Support
Solihull Local Plan (Draft Submission) 2020
Representation ID: 14307
Received: 14/12/2020
Respondent: Oakmoor (Sharmans Cross Road) Ltd
Agent: Cerda Planning Ltd
Thrust of policy generally supported.
However, yhe policy as drafted lacks the flexibility to encourage and deliver designs which are innovative and bring about change.
Criteria 1 and 2 refers the need to conserve local character. Good design does not need to conserve every facet of what makes a place distinctive or indeed conserve every aspect of local character.
There will be instances where in order to secure high standards of design quality, a departure from obvious local character will be necessary and as drafted, the policy would stifle innovation and ultimately the ability to secure such high design standards.
The policy should be redrafted to exclude the word ‘conserve’ and instead replace it with 'respond' which is more appropriate in urban design terms; given that it’s use promotes a flexible approach to design which is consistent with the requirements set out at Framework paragraph 127 of not preventing or discouraging innovation or change.
Moreover, there should be explicit recognition that on larger sites (suggest over 50 units) that the type and size of proposed dwellings should not be expected to slavishly mimic the overriding existing property types/ sizes which may be prevalent in that area.
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