Design Codes Explanatory Note
West Northamptonshire Manual for Design Codes Explanatory
Note
Introduction
The West Northamptonshire Manual for Design Codes sets out a
framework within which to develop a Design Code whilst emphasising
the urban and rural characteristics of West Northamptonshire.
The manual aims to provide clarity and consistency in the
formulation of Design Codes.
Consultation
The West Northamptonshire Manual for Design Codes was subject to
consultation during the summer, the results of which will be
presented to the WNDC Board on the 20th October 2009.
The manual consists of three sections and an appendix as
follows
Section One: Background Review
This section of the Manual identifies the role for Design Codes
in West Northamptonshire and sets out the policy context within
which the Manual will sit. A review of published guidance relevant
to DAS and Design Codes is also included, incorporating reference
to National Planning Policy Statements, which now recognise Design
Codes as an effective tool to securing efficient delivery of high
quality development and best practice guidance.
Section Two: Context Appraisal
This section of the Manual is broken down into sub-sections
which examine the individual character and context of;
· Northampton;
· Daventry;
· Towcester;
· West Northamptonshire Villages;
· Topography and the Built Form; and
· Employment Areas
These sub-sections provide an overview of the character specific
to each town, examining the typology of movement; historic
development; streetscape; townscape and architecture within each
town. The specific context appraisal for each of the main
settlements and surrounding villages provides a firm basis of
understanding the intrinsic value of the towns, how they have
evolved and what has influenced their development. This
understanding will be used to inform future development and
expansion proposals in and around the towns through ensuring that
growth respects and enhances West Northamptonshire intrinsic
qualities.
Section Three: How to Develop a Design
Code
This section provides a framework which sets out the detail and
information that should be incorporated within a Design Code to be
submitted to WNDC. It is not intended to form a prescriptive base
from which a Design Code should be written but sets out the general
principles which need to be considered and highlights those minimum
components that must be included.
The section also sets out the process and procedures to be
adopted through the production and assessment of Design
Codes.
Section Four: Appendices
The appendices include;
· Matrix for the assessment of Design Codes which has been
developed by WNDC to provide a transparent methodology for the
assessment of a Design Code;
· Consultation Report setting out a detailed summary of the process
of consultation and engagement which has been undertaken in the
development of the Manual to date; and
· List of Figures, Credits and Acknowledgements.
For further information and updates please contact Bernadette Owens
on 01604 586604 or email bernadette.owens@wndc.org.uk