on tall buildings60, that definitions of tall buildings should be based on evidence assessing the local context given that this is more likely to encourage appropriate developments. The borough is considered to be sensitive to the development of tall buildings, due to its topography, historic assets and proximity to Manchester Airport.
Care is needed to ensure that a tall building’s visibility is assessed contextually to ensure that proposals that exceed the prevailing building height have a positive visual impact and do not appear incongruous within their surroundings. Historic England’s advice note on tall buildings identifies that one of the principal failings in the location and design of certain tall buildings has been a lack of understanding of the area around them, the context, and the impact they would have on heritage assets and the character of places: “the very things that make places distinctive and that people cherish” (Tall Buildings: Historic England Advice Note 4). Proposals should take into account all relevant guidance including Historic England’s tall buildings guidance relevant townscape and landscape appraisals and characterisations. This includes relevant Conservation Area appraisals61 and Landscape Characterisation studies62. Setting assessments may be necessary following Historic Environment GPA in Planning Note 3: The Setting of Heritage Assets.
The Stockport Character and Urban Density Study provides a detailed analysis of the townscape character and existing residential densities in other areas of the borough. Using the contextual analysis, the study provides bespoke design guidance and recommends locations where taller buildings may be acceptable in the study areas. The study areas include:
The Town Centre Living Area, east of the A6;
The District Centres as outline in Policy CEN 2 and 3;
Heald Green and Gatley Large Local Centres;
The A6 corridor running from Hazel Grove District Centre in the south to the southern edge of Stockport Town Centre; and
The A6 corridor running from the northern edge of the town centre to the borough's northern boundary.
To ensure liveability, consideration should be given to the provision and mix of sufficient private, shared and public spaces. Private spaces can include balconies, and alcoves that provide storage or space for a desk. Shared facilities for use by residents and guests could include, for example, children's play spaces, rooftop gardens, communal live-work areas, storage lockers and concierge facilities. High-quality public-realm should promote connectivity for the new community to its