Policy information sourced from the Gravesham Local Plan - Core Strategy

CS19: Development and Design Principles

5.15.14 New development will be visually attractive, fit for purpose and locally distinctive. It will conserve and enhance the character of the local built, historic and natural environment, integrate well with the surrounding local area and meet anti-crime standards. The design and construction of new development will incorporate sustainable construction standards and techniques, be adaptable to reflect changing lifestyles, and be resilient to the effects of climate change. This will be achieved through the criteria set out below:

  • Using the collaborative approach advocated in Building for Life 12 and in line withthe guidance set out in Kent Design, the design, layout and form of new development will be derived from a robust analysis of local context and character and will make a positive contribution to the street scene, the quality of the public realm and the character of the area. Account will be taken of the scale, height, building lines, layout, materials and other architectural features of adjoining buildings. Account will also be taken of the wider site context, including strategic views, site topography, the significance of heritage assets and features of townscape and landscape value which contribute to local character and sense of place;
  • New development will encourage sustainable living and choice through a mix of compatible uses which are well connected to places that people want to use, including the public transport network, local services and community facilities; encourage sustainable travel; enhance Green Grid links and encourage healthier lifestyles;
  • New development will be located, designed and constructed to:
    • safeguard the amenity, including privacy, daylight and sunlight, of its occupants and those of neighbouring properties and land;
    • avoid adverse environmental impacts from pollution, including noise, air, odour and light pollution, and land contamination; and
    • not pose an unacceptable risk or harm to the water environment, including the quality and/or quantity of ground waters, surface waters, wetlands and coastal water systems;
  • The design and layout of new residential development, including conversions, will accord with the adopted Residential Layout Guidelines;
  • New development will be designed in an inclusive way to be accessible to all members of the community;
  • New development will provide appropriate levels of private and public amenity space;
  • New development will include details of appropriate hard and soft landscaping, public art, street furniture, lighting and signage and will ensure that public realm and open spaces are well planned, appropriately detailed and maintained so they endure;
  • Car parking will be well related to the development it serves;
  • New development will protect and, where opportunities arise, enhance biodiversity and the Borough’s Green Infrastructure network. Support will be given to environmental enhancements where opportunities arise;
  • New development will be fit for purpose and adaptable to allow changes to be made to meet the needs of users;
  • The design and layout of new development will take advantage of opportunities to build in resilience to the effects of climate change. This will include protection against flood risk, where relevant, delivering carbon reduction, provision for low carbon and renewable energy, and minimising energy consumption and water use;
  • New development will incorporate appropriate facilities for the storage and recycling of waste; and
  • The layout of new development will create a safe and secure environment and provide surveillance to minimise opportunities for crime and vandalism.

For more information please see the Gravesham Core Strategy