Major developments should meet Code level 5 from 2013.

Residential developments are encouraged to meet the other Code for Sustainable Homes Level categories (water, materials, surface water run-off and waste) as well.

Where appropriate, other new build developments over 500m² including conversions, refurbishments, extensions and changes of use are encouraged to achieve higher levels of the appropriate BREEAM standard in accordance with the following timeline:

Buildings that are undergoing refurbishment or extension, but where the alterations are too small to be assessed under BREEAM are encouraged to comply with the policies for existing buildings set out in the Council’s Sustainable Design and Construction SPD.

Where it is not possible to meet the standards, compelling reasons must demonstrate that achieving the sustainability standards outlined in policies DM1 to DM3 would not be technically feasible or economically viable, the Council will negotiate planning contributions with developers to fund other methods to offset the environmental impact of the development. Further guidance on the level of contributions expected will be outlined in the Council’s Planning Obligations SPD, or Community Infrastructure Levy charge, in line with Policy IMP3.

New development should minimise air, noise and contaminated land impacts in line with industry best practice. Development proposals for contaminated land should include remediation measures.

Monitoring Emissions

The Council will promote good carbon management by monitoring CO2 emissions to ensure the development is operated within the CO2 emissions standards of the as-built specification and those outlined within the Council’s Sustainable Design and Construction SPD. Measures to ensure these standards are maintained will be monitored by the Council.

For more information please see the Kingston Upon Thames Core Strategy