About this page
How this part of the Local Plan Options Document works
These Development Management policy option pages contain the following sections:
Policy background
- Relevant national policy or regulations
- National or regional trends
- Local situation and needs/li>
- How we have dealt with this issue in the past
- The thinking behind the policy
Policy options for the new Local Plan
We may suggest a variety of approaches:
- Keeping existing policy as it is
- Making small changes
- Replacing the policy with something that is substantially different
- Identifying factors or events which may affect this policy in the future
Policy option analysis
- A list of the advantages and disadvantages that we have identified for each of the policy options we are presenting.
Read the Heritage and Design Topic Paper for in-depth focus about this topic, and the evidence which informs our policy. Visit our library of Local Plan Options supporting documents to learn more.
Explore the policy
Select a section below to read more.
9.338 The NPPF sets out the approach to design under Section 12 ‘Achieving well- designed places’. Paragraph 131 is of key consideration and notes the following:
9.339 ‘The creation of high quality, beautiful and sustainable buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning and development process should achieve. Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development acceptable to communities. Being clear about design expectations, and how these will be tested, is essential for achieving this. So too is effective engagement between applicants, communities, local planning authorities and other interests throughout the process.’
9.340 Design policies are a key consideration in addressing the Local Plan’s spatial priorities. The spatial priorities for the Local Plan that are particularly relevant include:
- Attractive, healthy, and sustainable places
- Improved connectivity for all and reduced need to travel
- Conserving and enhancing heritage assets
- Improve physical and mental health and wellbeing for all
9.341 All policies will need to be updated to reflect the national policy context, particularly the National Design Guide and the requirement for Design Codes (see section on Design Codes from para 9.422 below).
9.342 The West of England Combined Authority (the CA) and the region’s local authorities are committed to bringing forward clean, inclusive growth and creating healthy, happy places. The CA and the four West of England Unitary Authorities worked together through 2020 to develop a Placemaking Charter in dialogue with stakeholders. The Charter sets out a shared ambition for the quality of development in the West of England and communicate the authorities’ priorities and expectations to support clean, inclusive growth, responding to the climate and ecological emergencies.
9.343 At a local level design review, policy support, consultation and training for the South West is provided by Design West. Design West brings together expertise from across the built and natural environment sectors. The service is independent and not-for-profit working collaboratively with the development sector and decision-makers to shape better places.
9.344 Adopted Policy CP6 is an overarching design policy. The policy seeks to ensure Bath & North East Somerset's environmental quality is fostered both for existing and future generations.
9.345 The detailed background and evidence relating to the following options is set out in the Heritage and design Topic Paper.
9.346 The policy remains broadly fit for purpose. The policy broadly aligns with the National Design Guide 10 characteristics of good design, which reflects the government’s priorities and provides a common overarching framework for design. Going forward as part of the new local plan the policy approach will seek to strengthen and provide more precise hooks/ links to the National Design Guide 10 characteristics of good design, the B&NES Corporate Strategy and priorities and WECA Placemaking Charter. Existing references to ‘Building for Life 12’ will be updated to its next iteration ‘Building for a Healthy Life’.
Option A
Retain policy CP6 with amendments as set out above.
Advantages of Option A
Adopted policy presents no issues or concerns arising from development management officers in its implementation. No evidence to suggest major changes are required.
Disadvantages of Option A
None identified.