Policy information sourced from the Hillingdon Local Plan: Part 2
DMHB 13: Shopfronts
New shopfronts and alterations to existing shopfronts should complement the original design, proportions, materials and detailing of the building of which it forms a part and the surrounding street scene.
The Council will resist the removal of shopfronts of architectural or historic interest, particularly those listed on the Register of Locally Listed Buildings.
New shopfronts must be designed to allow equal access for all users.
Inset entrances on shopfronts should be glazed and well-lit to contribute to the attractiveness, safety and vitality of the shopping area and avoid blank frontages to the street.
Blinds, canopies and shutters, where acceptable in principle, must be appropriate to the character of the shopfront and its setting. External security grilles will not normally be permitted, unless they are of good quality design.
In order to improve and maintain the quality of the public realm, the design of shopfronts should be of a high quality, taking into consideration:
- retention and maintenance of active shopfronts at all times;
- the relationship between the shopfront and upper floors;
- the relationship with surrounding shopfronts and buildings;
- the use of materials which are appropriate to and enhance the character of the local area; and
- the value of existing architectural and historic features
For more information please see the Local Plan: Part 2