Design - The issue

Comment

Representation ID: 2234

Received: 08/02/2012

It is a pity that the statement regarding design and quality is not followed up. Many recent developments are inappropriate and many are nothing more than blots on this historic town. If these policies were adhered to there would be far less objections to these planning applications. You only have to peruse the Archery Ground and Magdalen Road Convent applications to appreciate that these guidelines are just put on paper and then ignored.Your statement looks reassuring on paper and that's about all it is - false promises and policies.

Comment

Representation ID: 2499

Received: 11/04/2012

Ensure all developments are in keeping with local buildings or have their own distinctive merits. Hastings is full of poor quality in-fill where cost has been the only consideration. There are some good examples of well designed buildings which should serve as examples for architects and developers. Avoid the "thats the best we'll get" mentality. Current planners are shaping the future "look" of our town and need to be more forceful in ensuring high quality design which will not look out of place in the future.

Comment

Representation ID: 2506

Received: 25/04/2012

I would like to know how the approved properties in Hawthorn Road are in keeping with local character, neither are they of a good standard. The proposed houses that were part of the 1970s plans were in keeping, but many 'amendments' were subsequently approved which changed their character and appearance beyond recognition. The properties are now overbearing and are closer to existing properties, the appearance and materials changed so much that they bear no relationship to the original plans at all. Where does allowing some flexibility stop?

Comment

Representation ID: 3328

Received: 26/04/2012

Landscape and townscape character assessment can help to inform the decision making process for development and detailed design. Clarification should be provided on whether potential developers would be responsible for analysis which would guide design and access statements. This can also underpin any chosen policy option as a strategy to guide more site specific amenity, design and access needs. Area specific design guidance need not be necessary or prescriptive if decisions are based on a robust character analysis.

Paragraph 3.8 (bulletpoint 1): Characteristic planting may not necessarily be of native species as the town has a long history of designed landscape and some tree and shrub species may be strongly characteristic in certain areas, especially the historic parks and street scene.

Comment

Representation ID: 3374

Received: 27/04/2012

Good Design NPPF 56-68 inclusive
Produce Design Codes and Material Codes - up to both Canterbury and Bristol standards. Use Design Council CABE and local design review arrangements.