Coding process: 1A Scoping
The first step is to decide on the scope of the code, in particular which parts of the local area it needs to cover, and which policy areas it addresses.
In terms of geographical coverage some authorities may wish to create a code that covers their entire area. Codes may cover all existing built-up areas, or just new development sites. The options are therefore that the code covers:
- The whole local authority area including all existing settlements and development sites.
- Selected parts of existing settlements and development sites.
- Just development sites.
There are benefits in having a single design code covering one of the above options, rather than having separate design codes for each site.
The guidance notes include many of the potential issues that might be covered by a design code. These are organised under the ten headings of the National Design Guide and include sub-headings. Codes are not expected to cover all of these issues, and the context and scale of development will determine the appropriate issues that need to be included.
Some design parameters are an essential component of design codes for their effective use such as movement pattern, built form, height, land use, character of buildings and public spaces, open space and density while others are discretionary (see Figure 2). The latter include, for example, housing standards that are crucial but may be dealt with elsewhere in local plans.
Design codes would be expected to include the following:
- Context - Local character and built heritage.
- Movement - Design of the street network, active travel and public transport.
- Nature - Design of green infrastructure, play spaces, SUDS and the protection of biodiversity.
- Built Form - Density, built form and urban design.
- Identity - character of buildings.
- Public space - Design and of streets and public spaces.
- Homes and Buildings - Type and tenure of homes.
- Uses - Mix of uses and active frontage.
- Resources - Environmental design, renewable energy provision and low energy networks.
- Lifespan - Management and adoption standards.
Other related issues referred to in the National Model Design Code can be covered either in a Code or in other policies in local plans.
Some issues will depend on the decision about the coverage of the code. Codes that cover larger schemes will need to include guidance on creating a new street network, public transport routes, planning and designing green spaces and providing schools and other facilities. By contrast in existing built-up areas where the street network etc. already exists, these elements of the code will be less relevant (see Figure 2).
The scoping stage should include the development of a consultation strategy for the code based on the guidance set out in the community engagement section of the guidance notes to determine what is popular locally based on evidence from engagement and consultation.
The community engagement process will be heavily dependent on the geographical coverage of the code and the extent to which it applies to existing settlements. This in itself should be the subject of an initial consultation exercise that will:
- Provide briefing and training to community groups involved with the built environment about what a code is and how it is developed.
- Discuss with the groups who wish to be involved, what the code should cover.
The results of this initial engagement will feed into a consultation strategy that will include the stages at which consultation will take place, what techniques will be used and how the community will be engaged.
Figure 2. Design code coverage.