ensuring that signage and advertisements that are within or viewable from the public realm are sensitively designed and located and do not cause an unacceptable level of harm to amenity or public safety;

introducing and enhancing green and blue infrastructure to the streetscape, including integrated multi-functional sustainable drainage systems, which make a positive environmental and visual impact;

creating a balance between dwelling and movement, including an appropriate mix of seating and shelter;

including appropriate lighting which avoids dark areas, but also minimises light pollution;

maintaining the public realm to a high standard and ensuring that places and spaces are built to last; and

maximising smart technologies and promoting digital inclusion.

Public realm is the space between buildings which is available for members of the public to use and enjoy. Public realm should not be treated as independent spaces, instead, it is made up of a network of streets, public open spaces, squares and pocket parks. Waterways, towpaths and canals also form an important part of the public realm both in terms of access to nature and for maximising active travel opportunities. New development will be expected to contribute to enhancing existing and creating new public realm.

Public realm should be spaces that work for everyone to increase their ability to foster social inclusivity and interaction. This means that spaces should be accessible and easy to navigate. They should also be spaces that attract a wide range of people by incorporating a range of activities and features including multi-generational play.

As well as being spaces for people, public realm can be an important asset to facilitate green and blue infrastructure. The type and colour of material used in urban environments can have a significant impact on the urban heat island effect. As such, spaces should capitalise on their ability to provide biodiversity net gain, contribute towards mitigating the heat island effect and improve natural drainage (including through the provision of sustainable drainage systems, see policy INF 4).

Public realm should be built to last. Ongoing maintenance should be a key consideration in the design of places and secured through the planning system. Spaces should also be flexible to adapt to changing needs. They should have the ability to respond to new and emerging technologies.