Design and Access Statements
Design and Access Statements are documents that explain the design thinking behind an application.
Applications that require Design and Access Statements
- planning permission for major development
- planning permission for development in a conservation area or world heritage site creating one or more dwelling houses or the provision of a building(s) where the floor space created is 100 square metres or more
- applications for Listed Building Consent
Requirements
Your statement should include a written description of the proposal and follow advice in National Planning Practice Guidance. It should address:
- design principles and process
- amount of development
- use
- layout, scale, or appearance
- heritage assets
- sustainable design principles
- landscaping - private and public spaces
- access - to ensure equal and convenient access to buildings or spaces, the public transport network and access for emergency services where relevant.
The statement should refer to relevant planning policies setting out how proposals will meet London Plan Policy D4 and D5, our City Plan Policy 38 and other relevant policies and guidance, including the National Design Guide.
For most straightforward applications, the statement will be short, whereas more complicated applications will require a detailed report.
Photographs, maps and drawings are helpful to illustrate the points made. You should cross reference other relevant reports.
Listed building consent applications
Statements should set out how the design has taken into account the special architectural and historic importance (significance) of the building. They should set out consideration given to inclusive design and access and any specific issues that arise because the building is listed.
You should also refer to the below advice on heritage statements. If not covered by a separate heritage statement there should be a clearly identified section addressing heritage impacts in the design and access statement. Where a separate heritage statement has been provided you should cross reference and include a summary of the assessment within the design and access statement.
If you fail to submit a Design and Access Statement your application will be treated as invalid and cannot be processed, which will delay your application.