Purpose

To facilitate the delivery of high quality
development in the Somer Valley a design code is being prepared
which it is intended to adopt as a Supplementary Planning Document
(SPD). The design code sets out the design requirements for new
housing within the Somer Valley which would includes the wards of
Midsomer Norton North, Midsomer Norton Redfield, Paulton,
Peasedown, Radstock and Westfield. The code has been prepared
following engagement with stakeholders and parish and town
councils. It is intended that the code will be used alongside and
to supplement the current adopted Development Plan and the emerging
Local Plan so as to influence the design of housing developments.
This report seeks approval of the draft Design Code SPD for public
consultation.

Decision

(1) 
To agree that the
draft Somer Valley Design Code Supplementary Planning Document
(SPD) for public consultation is issued for statutory consultation
under Regulation 12(b) of the Town and Country Planning (Local
Planning)(England) Regulations
2012.
 
(2) 
To delegate authority
to the Head of Planning to make any necessary editorial changes, in
consultation with the Cabinet Member for Built Environment, Housing
and Sustainable Development, prior to consultation on the draft
Somer Valley Design Code SPD.

Reasons for the decision

The design code sets out the design requirements for new
housing within the Somer Valley which includes the wards of
Midsomer Norton North, Midsomer Norton Redfield, Paulton,
Peasedown, Radstock and Westfield. Changes in national planning
policy require councils to produce design codes. Given the varied
nature of the district, area- based design codes will be of an advantage so as
to reflect the specific character of local sub areas. This
SPD will serve as a pilot project being the first code to be
produced. It is envisaged that this approach, if successful, can be
replicated in other places within the district.

Alternative options considered

None. The SPD mainly provides guidance on
development plan policy requirements and national policy and does
not create policy.