When designing a new building, the starting point should be to consider the context of the site. The character and appearance of the surrounding area should be a prime factor in shaping its design, together with the requirements of the proposed use. An assessment should be made not only of the built form, materials and detailing, but also of the character of the spaces between buildings, the form and appearance of the street scene, and the landscape generally. A poor quality environment should not be seen as an excuse for compounding the situation, but rather as a challenge to improve it.
This approach does not mean that all new buildings have to copy older traditional styles. A well-designed modem building which relates well to its setting can constitute an improvement, adding diversity to an area, whilst respecting its context. Each site will, however, be unique, and proposals must take this into account. Standard 'pattern book' designs can only serve to blur the local identity of an area.
The design of all new dwellings should seek to take advantage of solar gain in terms of orientation and location of principal rooms. Buildings with a narrow floor plan allow a much greater penetration of the sun into the house than those with a very deep floor plan.
Changing personal circumstances often create the need to extend a property. Houses have been altered and extended throughout history, in order to meet new demands. It is important, however, to ensure that any extensions are not only functional, but also respect the character of the building and do not adversely affect neighbours. Some buildings will be easier to extend than others, and there may be occasions where it is not possible to extend a house, because of an adverse effect on neighbours, or the impact on the particular character of a building.
Owners and potential purchasers of buildings who are considering extensions should carefully consider the following guidance before submitting a formal application.
Any new development must take into account existing features on the site such as trees, shrubs, hedgerows, ponds and any changes in level. The aim should be to work with, and around these features, rather than to remove them. This will not only lead to a more interesting design, but will also help to preserve the character and nature conservation value of the area. Hedges also provide both privacy and protection from prevailing winds. Applications for new development will generally require a landscaping scheme, which identifies existing trees and landscape features to be retained together with a scheme for new planting. This should identify the species of trees and shrubs as well as their location. Free specialist advice is available from the Council's Ecology Officer.
Telephone: (01304) 872482
E-mail: conservation@dover.gov.uk
