Design and access statements
Planning system update
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Design and access statements are aimed at improving the design and accessibility of all new buildings and public spaces. Not only will the statement facilitate a clearer, more structured assessment of a planning application by the Council, it will also provide useful visual material to aid public consultation.
Crucially, the statement should illustrate how the design of the proposal has taken into account its surroundings, how it will improve the environment and accessibility.
Access is established as a fundamental planning issue owing to the duties imposed by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and the need to have an accessible built environment.
Disabled access is often addressed far too late in the development control process, so considering access should be undertaken at all stages.
The Design Council offer guidance on How to write, read and use design and access statements.