Urban Design & Development Consultants Kent
Our Services
 
The need to develop with sensitivity presents untold challenges to central government, local authorities, developers, planners and architects. Our extensive experience of working on high density schemes provides us with an understanding of the issues, problems and opportunities presented by development. This results in an holistic approach, and leads to a framework that can be of benefit to all parties.
 
 
Planning and Site Identification
Our experience includes identification of large-scale development opportunities in urban areas, as an integral part of wider planning studies. Of major concern was the production of frameworks that allowed the maximum development potential to be realised while contributing to the urban design and functional requirements of the wider city. Development parameters were drawn up and schematic designs were produced. The relationship between development and transport is critical, and property-funded infrastructure development also forms a key part of our experience.
 
Feasibility Studies and Pre-Planning Work
We undertake feasibility studies to ensure theoretical development potential can be realised on specific sites, which are often subject to many parameters and constraints. At the client's request, we then take this forward for pre-application discussion with the Local Authority to ascertain the prospects for a successful planning application.

Planning Applications
Designscape also undertakes formal planning applications for specific development projects. We can provide necessary plans, elevations, colour perspectives and computer-generated perspectives and photomontages in support of your application, whether it be for a detailed application or as illustrative material for an outline application. Our approach of "developing with sensitivity" often gives us an edge in being able to anticipate and pre-empt the concerns of local authority planning officers, development control committees, and local residents, thereby maximising the prospects for a successful planning outcome. This is demonstrated by the recent planning approvals we have obtained for our clients.
 
 
  
 

 

 

Landscape Frameworks and Visual Impact Assessments
 
The planning studies mentioned above also included the production of landscape frameworks, identifying and protecting existing landscape assets and identifying opportunities for strategic improvement and new works. In an urban context, this often includes assessment of the opportunities for, and proposals for streetscape improvements. Visual Impact Assessments also form an important part of our work, and are vitally important whether the impact be on landscape in a rural area or on townscape in an urban context.
 
 
Design and Access Statements
 
The above often come together in the production of Design and Access Statements as supporting information for planning applications. Our service includes the writing of design statements, including all necessary analytical drawings. The presentation of development proposals in a logical, coherent way with integrity is vitally important, and Design Statements are becoming an increasingly important part of the planning process. Design Statements are now mandatory for all planning applications except small householder extensions, change of use and some exempted engineering works. Our close working with bodies such as CABE means we are at the forefront of what is required of a good Design Statement. We have 15 years of experience of writing world-class design statements: far more than almost any other practice.

We also provide training seminars on Design and Access Statements. This is particularly relevant for Local Authority Planning Officers, and for private sector architects and planning consultants. Contact us for further information. 


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