All development must take into account the National Design Guidance, any site-specific, borough-wide, local design codes or guidance. Where relevant, a Design and Access Statement is required that clearly explains the design approach and rationale for a proposal.

A masterplan is required in support of planning applications for:

Masterplans must:

A design code is required to inform the design principles of a development where:

development on sites allocated by policies HOM 2a and BUS 3b;

major development in a Conservation Area or within the setting of a designated heritage asset; and

on any other sites by virtue of their size, location or proposed mix of uses is justified by the local planning authority.

complement the design and layout of development sites and adjacent, potential future development sites; and

seek interconnectivity between adjacent sites, in terms of walking, wheeling, cycling or using public transport, ecological networks and green/blue infrastructure.

a masterplan has been produced for the site; or

the development would result in 5 or more self/custom-build units;

Planning applications shall be in accordance with approved masterplans, or design codes.

Variations to approved schemes that materially diminish the design-quality will not be supported.

There are a number of design tools and processes that can be used throughout the life-cycle of a development to achieve high-quality design.

Design quality is central to delivering sustainable, inclusive, and climate resilient places. To support this, a range of national and local design guidance is available, including the National Design Guidance and locally adopted design documents. These resources help ensure that development reflects both best practice and