DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT

Explain What a Design and Access Statement is and What Role they Play in the Planning System

Design and Access Statement and Role they Play in the Planning System

What are design and access statements?

Statements are documents that explain the design thinking behind a planning application and can be linked to planning decisions by way of a planning condition. They should include a written description and justification of the planning application. Sometimes photos, maps and drawings may be needed to further illustrate the points made. They will be available alongside the application for anyone to see, so should avoid jargon or overly technical language. It is important that they are written specifically for the application they accompany. (The Countryside Agency, 2002, 55-67)

They need not be very long, but the amount of detail they contain should reflect how complex the application is. A statement for a major development is likely to be much longer than one for a single building. One statement should cover both design and access allowing applicants to demonstrate an integrated approach that will deliver inclusive design, and address a full range of access requirements through the planning process. A Design and Access Statement is required for all Planning Applications. A local planning authority may be precluded from entertaining an application unless it is accompanied by a design statement and an access statement, where required. Design and access statements WILL NOT be required for the following types of planning applications: (The Countryside Agency, 2002, 55-67)

a material change in the use of land or buildings, unless it also involves operational development.

engineering or mining operations.

development of an existing dwelling house, or development within the curtilage of a dwelling house for any purpose incidental to the enjoyment of the dwelling house, where no part of that dwelling house or curtilage is within a designated area. “Designated area” means a National Park, site of special scientific interest, conservation area, area of outstanding natural beauty, World Heritage Site and the Broads.

Design and access statements are not required for applications relating to advertisement control, tree preservation orders or storage of hazardous substances. One statement should cover both design and access, allowing applicants to demonstrate an integrated approach that will deliver inclusive design, and address a full range of access requirements throughout the design process. A design and access statement is a short report accompanying and supporting a planning application to illustrate the process that has led to the development proposal, and to explain and justify the proposal in a structured way. (The Countryside Agency, 2002, 55-67)

Design and access statements must not be used as a substitute for drawings and other material required to be submitted for determination as part of the planning application itself. They provide an opportunity for developers and designers to demonstrate their commitment to achieving good design and ensuring accessibility in the work they undertake, and allow them to show how they are meeting, or will meet the various obligations placed on them by legislation and ...