Policy information sourced from the Richmond Upon Thames Local Plan

Policy 44 Design Process

A. Optimising site capacity through the design-led approach A. In order to make the most efficient use of land by optimising site capacity a design-led approach is required, in accordance with London Plan Policy D3. A design-led approach will include an evaluation of the attributes of a site as well as the surrounding context, character and capacity for growth, as set out in Policy 28 ‘Local Character and Design Quality (Strategic Policy)’. Good design will be assessed as part of the planning process through use of the following tools.

Design and Access Statements

B. Design and Access Statements must clearly document the design evolution and rationale behind the proposal. They must include an analysis of the site constraints and wider surrounding context, opportunities and an assessment of how the context has influenced the design. Where relevant they must demonstrate how the proposal aligns to the Conservation Area Appraisals as well as the design guidance for the relevant character area as specified within the Urban Design Study and the Village Planning Guidance SPDs.

Pre-application

C. Developers are strongly encouraged to engage with the Council’s pre-application service early in their thinking prior to submitting a planning application. Applications for major development should be informed by a detailed and genuine pre-application process. This process involves:

  1. engagement in a planning performance agreement (PPA) that sets a framework for the Council’s consideration of a proposal; and
  2. engagement with the Richmond Design Review Panel (RDRP) as set out in the Council’s RDRP Terms of Reference which details the proposals that must be referred to the Panel.

D. All major applications must demonstrate a meaningful and consistent engagement with local communities that gives them genuine power to shape development from the early stages and throughout the process.

E. Applicants will be required to provide 3D digital massing models to enable the Council to assess cumulative impact of development where relevant. This could be in a form that accommodates software, such as VU.City. This is required for Tall Building proposals or those located within the protected views and vistas as designated in Policy 31 ‘Views and Vistas ‘and shown in the Polices Map.

F. The use of design codes is encouraged for large developments especially those that will involve construction over multiple years. Design codes will be essential as part of major development sites which are subject to outline applications. The codes will need to be prescriptive, specifying the height, scale, design rationale, materiality and public realm parameters, and align with the guidance set out in the National Model Design Code.

Planning applications and post-planning

G. Design quality must be maintained through to building completion in accordance with London Plan Policy D4.

H. As much design detail as possible should be provided upfront at planning application stage to avoid the need for later design amendments that negatively impact quality (such as smoke vents, rainwater goods, grilles, signage and other alterations and items to be affixed to the elevations). This is particularly important for major or complex schemes.

I. Developments should achieve the highest standards of fire safety in accordance with London Plan Policy D12. Major applications must be accompanied by a Fire Statement and all other applications require submission of a Fire Safety Strategy. Development that includes a lift core must include at least one evacuation lift.

J. Outline applications will not be accepted for proposals in Conservation Areas, proposals that could impact on the setting of Listed Buildings or proposals that include Tall Buildings. The wording of the planning permission, associated conditions and legal agreements should provide clarity regarding the quality of design.

For more information please see the Richmond Upon Thames Local Plan