Local Development Framework

Urban Design Framework

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The urban design framework supplementary planning document was adopted at a meeting of the Council's Executive Committee on Tuesday 6 November 2007.

The adopted version will be available soon.

What is the urban design framework?

The urban design framework sets out design objectives for the borough and provides guidance for the development of projects. It aims to highlight local identity and transform the borough into a high quality environment through the planning process.

The urban design framework includes:

A background to urban design, historical development and the borough's policy on the design of buildings and public spaces
Design aims to improve the and provide guidance on the design of the public spaces. This includes better accessibility, making places safer, enhancing local features, and enriching the natural environment
An interlinked network of 'green routes' made up of tree-lined streets, wildlife areas, cycling, and walking routes, bridges and new parks and open spaces. The landscape framework plan not only links the parks but also links other community facilities such as schools, shops, art and heritage features
Design policies to enhance character areas (the features that make each area different and distinguishable from the next such as particular landmarks, buildings, open spaces and views)

Sustainability appraisal

We have also produced a sustainability appraisal report of the urban design framework to assess the likely economic, environmental and social impacts these policies may have.