Policy information sourced from Barking and Dagenham Borough Wide Development Policies DPD

POLICY BP9: RIVERSIDE DEVELOPMENT

Development along rivers should respect the character, opportunities and constraints of the specific site and surroundings. Riverside development is expected to:

  • Where appropriate, provide access to the river and provide riverside pedestrian and cycle paths that are high quality, convenient, and safe (provided these are landward of any existing flood defence).
  • Provide open space for recreation and conservation which can also be used to store excess floodwater.
  • Protect and enhance biodiversity (important species and habitats) in and along the river and banks and provide, preserve and enhance wildlife corridors where appropriate.
  • Orientate buildings towards the riverside.
  • Incorporate clear signage, information and lighting to promote the use of waterside spaces by all.
  • Preserve and enhance the waterway’s heritage.

A minimum of an 8 metre buffer strip is required between a proposed development and the top bank of any fluvial main river, 16 metres on any tidal watercourse and 5 metres for any ordinary watercourse unless fully justified, mitigated and compensated.

For more information please see the Borough Wide Development Policies DPD