A new Design Code for South Kesteven will improve the quality of new development and set standards for how buildings, streets and public spaces should look, feel and function.
It has been put together by South Kesteven District Council to assist and inform applicants and officers involved in the design and development process.
The design code project has been through multiple stages of public engagement, with the most recent draft being the culmination of all this work – and this is the chance for the public to have their say.
Cabinet Member for Planning, Cllr Phil Dilks, said: “The council is committed to ensuring that new development, which requires planning permission, works well within the natural and built qualities of our area. These developments should stand the test of time and be great places to live and, in fact, improve existing places.
“The Code builds on our Design Guide published five years ago and presents clear design requirements for new developments to influence and direct how they will function, look and feel within their surroundings.
“The guidance should help applicants design and build new residential areas which feel like new pieces of Lincolnshire rather than something that could go anywhere. It asks applicants to care about the places they create, to respect the neighbourhood and to value residents by building quality places that one would be proud to call home.
“The Design Guide was one of the first in the country and was advisory. The Design Code we are consulting on will give a firm start point to assist and inform applicants and council officers involved in the design and development process, to ensure that applicants for planning permission have applied the necessary considerations to their proposals.”
The consultation on the Draft Design Code runs until 11.59pm on Monday 27th April. Interested parties can read the draft Code and have their say here: https://southkesteven.oc2.uk
Once SKDC has collated and reviewed feedback, the intention is to formally adopt the final version this summer.
Further information on the Draft Design Code, including engagement, information sheets, area type and characterisation studies is also available on the SKDC website – www.southkesteven.gov.uk/designcode
Its ten key priorities within the vision are Sustainable development; Greener communities; Community-centred design; Controlled and sustainable growth; Supporting infrastructure; Transport and accessibility; Preserve local character; Diverse and affordable housing; Future-proof development; Distinctive public realm.
The Draft Statement of Community Involvement is also open to public consultation – a document which explains how residents, businesses, and anyone with an interest in the District’s development can take part in the planning process.
It also defines consultation standards SKDC must follow and the methods it will use to engage with the community.
The consultation on the Draft Statement of Community Involvement will close at 11.59pm on Friday 24th April. Further information is available on the SKDC website – www.southkesteven.gov.uk/planning-building-control/planning-policy-local-plans/statement-community-involvement
People are encouraged to submit their comments on the Draft Statement of Community Involvement via the online consultation portal using the comment button at https://southkesteven.oc2.uk/document/31
Comments on the Draft Design Code and Draft Statement of Community Involvement can also be emailed to planningpolicy@southkesteven.gov.uk or posted to Planning Policy Team, South Kesteven District Council, Council Offices, The Picture House, St Catherine’s Road, Grantham, NG31 6TT.
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