The Lead Member for Planning and Health (including Sustainability) introduced the report that sought approval to undertake public consultation on the draft Borough wide Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document.

Cabinet were informed that in producing the Borough Local Plan they were also producing supporting supplementary planning guidance policies to help build a borough for everyone and residents first not the borough first. 

The Lead Member informed that we had a special borough with unique architecture with many areas having their own local plans.  The Design Guide had been prepared to support the Council’s adopted and made policies and provide the Borough with the maximum clarity for developers, local communities, Members and officers as to what high quality design should look like in the Royal Borough. 

The Maidenhead Waterways Champion said that it was an excellent document with a lot of good information but with regards to gross floor space he would like to see the national guidelines added as an appendix.  This would be discussed as an option after the meeting.

The Principal Member for Neighbourhood Planning and Ascot & The Sunnings made reference to a planning application of design out of keeping with its area that at its third appeal was awarded planning permission.  She asked if design could be used as a planning objection which it was confirmed it could.

The Lead Member for Culture and Communities (including Resident and Business Services) said she felt that this was an excellent important report that our resident and societies such as the Windsor and Eton Society would welcome. 

The Principal Member for Ascot Regeneration mentioned that the proposals added granularity to our policies and would help retain the character of our communities and help reduce bad design, he highlighted the guidance on dormer design to illustrate his point.

Cllr Beer said he agreed with the points made and suggested that we asked for innovative solutions regarding parking provision. The Chairman also mentioned that there were often developments with garages so small they were not fit for purpose and often were converted.  Cabinet were informed that there would be a separate guidance on parking. 

Resolved unanimously: that Cabinet notes the report and:

(i)        Approves the publication of the draft Borough-wide Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document for public consultation, along with necessary evidence base studies; and

(ii)      Gives the Head of Planning delegated authority to approve minor changes to the draft Borough-wide Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document, in consultation with the Lead Member for Planning and Health, including Sustainability, prior to its publication.