(a) Development proposals should demonstrate that they have had regard to the guidelines and design principles set out in the Sutton Design Code.

(b) Development must complement the character of the surrounding context (including any heritage assets which might be present) in terms of scale, height, massing, gaps between properties, garden provision, and degree of setback from the road.

(c) The treatment of site boundaries to roads must reflect the rural character of the area by including hedgerows, low walls (below 1 metre) of sandstone or other local materials. Existing boundary hedgerows or sandstone walls should be retained and incorporated into development. Where pre-emptive action has been taken to remove existing hedgerows or sandstone walls, reinstatement will be expected as part of any development scheme.

(d) Development on the edge of the built and rural area must include suitable boundary treatments, such as hedgerows and landscape design, to create a green transition between built and rural areas.

(e) Development should respond to the topography and natural features of sites and their context, including allowing views to the surrounding countryside in the design and layout, and, where feasible, retaining the views identified in Appendix J.

(f) Building materials must be of high quality, to complement the local character of the area, in particular in areas of historic or landscape sensitivity. Use of locally sourced, recycled or low-embodied energy materials is strongly encouraged.

(g) Variation of house types should be used, so as to respond to and enhance the architectural diversity of the area. This includes variety in materials, built forms and styles.

(h) Innovative, creative, site-specific design is encouraged, including green buildings with superior environmental performance.

For more information, please visit the Sutton Neighbourhood Plan