features such as open eaves, Boundary treatment with exposed rafter feet, and 9.42 Boundary treatment is an 9.39 Grey concrete tiles are not likely dark coloured eaves. to constitute a successful important characteristic of the alternative to slate as they have 9.41 Traditional roof detailing often built environment, and plays a a very different appearance, also includes decorative significant role in delineating profile and texture. features such as ornate barge space (i.e. whether it is public boards, finials and ornamental or private), local distinctiveness Roof detailing ridge tiles. However, it is and establishing the quality of 9.40 When utilising traditional important to use such features the spaces in and around new designs the use of carefully, in order to prevent the development. commensurate detailing for the building appearing overly 9.43 It is essential to ensure that roof will enhance the overall ornate. new boundary treatment, especially that which forms part of the street scene, is high quality, contextual, durable and relates positively to the overall design for the site/development,

This example in so that it forms an attractive Bramley utilise part of the overall composition high quality of buildings and external space. traditional materials and 9.44 Planting is a very sympathetic detailing, with form of boundary treatment. the decorative However, this needs to be ridge tiles sufficiently dense and robust, helping to reinforce the and provided at a suitable size quality of the to fulfil its function from the building. outset.

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9.45 In terms of approaches which are likely to be successful. In urban contexts brick walls and metal railings (usually black) are traditional approaches which are often successful. 9.46 In rural and suburban contexts hedging, particularly using native species are often a very effective approach. Low picket fences are another approach which is characteristic of such areas. 9.47 More specific guidance on locally distinctive approaches to boundary treatment are set out in documents such as the Countryside Design Summary and the borough various Village Key design principles – Design Statements. This example in Basingstoke uses a range materials and detailing of attractive boundary treatments, namely 9.48 In relation to contemporary evergreen hedging, brick walls, picket fences and metal and timber gates. The MD14 – New boundary treatment, schemes, walls, railings and especially where it forms part of the fences are often likely to be result is a very attractive interface with the public realm. street scene, should be good successful solutions, but they quality, contextual, durable and need to be well related to the to have a contemporary overall design concept for the respond positively to the overall character, such as slatted or hit design for the site/development. scheme. For example, walls and miss fencing. must reflect the external MD15 – Wherever possible, elevations of the buildings, and incorporate, prominent planting as where fencing is used it needs part of the boundary.

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Hard surfaces hard surface design and beneficial in urban design terms materials needs to be high in relation to adding visual 9.49 The hard surfacing needs to be quality and well related to the interest and defining different high quality and considered overall design concept. areas, for example, parking holistically in relation to the spaces might be in a different context. The appearance of the 9.50 The use of different hard finish to the access road itself. hard surfaces will have a surfacing materials to significant impact on the distinguish the different 9.51 The selection of appropriate character of the whole functions or parts of the hard materials will depend on the development. Accordingly, the surfaced areas is often context. Paviors are often attractive material for hard surfaces. Generally these need to be soft in appearance, with a rough texture and irregular edges. Paviors which are overly smooth, sharp and shiny in their appearance should be avoided. 9.52 In some contexts materials such as resin bonded gravel and some macadams may be the most appropriate. 9.53 Wherever possible, the hard surfaces should be permeable in order to ensure effective drainage of surface water. 9.54 The hard surfaces also need to be durable and easy to maintain (for example ensure that weeds do not grow through the gaps Examples of good quality hard surface materials in Basingstoke and Tadley, and how they between paving stones). help create attractive streets and spaces.

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Key design principles – off and then a new owner puts in a revised application seeking materials and detailing to increase the density of the MD16 – Hard surfaces must be proposal and diminish the quality of the material and good quality, durable and respond detailing specification. This positively to character of the process is often then repeated proposed development. again during the details and MD17 – Different surface compliance process, where the treatments should be used to contractor will again seek to achieve cost savings by further convey the different functions of reducing the specifications of the external spaces. the materials and detailing. This is considered to be an

extremely damaging process in Preventing deterioration of the relation to the process of Example of good quality materials and securing good quality design detailing in Basingstoke. materials and detailing and will be strongly resisted. specifications through the planning process Key design principles – 9.55 It is vital to ensure that the materials and detailing quality of the materials and detailing is not undermined MD18 – The council will not accept through the different stages of the substitution of good quality the planning process. For materials and detailing for inferior example, often an initial versions. proposal will specify good quality materials and detailing, however, this will then be undermined through subsequent applications, for example where the site is sold-

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storage of wheeled bins which Section 10 - can be taken to the collection 10.6 This guidance also applies to Residential Amenity area via paths and gates to the assessing what size needs to side or rear. It must not be remain of an existing garden necessary for wheeled bins to when new development seeks External spaces be taken through a dwelling to to encroach on existing garden the collection area. land. 10.1 This part of the guidance Developments must not provide applies to gardens and amenity for wheeled bins to be stored at 10.7 Amenity requirements are set spaces which are located the front of the property unless out in the key design principles towards the private aspect of a a design solution is proposed RA1, RA2 and RA3. Variations dwelling i.e. to the rear of the which significantly limits the to these requirements may be dwelling, but occasionally impact of the storage of bins on permitted where this can be include side gardens. Front the streetscene. justified through the planning gardens will not contribute application. In such cases the towards minimum amenity 10.4 This guidance also applies to following considerations will space provision. Any conversions to residential apply: contribution by roof gardens accommodation. Amenity space can only be considered if they needs to be provided for a) The guidance given on the size are a genuine and safe conversions consistent with the of back gardens for houses are alternative to other forms of on- size and location of the minimum areas. However, the site provision. dwelling. The assessment of size of a garden will also be this issue will need to have dependent on the character of a 10.2 The areas occupied by garages regard to particular character of development and its and car parking are excluded the building and the local area. surrounding area. For example, from these amenity space in lower density areas requirements. As are areas for 10.5 This guidance does not apply to dominated by landscaping and bin and cycle storage, specialist housing such as substantial gaps between conservatories and sheltered units. The amenity houses, then gardens larger outbuildings. space requirements of these than the above minimum sizes other types of accommodation may be required. Where higher 10.3 The rear or side gardens of will be considered individually. density development is dwellings must allow for the

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permitted, then less amenity should receive reasonable aspects of amenity such as loss space may be justifiable. levels of direct sunlight. Where of privacy. b) The size of amenity space this is not practical should be appropriate to the consideration will be given to Key design principles – character of the dwelling. For requiring additional garden or example, larger dwellings, such amenity space to compensate residential amenity as 3, 4 or 5 bedroom detached for a reduced level of sunlight. RA1 - Provision of Residential houses, will usually require g) Private amenity space needs to Amenity Space: New housing gardens considerably in excess be provided within the curtilage development is required to provide of the above minimum sizes. of the development. The use of amenity space to meet the c) Developments may offer a public areas to contribute to recreational and domestic needs of range of garden sizes to private amenity space will only the occupants. Depending on the accommodate the differing be allowed for houses as an type of dwelling proposed, amenity demands of householders. For exception where it is space is required to provide for example, it may be appropriate demonstrated that it is within passive recreational activity such as to include a limited number of easy reach for the residents sitting out, for active recreational smaller gardens for those and that it can provide space for activity such as play space for dwellings which are likely to informal relaxation. children and gardening, and for other accommodate small h) Side gardens may contribute to outdoor requirements such as drying households. the minimum provision of clothes. d) Gardens and amenity space amenity space, but only where RA2 - Private Gardens for Houses: must be of a shape, size and it is demonstrated that their size The following minimum garden sizes level (i.e. it should not be and shape genuinely contribute will be required: stepped) which is practical and to meeting needs of the usable. occupants. Number of bedrooms: Minimum e) The requirements for gardens i) A back garden depth of less Garden Size: and amenity space cannot than 10m may be acceptable, 1 and 2 bedrooms: 50 square metres include substantial areas of but only where it is existing trees, hedges and other demonstrated that this is 3+ bedrooms: 60 square metres vegetation. appropriate to the character of RA3 - Each dwelling must have a f) Wherever practicable, gardens the house and wider area, and minimum garden depth of 10 metres or amenity space for flats does not result in harm to other

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Provision of amenity space for Amenity space curtilage of the flats may flats exceptionally be acceptable if g) There are no quantitative there is alternative provision in 10.8 The provision of amenity space requirements for the size of the form of nearby public open for flats must have due regard communal amenity space for space. The use of public open to the following detailed issues: flats or for private, outdoor space in lieu of on-site provision space for ground floor flats. will require the applicant to Balconies Each case will be considered demonstrate that the open on its merits. space is sufficiently accessible a) Balconies need to be provided h) The space must provide and of a type to provide a unless it can be demonstrated enough room for the residents genuinely usable alternative to this is not achievable. of the flats to sit out provision within the curtilage of b) Balconiesneed to provide comfortably. the building. This will require enough space for two people to i) In the case of private, outdoor consideration of the sit out comfortably. space for ground floor flats characteristics of residents c) They should preferably receive which can provide family likely to occupy the housing some direct sunlight and accommodation, there must be (such as whether there are preferably look out onto a enough space for children’s likely to be children as well as pleasant view, ideally towards play. adults) and how safe and far natural features. j) The amenity space should away is the route to the public d) Balconies must not give rise to provide a degree of privacy and open space. unacceptable levels of receive some direct sunlight overlooking towards where practicable. These areas neighbouring properties. should be separate from other e) The need for balconies may be areas which serve the flat such as car parking. waived where their appearance may be out of character with the streetscene. 10.9 Private amenity space should f) ‘Juliet’ balconies will not be provided within the curtilage contribute to the provision for of the development. Waiving balconies as set out in this the need to provide balconies or guidance. amenity space within the

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Key design principles – residential amenity

RA4 - New flatted development should provide amenity space for all occupants within the curtilage of the building. This may be in the form of outdoor private space for ground floor accommodation, balconies for accommodation above ground floor level, or communal amenity space. Back to back distance 20 m Alternative provision such as where there is good access to public open space, or in the form of roof gardens, may be considered on its merits.

Privacy

10.10 The best way of ensuring privacy for new and existing housing is to ensure that Back to back distance 28 m windows do not look directly onto private areas. These private areas include habitable 10.11 The minimum back to back rooms (living rooms, dining requirements are 20m for 2 rooms, bedrooms), kitchens storey development and 28m and patio areas in gardens for 3 storey development (which immediately adjoining the would also include building. accommodation within the

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roofspace12). Greater distances may be required for taller d) Back to back distances may development. Variations to the have regard to the character of requirements for back to back an area. For example, shorter distances may be acceptable if distances than those stated it is demonstrated that any of above may be acceptable in the following considerations inner urban areas typified by apply: higher densities. Similarly, greater distances may be a) Where there is a change in required in some suburban and level between buildings, then rural areas where the the back to back distances may predominant character of the have to be increased. area exhibits greater separation distances. b) Where the backs of houses face each other at an angle 10.12 Side by side relationships (typically 30 degrees or more) it Illustration of the 30 degree rule of between dwellings will need to is less likely that people will be thumb. ensure that there is no direct able to see directly into each for example, through the use of: overlooking or overbearing other’s homes and the minimum obscure glazing and restricted relationships, for example back to back distances openings; the siting of habitable where the rear elevation (at 2 described above may be rooms within an internal floor storey height) of one dwelling reduced. layout; directional windows; the protrudes beyond the other positioning of ancillary and/or there are windows at first c) The requirement for minimum outbuildings; or existing mature floor level looking directly back to back distances may be trees and landscaping. It will not towards the neighbour’s relaxed where the impacts on be acceptable for a habitable property. privacy can be reduced. This room to only have windows may occasionally be achieved, which are obscure glazed.

12 However, where the window at second floor back can be substituted from the overlooking required overlooking distance would be level (e.g. dormer window) is set back from the distance requirement. i.e. if the second floor reduced to 27m. rear elevation, then the distance of the set dormer window is set back by a 1m then the

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setting back the front of a Key design principles – Natural Light and Outlook dwelling from the back of the residential amenity pavement, or by siting front 10.14 Dwellings must have sufficient windows or even the whole daylight to allow the RA5 - New housing development building slightly higher. There comfortable use of habitable must ensure that the privacy of may be some circumstances, rooms (living rooms, dining both new and neighbouring for example where there is a rooms, bedrooms), kitchens dwellings is protected. strong historic context of and patio areas in gardens buildings directly abutting the immediately adjoining the RA6 - Minimum back to back pavement, when it may be building. ‘Daylight’ is defined distances will be required as necessary to allow front here as the amount of ambient follows subject to the flexibility set windows to adjoin the street. light received from all out in paragraph 10.11 directions. 2 storeys – 20 metres 3 storeys – 28 metres

For buildings of 4 storeys or more, a greater back to back distance may be required depending on the merits of the case.

10.13 There are no minimum standards for distances between the fronts of dwellings across a street. Each case will be examined on its merits. However, care should be taken to avoid overlooking from the street into habitable rooms at the front of a dwelling. This can be achieved, for example, by Illustration showing the 25 degree rule of thumb in relation to unrestricted daylight.

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10.15 All dwellings should receive rule’. This states that there is the impact of existing buildings some direct sunlight in at least normally the potential to and boundary treatments. one habitable room in all achieve adequate levels of months of the year. daylight and outlook when no 10.18 There are a number of ways in facing building breaks a 25 which the necessary levels of degree angle from the daylight can be achieved: horizontal from a point 2 metres above the floor level (the  careful orientation of housing normal height of windows). This with many of the habitable will take into account changes rooms facing south in ground level.  window head heights could be raised 10.17 Another way of assessing the  larger windows could be used impact of neighbouring  rooms could be shallower; dual buildings on daylight and aspect rooms could be provided outlook is the ’45 degree rule’.  alternative sources of natural This states that there is light other than windows could normally the potential to be considered such as light achieve adequate levels of wells or skylights. daylight and outlook when no part of a building cuts through a This diagram illustrates the ’45 degree rule of 10.19 The canopies of trees can block thumb for unobstructed daylight. line radiating at 45 degrees out significant amounts of light from the centre of a window that to dwellings and their gardens. 10.16 There are no quantitative lights a habitable room. New housing should therefore standards to be applied in every Applying this rule will take avoid the prevention of daylight case in order to assess the account of the height of a into habitable rooms, such as amount of daylight and sunlight proposed development as 2- kitchens and lounges. and the impact on outlook. storey developments, for Overhang from trees and Nevertheless, there are several example, have the potential for shadowing of garden areas ‘rules of thumb’ which will a greater impact. Any should also be kept to a inform the judgement to be assessment of daylight and minimum. made. One is the ‘25 degree outlook will also take account of

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10.20 If there is a potential adverse  prevent/minimise disturbance  space to undertake normal impact upon the levels of light from noise living activities that do not just enjoyed by properties, then  ensure a pleasant outlook from use furniture, e.g. washing, planning applications may need the main habitable rooms, dressing, cooking, eating, to be accompanied by a ideally encompassing views playing daylight/sunlight assessment. towards natural features.  space for clean storage, e.g. linens, vacuum cleaner etc. 10.23 Another important aspect is  sufficient separation of rooms to Key design principles – ensuring that new allow required level of privacy, accommodation is sufficiently residential amenity (this need can change over spacious and fit for purpose. time, however designs that The council considers that it is RA7 - New development must succeed when the rooms are very important that wherever separate, will succeed if the provide a suitable, pleasant outlook possible applicants ensure new dwelling is converted to open and level of natural light for both dwellings accord with, or where plan. The converse will not new and neighbouring dwellings. possible exceed, the Nationally necessarily be true) Described Space Standards  circulation space should allow (please see appendix 3 for for space near to the accesses Internal spaces details). to keep outdoor items such as 10.24 It is also considered important coats, boots, prams, etc, 10.21 Policy EM10 in the ALP to have regard to the preferably without having to requires the provision of a high practicalities of the space being pass through habitable rooms standard of amenity for provided. Therefore, new  shared circulation space for occupants of developments. residential accommodation flats should be designed for 10.22 Therefore, it is considered vital should provide: minimum maintenance and to: provide easy access to flats and  space for appropriate furniture associated facilities such as  achieve a good level of natural and equipment amenity space and bin stores light within the property,  space to access/use and bicycle parking. particularly the main habitable furniture/equipment/doors/wind rooms ows 10.25 Of particular concern to the  circulation space council are the new permitted

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development rights, which have resulted in a large number of conversions of office buildings to residential uses. These have the potential to result in small units that are outside the control of the council. 10.26 Therefore, it is important that such schemes follow the guidance set out above regarding the qualities of the internal spaces. The floorplans below set out some good examples of how these conversions can be carried out in a manner which provides a reasonable standard of amenity space.

Example of conversion of office to residential, which relates well to the existing floorplate. This example accords with the national space standards.

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Section 11 - Extensions

Residential buildings 11.1 Extensions must be designed having regard to the impact on neighbouring properties, the natural environment and also in relation to the whole street or particular group of surrounding buildings, and will need to have a successful relationship with the street scene. The following issues should be considered when designing extensions.

Site analysis 11.2 In the first instance it is 11.3 In addition, it is necessary to 11.4 Also, consider the effect of the necessary to consider the consider any variance of ground extension on existing trees and location of the potential levels, particularly in relation to hedges. Extensions should be extension in relation to any neighbouring properties. designed and located so as to neighbouring properties, and in Topography can have a retain and protect (e.g. prevent terms of views from the public significant impact on the visual damage to root structures) trees realm, as these factors will have prominence of an extension, which have a positive impact on a significant impact on what and/or the impact on any the character of the area. size, scale and design of neighbouring properties in extension which may be terms of overbearing impacts or acceptable. overshadowing.

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Neighbour impacts Boundaries 11.5 Wherever possible it will generally be necessary to keep the extension away from property boundaries, particularly in the case of two storey extensions, as otherwise it is likely the extension will have a detrimental impact on the neighbouring property. 11.6 However, single storey extensions on the boundary may be acceptable provided they do not create an overbearing impact. 11.7 Leaving space between the extension and the boundary will also allow for more convenient maintenance.

Overshadowing and overbearing neighbouring property are likely making their property feel impacts to cause overshadowing and hemmed in by surrounding 11.8 It is necessary to avoid loss of direct sunlight to development. designing an extension that important habitable rooms. overshadows/blocks natural 11.9 Extensions must not have an light in relation to the existing or overbearing impact on neighbouring properties. For neighbouring properties, thus example, extensions to the harming their outlook and/or south of the existing or

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be afforded to primary living accommodation such as lounges, than to ancillary accommodation such as hallways and bathrooms. 11.13 Development involving single storey extensions will rarely cause overlooking, particularly on flat sites.

11.10 The factors set out above will require a minimum distance of be heavily influenced by issues 20 metres between directly such as the relationships facing windows, where one is at between relevant properties in first floor level. terms of orientation, topography, internal layout of 11.12 However, in each case houses and location of gardens. applications will be determined Key Design principle - on their individual merits and a extensions Privacy/overlooking distance of less than 20 metres may sometimes be acceptable E1 – Detrimental impacts on 11.11 Avoid designing an extension dependent on factors such as with windows that directly neighbours must be prevented, the relationship of dwellings to particularly: overlook the neighbouring one another in respect of  overbearing impacts property, particularly close to changing levels, orientation and  direct overlooking the boundary. To the rear of a the use of the rooms involved. property it is normal practice to Generally more protection will  blocking out natural light.

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Design and impact on the character of the area Building form 11.14 The design and style of the proposed extension should generally respect the design and style of the original house. 11.15 The basic shape of the extension should be subservient, and in proportion to the original building. 11.16 However, it is recognised that in some circumstances it may not be appropriate to design an extension which is truly subservient to the original building in every respect. 11.17 The bulk, massing, size and scale (width, depth and height) of an extension are critical in determining whether the development will remain in proportion to the building. Extensions which are overly large in terms of bulk, size and/or scale and are disproportionate in relation to the original house are unlikely to constitute acceptable design.

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11.18 The shape, pitch and style of the roof will be a significant factor in achieving an appropriate design. The roof form does not necessarily have to exactly match the existing property, but should be well related to it. 11.19 Certain building features can be repeated on extensions in order to help integrate the new building with the existing, particularly in the case of historic buildings. Care should be taken when copying key design features, as poor quality copies are likely to detract from the original building and also undermine the design of the extension. 11.20 While the general principles above are vital in relation to the majority of extensions, there is Example of contemporary extension in Winchester, which is subservient to the host dwellings the potential to design high and sits comfortably in the streetscene.

quality extensions which 11.21 An extension must have Character of the surrounding area contrast with, but are sensitively particular regard to any regular related to, the existing property arrangements of vertical 11.22 Some areas may feature in terms of features such as features along a façade, for particular characteristics in form, materials and detailing (of example chimneys, bay terms of architectural style, a contemporary character for windows and half dormer materials and/or details. An example). windows. inappropriately designed

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extension can undermine the appearance of the area through the introduction of alien features, such as poorly designed flat roofed structures or over-scaled dormer windows. 11.23 However, as has been referred to above, there is sometimes scope to incorporate extensions which utilise high quality designs which reinterpret existing architectural styles in a contemporary manner, and/or provides a subtle juxtaposition with existing architectural styles. This can add visual interest to the streescene and represent the continuation of architectural styles. Heritage impacts 11.24 It will also be important to establish whether there are any heritage implications associated with the proposed extension. addition, if extensions are guidance regarding these Any extensions to listed proposed in conservation areas issues will be set out in the buildings will require very or in a location where they council’s Heritage SPD. could impact upon the setting of detailed consideration, and Gaps between buildings there will be an array of specific a listed building(s) then it will be design considerations which will vital to consider in detail the 11.25 The spaces between buildings apply in such scenarios. In impact this will have on the often make an important heritage assets. Further contribution to the character of

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an area. Extensions which fill or encroach excessively on the space around a building may contribute towards an inappropriate “terracing effect” or can result in a cramped appearance, which is likely to be detrimental to the street scene.

Key Design principles - extensions

E2 – The design, form materials and detailing of extensions must respond positively to those features which define the character of the existing building. 11.26 This is particularly noticeable departs from this convention E3 – The scale of the proposed where an extension continues may appear incongruous within extension should usually be the roof line of the original the street scene. The presence subservient to, and be well- building and where a of landscaping, fencing or other proportioned in relation to, the existing neighbouring property could substantial boundary treatments building. also be extended in a similar that screens some or all of a E4 – Extensions need to respond manner. structure does not justify otherwise inappropriate positively to the streetscene and wider Established pattern of development character of the area. development. E5 – Extensions must consider the 11.27 If the street or group of impact they have on the space around buildings has a well-defined the building, in relation to issues such “building line” or pattern of as plot coverage, views through and development (which generally effect on the streetscene. follows the road alignment), an extension or garage which

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Guidance in relation to specific types of extension Rear extensions 11.28 Extensions to the rear of a property are the least likely to have a major impact on the house, the neighbours and the surrounding area. When extending a semi–detached or terraced property it is important to follow any established pattern of extensions. For example, in terraced houses the rear outshot is a very traditional form which, when paired with a similar extension on a neighbouring house can appear achieve a pitched roof to the Side extensions same angle as the main house to be part of the original design. 11.31 Side extensions should be This type of extension can also then this is a good indication that the size of the extension is sympathetically designed and help to increase privacy to the appear subservient to the main rear garden. not in keeping with the scale of the dwelling. house. The appearance will 11.29 Poorly designed flat roofed often be improved if the extensions rarely appear to 11.30 Two storey extensions should extension is set back from the blend harmoniously with the nearly always have pitched front elevation of the main existing dwelling and are likely roofs, the only exception being building. The ridge height to present long term where it is part of a high quality should also generally be lower maintenance problems. Pitched contemporary extension which than the existing house. roofs are preferable and should sites comfortably in the street However, in some instances, it be to the same pitch as the scene. may be appropriate, in terms of main roof. If it is not possible to the design, to match the ridge height of the extension to that of

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the existing property. The eaves height of two storey extensions should generally be consistent with the existing eaves height, though can be lower, but should not be higher. Porches 11.32 Porches must not be over- scaled in relation to the existing dwelling and must not appear excessively prominent in the areas which are characterised 11.38 As a general rule flat-roofed streetscene. They must be by dwellings with a simple and dormers should be avoided. designed to respond positively plain roof form. However, a small unobtrusive to the character of the house. flat roof dormer window can be 11.35 If headroom allows, rooflights appropriate in some situations. For example, the porch roof provide a less obtrusive should reflect the roof design alternative, and conservation 11.39 Side dormer windows should and pitch of the host building, rooflights are now available also be avoided as they can and should have a similar which minimise the effect on the visually unbalance the roof and architectural language. profile of a roof. undermine symmetry of a 11.33 Porches situated close to dwelling or a pair of semi- 11.36 However, if dormer windows detached dwellings, as well as neighbouring properties should are proposed, it is necessary to be designed to have minimal give rise to a loss of privacy to keep their size to a minimum the adjoining neighbour. impact on the amenity of the and their position as low as adjacent dwelling. possible on the slope of the Garages and other ancillary Dormer windows roof. buildings 11.34 Dormer windows can represent 11.37 The design of dormers should 11.40 Garages and ancillary buildings very prominent visual features, reflect the character of the main must be located where which may dominate a building roof and the dormer windows overshadowing of, or and will be inappropriate in should match the window style disturbance to, neighbouring and rhythm of the fenestration. properties is minimised.

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11.41 Garages and ancillary buildings 11.44 The impact of double garages must not project forwards of a can be visually dominant and  be subordinate to the main strong building line. If such unsympathetic to both the host dwelling in terms of design and buildings are sited closer to the dwelling and the street scene, scale highway than the main building unless carefully designed. Their  be linked internally to the main line, it is likely to be overly effect should be minimised by dwelling prominent visually, undermine ensuring that the eaves are as  share a common access with the coherence of the low as possible and by the use the main dwelling streetscene and have an of two single doors rather than  be within the curtilage of the undesirable impact on the one large double door, in order main dwelling established pattern to prevent any excessive  have a functional connection development and character of horizontal emphasis. with the main dwelling (e.g. the the area. Residential Annexes occupant should be a 11.42 Where integral garages project dependant relative of the forward of the main entrance to 11.45 Consideration of residential residents of the main dwelling a house, care should be taken annexes involves a range of or employed at the main to ensure that they do not interrelated issues in respect of dwelling) dominate the main elevation. design, scale, use and  be in the same ownership as Detached garages must be relationship with the main the main dwelling positioned in order to avoid any dwelling. The design of annex  be designed in such a way as to sense of the plot becoming will need to accord with the easily allow the annex to be excessively cluttered, guidance set out elsewhere in used at a later date as an particularly where they are the SPD. However, there are integral part of the main located to the front of a also some particular dwelling property. considerations pertaining to  have no boundary demarcation annexes, which relate to or sub division of the garden 11.43 Garages and ancillary buildings ensuring that they have an areas between the curtilage of should generally have roof appropriate relationship with the the main dwelling and the forms which reflect that of the main dwelling and do not annex roof of the host dwelling. amount to the creation of a new  have adequate parking and dwelling. More specifically, a amenity facilities for the needs residential annex should:

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of the annex occupants and the residents of the main dwelling  detached annexes (either new build or the conversion of an existing building) will not normally be acceptable.

Fenestration

Size and Proportion 11.46 Over-scaled windows on an extension, both in relation to the Ratio of Wall to Openings Materials and detailing existing dwelling, and the size of the extension, are considered 11.47 The ratio of solid (wall) to void Materials to be inappropriate. The scale (openings), otherwise known as and proportion of the windows the ‘solid to void ratio’, is 11.49 Generally materials should be should provide continuity important in order to reflect the carefully chosen to match the between the original house and character of the host building original building. It is important the extension. and to avoid unattractive large that not only the colours and expanses of brickwork. tones of the materials match, but also the texture and size, Vertical Rhythm such as the roof tiles and bricks. 11.48 An extension must have special consideration to any regular 11.50 When extending an older arrangements of vertical property it may be appropriate features along a façade. to use carefully selected second-hand materials, where the source of these can be verified as being legitimate and the materials are good quality.

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11.51 It is often difficult to find materials which match exactly

with the existing building, especially in relation to older houses. This is why setting Example of contemporary extension in Winchester which utilises high quality materials and back the front elevation is detailing.

important, as it creates a visual 11.52 In some limited circumstances, Detailing break between the existing it may be appropriate to use building and the extension different, or even contrasting 11.53 It will also be important to which will disguise any slight materials where they may ensure that detailing is well variations in the materials and enhance the original building related to the existing building. prevent awkward visual effects and/or contribute to achieving a For example, details which created by the blurring of high quality contrasting design have a positive impact on the slightly different materials. which is sensitively related to character of existing buildings the existing property. should be replicated on

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extensions, for example  have regard to form, character expressed as iterative (i.e. features such as segmental and materials of the existing express the fact that this is an arches over windows; window building, and ensure the design extension), subservient, recesses; brickwork bonding responds positively to those complementary additions to the and patterns; important roof characteristics existing building. details (e.g. open eaves).  extensions are often most  there can be scope to successful when they are incorporate extensions of a 11.54 In contemporary extensions high quality detailing will be vital to the overall success of the design, this needs to be clean, crisp and precise.

Extensions and alteration of non-residential buildings 11.55 Many of the same considerations as those set out above in relation to relation to residential buildings also apply to the extension of non- residential buildings. More specifically, the following considerations apply:  the extension needs to respond positively to the context  wherever possible, extensions must enhance the appearance of the existing building and This office building in Basingstoke has been refurbished, incorporating an additional floor at the improve the character of the top of the building, which is consistent with the character of the building and enhances its area appearance.

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contrasting character, provided the character of the existing this is high quality, and is building and the impact on the sensitively related to the street scene. existing building and the character of the area, in terms of issues such as scale, materials and location  the location of the extension should respond positively to the surrounding pattern of development, for example it should not come forwards of established building lines  ensure that the extension does not have a detrimental impact on neighbouring property(s)/uses, particularly in relation to sensitive land uses such as residential.

Refurbishment 11.56 Refurbishments of non- residential buildings are also supported in principle. This often involves making improvements to the appearance and sustainability credentials of the building. However, the approach taken in terms of issues such as type of materials and detailing still This extension in Worting provides a subtle and subservient addition to the Saint Thomas of needs to be carefully related to Canterbury Church.

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structure, e.g. decorative lintels, cill Built form – how a building or group Glossary and eaves details. of buildings look, e.g. size, shape, height, location in plot, etc. A Architectural language – the way in Active frontage – the front of a which the elements of a building and C different design features combine to property which allows people inside Character – the combination of factors and outside of that property to interact influence the style and appearance of a building. that distinguish one place/structure e.g. floor to ceiling windows at street from another, including issues such as level which allow people to see in and Axonometric drawing – a three- the layout and appearance of out; pavement dining restaurants. dimensional drawing, drawn from buildings, topography, landform, hard Active solar gain – involves the use above at a diagonal angle. and soft landscaping (including locally common species). of solar collectors to generate B electricity or to heat water. Conservation Area - “An area of Biodiversity – the variation of Adaptability - the ability of a structure special architectural or historic lifeforms, plant and animal, in a given interest, the character or appearance to be altered, often structurally, to fit area or ecosystem. changed circumstances and/or of which it is desirable to preserve or different uses. Boundary - the border or limit of a enhance”. Set out in Section 69 of the property or space. This may be Planning (Listed Buildings and Amenity – something that adds to a indicated visually, through the use of a Conservation Areas) Act 1990. person’s comfort or convenience, e.g. fence or wall; may be identified on a privacy; lack of noise; attractive views. Context – the setting of a site or area, land ownership plan or similar, or may including features such as land uses, Amenity space - an area of land, be historic and undefined. built and natural environment, social generally green space and planting, Building line – a discernible line and physical characteristics. which allows for informal leisure and beyond which buildings are not provides a setting for buildings. In the Continuous frontage - the alignment erected. For example, rows of of buildings which are joined or closely case of a dwelling, this is usually the Victorian and Edwardian terraced and garden area. spaced, which have a direct and semi-detached properties have very consistent relationship with, and all Architectural detailing – the clearly defined building lines. front onto, the public realm. designed detail on a building or Curtilage – the area of land immediately surrounding a house or

149 other building. In the case of a house, site area for features such as open development. Can also mean three- this is the area of land that is space. dimensional shape. reasonably associated with the enjoyment of the property, usually the Desire lines – a route that people or Fronts – a structure that ‘looks out’ garden area. animals instinctively wish to travel, onto something; the main elevation of often the shortest or straightest line a building is located to look out over between two points. something that provides good amenity In issue of what constitutes curtilage in value, e.g. a park or lake, or relation to listed buildings can be more E something that benefits from active complicated, and have more Enclosure - creation of a sense of surveillance, e.g. a street or footpath. significant implications, in that some defined space by means of buildings within the curtilage may be Frontage - the area of land in front of surrounding a building or group of buildings up to protected as part of the listing of the buildings/structures/planting. The main building. This is a complicated the street; the front or face of a degree of enclosure will be defined by building. issue which is covered in more detail the relationship between the height of in the following advice from Historic the vertical feature(s) relative to the G England: width of the space. Grain – the general arrangement or https://content.historicengland.org.uk/c F pattern of development of an area. ontent/docs/guidance/170127--he- Often used in relation to buildings and Façade – the main face/front elevation spaces between, and illustrated in curtilage-guidance-note-consultation- of a building. draft.pdf figure ground drawings. Fenestration – the design and Green corridors - Rivers, roadside D placement of windows and other verges, canals, public rights of way openings in a building. Density – the relationship/ratio of a and cycleways and railways building or buildings to an area of land, Figure ground – the use of Green Infrastructure – connected usually calculated on the basis of the differentiation (usually black and white) and substantial networks of number of dwellings per hectare; gross to clearly show the position of multifunctional green space. density refers to the total number of buildings in relation to space on a buildings in a whole site, whereas net plan/streetmap. H density makes deductions from the Form – the layout, density, scale Habitable rooms – a room for living appearance and landscape of a purposes, excluding bathroom, toilets,

150 corridors, and halls. Kitchens can with one another, which when When a building is listed, it is listed in sometimes also be excluded. combined create a contrasting, but its entirety, which means that both the attractive relationship. exterior and the interior are protected. Heritage Asset - Heritage assets Listed buildings are classified into include designated and non- K grades as follows: designated heritage assets. Knapped flint – flints cut to produce a Grade I - buildings of exceptional Designated heritage assets include flat-faced stone. These are then bound interest (approximately 2% of all listed Scheduled Monuments, Listed together with mortar to form a wall. buildings) Buildings, Registered Parks and Gardens or Conservation Areas L Grade II* - particularly important and designated under the relevant Landscape – the visible features of an more than special interest legislation. area of land (including physical (approximately 4%) Nondesignated heritage assets are elements such as landform, living Grade II - buildings of special interest, buildings, monuments, sites, places, features such as plants and animals, warranting every effort being made to areas or landscapes identified as characteristics such as lighting and preserve them (94%) having a degree of significance weather, and human impacts such as meriting consideration in planning buildings). Soft landscape features More information on listed buildings decisions but which are not formally include planting; hard landscaping can be found at the Council’s web site: include walls, patios, walkways, made designated heritage assets, although http://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/rte.asp up of hard materials. they may be identified as x?id=270 Legibility - the ease with which Buildings of Local Interest. In some M instances non-designated assets, visitors can orientate themselves and particularly archaeological remains, find their way around an area. Mass/Massing – the physical volume or bulk of a structure or building. may be of equivalent significance to Listed building – A building, object or designated assets, despite not yet structure that has been judged to be of Microclimate – the climate of a small, having been formally designated. national importance in terms of specific place in a particular area. J architectural or historic interest and included on a special register, called Mitigation – methods to reduce, Juxtaposition – two or more the statutory List of Buildings of remove or compensate for adverse structures or landscape/townscape Special Architectural or Historic impacts. elements placed in close proximity Interest.

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Mixed use – the integration of more close observation of people in public Public realm – all areas to which the than one type of use. For example, a areas, often from nearby buildings or public has open access, e.g. streets, building with a shop on the ground spaces. For example, houses fronting squares, parks, public buildings. floor and residential units on the upper directly onto public open space. floors. R Pastiche – a design which seeks to O replicate the style of an earlier era. Rhythm – the repetition of elements to The term pastiche architecture is create a pleasing effect. Orientation – the direction a building, sometimes used in a critical way when structure or street is facing. Roofscape – the view of a the attempt to replicate traditional combination of roofs in a particular Overbearing – “a term used to architecture is not done very well. street/area/town/city. describe the impact of a development Perimeter Block - a street block, each S or building on its surroundings, of whose frontages face out onto a particularly a neighbouring property, in public space (usually a street). In such Scale – the size of a building in terms of its scale, massing and cases the parking and amenity areas relation to its surroundings; the size of general dominating effect, “ (Planning are normally located within the centre parts of a building or its details, in Portal) of the block or between buildings. particular relation to the size of a person. P Permeability – the extent to which the Sense of place – the multitude of Passive solar design – a building layout of buildings and pedestrian and vehicular routes within a development landscape and townscape features designed and orientated to make the (which can include activities and most of the sun’s warmth. For affect the ability of people or vehicles to move in different directions and uses), which combine to make any example, by providing habitable rooms one place memorable and special, in a with large south facing windows. connect with existing movement networks. manner which responds positively to Passive Solar Gain - systems that local distinctiveness. absorb, store and distribute the sun’s Public open space – space set aside for formal or informal recreational Setting – the context or environment energy without relying on mechanical in which something sits and which devices like pumps and fans, which purposes with access for the general affects its appearance. require additional energy. public. Settlement morphology – the way Passive surveillance – (also known the settlement pattern evolves over as Natural Surveillance) informal, time

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Settlement pattern – the distinctive the present without compromising the V way in which the roads, streets, ability of future generations to meet spaces and buildings are laid out in a their own needs”. Village design statement – an particular place. adopted Supplementary Planning Sustainable drainage system – an Document that provides design Site constraint – a feature on a site or environmentally-friendly way of dealing guidance in relation to a particular adjacent to a site which will have an with surface water runoff to avoid village. impact on design decisions in a problems associated with conventional limiting manner. For example a drainage practice. These problems Vista – a framed view or outlook (such predominant building line along a include exacerbating flooding. This as between two buildings or a series of street may constrain where a new approach may also be termed “SUDS” trees). building can be located. (or sustainable urban drainage systems), but applies equally to rural Street scene – the combination of and urban sites. roadways, pavements, street furniture, trees, signage, building elevations and T other elements that determine the overall appearance of a street. Thermal mass – the capacity of a structure/material to store heat. Spatial structure – the way in which built form is arranged, including issues Topography – the surface features of such as the shape, size and layout of a place. The most relevant factor is blocks and streets. often the gradient and/or shape of landforms.

Street pattern – the layout of streets Townscape – the overall combination in an area. of streets, spaces, buildings and Sustainable development – the landscape features. ability to maintain balance in a certain process or state in a system. The most U commonly quoted definition for Undercroft car parking - parking at sustainable development is the ground floor level within the footprint of Brundtland Commission definition of the building. “development that meets the needs of

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Appendix 1 - Village Design further documents will be  St Mary Bourne (December Statements prepared in time and potentially 2005) updated in association with the  Tadley (April 2004) 1.1 Village Design Statements neighbourhood planning  Whitchurch (July 2004) (VDSs) are a practical tool that process. Access to copies of has been developed to help the documents can be found on influence decisions on design the borough council’s website. and development, having been researched, written and 1.3 VDS documents have been consulted on by the local prepared for the following community. They help to settlements: identify local character and

distinctiveness, encompassing  Ashford Hill with Headley the landscape setting of the (February 2004) village, the pattern and shape of  Baughurst (April 2004)

the settlement, and the nature  Burghclere (October 2002) of buildings, spaces, landmarks  Cliddesden (February 2004) and special features.  Dummer (February 2004)

1.2 VDS documents are material  East Woodhay (December considerations, having been 2005)  Ellisfield (December 2002) adopted as council policy, while some are also specifically  Highclere and Penwood (July referenced in relevant 2002) neighbourhood plans.  Kingsclere (July 2002)

Consequently, these need to be  Oakley and Deane (April 2004) taken into account in  Old Basing and Lychpit determining planning (December 2005) applications. To date, VDS  Overton (February 2002) documents have been prepared  Sherborne St John (February for a number of settlements in 2004) the borough and it is likely that  Silchester (April 2007)

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Appendix 2 – Basingstoke and  Ecchinswell Deane Borough Council  Ellisfield

Conservation Areas  Hannington More detailed heritage considerations  Hurstbourne Priors  Kingsclere will need to be applied to development which affects heritage assets, such as  Laverstoke and Freefolk Conservation Areas and Listed  Mapledurwell Buildings. Additional guidance in  Monk Sherbourne relation to the borough’s Conservation  Newnham Areas are set out on the council’s  North Waltham website:  Old Basing  Overton https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/conse rvationappraisals  Park Prewett  Preston Candover The full list of Conservation Areas is  Ramsdell as follows:  Sherbourne St John  Basingstoke Town  Sherfield on Loddon  Basingstoke – Brookvale West  Silchester

 Basingstoke – Fairfields  St Mary Bourne and Stoke  Basingstoke – South View  Steventon  Basingstoke Canal  Tadley

 Ashmansworth  Tadley, Church Road  Bradley  Tufton  Bramley and Bramley Green  Tunworth

 Brown and Chilton Candover  Up Nately  Church Oakley  Upton Grey  Cliddesden  Weston Crobett and Weston Patrick  Deane Whitchurch  Dummer   Worting  East End and North End

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Appendix 3 – Storage and that waste and recycling issues o where householders Collection of Waste and Recycling are fully taken into account as need not carry material (waste part of the pre-planning and full and recycling) a 1.1 Basingstoke and Deane planning application process distance greater than 30m Borough Council is responsible and officers from the Joint o where the collection for the collection of waste and Client Waste Team are fully vehicle can park as close as is recyclable material from all consulted. practicable to the domestic properties within its collection point to a maximum boundary (HMSO,1990). This 1.4 The provision of an effective distance of 15m service is currently provided and efficient waste and o at ground level using wheeled bin containers recycling service is a key o with dropped kerb for both waste and recyclable council operation, and it is crossings and road markings material and a plastic box for essential that the needs of this where appropriate recycling glass, although some service are considered at the o with appropriate signage. historic properties remain on earliest design stage for new  Include a site plan showing bin sacks. developments. collection and storage points

and a collection route. 1.2 Collection occurs from the 1.5 Development proposals must kerbside. Residents are therefore: 1.6 The council’s waste and required to place their wheeled recycling collection service is bins and the plastic box for  Comply with all applicable reviewed on a regular basis and recycling glass at the edge of legislation. applicants are advised to their property, which is the  Provide sufficient internal waste contact BDBC to ascertain that nearest point accessible to the and recycling storage capacity. the details outlined within this collection vehicle. In the case of document are still applicable at Houses of Multiple Occupancy  Provide sufficient external the time. (HMOs) and flats, collection will storage space for the separate

take place from a communal waste and recycling. 1.7 The council is aware that the waste and recycling storage containers, as well as storage technology associated with area. of bulky household items, waste storage and collection is where appropriate. evolving and is keen to 1.3 It is essential that all new  Locate the waste and recycling developments are designed so storage areas:

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encourage innovative approaches, such as underground bin storage and other innovative waste storage and collection solutions, provided these do not undermine the viability of development and are practical from an operational perspective. Where such approaches are proposed these need to be informed by detailed information regarding the practicalities of such approaches, and will need to be agreed with the Waste and Recycling team. wheeled bins and plastic box for container instead [fee payable] for recycling glass. It is the householder’s recycling glass bottles and jars. The responsibility to provide the necessary size and total number of bins and 2. Individual Houses containers for internal storage. recycling boxes provided will depend on the size of the household (table 1). 2.1 Internal Storage 2.2 External Storage of Wheeled Bins 2.3 Waste and Recycling Storage To enable occupants to recycle their Areas waste, developers should provide Basingstoke and Deane Borough adequate internal storage, usually Council currently provides each Containers should be located within within the kitchen, for the separation of household two separate 2-wheeled the boundary of each house, in an waste and recyclable material into bins of differing capacities for the open-air position, shaded, away from three separate containers (one for containment of waste and recyclable windows and within a suitably waste, one for recycling and one material. A plastic box is provided for designed structure or area which specifically for glass), prior to the recycling glass bottles and jars. There should be able to accommodate the transfer of that material to the external is an option of a further wheeled bin necessary number of bins and boxes

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opened (British Standards, 2005). This is particularly important for households where no rear access is proposed (picture 1). There must be clearance of 150mm around each bin or container and the storage area must be a minimum height of 1750mm (to allow for height when lid is open). The total floorspace for each bin or container is given in table 2. Glass boxes cannot be stacked on top of the wheeled bins or each other. Bin storage areas should be located to create minimum nuisance to adjoining properties.

Residents should not have to carry their waste and recyclable material a distance greater than 30m to their wheeled bins and containers for glass and should not have to wheel their bins or carry their containers for glass a distance greater than 15m to the edge of their property or collection point for collection from their container storage area (excluding vertical distances) (Approved Document H –

Unsatisfactory example of external storage Building Regulations 2010). areas that are intrusive in the street scene. Container storage and collection Example of satisfactory external bin for glass recycling for that household, areas with a collection route must storage area individual houses ensuring that the lids can be fully be clearly identified on plans.

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2.4 Collection of Wheeled Bins

Residents are required to place their wheeled bins and containers for glass at the edge of their property, at a point which is accessible to the collection crew member and the collection vehicle (HMSO, 1990). Collection crew members are not expected to move wheeled bins a distance greater than 15m and over surfaces which hinder their smooth passage, for example, steps (British Standards, 2005). The collection point must be accessible to the collection vehicle that is used by BDBC. More information can be found in Section 6.

Please note the council’s collection vehicle will only travel along roads 2.5 Home Composting 3. Houses of Multiple that have been constructed to Occupancy and Flats Hampshire County Council’s In addition to encouraging recycling, adoptable standards. the council requires that for 3.1 Internal Storage developments with a rear garden, Developers must provide written adequate space is provided for a To enable occupants to recycle their evidence that all roads have been home compost bin. The council waste, developers should provide constructed to a suitable standard if currently subsidises home compost adequate internal storage, usually collection vehicle access is bins and these are available for within the kitchen, for the separation of residents to buy. required. waste and recyclable material into three separate containers (one for

159 waste, one for recycling, and one specifically for glass), prior to the transfer of that material to the external wheeled bins and plastic boxes for glass recycling. For residents who share a communal waste and recycling storage area, the council provides a reusable plastic bag for the transfer of recycling.

The council does not consider the use of internal waste disposal chutes to be glass. For developments comprising 6 an acceptable alternative to the use of or more dwellings, spaces for two 3.3 Waste and recycling storage wheeled bins because they do not 1100 litre 4-wheeled bins plus one 240 areas enable the satisfactory separation of litre 2-wheeled bin for glass should be recyclable material to be achieved. provided for each set of 6 dwellings. For HMOs and flats it will be Therefore, for a development necessary to provide a communal 3.2 External Storage of Wheeled comprising 48 flats, spaces for sixteen storage area(s). For large Bins 1100 litre 4-wheeled bins plus eight developments, several waste and 240 litre 2-wheeled bins for glass recycling storage areas may be For HMOs and flats, a trigger point of recycling should be provided. appropriate. Communal waste and 6 dwellings is used to determine the recycling storage areas must be most appropriate provision of containers for waste and recyclable material (table 4).

This means that in a development containing up to and including 5 dwellings, each dwelling should be provided with space for one 140 litre and one 240 litre 2-wheeled bins plus a 48 litre plastic box for recycling

160 designed as an integral part of the development and must be easily accessible for the dwellings that the This is serve. The siting and design of considered to be a good example communal waste and recycling of a bin storage storage areas must also have regard area in to the impact of noise and smell on the Basingstoke. The occupiers of neighbouring properties, bin storage has existing and proposed. Appropriate been integrated into the building, signage should also be displayed to with the doors clearly identify the bin storage area. blending into the external cladding The storage area should be located at of the building. vehicle access level at a point which is away from the main entrance to the building. The distance from the building to the waste and recycling storage area should be no greater than 30m (Approved Document H – Building Regulations 2010). In this example in Winchester the The storage area must be of an bin storage adequate size to accommodate the structure itself is necessary number of bins and attractive and containers for glass for the dwellings has been designed and that the area serves (table located to blend 4). If the waste and recycling storage in with the area is to serve 12 flats, space for mature trees and Four 1100 litre 4-wheeled bins plus vegetation, which space for Two x 240 litre 2-wheeled helps reduce its visual impact. bins for glass should be provided.

There must be at least 150mm

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clearance around each bin, with a minimum 1.3m clearance required if Example of 1100 litre bins are to be positioned unsatisfactory bin storage facing each other (see table 5). This area, in this will allow access to each individual case for a container and ensure that an individual house of bin can be removed from the area multiple without the need to move other occupation. The bins are in an containers (picture 3). overly prominent location and no Communal waste and recycling storage facility storage areas should be a minimum has been height of 2m. provided. Appropriate roofing and lighting should also be provided for communal storage areas, as well as provision for washing down and draining the floor into a system suitable for receiving a Example of polluted effluent (Approved Document poor quality bin H – Building Regulations 2010). If store, which is 1100l 4-wheeled bins are going to be unattractive and difficult to provided, door and alley widths should access for both be at least 2m to allow safe residents and manoeuvring. collectors. Bin storage areas can become the focus of anti-social behaviour and are sometimes vandalised. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the siting and design of these elements provides for structures which are safe and secure.

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Suitable locks also need to be with a minimum width of 2m. More provided on the storage information can be found in Section 6. Developers must provide written structures/areas. evidence that all roads have been Please note the council’s collection constructed to a suitable standard if Communal bin storage and vehicle will only travel along roads collection vehicle access is collection areas plus collection that have been constructed to required. route(s) must be clearly identified Hampshire County Council’s on plans. adoptable standards.

3.4 Collection of Wheeled Bins

The location of the waste and recycling storage area for HMOs and flats should permit safe manoeuvring and transfer of the containers to the collection vehicle and highway access that will enable the collection vehicle to park no more than 15m from the collection point if 2-wheeled bins are used and 10m if 4-wheeled bins are used. (British Standard, 2005). The collection crew shall not be expected to move containers over surfaces that will hinder their smooth passage and where slopes occur, these cannot exceed 1:12 (Approved Document H – Building Regulations 2010). Paths between the waste and recycling storage area and the collection vehicle should be free from kerbs and steps, Bin store with poor access for collectors

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3.5 Storage of Bulky Household 4. Major Retail, Leisure and emptied by a standard Refuse Waste Community Facilities Collection Vehicle, details of which can be found in Section 6. Basingstoke and Deane provides a collection of bulky household items, Major retail, leisure and community Textile banks are 1.6m2 base and such a fridges, furniture, etc. These facilities will be required to accommodate public ‘bring sites’ for adequate space should be provided items must not be placed in the waste for them on new developments. The and recycling storage area unless a the collection of glass, paper and textiles. Bring sites should be located council will arrange for them to be collection has been arranged with the delivered. The textile banks are council. in a position that provides easy and safe access and ease of use for both emptied by a large van.

3.6 Composting of Grounds waste producers and collectors, with special consideration to be given for The bring site should be clearly Maintenance Waste identified on the plans and the older persons and people with disabilities. council’s Joint Waste Client Team Where practicable, arrangements consulted on the number of containers should be made in the development of Adequate signage is required to at the pre-application stage. flats to facilitate the on-site composting of material from the maintenance of ensure that users understand what communal grassed areas and shrub items can be recycled at the bring site. 5. Commercial Developments planting. The council’s Joint Client Waste Team will provide specifications for the sign. The volume of waste generated and The appropriate siting of a composting Sound-proof fencing will be required if thus the number and type of area for grass cuttings and chipped the nearest residential property is containers that a commercial woody material to provide compost for within 100m. development requires is dependent on re-use on site would save transport the activity of the occupant. and disposal costs for grounds For larger sites, such as Applicants should consult with the maintenance contractors. supermarkets/shopping centre car Joint Client Waste Team at an early parks, sufficient space should be stage to reach agreement on the provided for at least four glass banks. number of containers required. In this instance, developers should contact the council at the earliest Adequate space should be provided to opportunity. The council will provide maximise the amount of recyclable the banks and arrange for them to be material that is segregated and sent

164 for recycling as well as to maximise the collection vehicle (British Standard, contact: Joint Client Waste Team, the number of containers in order to 2005). For health and safety reasons, Basingstoke and reduce the number of collections and waste collection vehicles should never Deane Borough Council, 01256 therefore collection vehicle traffic. be required to reverse up or down a 844844 slope or ramp. 6. Roadways and Vehicles – Further information on public highways Technical Data 7. References and maintenance is available from Hampshire County Council, Local Area

Office, Hook 0845 603 5633 Roads providing access to buildings British Standards, 2005. BS should have foundations and a 5906:2005: Waste Management in Further information on highway design hardwearing surface (including man- Buildings – A Code of Practice. and adoption guidance, please holes covers) capable of withstanding contact: the maximum gross vehicle weight of Environmental Protection Act 1990 - Planning and Transport, Basingstoke 26 tonnes. http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/19 and Deane Borough Council, 01256 90/43/contents 844844 The largest waste collection vehicles currently in use are 10.85m long and Building Regulations 2010 Part H For further information on commercial 2.4m wide, with a turning circle of Drainage and Waste Disposal recycling collections, please visit 19m. Swept-path analysis can be used http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploa ds/br/BR_PDF_AD_H_2015.pdf www.wastedirectory.org.uk to assess new design layouts for accessibility. Vehicle details can be obtained on request in order to 8. Further Information and undertake swept-path assessment. Contact Details

Roads should have a minimum width An example of a collection vehicle for of 5m and be arranged so that the purpose of designing layouts is set collection vehicles can continue mainly out below. in a forward direction. If reversing is unavoidable, then the distance should For further information on the councils not exceed 12m and consideration waste and recycling service and the must be given to the provision of a vehicles used by the Council please turning facility that can accommodate

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Appendix 4 – Nationally Described Space Standards (included for reference purposes)

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www.basingstoke.gov.uk | 01256 844844 [email protected] @BasingstokeGov

If you need this information in a different format, for example large print, CD or braille, please contact the council.

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