Design and access statements now a formal requirement

The requirement that all new developments will need a design and access statement is now in force, planning minister Baroness Andrews has announced.

These statements will set out how elements of design such as character and disability access have been considered and provide local authorities with a greater understanding of what is being proposed and what the final development might look like.

Applicants will be under an obligation to demonstrate that they have looked at layout, appearance, scale and landscaping to ensure their proposals exhibit good design.

Baroness Andrews said: "The government is putting high quality design at the heart of the planning process to ensure that it is integral to any new development proposals."

She added: "Giving proper consideration to design and access principles at the start can improve the quality of new buildings and spaces and speed up the process too.

"We want developers and local authorities to seize this opportunity to ensure that they deliver attractive and exciting places that everyone can cherish."

A circular explaining how the new regime will work has been produced by the Department for Communities and Local Government.

A good practice guide on how the statements will work has also been issued by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE). This gives practical advice for developers and local authorities on what will need to be included and how the statements should be interpreted. 

A DCLG Circular, "Guidance on Changes to the Development Control System", is available from The Stationery Office and on the Department for Communities and Local Government website

View here for the Cabe Guidance on Design and Access Statements: How to write, read and use them:

Roger Milne

10 August 2006