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Introduction |
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Urban Design and Conservation of the Built Environment |
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Equity and Participation |
Issues of social equality, conservation of the built environment and local
distinctiveness are central to the concept of sustainable development. Sites
should not be considered in isolation: there is almost always a context
and it is important that new development fits into the area. All development
should respect the character of an area and should seek to address local
community needs, particularly those of disadvantaged people.
The character of our local environment has an
important influence on quality of life. This character has been shaped by
previous generations and it is our responsibility to ensure that our descendants
(ie. future generations) inherit an environment of at least equal quality.
Listed buildings form one element of the historic environment. However,
perhaps of greater importance is the wider environment and more ‘ordinary
features’ which combine with the landmark buildings to create local
distinctiveness.
A high quality environment is also important to the economic well being
of the district. As a consequence Leeds should be recognised as a good place
in which to live, work, visit and invest, as much for its quality of life
as its economic performance.
The following guidelines should be applied:
all new development should respect unique
and positive local characteristics and, where appropriate, the cultural
background of the locality;
- wherever possible, existing buildings should be retained and refurbished;
- new buildings should be designed to be durable and easily adaptable to change and use low amounts of energy, both embodied and in use (ie. be designed for “long life - loose fit” and low energy). This generally means that they should not be too closely tailored to individual needs;
- buildings should be designed for safety, security and comfort;
- all features of historic, cultural and aesthetic value should be retained and enhanced, wherever possible;
- special attention should be given to development affecting the character
of Listed Buildings or Conservation Areas. The aim should be to enhance
the setting and safeguard the survival of historic buildings and features.
The planning system can have both a direct and indirect impact on issues such as unemployment and deprivation. Contributions can be made to realising economic development and investment aspirations via specific land use proposals and allocations. In addition, initiatives such as the Single Regeneration Budget can be targeted to tackle social issues, which can work in conjunction with other local and national programmes.
A further key issue for sustainable development
is participation. It is important that people become involved in decision
making and feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for their local
area.
- residential developments will be expected to make a contribution to meeting affordable housing needs, as set out in the Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance;
- where there is an identified need, developers will be required to contribute to the provision of affordable community facilities for local people;
- developments should be designed to minimise opportunities for crime,
both within the development and in the surrounding area, without detriment
to the environment, as set out in the Department of Planning guidance on
Personal Safety in the Built Environment;
opportunities for urban regeneration should be maximised
from developments on brownfield sites. The provision of local employment
and training opportunities should be a priority;
- new developments should be designed to reflect the needs of elderly people and of people with disabilities and restricted mobility;
- developers may wish to consider providing opportunities for local people to contribute their ideas on the specific form developments should take;
- dwellings should be designed to high standards of energy efficiency to provide affordable warmth.
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