SPD – Sustainable Design and Construction

Local Plan
Supplementary
Planning
Document:
Sustainable
Design andConstruction

October 2016
Local Plan
October 2016

SPD – Sustainable Design and Construction

Local Plan
October 2016

SPD – Sustainable Design and Construction

Contents
Executive Summary .........................................................................................................................................1
Section 1: Background ....................................................................................................................................2
1.1

Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................2

1.2

Structure and content of this guidance .......................................................................................2

1.3

How this guidance will be applied .................................................................................................3

1.4

How this SPD fits within National, Regional and Barnet’s Local Plan ..............................4

The London Plan, March 2015 and minor alternations to the London Plan March 2016 .........4
Barnet’s Local Plan, September 2012........................................................................................................5
Barnet’s Residential Design Guidance ......................................................................................................6
Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................................6
Section 2: Sustainable Design and Construction requirements and guidance .............................7
2.1 - Minimum Residential Space Standards ...........................................................................................7
2.2 - Internal Layout and Design ..................................................................................................................8
2.3 - Outdoor Amenity Space ......................................................................................................................10
2.4 - Daylight, Privacy (minimum distance), Outlook and Light Pollution .....................................11
2.5 - Microclimate – Wind and Thermal Conditions ...............................................................................13
2.6 - Accessible and Adaptable Dwellings ...............................................................................................14
2.7 - Wheelchair User Dwellings ..................................................................................................................15
2.8 - Energy Use in New Buildings ..............................................................................................................16
2.9 - Decentralised Energy .............................................................................................................................19
2.10 - Retrofitting of Existing Buildings ....................................................................................................21
2.11 - Water Efficiency ....................................................................................................................................222.12 - Waste Strategy .......................................................................................................................................24
2.13 - Air Quality ................................................................................................................................................27
2.14 - Noise Quality ..........................................................................................................................................29
2.15 – Flood Risk, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and Water Quality ...............................34
2.16 - Biodiversity and Habitat Quality ......................................................................................................38
2.17 – Archaeological Investigation ...........................................................................................................40
2.18 - Pollution Prevention, Contaminated Land Remediation and Construction Management..................................................................................................................................................................41
2.20 - BREEAM ....................................................................................................................................................43
2.21 - Considerate Constructors Scheme .................................................................................................44
Section 3: Supporting Information ..............................................................................................................45
3.2

Feasibility Studies and Associated Supporting Information ..............................................45

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3.3

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ..................................................................................45

Appendix 1 – List of Development Plan Policies ..................................................................................47
Appendix 2 – Glossary ...................................................................................................................................49
Appendix 3 – Monitoring Indicators ..........................................................................................................54

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Executive Summary
Following adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Policies documents in
September 2012 Barnet has one of the most up to date Local Plans in the country. With thesupport of a robust planning framework with clearly set out priorities of protection, enhancement
and consolidated growth, the council is in a strong position to produce more detailed local
guidance.
Barnet‟s Sustainable Design and Construction Supplementary Planning Document (SD&C SPD)was first published in 2007 and was subsequently updated in 2013. Its main purpose is to provide
clarification on Barnet‟s local interpretation of sustainable development in light of national andregional policy and the context of the Three Strands Approach (Protection, Enhancement,
Growth). Since 2013, the London Plan has undergone a review with the Further alterations to the
London Plan adopted in March 2016. The Government has also established national standards
for housing.
It is therefore now timely to update the SD&C SPD. The SPD has been revised to focus on thedesign standards required for different scales of development as well as the performancestandards of buildings. The refocused SPD captures changes on space standards as well as new
standards that address accessibility, security, energy, noise and water conservation.

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Section 1: Background
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 Over the last ten years there has been a growing public and professional awareness of what
represents sustainable design and construction. This Supplementary Planning Document(SPD) is a response to this wider appreciation of the importance of sustainable design andconstruction, setting out how it should be applied within Barnet. It sets out the technicalaspects of the design standards. Sustainable design is design which contributes to thesustainable development of an area and it should take into consideration the full remit ofsocial, environmental and economic issues.
1.1.2 The content of this SPD will help Barnet adapt and respond to climate change, one of thegreatest challenges facing the world today. It will also help to ensure the ongoing economic
success of London by maintaining the qualities which make Barnet such an attractive place
to live, work and visit.
1.1.3 This SPD on Sustainable Design and Construction (SD&C) sets out Barnet‟s technicalrequirements for environmental design and construction management. The SPD sets out
requirements on air, noise, water, energy, water, waste and habitat quality in order to achieve
protection and enhancement of the environment. The SPD requirements are linked toexisting national standards and guidance and will be updated in line with emerging
opportunities and future policy developments.
1.1.4 This SPD expands on the policy approach set out in the Core Strategy and Development
Management Policies (DMP) Development Plan Documents (DPD) and the London Plan.It
has been revised to focus on the essential requirements against which planning applications
for all forms of development in Barnet will be assessed.
1.1.5 This revision retains the innovative core of the original Sustainable Design and Construction
SPD, retaining the condensed content whilst updating guidance in light of introduction ofnational housing standards. The aim is to produce a clear, user friendly document whichsimply states the sustainability and construction related requirements which need to be
applied in Barnet. The Mayor of London has provided a considerable amount of detail on thequality and design of housing to support the London Plan policies which are set out in
Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG). This document will complement the SPG
and cross references will be made where appropriate. It also complements Barnet‟s
Residential Design Guidance SPD that provides a clear and consistent message on how wemanage change within Barnet‟s suburbs although this document applies to all forms ofdevelopment in Barnet, not just residential.

1.2 Structure and content of this guidance
1.2.1 This SPD reflects Barnet‟s priorities for delivering sustainable design and construction. The
SPD will therefore not seek to provide detailed guidance on all the factors that should betaken into account in the design of a new development. Cross references will be set out
where appropriate to other relevant guidance. Section 2 sets out essential requirements thatwill apply to developments in Barnet. The following issues are covered:
1. Minimum residential spacestandards which are set for different
sizes of houses and flats

2. Internal layout and design for different
room types including minimum ceilingheights

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3. Outdoor amenity space standards
which are set for different sizes ofhouses and flats
4. Daylight, privacy (minimum
distance), outlook and light
pollution standards andrequirements to protect existing andfuture occupants
5. Microclimate – wind and thermal
conditions to ensure well designed
outdoor spaces around tall buildings

permission is required for various
energy efficiency measures
11. Water efficiency sets out the London
Plan requirements
12. Waste strategy explains to the storage
requirements for recycling and refuse
13. Air quality sets out when proposals
may need to mitigate the impact
14. Noise quality sets out the requirements
to protect amenity

Accessible and adaptable
dwellings to help people live
independent lives in their own
homes

15. Flood risk and water quality ensures
flood risk is considered

7. Wheelchair user dwellings
explains the national standard

17. Pollution prevention, contaminatedland remediation and construction
management ensures these aspects
are considered

6.

8. Energy use in new buildings sets
out the approach to using energy
efficiently
9. Decentralised Energy clarifies
when a development needs toconnect or provide infrastructure

16. Biodiversity and habitat quality
provides a commitment to ecology

18. BREEAM and Ecohomes and the scaleof development to which it applies
19. Considerate Constructors Scheme
and its application

10. Retrofitting of existing buildingssummarises when planning

1.3 How this guidance will be applied
1.3.1 Each topic in Section 2 sets out the principles and requirements and the scale ofdevelopment to which it will apply. Projects will be affected to different degrees by theguidance and requirements set out in this SPD depending on factors including the type ofdevelopment and its location. The scale of a development can provide the applicant with theopportunity to deliver more sustainable development.
1.3.2

Where requirements are identified they will be set out in terms of Householder, Minor, Major
and Large scale. These are defined in Table 1 below and apply to all types of development:
Table 1: Definition of development scale for applying Sustainable Design and Construction
requirements

Scale

Description

Householder
Minor

Extensions to houses (including roof extensions)
Residential development of 1 to 9 units in scale including2
conversions. Non residential development of up to 999 m .
Residential development over 10 units. Non residential
2development over 1,000 m
Residential development over 200 units or a site of 4 hectares or2more. Non residential development over 10,000 m

Major
Large scale major

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1.3.3 Where development proposals compromise the requirements set out in this document they
will need to demonstrate exemplary design as well as a contribution to the achievement ofother planning objectives. This follows the approach set out in London Plan Policy 3.5D
Quality and Design of Housing Developments.

1.4 How this SPD fits within National, Regional and Barnet’s
Local Plan
1.4.1 The Core Strategy (CS), Development Management Policies (DMP), the saved suite of
Unitary Development Plan policies for Brent Cross Cricklewood and the London Plan provide
the development plan for Barnet. This SPD supports these documents by setting out moredetailed information about how the policies they contain should be applied.
1.4.2 The SPD was originally adopted in 2007 and updated in 2013. This further revision iscomplemented by a revision to the council‟s SPD on Residential Design Guidance. This
Residential Design Guidance provides further detail on other specific areas not covered inthis guidance. Cross references are made throughout both SPD‟s to highlight overlap where
necessary.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), March 2012
1.4.3 National and strategic planning policy recognises the importance of design to the ongoing
success and sustainable development of our urban areas – from the wider spatial layout of
the townscape down to architectural details. The NPPF sets out the Government‟s planningpolicies for England and how these are expected to be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is
the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

National Housing Technical Standards
1.4.4 This SPD identifies the national technical housing standards introduced in October 2015
which are relevant to Barnet. The standards comprise new mandatory standards on security,
additional „optional‟ Building Regulations on water and access, and a new nationallydescribed space standard (collectively known as the new national technical standards). The
system complements the existing set of building regulations which are mandatory.

The London Plan March 2016
1.4.5 The Local Plan helps to deliver the strategic objectives set out in the London Plan. Policy 2.6:
Outer London: Vision and Strategy recognises that one of the key assets is the high quality oflife that already exists in most of Outer London and maintaining and enhancing it will be key
to the area‟s future success.
1.4.6 The following policies in the London Plan are of particular relevance:










Policy 3.5: Quality and Design of Housing Developments
Policy 3.8: Housing Choice
Policy 5.2: Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Policy 5.3: Sustainable Design and Construction
Policy 5.4: Retrofitting
Policy 5.13: Sustainable Drainage
Policy 5.14: Water Quality and Wastewater Infrastructure
Policy 5.15: Water use and Supplies
Policy 5.18: Construction, Excavation and Demolition Waste

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





Policy 5.21: Contaminated Land
Policy 7.6: Architecture
Policy 7.7: Location and design of tall and large buildings
Policy 7.14: Improving Air Quality
Policy 7.15: Reducing Noise and managing noise, improving and enhancing the acoustic
environment and promoting appropriate soundscapes

Mayor’s Housing SPG, March 2016
1.4.7 The Mayor‟s Housing SPG provides detail to supplement the housing policies in the London
Plan. The SPG seeks to provide a convenient and accessible guide to implementing the key
London Plan policies for housing development. The SPG covers supply, quality, choice,affordability, stock and investment, community infrastructure and mixed uses. For the
purposes of this Sustainable Design and Construction SPD, Part 2 of the Mayor‟s Housing
SPG which covers housing quality is particularly relevant as it covers space standards,
accessible and adaptable dwellings and outdoor space.
1.4.8 Requirements in the Mayor‟s Housing SPG are set out in terms of standards. The document
makes clear that any development failing to meet a number of standards is unlikely to be
acceptable. It states that whilst failure to meet one standard would not necessarily lead to anissue of compliance with the London Plan, a combination of failures would cause concern.
1.4.9 Where appropriate the Sustainable Design and Construction SPD makes reference to thestandard in the Mayor‟s Housing SPG to make clear what is expected from applicants. In
these situations the Housing SPG should be read in conjunction with the Sustainable Design
and Construction SPD. Appendix 1 provides cross references between the topics in this SPD
and the relevant policies in the CS, DMP, London Plan and the Mayor‟s Housing SPG.

Barnet’s Local Plan, September 2012
1.4.10 The Core Strategy (CS) sets out the strategic place-shaping objectives and policies to guidedevelopment in the borough over the next 15 years. The Three Strands Approach provides
the spatial vision that underpins the CS and Barnet‟s Local Plan. The Development
Management Policies (DMP) sets out the borough-wide planning policies beneath the Core
Strategy to be used for day to day decision making by the Planning Service and planningcommittees. The Three Strands Approach is:
Strand 1. Absolute protection of the Green Belt, Metropolitan Open Land and other valued
open space from inappropriate development
Strand 2. Enhancement and protection of Barnet‟s suburbs, town centres and historic areas
Strand 3. Consolidated growth in areas in need of renewal and investment
1.4.11 Consolidated growth concentrates new development in the most accessible locations aroundpublic transport nodes and town centres where community and physical infrastructure is tobe improved. This broad approach can meet the sustainable design principles for a compact
city. It can also help adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. Most importantly, theGreen Belt and the one-third of the borough that comprises green open spaces, is protectedfrom future urbanisation and development to ensure a high quality suburb.
1.4.12 In relation to the SPD the implementation of the following Local Plan policies is important.

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CS Policies: CSNPPF – National Planning Policy Framework – Presumption in Favour of Sustainable
Development CS1 – Barnet‟s Place Shaping Strategy – Protection, Enhancement and Consolidated
Growth – the Three Strands Approach CS4 – Providing Quality Homes and Housing Choice in Barnet CS13 – Ensuring the Efficient Use of Natural Resources
These are supported by the DMP:

DM01 – Protecting Barnet‟s Character and Amenity
DM02 - Development Standards
DM04 – Environmental Consideration
DM05 – Tall Buildings

Barnet’s Residential Design Guidance
1.4.14 Barnet‟s Residential Design Guidance SPD provides a clear and consistent message on how
to manage change within Barnet‟s suburbs. That SPD consolidates and updates the existing
framework for residential design which mainly focused on improvements to the existing
housing stock (Design Guidance Notes on Extensions, Conversions, Porches, andHardstandings and Vehicular Crossovers). That SPD provides more detailed residential
design guidance issues relevant to Barnet such as local character, density, built form, carparking space and amenity space standards connected with new build development. Throughthese changes that SPD sets out the local priorities for protecting and enhancing Barnet‟scharacter. It provides a local reference point to the suite of national guidance on good design.

Monitoring
1.4.15 The implementation of this SPD will be monitored through Barnet‟s Authorities Monitoring
Report (AMR). Successful implementation of the SPD should (a) reduce the number ofcases subject to an appeal, by providing developers with a clearer framework for residential
design and layout; and (b) improve the council's success rate at appeal in defending
decisions against poor residential schemes.
1.4.16 The council does not consider that the cumulative impact of standards in the Residential
Design Guidance SPD should put implementation at risk as these standards facilitate
development throughout the economic cycle. As economic circumstances change andfamiliarity with the SPD develops, the council may reassess the design categories in the
document and the allocation of particular standards between them.
1.4.17 Details of the monitoring indicators for the Sustainable Design and Construction SPD are set
out in Appendix 3.

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Section 2: Sustainable Design and Construction requirements
and guidance
2.1 - Minimum Residential Space Standards2
2.1.1 The Nationally Described Space Standard has been developed to rationalise existing spacestandards into a single national approach. The standard takes into account the need forrooms to be able to accommodate a basic set of furniture, fittings, activity and circulation
space necessary to the function of each room.
2.1.2 The space standard also takes into account the spatial implications of providing improved
accessibility and adaptability, particularly for older or less mobile people, and is capable ofaccommodating the requirements of both Category 1 and 2 accessibility standards inApproved Document M of the Building Regulations.
2.1.3 The space standard sets out a comprehensive range of one, two and three storey dwellingtypes with one to six bedrooms and up to eight bedspaces (as well as studio flats).
The London Plan adopted in 2016 applies the nationally described space standard as aminimum residential space standards for new dwellings3. The space standards are intended
to ensure that all new homes are fit for purpose and offer the potential to be occupied overtime by households of all tenures.
2.1.4 The council will require developers of residential development to provide floor areas in theirschemes which meet or exceed the minimum space standards for dwellings of different
sizes. These figures are based on minimum Gross Internal floor Area (GIA). These spacestandards are minimum for all residential development in Barnet. They reflect the standards
set out in Table 3.3 in the London Plan under Policy 3.5 - Quality and Design of Housing
Developments which reflect the nationally described space standard. Barnet‟s requirements
are set out below

Table 2.1 Minimum residential space standard requirements: Table 3.3 London Plan Minimum
space standards for new dwellings
Bedrooms

1b
2b
3b
4b

Bedspaces
1p
2p
3p
4p
4p
5p
6p
5p
6p

1 storey
dwellings
39 (37)*
50
61
70
74
86
95
90
99

Minimum gia (sqm)
2 storey
dwellings
58
70
79
84
93
102
97
106

3 storey
dwellings

Built-in storage
(sqm)
1.0
1.5
2.0

90
99
108
103
112

2.5
3.0

2

Technical housing standards – nationally described space standard. DCLG 2015.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/421515/150324__Nationally_Described_Space_Standard____Final_Web_version.pdf
3
new dwellings in this context includes new build, conversions and change of use

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7p
8p
6p
7p
8p
7p
8p

5b
6b

108
117
103
112
121
116
125

115
124
110
119
128
123
132

121
130
116
125
134
129
138

3.5
4.0

Notes to Table 3.3
1. *Where a one person dwelling has a shower room instead of a bathroom, the floor area may be reduced from2
2
39m to 37m , as shown bracketed.
2. The Gross Internal Area of a dwelling is defined as the total floor space measured between the internal faces of
perimeter walls that enclose a dwelling. This includes partitions, structural elements, cupboards, ducts, flights of2
stairs and voids above stairs. GIA should be measured and denoted in square metres (m )3. The nationally described space standard sets a minimum ceiling height of 2.3 meters for at least 75% of the grossinternal area of the dwelling. To address the unique heat island effect of London and the distinct density andflatted nature of most of its residential development, a minimum ceiling height of 2.5m for at least 75% of thegross internal area is strongly encouraged so that new housing is of adequate quality, especially in terms of light,
ventilation and sense of space.

2.1.5 Applicants will be expected to demonstrate how these standards are to be met. The Mayor
regards the relative size of all new homes in London to be a key element of housing quality.
It may help development proposals to set out on the dwelling plans accompanying a planningapplication the following; size of each dwelling, number of persons to be accommodated,habitable floor space of individual rooms and the furniture and circulation space in order tohelp demonstrate compliance with the space standards. Where a development proposal
includes accommodation in the roof space, appropriate section drawings should besubmitted. Full justification will be required if these standards cannot be met. In line with theLondon Plan Policy 3.5 lower space standards will be permitted if they are of demonstrably
exemplary design and contribute to other objectives of the London Plan and Barnet‟s Core
Strategy (London Plan Policy 3.5 D).
2.1.6 Conversion of heritage buildings may present particular challenges for minimum spacestandards. In line with DM05 any impact on the heritage value will be weighed against thebenefit brought from meeting the sustainable design and construction requirements.

Useful References for minimum residential space standards:


Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance, GLA, March 2016
https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementing-londonplan/supplementary-planning-guidance/housing-supplementaryTechnical housing standards – nationally described space standard. DCLG 2015.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/421515/15
0324_-_Nationally_Described_Space_Standard____Final_Web_version.pdf

2.2 - Internal Layout and Design
2.2.1 To deliver the Mayor‟s aspiration that homes are fit for purpose the internal layout of rooms
and design of dwellings needs to be considered to enable flexible use. The positioning ofdoors and windows should also be considered and single aspect dwellings should be
avoided. Barnet‟s requirements are set out in Table 2.2 and a definition of a habitable room is
set out in the glossary including the maximum size considered before a room is counted as
two (20 m2).

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2.2.2 To address the unique heat island effect of London and the distinct density and flatted natureof most of London‟s residential development, a minimum ceiling height of 2.5m for at least
75% of the dwelling area is strongly encouraged so that new housing is of adequate quality,
especially in terms of light, ventilation and sense of space.
2.2.3 Dual aspect dwellings have many benefits including better daylight, a greater chance of
direct sunlight for longer periods, natural cross ventilation, mitigating pollution, offering a
choice of views, access to a quiet side of a building, greater flexibility in the use of rooms,
and more potential for future adaptability by altering the use of rooms. Where single aspect
flats are considered acceptable they should demonstrate that all habitable rooms and the
kitchen are capable of providing adequate ventilation, privacy and daylight and theorientation enhances amenity, including views.
2.2.3 Built-in general internal storage space should be provided to comply with Table 2.1 above(Table 3.3 of the London Plan, and the nationally described space standard 4.1)
2.2.4 In addition to internal storage there should be „dirty‟ storage space for items such as bicycles
and buggies. This could be provided as a communal facility for flats. The level of provision
recommended for Barnet is:
1. For flats without private gardens: 1m2
2. For houses, bungalows and flats with private gardens for up to four people: 2.5m2
3. For housing, bungalows and flats with private gardens for five or more people: 3.0m2(Note the requirements of the Mayor‟s cycle parking standards - Table 6.3 – Cycle
parking standards).
„Dirty‟ storage should be secure, sheltered and adequately lit with convenient access to thestreet. Further guidance is set out in the Residential Design Guidance SPD section 11.5.
2.2.5 The nationally described space standard GIA s incorporate combined floor areas forliving/kitchen/dining space corresponding to the occupancy of a dwelling. New homes
should be designed to allow sufficient flexibility to adapt to residents‟ changing needs andcircumstances.

Table 2.2: Internal layout and design requirements

Development scale

Minimum room dimensions and floor areas:

Minor, major and large
scale residential

1

2Single bedroom: minimum area should be 7.5 m and is at least
2.15m wide to comply with the nationally described spacestandard.Double/twin bedroom: minimum area should be 11.5
m2 and minimum width should be 2.75 m to comply with thenationally described space standard and every other double (ortwin) bedroom is at least 2.55m wide.

Ceiling heights
A minimum ceiling height of 2.5m for at least 75% of the dwelling area
is strongly encouraged.

Minor, major and large
scale residential

Habitable floorspace in rooms with sloping ceilings is defined as thatwith 1.5 m or more of ceiling height.

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Development proposals should avoid single aspect dwellings that arenorth facing or exposed to noise exposure categories C & D or contain
three or more bedrooms

Minor, major and large
scale residential

Useful References for Internal residential space:

Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance, GLA, March 2016
https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementing-londonplan/supplementary-planning-guidance/housing-Technical housing standards – nationallydescribed space standard. DCLG 2015.
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/421515/15
0324_-_Nationally_Described_Space_Standard____Final_Web_version.pdf

2.3 - Outdoor Amenity Space
2.3.1 Outdoor amenity space is highly valued and suitable provision will help to protect andimprove the living standards of residents as well as contribute to maintaining and enhancing
the wider character of the borough. Residential units with insufficient garden or amenity
space are unlikely to provide good living conditions for future occupiers. For houses, amenity
space should be provided in the form of individual rear gardens. For flats, options include
provision communally around buildings or on roofs or as balconies. Whatever option ischosen it must be usable.
2.3.2 In calculating outdoor amenity space the following areas will not be counted as usable:
shared surfaces, driveways, vehicle parking areas or hard standings, cycle storage areas(„dirty‟ storage) footpaths, servicing areas and refuse storage areas. In addition outdoor
amenity space which does not have a reasonable level of privacy or good acoustic
environment will not be considered to be usable. Further guidance on the design ofcommunal amenity space which will be considered when assessing its useability are set out
in the Residential Design Guidance SPD in section 8. Section 2.14 sets out detail on a goodacoustic environment.
2.3.3

Higher density development, such as flats may not always be able to provide amenity space
to the standards outlined in Table 2.3. Where the standards cannot be met and an innovative
design solution is not possible the council will seek a Planning Obligation. Further detail on
meeting outdoor amenity space requirements and development in areas of open space
deficiency are set out in the Planning Obligations SPD.

Table 2.3:Outdoor Amenity Space Requirements

For Flats:2
 5 m of space per habitable room.
For Houses:2 40 m of space for up to four habitable rooms2 55 m of space for up to five habitable rooms2
 70 m of space for up to six habitable rooms2 85 m of space for up to seven or more habitable rooms

Development
Scale
Minor, Major andLarge scale

Minor, Major andLarge scale

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Development proposals will not normally be permitted if it compromises
the minimum outdoor amenity space standards.

Householder

Design of outdoor amenity space development
2.3.5 Outdoor amenity space should be designed to cater for all household needs including thoseof the elderly, young children and families. The space should be accessible for wheelchairusers and should also facilitate use for disabled people in terms of paving, lighting andlayout. It is important to distinguish boundaries between public, private and communal areas
in order to identify who will take responsibility for the maintenance and security of private andsemi-private areas. Further guidance is set out in the Residential Design Guidance SPD in
section 8.
2.3.6 Where balconies are provided as part of outdoor amenity space they should provide privacy
from neighbouring properties. This objective can be achieved by using screens or by setting
the balcony back within the façade. In line with the Mayor‟s Housing SPG, the minimum
depth and width for all balconies and other private external spaces should be 1500mm(Standard 27).

Useful References for Outdoor Amenity Space:•
Housing Supplementary Planning Guidance, GLA, November March y 201562
https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementing-london-plan/supplementary-planningguidance/housing

2.4 - Daylight, Privacy (minimum distance), Outlook and Light
Pollution
2.4.1

The impact of development on the availability of daylight / sunlight and privacy to theoccupants of existing buildings and the occupants of new development is strongly
influenced by design and contributes significantly to the quality of life. The amount of
daylight available in buildings enhances people‟s quality of life and reduces energy use.
The Mayor‟s Housing SPG standard 32 recommends that development should preferably
have direct sunlight in living areas and kitchen dining spaces and all homes should provide
for direct sunlight to enter at least one habitable room for part of the day. Overheating
should be considered when designing for sunlight.

2.4.2

The privacy of existing and future development should be protected and gardens andwindows to habitable rooms should not be significantly overlooked. Design solutions
through layout of habitable rooms, window placement and building orientation should be
used to address privacy and overlooking issues. Use of opaque glazing should be avoided
in order to provide an outlook. The Residential Design Guidance SPD provides further
guidance on design aspects of privacy, outlook and sunlight / daylight in section 7.

2.4.3

Artificial lighting can affect amenity, due to glare and light spillage, their visual impact indaytime and the increased disturbance from noise due to extending hours of activity in theevening. Proposals involving new lighting should demonstrate they will not significantly
impact on the residential amenity of new and existing residents. Artificial lighting can also
impact biodiversity and intrinsically dark landscapes.

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Design Principles:A.

Sunlighting/Daylighting – Ensure that the design takes into account levels of
daylight and sunlight that will penetrate into occupied spaces, as measured by
Vertical Sky Component (VSC) and the Average Daylight Factor (ADF). The VSC
represents the amount of light available on the outside plane of the window as a ratioof the amount of total unobstructed sky viewable following the introduction of visible
barriers, such as new buildings. The ADF is a more complex measurement
assessing whether the internal daylighting levels in a room are adequate. The
measurement takes into account the VSC, the window size, number of windows
available in a room, the room size, the room use and layout and the room surface
reflectance. Further details on this and other aspects of sunlighting/daylighting are
set out in:

BRE Site Layout: Planning for Sunlight and Daylight: a Guide to Good Practice

the British Standard BS8206: Part II

the Applications Manual: Daylighting and Window Design – Lighting Guide LG10
(1999) of the Chartered Institute of Buildings Services Engineers.

B. Light Pollution – Ensure that the design minimises adverse impacts from thelighting of a building or external areas. Light pollution is defined as being any lightemitting from artificial sources into spaces where this light is unwanted, such as
spillage of security lights surrounding car parking areas into residential
accommodation such as bedrooms, where this causes inconvenience to theiroccupants. Design solutions to control the effect of new lighting may include the typeof technology used to control the distribution of light and minimise glare. Other
solutions include screening, shielding, reducing lantern mounting heights andmanaging the operating hours of the light source. The visual impact of light fittings
should also be considered.
C. Privacy - New residential development should afford a reasonable degree of privacy
for future and neighbouring occupiers using minimum distances between habitablewindows.

Construction Principles:
D. When it is essential for certain construction activities to take place at night, lighting
needs to be sufficient for safety purposes, but should be set up in a way that any
potential nuisance to nearby residential properties is minimised.

Table 2.4: Daylight, Privacy (minimum distance),
Outlook and Light Pollution Requirements

Development
Scale

Glazing to all habitable rooms should not normally be less than 20%of the internal floor area of the room.

All development

Bedrooms and living rooms /kitchens should have a reasonable
outlook with clear glazed windows

All development

In new residential development there should be a minimum distanceof 21 m between properties with facing windows to habitable rooms to
avoid overlooking, and 10.5 m to a neighbouring garden.

All development

New development should take into account neighbouring properties toensure that nuisance will not be caused from lighting during night time
hours.

All development

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Useful References for daylight, privacy, outlook and light pollution:


Site layout planning for Daylight and Sunlight: a guide to good practice. BRE. Sept 2011
http://www.brebookshop.com/details.jsp?id=326792

Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution. Institution of Lighting Engineers.
2000.
http://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Planning%20and%20building/SPG%20Light
pollution%202002.pdf

Guidance notes for the reduction of obtrusive light, GN01. Institution of Lighting
Engineers. 2005. http://www.pdfport.com/view/629819-institute-of-lighting-engineersguidance-on-obtrusive-light.html

Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice. DETR & Countryside Commission.
2001. http://www.communities.gov.uk/archived/publications/planningandbuilding/lighting

2.5 - Microclimate – Wind and Thermal Conditions
2.5.1

Climate change will exacerbate the temperature gradient that rises from the rural fringe tocity centre high density locations. The massing and configuration of buildings can have asignificant localised effect on the climatic conditions including funnelling wind or creating
sun-traps. When designed well, the outdoor spaces within the built environment can bemade much more usable to people for a greater part of the year than natural weather
patterns would normally permit. Good design can contribute to urban cooling. If designed
poorly, external spaces can be made hostile for all but the most active of uses or benign
weather conditions.

2.5.2

It is essential that the microclimatic conditions of the urban environment are improved andwherever possible its ensured that these meet acceptable comfort standards. The following
set of generic design and construction principles should be considered in the development
process.

Design Principles:A.

Wind – ensure that potential levels of wind strength around the base of abuilding and on balconies and roof gardens are taken into consideration. A
building might be expected to have adverse impacts if it is significantly taller thanadjacent properties, is part of a small cluster of tall buildings or stands alone. The
acceptability of windy conditions is influenced by factors such as the existing average
local wind strengths, the time of year, air temperature, humidity and sunshine. The
Lawson Criteria for Distress and Comfort are set out in Table 2.5.1 and provide a setof principles to follow in terms of acceptable wind conditions for different types ofactivities.

Table 2.5.1: Acceptable Wind Conditions: Lawson’s Distress and Comfort
Criteria

Hourly average
Wind Speed

Description

Activity

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0 – 4m/s

Long term sitting

Reading a newspaper, eating or drinking

4 – 6m/s

Standing or short term
sitting

Appropriate for bus stops, window shopping
and building entrances

6 – 8m/s

Walking and strolling

General areas of walking and sightseeing

8 – 10m/s

Business walking

Local areas around tall buildings where
people are not likely to linger

B.

Thermal Conditions – Ensure that the design of buildings has taken into
account the thermal impact in relation to outdoor spaces and internal glazed
spaces. South facing, enclosed or semi-enclosed areas can trap the sun and create
pleasant conditions even when the ambient temperature is cool. Such locations
however can also be unbearably hot in mid-summer if there is no shade. Locations
with wide expanses of tarmac, for instance can be excessively hot and contribute to
the urban heat island effect.

Table 2.5.2: Microclimate, Wind and Thermal
Conditions Requirements

Development Scale

Developers should demonstrate that appropriate comfort levels canbe achieved for all pedestrian public and communal outdoor spaces
using the Lawson Criteria for Distress and Comfort as a guide to theappropriate level of amenity for the expected use of those areas.

Large scale and all tall5
buildings

4

2.6 - Accessible and Adaptable Dwellings
2.6.1 The Mayor of London has identified the growing and changing requirements for housing older
people as one of the most important emerging planning issues for London. The London Plan
anticipates that between 2011 and 2036 „over 65s‟ could increase by 64% and „over 90s‟
could grow in number by 89,000.
2.6.2 Increasing numbers of older people are choosing to live independent lives in their own
homes resulting in a need for more accessible and adaptable dwellings which can meetchanging needs. Providing these adaptable and accessible dwellings will enable individuals
to live dignified and independent lives.
2.6.3 In order to address current and future needs the 2015 Building Regulations have been
amended to include standardised accessibility and adaptability requirements for all new
residential development. Part M of the Building Regulations is comprised of three optional
categories:
M4(1) – Category 1 - Visitable dwellings;
M4(2) – Category 2 - Accessible and adaptable dwellings; andM4(3) – Category 3 - Wheelchair user dwellings.
2.6.4 Part M of the Building Regulations discussed in this section generally applies to new
dwellings only and not to conversions or changes of use.

4

See table 1.1 for definition of large scale development
Tall buildings are defined locally in Barnet’s Core Strategy as being eight stories or more (equivalent to 26 m above
ground level)
5

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2.6.5 The London Plan requirement is that, 90% of housing should be built to Building Regulation
requirement „M4(2): Accessible and adaptable dwellings‟ with the remaining 10% meeting
Building Regulation requirement M4 (3) „wheelchair user dwellings‟. Detailed guidance on
how to meet these requirements is set out in Approved Document Part M and is not repeatedin this SPD.

Table 2.6: Accessible and adaptable dwellings

Development Scale

90% of new dwellings should comply with building regulation M4 (2)„accessible and adaptable dwellings‟.

Minor, Major and Large
scale

Useful References for Accessible and adaptable dwellings:


HM Government. The Building Regulations. Access to and use of buildings. Approved
Document M.Volume 1: Dwellings. 2015 Edition )http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_AD_M1_2015.pdf
Easy Access to Historic Buildings, Historic England, 2015
https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/easy-access-to-historicbuildings/

2.7 - Wheelchair User Dwellings
2.7.1 Ten per cent of new housing should be designed to be wheelchair user dwellings that comply
with part M4 (3) of the Building Regulations.
2.7.2 Part M4(3) of the Building Regulations regarding „wheelchair user dwellings‟ distinguishes
between „wheelchair accessible‟ (a home readily useable by a wheelchair user at the point ofcompletion) and „wheelchair adaptable‟ (a home that can be easily adapted to meet theneeds of a household including wheelchair users). Wheelchair adaptable dwellings is thedefault for the ten per cent delivery of wheelchair user dwellings unless a planning condition
is imposed on the grant of planning permission for wheelchair accessible dwellings (specified
as Part M4(3)(2)(b)). Planning Practice Guidance6 states that Local Plan policies forwheelchair accessible homes should only be applied to those dwellings where the council is
responsible for allocating or nominating a person to live in that dwelling.
2.7.3 In accordance with Standard 18 of the Mayor‟s Housing SPG each designated wheelchair
accessible dwelling should have a car parking space that complies with Part M4 (3). The
distance of the accessible car parking space to the home or to the relevant block entrance orlift core should be kept to a minimum. Transport for London intends to provide separate
advice on parking design.
2.7.4 Approach routes, entrances and communal circulations should comply with the requirementsof regulation M4(2), unless they also serve Wheelchair User Dwellings, where they should
comply with the requirements of regulation M4(3).
2.7.5 The application of M4(2) requires level access which the Mayor‟s Housing SPG recognises
6

National Planning Practice Guidance (Housing- Optional Technical Standards) Paragraph: 009
Reference ID: 56-009-20150327 DCLG Revision date: 27 03 2015

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may have particular implications for developments of four storeys or less. Further detail on
these implications is provided under Standard 11 of the Mayor‟s Housing SPG.

Table 2.7: Wheelchair User Dwellings

Scale ofdevelopment

10% of new dwellings to meet building regulation M4 (3)„wheelchair user dwellings‟.

Major and Large scale
residential

Useful References for Wheelchair Housing

National Planning Practice Guidance (Housing- Optional Technical Standards) Paragraph:009 Reference ID: 56-009-20150327 DCLG Revision date: 27 03 2015HM Government.

The Building Regulations. Access to and use of buildings. Approved Document
M.Volume 1: Dwellings. 2015 Edition )http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_AD_M1_2015.pdf

2.8 - Energy Use in New Buildings
2.8.1 Energy used in Barnet is derived mainly from fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas). It is used to heat
homes, to power transport and in commercial and industrial processes. The production ofenergy by the combustion of fossil fuels not only depletes finite resources but also leads tosignificant environmental consequences, such as climate change.
2.8.2 The London Plan emphasises that development proposals should make a contribution tominimising carbon dioxide emissions in conjunction with the following energy hierarchy:
1. Be Lean: Using Less Energy – Ensure that the buildings within the development are asenergy efficient as technically possible using passive and active design measures. The
following are key measures which help achieve greater energy efficiency:The orientation of a building will have a significant impact on its carbon performance,
especially in relation to heating and cooling. Building orientation can be used togenerate passive solar gain, to reduce the need for heating. Large south facing
windows will capture sunlight and heat the building up like a greenhouse. This canlead to discomfort or require air conditioning to mitigate the heat generated in thebuilding. Large south-facing windows should therefore be accompanied by shadingmechanisms or other suitable methods of solar shading.

High standards of insulation are essential to reduce the amount of energy required tomaintain comfortable temperature levels. It is important to consider any potential
causes of thermal bridging which can compromise the insulation of a building.



Ventilation is essential to maintain comfort for users and can be provided throughnatural or mechanical ventilation. Well-designed and efficient mechanical ventilation
which combines heating or cooling recovery can, if managed and operated correctly,
consume less energy than an equivalent natural system without any heating or
cooling recovery.

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Low temperature heating systems should be considered such as underfloor heating.

Good building design can reduce the heating and cooling loads required thereby
avoiding the need for air conditioning.



Thermal mass, which represents the ability of materials to store heat or cool, is
important as a means to control building temperatures and better manage day/night
fluctuations.

High efficiency lighting and appliances will reduce energy consumption .

Direct electrical generation of heating and cooling should be avoided because of its
high carbon intensity.

Poorly designed heat network infrastructure within a building can contribute tointernal overheating problems and should conform with Chartered Institute of Building
Services Engineers (CIBSE) Heat Networks: Code of Practice for the UK

2 - Be Clean: Supply Energy Efficiently – Ensure that all opportunities are taken for local
generation and microgeneration of energy and recycling of heat and cooling. Some of themore efficient ways of generating energy locally are:
 Decentralised Energy (DE) is a process to generate electricity, heating or cooling in alocation close to where it is used. The energy can be generated in the same building orin close proximity through pipes (which distribute it as hot or cold water). Energy canalso alternatively be distributed along cables. DE has the advantage that it produces
less carbon dioxide than conventional energy sources. This is due to the shorter
distances the energy has to be transmitted which results in a reduction of heat,
coolness or electricity loss. The most efficient types of DE systems are Combined Heatand Power (CHP) and Combined Cooling, Heat and Power (CCHP). These aretechnologies which use gas or another fuel, such as biomass to generate electricity.
This process inevitably gives off heat which is then used directly to heat buildings or
produce cooling through the use of absorption chillers. CHP can be used on a building
by building basis (known as micro-CHP) or to power community district heating
systems. CCHP is a process whereby the heat produced by CHP generates cooling.
CCHP is only currently viable for large district systems and is more appropriate in
mixed used developments.
 Centralised boilers can power heating and cooling systems within a building and are
more efficient than individual boilers installed in each residential unit.
Be Green: Using Renewable Energy – Ensure that opportunities are harnessed forderiving renewable energy from the local environment around buildings. The principal
renewable energy technologies likely to be appropriate include:3Solar Water heating is a system for heating water using energy from the sun. Solarenergy is collected by a roof panel, which is connected by pipes to a hot water
storage cylinder. (Nb solar thermal is not considered compatible with CHP as theyboth supply base heat demand)

Photovoltaics (PVs) are panels which convert solar energy into electricity. PVs canbe placed on the roof of a building or incorporated into the façade by using roof tiles,
panels or cladding.



Heat pumps are devices which transfer heat energy from one place to another andfrom a lower to a higher temperature. A ground sourced heat pump (or coolingsystem) recovers the heat (or cold) in the ground by circulating a fluid through a long,buried pipe. An open loop variation can also be used, where water in the ground is
extracted and then discharged. The latter provides significantly more cooling
capacity but both extraction and discharge will require a licence from the

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Environment Agency. The degree of benefit that can be derived from suchtechnologies depends upon the selected internal building systems for heating andcooling.


2.8.3

Biomass is a collective term for all plant and animal material. A number of different
forms of biomass can be burned or digested to produce energy. Examples include
wood, straw, and agricultural waste. Biomass can also be in liquid form eg biodiesel
and bioethanol made from food/vegetable stocks. Biomass can be used to power
CHP systems. Impact on air quality is a consideration for all biomass schemes.

In line with the London Plan [policy 5.9] building design should also consider
overheating and cooling in order to reduce the impact of the urban heat island effect. Major
development proposals will be expected to demonstrate compliance with the coolinghierarchy. Measures that are proposed to reduce the demand for cooling should be

set out under the following categories:
1. Minimising internal heat generation through energy efficient design: For
example, heat distribution infrastructure within buildings should be designed tominimise pipe lengths, particularly lateral pipework in corridors of apartment blocks,
and adopting pipe configurations which minimise heat loss e.g. twin pipes.
2. Reducing the amount of heat entering the building in summer: For example,
through use of carefully designed shading measures, including balconies, louvres,internal or external blinds, shutters, trees and vegetation.
3. Use of thermal mass and high ceilings to manage the heat within thebuilding: Increasing the amount of exposed thermal mass can help to absorb excess
heat within the building.
4. Passive ventilation: For example, through the use of openable windows, shallow
floorplates, dual aspect units, designing in the „stack effect‟
5. Mechanical ventilation: Mechanical ventilation can be used to make use of „free
cooling‟ where the outside air temperature is below that in the building during
summer months. This will require a by-pass on the heat recovery system for summer
mode operation.

7

Table 2.8: Energy Use in New Buildings Requirements

Development
Scale

Proposed development should provide an Energy Assessment which
demonstrates compliance with the London Plan energy hierarchy,7coolinghierarchythe London Plan carbon dioxide requirements and where
relevant decentralised energy

Major, Large
scale

Development proposals should make the fullest contribution to minimisingcarbon dioxide emissions in accordance with the London Plan energy
hierarchy

Minor

The Energy Hierarchy is set out in London Plan Policy 5.2 Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions.

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Proposed development to ensure that every 1 car parking space in 5 hasprovision or is future proofed to provide a suitable electrical charging point
or as agreed in a Travel Plan

Minor, Major,
Large scale

2.8.4 The Energy Assessment should be in line with the Greater London Authority guidance on
preparing energy assessments. 2.8.5
Carbon offsetting will be considered in line with theGreater London Authority guidance and a figure of £60/tonne will be used over a 30 year
period. London Plan Policy 5.2 sets out that where the required percentage improvements
beyond Part L of the Building Regulations are not met on-site, any short fall should be
provided off-site or through a cash-in-lieu contribution to the relevant borough. The benefit of
the fund is in unlocking carbon dioxide saving measures with boroughs to identify suitableprojects. Suitable projects will be identified on a site by site basis focusing on publicly ownedbuildings such as schools local to the development which can provide wider community
benefits. Further detail is set out in the Greater London Authority guidance on preparing
energy assessments and the Sustainable Design and Construction SPG.

Useful References for Energy Use in New Buildings
Please see section 2.9

2.9 - Decentralised Energy
2.9.1 The Mayor of London has set a target to supply a quarter of London's energy fromdecentralised sources by 2025. Decentralised Energy (DE) makes more efficient use of fuel,reduces carbon emissions, cuts electricity transmission losses and future proofs the energy
supply for the use of alternative low carbon fuels. The DMP in policy DM04b requires thatmajor development connects to a planned or feasible DE network. For large scale
development connection to a planned or feasible DE network should include the delivery ofan energy centre8 or necessary infrastructure to connect to the network.
2.9.2 A high level heat mapping study has identified clusters of buildings and areas of developmentwith the best potential for delivering future district heating networks in the borough. Brent
Cross / Cricklewood and Colindale are identified as high priority areas given the scale ofregeneration taking place. Chipping Barnet, Mill Hill East, North Finchley and Whetstone are
identified as lower priority areas in the study.
2.9.3 Major development which is located within the vicinity of an existing decentralised energy
network should aim to connect to the network. Where connection is not possible justification
will be required in the Energy Assessment. Physical factors such as major roads and railways
may create a barrier which could make it unreasonable to consider connection. A suitableconnection point should be discussed with the provider of the DE network or Energy Services
Company (ESCO).
2.9.4 The council will encourage major development which is located within the vicinity of a DE
network that has been implemented or is being implemented to connect to that DE network.
The provider of the proposed heat network or ESCO will be able to estimate the cost ofconnection. Where connection is not possible justification will be required in the Energy
Assessment. GLA guidance on preparing energy assessments would expect to see a whole
8

An Energy centre is the central point from which the local or sub regional supply of heat and electricity comes. Theenergy centre will normally host one or two Combined Heat and power units as well as back up boilers and thermal
stores. See http://www.londonheatmap.org.uk/Content/FAQs.aspx for further information.

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life cost (WLC) analysis where the applicant is contending that providing a site heat network
to allow future connection will result in uneconomic costs to end users. Appendix 1 of that
guidance provides further details on how WLC must be approached.
2.9.5 In instances where the proposed DE network does not commence construction within five
years of the start of the proposed development provision should be made for providing asuitable means of connection. This will be pooled either through CIL or via a legal agreement.
In these situations carbon savings from potential future connection will not be counted
towards a schemes carbon reduction target in their Energy Assessment.
2.9.6 Further guidance on implementing heat networks should be sought from GLA‟s guidance on
preparing energy assessments and the London Heat Network Manual and the Chartered
Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Heat Networks: Code of Practice for the UK.
The Code of Practice will also help inform the quality of feasibility studies. Where
development, in particular for a larger scheme, is within the vicinity of an existing DE network
developers maybe required to fund a feasibility study to consider options for connection.

Table 2.9: Decentralised Energy Requirements

Development
Scale

In order to establish a DE network large scale development in the priority
areas identified in the heat mapping study should deliver an energy
centre. Where the energy centre already exists or is planned forconstruction within five years then suitable related infrastructure should be
provided to facilitate connection to the DE network. Where capacity at theenergy centre needs to be increased to meet the needs of the new
proposed development then a legal agreement should set out theinvestment needed in the energy centre. Where the network is notcompleted commitments to undertake future connections should be madeby the applicant.
Proposed development within the vicinity of an existing or proposed DE
network should aim to connect

Large scale

Where a DE network is proposed but unlikely to be constructed within next
5 years, development should where feasible provide a suitable means forconnection for future use or be future proofed with a commitment toconnect.

Major, Large
scale

Major, Large
scale

Useful References for Energy:Barnet Heat Mapping Study, London Borough of Barnet, May 2010
http://www.barnet.gov.uk/downloads/940160/ldf_evidence_and_supporting_documents



London Heat Map http://www.londonheatmap.org.uk/Content/home.aspx

The London Heat Network Manual. Greater London Authority. April 2014
http://www.londonheatmap.org.uk/Content/uploaded/documents/LHNM_Manual2014Low.pdf

Energy Planning Greater London Authority guidance on preparing energy assessments.
March 2016 https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/planning-applications-anddecisions/pre-planning-application-meeting-service-0



BREEAM – www.breeam.org

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SPD – Sustainable Design and ConstructionHeat Networks: Code of Practice for the UK, July 2015 Chartered Institute of Building

Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Association for Decentralised Energy (ADE)
http://www.cibse.org/Knowledge/CIBSE-other-publications/CP1-Heat-Networks-Code-ofPractice-for-the-UK

Sustainable Design and Construction SPG. April 2014 Greater London Authority
https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementing-london-plan/supplementaryplanning-guidance/sustainable-design-and

2.10 - Retrofitting of Existing Buildings
2.10.1 Retrofitting refers to the addition of new technology or features fitted to existing buildings to
make them more efficient and to reduce their environmental impacts. While it is important to
reduce carbon emissions in new buildings, it is equally important to reduce emissions inexisting buildings as they contribute more significantly to the borough‟s current total carbon
dioxide emissions. Helping homeowners make changes to their properties to make themenergy efficient has been encouraged through the extension of permitted developments
rights. This means that building owners do not have to apply for planning permission to makecertain changes to their property concerning energy efficiency. Table 2.10 sets out a range ofretrofitting measures and the planning requirements with some of the improvements having
permitted development rights.

Table 2:10 Retrofitting measures and the need for planning permission
ChangeSolid wall insulation(external)

Planning requirement
For most houses planning permission is not required provided
the cladding material on the front and side elevations does not
protrude significantly.
For flats planning permission is required.

Double or triple glazing

For most houses planning permission is not required except inConservation Areas.
For flats planning permission is required.
Planning permission is not normally required (except for Article
94 conservation areas ). Where the panels are attached to abuilding they should not project more than 200mm from theroofslope and should not protrude above the highest part of
the roof (excluding the chimney).
Planning permission is normally required
Planning permission is not required
Planning permission is normally required where an external
flue is required

Solar panels or Photo
Voltaic panels

Air source heat pumps
Ground source heat pumps
Biomass heating system or
Combined Heat and PowersystemWind turbine

2.10.2

Planning permission is normally required

Table 2.10 is based on the Regulations set out in the General Permitted Development
Order (GPDO) 2015 (as amended). For up to date guidance and further advice visit theplanning portal: www.planningportal.gov.uk and click on the interactive house. Further
guidance is also available in Barnet‟s Residential Design Guidance SPD.

9

The following Conservation Areas have Article 4 directions: Hampstead Garden Suburb (including The Bishop‟s Avenue), Mill Hill,
Monken Hadley, Totteridge, Wood Street, Moss Hall Crescent, Finchley Garden Village, Glenhill Close, Finchley Church End, Hendon –the Burroughs.

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Development within Barnet‟s conservation areas has fewer permitted development rights
particularly where Article 4 directions apply. If there is conflict between meeting climatechange objectives and the conservation of heritage assets, the council will weigh up the
public benefit of mitigating the effects of climate change against any harm that would occur
to the heritage asset. Retrofitting work affecting listed buildings or buildings in aconservation area is likely to require further consultation with the council‟s conservationteam.

2.10.3The Mayor of London’s RE: NEW Delivery Model
2.10.4The Mayor has recognised the financial implication of implementing retrofitting measures to
London‟s housing stock and has developed the RE:NEW delivery model to help increase
the rollout of energy efficiency measures, low and zero carbon microgeneration
technologies and water saving measures. London‟s housing stock is particularly
challenging compared to the rest of the country because of its average age and thedensity. Generally the older the property the more expensive the retrofitting measures arelikely to be and flatted development can lead to complications with implementation. In
Barnet the issue of flatted development is less significant but age is an issue with over two
thirds of Barnet‟s housing stock built before 1944. The carbon emissions associated withthe heating of Barnet‟s older housing stock creates a higher than average contribution to
the borough‟s overall carbon emissions compared to the rest of London.

2.10.5The RE:NEW programme has moved into a third phase and a more strategic delivery modelthrough the creation of a Support Team. The Support Team offer free support to social
landlords, local authorities and private landlords to help get home energy retrofit projects
and programmes up and running across Greater London. The support is tailored to eachorganisation and can comprise of a review of retrofit potential, formulation of retrofit
projects, funding and procurement advice and support through the procurement process.

Useful References for Retrofitting:General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) 2015 (as amended)

Delivering London‟s Energy Future: the Mayor‟s Climate change mitigation and energy
strategy, GLA, October 2011 http://www.london.gov.uk/who-runslondon/mayor/publication/climate-change-mitigation-energy-strategy

Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings and other guidance, Historic England, 2011https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/technical-advice/energy-efficiency-and-historicbuildings/



RE:NEW Support Team. Greater London Authority. https://www.london.gov.uk/WHATWE-DO/environment/energy/renew-0/renew-support

2.11 - Water Efficiency
2.11.1

Water is a precious resource. It is essential that new development uses water efficiently,
seeking wherever possible to reduce consumption.

2.11.2

The following design principles should be considered in Barnet:
A.

Water consumption – reduce consumption of water by buildings, landscapeand occupants. Designs should seek to minimise water use. There are a variety oftechniques and technologies, including the fitting of water efficient toilets, taps,
showers, dishwashers and washing machines.

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B. Water storage (Rainwater harvesting systems) - put measures in place whichenable storage of rainwater for plant watering on site. This reduces consumptionof treated water from the mains system. Landscaping should be designed so that it
does not need regular watering. Where any external watering is still required, thenwater butts, collecting rain water from roofs should be installed.
C. Water recycling – grey water. Systems are also available for localised recycling ofwater, such as using shower water to flush toilets (these are known as grey water
systems).
2.11.3

Residential development should be designed so that mains water consumption would meeta target of 105 litres or less per head per day, excluding an allowance of 5 litres per headper day for external water use. This reflects the „optional requirement‟ set out in Part G of
the Building Regulations10.

2.11.4A fittings based approach should be used to determine the water consumption of adevelopment. This approach is transparent and compatible with developers‟ procurement
and the emerging Water Label, which Government and the water companies serving
London are supporting11.

2.11.5

There is a duty on a developer (or applicant) to inform their Building Control Body that
optional requirements apply to the submission of their application for Building Regulations.

2.11.6

National Planning Practice Guidance recommends that a local planning authority should
establish a clear need (Reference ID: 56-016-20150327) based on existing sources ofevidence, consultations with the local water.company and environmental agency and theconsideration of the impact on viability and housing supply. In line with this guidance thefollowing existing sources of evidence have been considered:Environmental Agency Water Stressed Areas - final classification - Thames Water
region is identified as an area in serious stress in the 2013.
The Environment Agency River Basin Management Plan. The Thames River Basin
District 2009 identifies abstraction and other artificial flow pressures as one of anumber of specific pressures identified as significant water management issues for
the Thames basin area.
The Thames Water Final Water Resources Management Plan 2015 - 2040
identifies that the supply demand balances across the supply area have worsened
since the previous Water Resources Management Plan (dWRMP14). In London,
Thames Water forecast a growing deficit on a dry year annual average increasingfrom -133 Ml/d in 2020 to -416 Ml/d in 2040.



2.11.7

In relation to viability the Greater London Authority Housing Standards review: viability
assessment May 2015 concluded that there is no measurable cost impact from the optional
requirement for water usage of 110 litres per head per day as this is no more onerous thanexisting London Plan standards.

Table 2.11: Water Efficiency Requirements

Development
Scale

10

Requirement G2 of Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010. HM Government 2015
Table 2.2 of Part G of the Building Regulations provides maximum consumption values for water fittings. If these consumption values
are exceeded and where waste disposal units, water softeners or water re-use are specified in the application, the Water Efficiency
Calculator must be completed.
11

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New dwellings should be designed to ensure that a maximum of
12
105 litres of water is consumed per person per day.

Minor, Major, Large
scale

Useful References for Water Efficiency:

The Building Regulations 2015 edition Part G
http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20151113141044/http://www.planningportal.go
v.uk/uploads/br/br_pdf_ad_g_2015.pdf

Conserving Water in Buildings, A Practical Guide, Environment Agency, Nov 2007
http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/PDF/GEHO1107BNJR-E-E.pdf



Housing Standards Review - Viability Study for Greater London Authority by David Lock
Associates May 2015 http://www.london.gov.uk/file/22676/download?token=uj59uXd1

2.12 - Waste Strategy
2.12.12.12.2

There is an ever-increasing need to reduce waste generation and to increase recycling
wherever possible. There is a challenging target to achieve 50% recycling of household
waste in 2016 rising to 70% by 2020 - further detail are available in the Councils‟ Municipal
Recycling and Waste Strategy13. Waste is generated by development in three different
ways:
1during the construction process2

through the use of buildings

3

from refurbishment and/or demolition of buildings.

It is critical to ensure that we reduce the waste generated through construction,
refurbishment and demolition activities and to reduce waste and encourage recycling
during the occupation of buildings. Our design and construction requirements are therefore
based on the objectives to: reduce the amount of waste produced in Barnet;
 make the best use of waste that is produced; and choose waste management options which minimise the risk of immediate and futureenvironmental pollution and harm to human health.

2.12.3

The following set of design and construction principles are to be considered in the designand construction process.

Design Principles:A.

Waste generated through building occupation – Identify measures to help
occupants to recycle waste. People will generally recycle more when it is easy andconvenient for them to do so. This requires consideration as to how a building's

12

Excluding and allowance of 5 litres or less per head per day for external water use (as set out in the „optional‟ Requirement G2 of
Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010).
13

http://barnet.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s31744/Appendix%202%20Municipal%20Recycling%20and%20Waste%20Strategy%202016%202030.pdf

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occupants will be able to participate in recycling initiatives and services. Key
considerations include:Ensuring that sufficient space is dedicated in appropriate places, including within andwithout residential properties, for the temporary storage of material to be recycled.
For example, space should be provided within kitchens in new properties toaccommodate extra bins which are required for separately storing items such as
paper, bottles, cans and food waste for recycling.

Ensuring that people can easily transfer material for recycling from their own
premises, such as a residential unit, a shop or an office, to a location from which thematerial can be collected. Waste from shops or offices would be considered tradewaste, so any movement of this waste would need to be undertaken by anappropriate, licensed waste carrier and taken to a permitted waste management site.
An exemption or permit may be required from the Environment Agency for storage of
waste at a collection point.

Communal refuse and recycling containers, communal bin enclosures and refuse andrecycling stores should be easily accessible to all residents including children andwheelchair users, and located on a hard, level surface. Refuse and recycling storeswithin buildings should be located to limit the nuisance caused by noise and smells
and maintained to a high hygiene standard.



Storage facilities for waste and recycling containers should be provided inaccordance with local authority requirements and meeting at least British Standard
BS5906:2005 Code of Practice for waste management in Buildings.



Early consultation with the council is recommended to ascertain the best strategy forthe recycling of household waste (see references). The requirements for storage of
waste containers vary depending on the scale of development and whether it is forflats or houses.

Construction Principles:
B.

Construction Waste – Ensure that measures have been taken to minimise
waste generated during building construction. The following issues should beconsidered during development design and in preparation for construction:

Identify resources already on the site, such as topsoil or hardcore, making provision
for storage on-site to enable the materials to be put to useful effect in the newdevelopment Activities that involve any form of treatment to make the material
suitable for re-use may require an exemption or permit from the Environment Agency.

Refurbishment of existing buildings will most likely generate less waste thandemolition and reconstruction. Consideration in the first instance must always
therefore, be given to the retention and refurbishment of buildings and justification
provided where demolition is proposed.

Good practice in terms of waste management should be employed, including
monitoring of waste streams to meet the above objectives.



Every opportunity should be taken to recycle materials or send waste materials to
waste recovery centres to meet the above objectives.

Modern methods of construction such as modular building components put together
off-site in a factory environment supporting more efficient use of materials andworking practices.



Ensuring that measures have been taken to enable more components of a building to
be recycled during refurbishment or demolition.

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Table 2.12: Waste Strategy Requirements

Development
Scale

In consultation with the Council developers should comply with the standards
set out in the council‟s guidance document “Information for developers andarchitects – provision of household recycling and refuse waste collection
services.”. https://www.barnet.gov.uk/citizen-home/rubbish-waste-and-Minor, Major andLarge scale

recycling/information-for-developers-and-architects.html
A minimum internal storage capacity of 60 litres per dwelling (flats andhouses) should be provided which can accommodate containers for the
temporary storage of materials to be recycled. Materials will then betransferred to external containers for collection. (This standard is subject tochange over time, so consultation with the council at the design stage isessential.)
2

Residential
Minor, Major,
Large scale

All non-residential developments should provide a minimum of 10m
designated waste storage space for materials for recycling, such as paper,
glass bottles and jars, cans, cardboard, and plastic bottles.

Non residential
minor, major,
large scale

Proposals that employ or attract a large number of people, such as
supermarkets or commercial buildings should provide appropriately designed
facilities for the collection for recycling or reuse of the waste that they, theircustomers and staff generate. Applicants for such developments should
submit a comprehensive waste and recycling management strategy inaccordance with the BS5906:2005 Waste Management in Buildings – Codeof Practice.

Large scale

Prior to commencement of work, all construction sites should put in place a
Site Waste Management Plan in accordance with the DTI‟s Site Waste
Management Plans - Guidance for Construction Contractors & Clients Voluntary Code of Practice.

Major and Large
scale

Useful References for Waste:

Information for developers and architects – provision of household waste and recycling
service. London Borough of Barnet. July 2015 https://www.barnet.gov.uk/citizenhome/rubbish-waste-and-recycling/information-for-developers-and-architects.html

Barnet Municipal Recycling and Waste Strategy (2016 – 2030) draft for consultation Feb
2016
http://barnet.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s31742/Recycling%20and%20Waste%20Strat
egy%202016%20to%202030.pdf

Site Waste Management Plans. Feb 2008 http://www.environmentagency.gov.uk/static/documents/NetRegs/SWMP_Simple_Guide_Feb_2011.pdf

BS5906:2005 Waste Management in Buildings – Code of Practice
http://shop.bsigroup.com/en/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030050097



The emerging North London Waste Plan http://www.nlwp.net/

Demolition Protocol. Institute of Civil Engineers. 2008
http://www.ice.org.uk/getattachment/eb09d18a-cb12-4a27-a54a651ec31705f1/Demolition-Protocol-2008.aspx

Environment Agency permiting and registration information http://www.environmentagency.gov.uk/business/topics/permitting/32330.aspx

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2.13 - Air Quality
2.13.1

The air quality of urban areas has a significant impact on people‟s health. This has beenrecognised by the Mayor of London, who updated guidance covering London in Cleaning
the Air – The Mayor‟s Air Quality Strategy (GLA 2010). The design of the built environment
has an important role in managing the degree to which people are exposed to air
pollutants. The principal sources of air pollution are:

Traffic emissions from vehicles

Air pollutants arising from industrial activities



Emissions from boiler and mechanical plant within buildings



Dust emissions from demolition and construction activities



Emissions from construction traffic and plant supporting construction activities.

2.13.2

Within Barnet, emissions from traffic have by far the most severe and pervasive impact on
reduction of local air quality. Travel Plans are part of the mitigation to reduce this impact. A
Delivery and Servicing Plan can be part of a Travel Plan. Further detail on when a Travel
Plan will be required can be found in LB Barnet Planning Obligations SPD. It is also
becoming more accepted that trees and planting can contribute to reducing air pollutants.

2.13.3

It is critical that the exposure of the public to air pollutants is minimised and the contribution
to atmospheric pollution from activities within the built environment is reduced. The
principles and related requirements are supported by DM04: Environmental Considerationsand London Plan Policy 7.14 – Improving Air Quality.

Air quality principles:
A. Location – Ensure that development type suits development site. In areas of poor air
quality, for example next to some major roads, it may not be appropriate to build residential
accommodation or schools or other types of development (so called sensitive receptors)
where people, in particular vulnerable people, will spend a substantial amount of time in theaccommodation and thereby be exposed to continuous high levels of air pollutants. If there isno other potential use for a site, then the design will be required to prevent exposure to air
pollutants both within buildings and in accessible outdoor areas proximate to buildings.
B. Siting and design – Ensure that where there is a localised and proximate source of air
pollution, buildings are designed and sited to reduce exposure to air pollutants.
Buildings themselves can be used as barriers between sources of air pollution and thoseareas where people will linger in the outside environment, such as private, communal or
public gardens and public realm. New or existing trees and planting may also help provide abarrier. Buildings should be actively ventilated allowing air to be drawn from the less polluted
side of the building (where a balance needs to be achieved between air quality and energy
consumption required for active ventilation). Consideration should also be given to ensuringthat buildings façades, which face directly onto a pollution source, are sealed.

Table 2.13: Air Quality Requirements

Development scale

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Where development could potentially contribute to aworsening of local air quality an air quality assessment
will be required.

Developers are to design their schemes so that theymeet the Air Quality Neutral emission benchmarks for
Buildings and Transport as set out in appendix 5 andappendix 6 of the Mayor of Londons Sustainable
Design and Construction SPG- Minor- Major, Large scale with thepotential to increase and/orchange road traffic.
- Commercial or industrial use
requiring environmental
14
permitting .
- Development proposing a
Combined Heat and Power plantor biomass boiler.
Mixed user major and large scale
developments

Developers shall select plant that meets the standards
for emissions form combined heat and power andbiomass plants set out in Appendix 7 of the Mayor of
Londons Sustainable Design and Construction SPG

Mixed user major and large scale
development proposing a
Combined Heat and Power Plant
or biomass boiler

Proposals may be required to demonstrate how thedevelopment is designed to reduce people‟s exposure
to air pollutants to acceptable levels through an air
quality assessment.

Minor, Major, Large scale

Restaurants or other odour emitting premises will be
required to locate air extracts appropriately to avoid
nuisance to neighbouring occupiers.

All Class A3, A4 and A5
development

Developers should comply with the minimum standards
on construction dust management that are detailed in
the Mayor of Londons Control of Dust and Emissions
During Construction and Demolition SPG providing an
Air Quality and Dust Risk Assessment and where
necessary an Air Quality and Dust Management Plan

Minor, Major, Large scale

Non Road Mobile Machinery used on construction sites
should meet Stage IIIA of EU Directive 97/68/EC and its
subsequent amendments as a minimum. Details
should be registered at www.nrmm.london/register

Major, Large scale

Air Quality Assessments
2.13.3

Air quality assessments should demonstrate the likely changes in air quality or exposure to
air pollutants as a result of a proposed development and identify any mitigation necessary.
The scope of the assessment required should be commensurate with the potential
significance of the impacts. As a minimum an air quality assessment should set out thefollowing:The basis of determining the significance of the impacts

14

Environmental Permitting is required for uses which could have an impact on the environment and human health. For
example certain manufacturing or waste activities or uses which discharge into a river or underground water supply.
Depending on the operation either the Environment Agency or Local authority provide the regulation. More guidance isavailable here: https://www.gov.uk/topic/environmental-management/environmental-permits and the legislation isavailable here: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/675/contents/madeLocal Plan
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Details of the assessment methods including the model and the input data used forthe assessment and any assumptions that have been madeIdentification of sensitive locations
Description of baseline conditions
Assessment of impacts
Description of construction phase impacts
Mitigation measures
Summary of assessment results







2.13.4

The above list is a summary of what is expected. Further detail can be found in Land-Use
Planning and Development Control: Planning for Air Quality, May 2015, published byEnvironmental Protection UK and the Institute of Air Quality Management.

Useful References for air quality:

Environmental Protection UK and IAQM Guidance: Land-Use Planning and Development
Control: Planning for Air Quality, May 2015. http://www.iaqm.co.uk/text/guidance/iaqm-

planning-development.pdf


Review and Assessment of Air Quality in the London Borough of Barnet; Updating andScreening Assessment; Air Quality Action Plan Updates
https://www.barnet.gov.uk/citizen-home/environmental-health/pollution/airquality/review-and-assessment-of-air-quality.html

Environmental Criteria for Design – A Guide, Chartered Institute of Building Services
Engineers (CIBSE). 2006 https://www.cibse.org/knowledge



Minimising Pollution at Air Intakes TM 21. CIBSE 2001
www.cibse.org/knowledge/cibse-tm/tm21-minimisng-pollution-at-air-intakes

The Mayor‟s Air Quality Strategy. GLA. 2010 http://www.london.gov.uk/what-wedo/environment/environment-publications/mayors-air-quality-strategy



The Mayor‟s Air Quality Strategy Progress Report 2015. www.london.gov.uk/WHATWE-DO/environment/environment-publications/mayor%E2%80%99s-air-qualitystrategy-progress-reportInstitute of Air Quality Management: Guidance on the assessment of dust fromdemolition and construction. http://iaqm.co.uk/text/guidance/construction-dust2014.pdf

Mayor‟s Supplementary Planning Guidance. The Control of Dust and Emissions from
Construction Sites. https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementinglondon-plan/supplementary-planning-guidance/control-dust-andMayor‟s Supplementary Planning Guidance. Sustainable Design and Construction.
http://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/implementing-londonplan/supplementary-planning-guidance/sustainable-design-andDelivering and Servicing Plans Transport for London http://content.tfl.gov.uk/deliveryand-servicing-plans.pdf

2.14 - Noise Quality
2.14.1

Noise can have a significant effect on the quality of life enjoyed by those who live work andvisit the borough. Noise can also impact the natural environment. Vibration is also an

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issue, often related to noise.
2.14.2The main sources of noise (and vibration) in Barnet include road and rail traffic,
commercial and industrial land use, refrigeration and air handling plant [building services
plant], sound systems, construction activities and people. Management of noise is an issue
which significantly increases in importance for higher densities of population and economic
activity. Noise can be persistent such as traffic, air conditioning or refrigeration units orintermittent such as drilling or early morning delivery vehicles.

2.14.3

Receptors which are particularly sensitive to noise include residential, health care facilities
and schools. Noise also affects people enjoying outdoor amenity space and public open
space. Noise exposure can have effects including significant sleep disturbance andannoyance. Recent evidence shows that noise can impair cognitive learning in school
children. It is also agreed by many experts that environmental noise can lead to chronic
health effects. For example, associations have been found between long term exposure tosome types of transport noise, particularly from aircraft and road traffic, and an increase in
the risk of cardiovascular effects (heart disease and hypertension). This guidance aims toaddress the effect that noise can have on quality of life and deliver the best acoustic
outcome for a site.

2.14.4In order to affect the design process it is important to assess and address noise impacts
arising or existing for a new development at the earliest stage. If there is insignificant noiseand vibration, then mitigation requirements maybe unlikely and further assessment maybe
unnecessary. However, if there are significant noise or vibration levels, then the noise
affects would need to be assessed carefully using suitably qualified consultants providing a
Noise Impact Assessment which identifies optimum mitigation measures to reduce thenoise impacts to an acceptable level.

2.14.5

To help consider noise at a site at an early stage an initial noise risk assessment should
assess the Noise Risk Category of the site to help provide an indication of the likely
suitability of the site for new residential development from a noise perspective. Figure 1:
Initial Site Risk Assessment sets out the indicative noise levels for the Noise Risk
Categories and a description of the potential effect of noise were no further noise mitigation
to take place as well as additional pre-planning application guidance.

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2.14.6

Barnet will consider daytime and night time averages, background noise levels andmaximum intermittent noise levels during the night in order to establish appropriate
mitigation in accordance with guidance. Barnet would expect a good acoustic design with
mitigation measures that ensure a good level of amenity both externally and internally.

2.14.7

In order to advise on appropriate measures the Noise Impact Assessment report shouldrefer to the most relevant and up to date guidance, British Standards and Codes ofPractice from such professional and governmental bodies including but not limited to thefollowing: Construction Industry Research and Information Association, Institute of
Acoustics, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (UK), Building Research
Establishment, Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and the Mayor of London‟s
office.

2.14.8The following set of generic design and construction principles are to be considered in thedesign and construction processes.

Noise Design Principles:
A. Location – Ensure that development reduces the effect of noise on occupants andexisting properties. In line with DM04: Environmental Considerations in areas where there areunavoidable high levels of noise and vibration, for example next to major roads, it will notnormally be appropriate to build sensitive uses where they would be exposed to continuous
raised noise or vibration levels. Residential uses, schools, health facilities or other types ofdevelopment where people, in particular vulnerable people (receptors) will spend a substantial
amount of time in the accommodation are identified as sensitive uses. If there is no otherpotential use for a site, then very high design criteria will be required to mitigate exposure tonoise and vibration to ensure acceptable levels in buildings and in accessible outdoor areas
proximate to buildings.
B. Siting – reduce noise impact through siting of building can be used to reduce noise andvibration exposure. For example buildings themselves can be used as barriers between
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sources of noise and those areas where people will linger in the outside environment, such asprivate, communal or public gardens - outdoor amenity space should have a good acoustic
standard.
C. Mixing of land uses and Internal layout - Consideration should be given as to theappropriateness of different land uses in close proximity and how noise and vibration arisingfrom one might affect another. The NPPF para 124 provides guidance that continuingbusinesses should not have unreasonable restrictions put on them because of subsequentchanges in nearby land uses since they were established. Internally the layout can help
mitigate the impact of noise using the following measures:

Locate rooms that are sensitive to loud noise (i.e. bedrooms/living rooms) awayfrom areas of the site that are most prone to loud or continuous noise.

Stacking rooms with similar uses on top of each other (i.e. living rooms, kitchens)
to avoid unnecessary noise disturbance (Also see Residential Design Guidance
section 9).



Non-residential uses should be placed closer to noise sources than residential
accommodation.

Further guidance on layout and conversions is available in the Residential Design Guidance SPD.
D. Exposure to noise within buildings – Provide appropriate noise insulation given
the external and internal noise environment. In order to meet the standards forinternal noise, appropriate levels of noise insulation will be required. Good internal noiselevels should be achievable when windows are open for ventilation. Acoustically lined
ventilators would be preferable in areas where traffic noise is high but air quality is
acceptable; whereas mechanical ventilation may be required within areas of high air
pollution in order to provide clean air as well as good internal noise levels. Other
examples include a residential block with balconies that face onto an industrial site 24
hour night time activity. In this case, it would be reasonable to ensure mechanicalventilation with an inlet away from the noise source or acoustically ventilated ventilatorsin the windows. Building services such as air intake ducting should be positioned awayfrom sensitive windows and properties and be isolated from the structure to prevent
structural noise. Particular care should be taken to avoid or attenuate fan and vent noiseon the „quiet side‟ of buildings.
E. Noise emissions from plant – Establish the impact of new development on thenoise environment. Careful siting, barriers and enclosures can be used to mitigate thenoise from plant such as active air handling units. The noise should be such that it does
not contribute to increasing the background noise levels. Noise mitigation must always
aim to be as close to the noise source as possible, thereby minimising the wider effect of
the noise and its contribution to raising background noise.
F. Noise levels in external amenity areas – Noise levels in external private andcommunal outdoor amenity areas should comply with the good standards according to
the British Standards BS8233: 2014. This includes a recommended limit of 55dBA in
these external spaces including; balconies, roof gardens, terraces and communal
gardens. BS8233: 2014 recognises that these guideline values are not achievable in all
circumstances where development might be desirable, therefore where outdoor amenity
areas cannot achieve this level then winter gardens or other solutions such as not siting
balconies on most affected facades could be considered. The Residential Design SPD
supports a flexible approach to outdoor amenity space recognising that the rigid
application of amenity space standards can sometimes restrict creative design andlayout of new residential developments, particularly on smaller development sites. The
Planning Obligations SPD also recognises that in town centres and for some higher
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density schemes including tall buildings it may not be feasible for development to provide
adequate private or communal outdoor amenity space. In these circumstances thedevelopment may make a financial contribution to the nearest appropriate public open
space to compensate for the lack of outdoor amenity space.
Public open spaces should be protected by careful siting of potentially noise making
developments.

Construction Principles:
A. Construction noise and disruption should be minimised through good site management andoperation and the specification of techniques, such as the use of framed construction and prefabricated components.
B. Construction activities should be planned to limit both the level and duration of noise, tominimise disturbance to premises and amenities in the area.
C. Consultation with borough Environmental Health Officers (EHO) is required at an early stage.

Table 2.14.3: Noise Quality Requirements

Development Scale

To help consider noise at a site at an early stage an initial noiserisk assessment should assess the Noise Risk Category of the site
to help provide an indication of the likely suitability of the site for
new residential development from a noise perspective.

Minor, Major, or Large
scale developments

A Noise Impact Assessment is required for proposed residential
development which is likely to be exposed to significant noise
and/or vibration or cause a noise and/or vibration impact. For allnoise-sensitive and noise creating developments the council willrefer to the standards set out for internal and external noise levels
in BS8233 (2014) and to the approach of BS4142:2014.

Minor, Major, or Large
scale developments

The adverse impacts of noise should be minimised, using
measures at source or between source and receptor (including
choice and location of plant or method, layout, screening and soundabsorption) in preference to sound insulation at the receptor,
wherever possible.

All development

Any proposed plant and machinery shall be operated so as toensure that any noise generated is at least 5dB(A) below thebackground level, as measured from any point 1 m outside thewindow of any room of a neighbouring residential property. Plant
should also be installed to ensure that no perceptible noise or
vibration is transmitted through the structure to adjoining premises.

All development withplant and machinery or
activity which potentiallyhas a noise impact

Useful References for noise quality:

Noise Policy Statement For England (March 2010)https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/noise-policy-statement-for-england

Defra Noise Action Plans: Large urban Areas, Roads and Railways. (DEFRA) 2014
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/noise-action-plans-large-urban-areas-roadsand-railways

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http://planningguidance.communities.gov.uk/blog/guidance/noise/noise-guidance/

The Mayor‟s Ambient Noise Strategy “Sounder City”. GLA. 2004
http://legacy.london.gov.uk/mayor/strategies/noise/docs/noise_strategy_all.pdf

Professional Practice Guidance on Planning and Noise New Residential Development(Consultation Draft) Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Acoustics and Noise
Consultants Institute of Acoustics : January 2016 (due to be published Dec 2016)
http://www.association-of-noise-consultants.co.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2016/01/ProPG_Planning_and_-Noise_Consultation_Draft_January_2016_FINALv1.1-with-watermark.pdf

BS 8233: 2014 Code of Practice for Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings
http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030241579

BS 5228-1 2009 +A1:2014 – Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control onConstruction and Open Sites
http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030258086

BS 4142: 2014 Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential andIndustrial Areas. http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030268408



Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Guide B, CIBSE 2005.
https://www.cibseknowledgeportal.co.uk/



BS 6472-1:2008 Guide to Evaluation of Human Exposure to Vibration in Buildings (1 Hz
to 80 Hz) http://shop.bsigroup.com/en/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000019971044



Guidelines for Community Noise. World Health Organisation. Geneva. 1999
http://www.who.int/docstore/peh/noise/guidelines2.html

2.15 – Flood Risk, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems andWater Quality
2.15.1

Water is an essential resource and its quality is a key measure of the overall quality of thelocal environment. The resource comprises surface water and ground water, where thelatter may be made up of more than one unconnected aquifer at different depths below
ground. Surface water flooding is more of an issue than ground water flooding in Barnet.

2.15.2

Managing surface water flows and drainage is essential to prevent flooding and resultant
damage to property and infrastructure. If flood events cause sewers to overflow then thiscan also become a health hazard.

2.15.3National standards for SUDs15 require the Council as Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) to
be satisfied that major development meets the minimum standards of operation and that
there are clear arrangements in place for ongoing maintenance over the lifetime of thedevelopment. SUDs aim to use drainage methods which mimic the natural environment
rather than using conventional methods of drainage to slow down the rate at which waterflows from a site. Retaining or incorporating existing biodiversity on a site, in particular
trees can also help regulate the rate rainfall reaches the ground.

2.15.4

SUDs can have an additional benefit through helping to remove pollution from rainwater15

Non statutory technical standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems were published in March 2015 and apply to major
developments of 10 units or more https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-drainage-systems-nonstatutory-technical-standards

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runoff. The Water Framework Directive sets a target that all main river waterbodies
identified in the Thames River Basin Management Plan should achieve a „good‟ ecologicalpotential by 2027. There are three main rivers in Barnet identified in the Thames River
Basin Management Plan; the Pymmes Brook (moderate water quality) and its tributaries,
the Dollis Brook (poor water quality) and the Silk Stream and Edgware Brook (moderatewater quality) and their tributaries. The main reasons for failure are linked to pollution –point source (e.g. sewer misconnections), diffuse (e.g. urban runoff), and intermittent
pollution incidents. SUDs can help reduce impacts from urban runoff.
2.15.5The NPPF identifies a sequential approach to the location of development to ensure that
inappropriate development in areas of flood risk is avoided. Paragraph 101 states “The aimof the Sequential Test is to steer development to areas with the lowest probability offlooding. Development should not be allocated or permitted if there are reasonably
available sites appropriate for the proposed development in areas with a lower probabilityof flooding.” To carry out a sequential test a geographic area will need to be defined. This
will usually be the entire borough unless a local need can be justified. Housing need will
not be considered a local need to justify a smaller search area. A list of sites with
unimplemented planning consents which are broadly equivalent to the development sites
proposal can be made available on request. In the absence of a publicly available Strategic
Housing Land Availability Assessment unimplemented planning consents are considered
suitable, developable and deliverable and therefore reasonably available.

2.15.6The Environment Agency is the regulatory body which provides flood risk advice to local
planning authorities on development. They provide guidance and advice on how to assessflood risk as part of a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) and how to design in flood resilience
to a development. Further information is available – see the References section below.

Flood Risk, SUDS and Water Quality Design Principles:A.

Maintenance of water quality – Establish impact of development on local water
quality. The key consideration here is water run-off from development, which may
bring with it pollutants from urban activities and compromise the quality of water in ariver or stream. Development needs to have sufficient drainage to manage andcontrol water run-off and appropriate interceptors using Sustainable Urban Drainage
solutions where possible to capture any potential pollutants.

B.

Water Management and Flood Prevention – Ensure that development has been
designed not to increase flood risk either on-site or off-site and ensure that flood
events will not lead to overflowing of sewers. Water attenuation as close to thesource as possible, the provision of on-site capacity to store surface water run off,
and the use SUDS – see Table 2.15.1 below for more details, enable better controlof water during periods of peak rainfall. SUDS also allow the water table toreplenish, thereby reducing the risk of subsidence.

C.

Basements – Careful consideration must be given when constructing basement
development as in some instances it may prove to be detrimental to the stability ofbuildings, the amenity of neighbours and contribute to flooding and drainage
problems. The council may require a Hydrology report to be submitted which
determines in particular the surface flow of water, the subterranean flow of water andland stability where this requires further consideration. Areas with geology more
prone to increased groundwater flows such as a non-clay based geology combinedwith a basement development in a previously vegetated area [a garden] or basement
development proximate to surface water flows or basement development on a
sloping site over 8 degrees may all require further technical verification. Developers
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all technical reports should be prepared by a suitably qualified chartered engineer orchartered geologist who is a member of the relevant professional body. Further
guidance on design is set out in the Residential Design Guidance SPD sections 12
and 14.

Flood Risk, SUDS and Water Quality Construction Principles:A.
2.15.5

Good site management is essential to prevent run-off during construction activities
which may pollute local water courses.

Table 2.15.1 sets out the most suitable methods of sustainable urban drainage (SUDs) in
Barnet. These were identified in the North London Strategic Flood Risk Assessment data16.
Development will need to demonstrate how their chosen method of runoff attenuation issuitable for the site and local area.

Table 2.15.1: Examples of SUDS
Soakaways
Soakways are drainage structures with high available storage. Surface water runoff is directed tothe soakaway where the storage volume provides attenuation of flows and gradual infiltration to thesurrounding soil. Soakaways can be designed to store rapid runoff from a single house, several
buildings or highway areas. Long, thin soakaways are called infiltration trenches. Areas with a highwater table or clay soil may not be appropriate for a soakaway.
SwalesSwales are linear vegetated drainage features in which surface water can be stored or conveyed.
When used alongside roads, swales can replace conventional gullies and drainage pipes. They areeasy to incorporate into landscaping, offer good reductions in both runoff rates and pollutant
removal. They are ideal for use as drainage systems on industrial sites because any pollution that
occurs will be visible and can be dealt with before it causes damage to a receiving watercourse.
Detention Basins
These are vegetated surface storage basins that provide flow control through attenuation of storm
water runoff and controlled release. Detention basins are normally dry except during and
immediately after a storm event. In some instances the land may also function as a recreational
facility e.g. playground or sports field.
Pervious Surfaces
Pervious pavements allow rainwater to infiltrate through the surface into underlying construction
layers where water is stored prior to infiltration to the ground, reused or released to a surface waterdrainage system or watercourse at an attenuated rate. Where pervious pavements are locatedwithin 5m of foundations or basements, an impermeable membrane liner is required to prevent
infiltration.
Pervious pavements can either be made from porous materials which allow infiltration across their
entire surface e.g. gravels, grass and porous concretes, or permeable surfaces which are madefrom impermeable materials with voids to allow infiltration e.g. brick paving.
Pervious pavements can be used for both infiltration and attenuation collecting water from paved
areas and roof catchments. They have been shown to reduce both the peak flow rate and total
runoff volume from developments. Pervious surfaces can be incorporated into soft landscaping andoil interceptors can be added to improve pollutant retention and removal. In urban areas where
there is a high percentage of hard cover the use of pervious surfaces for car parks and hard areas is16

http://www.nlwp.net/documents/sfra_documents_submission.html

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a valuable technique that should be used wherever possible. Further guidance on hardstandings is
set out in the Residential Design Guidance SPD in section 16.

Ponds
Ponds can provide both storm water attenuation and treatment. Runoff from each rain event isdetained and treated in the pond through sedimentation and biological uptake. Ponds can provide
valuable aesthetic and wildlife value to a development site.

Green Roofs
Green roofs represent roof systems which enhance local ecology and their growing medium(substrate) provides temporary storage of storm water. Significantly less water will flow from theroof and more slowly due to absorption by the substrate, and through evaporation and evapotranspiration from the substrate and plant surfaces.
Rooftops form a major part of the cityscape, but have been vastly under utilised. The use of green
roofs can reduce the size of downstream SUDS and drainage infrastructure that is required.

Table 2.15.2: Flood risk, Sustainable Urban
Drainage and water quality requirements

Development Scale

Proposed development will need to demonstrate applicationof the sequential test and exception test where17
inappropriate development is proposed in areas of flood
18,19
risk
.
Proposed development will need to provide a Flood Risk
Assessment on the known flood risk potential from all sources21
of flooding including surface water to the planningapplication site, the risk to others, how it will be managed andtaking climate change into account.

Minor , Major and large scale.

Developments will be required to demonstrate how they haveconsidered the London Plan drainage hierarchy (Policy 5.13:
Sustainable Drainage) and achievement of a maximum runoff rate which is equivalent to greenfield rates (typically 2 litres
per second hectare). The Barnet LLFA pro-forma detailing
SUDs strategy should be submitted with the application.
Developers should consult with Thames Water and confirm
that their scheme will not increase the risk of sewer flooding
to other properties.

Major, Large scale20

All development over 1 hectare in
10
Flood Zone 1 Development in
10
Flood Zone 2 & 3 except for
22
minor development

Large scale

17

Inappropriate development can be defined using Table 2 in the Technical guidance to the National Planning Policy Framework whichsets out the flood risk vulnerability classification for various types of land uses
18
Table 1 in the Technical guidance to the National Planning Policy Framework sets out the Flood Zones and the appropriate uses (alsosee table 2) for those zones. The Environment Agency Flood Map identifies the flood zones http://www.environmentagency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/default.aspx
19
The Surface Water Management Plan for Barnet also needs to be considered and it identifies areas more prone to surface water
flooding. It will be informed by the Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment http://publications.environmentagency.gov.uk/PDF/FLHO1211BVNP-E-E.pdf
20
Minor development means:-- Minor non–residential extensions: Industrial/Commercial/Leisure etc. extensions with a footprint less than 250 m2.
– Alterations: development that does not increase the size of buildings eg alterations to external appearance.
– „Householder‟ development: eg sheds, garages, games rooms etc. within the curtilage of the existing dwelling in addition
to physical extensions to the existing dwelling itself. This definition EXCLUDES any proposed development that would
create a separate dwelling within the curtilage of the existing dwelling eg subdivision of houses into flats.
21

All potential surface water flooding should be considered and Critical Drainage Areas (CDA) are particular areas ofconcern for surface water flooding. Barnet Surface Water Management Plan identifies CDA.
22

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Where planning permission is required for hardsurfacing
porous materials should normally be used.

Householder, Minor, Major, Large
scale

Useful References for Flood Risk, Sustainable Urban Drainage and Water Quality:

Flood Risk Assessment requirements, Environment Agency guidance
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-assessment-for-planning-applications .

 Planning Portal/DCLG – Improving the Flood Performance of New Buildings:
http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/flood_performance.pdf
 Non-statutory technical standards for the design, maintenance and operation of sustainable drainage
systems to drain surface water DEFRA March 2015
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-drainage-systems-non-statutory-technicalstandards

Environment Agency Standing Advice on Flood Risk Assessment
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-assessment-for-planning-applications

 Thames River Basin Management Plan, Environment Agency http://www.environmentagency.gov.uk/research/planning/125035.aspx


The SuDS Manual (C753). December 2015. CIRIA
http://www.ciria.org/ItemDetail?iProductCode=C753&Category=BOOK&WebsiteKey=3f18c8
7a-d62b-4eca-8ef4-9b09309c1c91

 Garden Matters: Front Gardens. Royal Horticultural Society (2006)
http://www.rhs.org.uk/Gardening/Sustainable-gardening/pdfs/RHS-urban-greeningSurface Water Management Plan London Borough of Barnet 2011https://www.barnet.gov.uk/citizen-home/planning-conservation-and-building-control/planningpolicies-and-further-information/ldf-evidence-and-supporting-documents/surface-watermanagement-plan.html

2.16 - Biodiversity and Habitat Quality
2.16.1

A key objective of Barnet‟s approach is to protect and enhance the natural ecologicalenvironment, maintain and improve biodiversity and harness the benefits of healthy local
habitats. The creation of new biodiversity should be encouraged wherever possible.
Redevelopment of a site can offer new opportunities to provide new links or corridors
between existing habitats for example. Buildings can provide opportunities for new
biodiversity too with the provision of green roofs and facades and bird or bat boxes.

2.16.2An environment high in biodiversity can improve the amenity of local residents whilst
providing further benefits including shading and reducing surface water run off. Largecrowned trees in particular can help regulate the rate rainfall reaches the ground. Carefulplanning can ensure that the natural environment can co-exist with and help complement
the built environment to the benefit of both residents and wildlife.

2.16.3

Gardens make a significant contribution to local character, biodiversity, tranquillity andsense of space. They also help to enhance the setting of buildings and provide amenity
value for residents. Development can impact the biodiversity or habitat value of gardens
and will be considered when making decisions on development which affects residential

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gardens.
2.16.4Further detail on biodiversity and habitat quality will be set out in the Green Infrastructure
SPD23. The Local Plan Development Management Policies sets out in Table 17.2 Sites ofImportance for Nature Conservation in Barnet. Some of these sites include ancient
woodland which should be protected in line with NPPF para 118.

Design principles
A.

Replacement and enhancement of natural environmental features – Almost all
development sites will have some existing or potential value as wildlife habitat.
Proposals should include an assessment of existing wildlife habitats and seek topreserve and enhance existing habitats and features or, if not possible, to replacethese with new habitats which can evolve in a locally sustainable way aiming toachieve no net loss in habitat. Existing mature, healthy trees and other vegetation
should be incorporated into layouts rather than be felled. Where possible existing
ponds and hedges should be retained given their ecosystem service role.

B.

Green roofs, trees and green façades and rainwater gardens – ensure that thebuilt form of the development can contribute to the ecological environment.
The built environment should aim to be permeable to wildlife, incorporating design
features aimed at sustaining and increasing the population of particular species andfacilitating climate change adaptation. Any building or built structure has the potential
to be designed or adapted to support biodiversity; in turn buildings can benefit
through better environmental performance. Green roofs, façades, trees and rainwater
gardens can help to attenuate water run off, reduce the urban heat island effect,
reduce solar heating of a building and provide habitat for wildlife. The design of a flat
roof in a development should use a green roof which should be planted with sedums
and native wildflowers, in order to provide sufficient foraging resources and structuralvariation for a range of species to colonise the roof.

C.

Low maintenance, indigenous landscaping–, landscaping should aim to choose
plants which are beneficial to wildlife using indigenous plants wherever possible,
require low levels of water and are low maintenance to enable the appearance andamenity of the environment to remain high in low rainfall years. Consideration should
also be given to the long term management of existing habitats, new landscaping andother biodiversity design features.

Construction principles

23
24

A.

Good site management –is essential to ensure that no pollution incidents occur andto prevent harm to the surrounding environment from demolition and construction
activities.

B.

Preservation of important features – Where a site has existing trees, hedges,
topsoil, log piles or other valuable habitat features which can be included within the
final development design, these should be properly preserved where practical during
the construction phase.

C.

Protected species – Certain individual wildlife species receive statutory protection
under a range of legislative24 provisions. In Barnet, the main specially-protected
species that are likely to be encountered are bats, great crested newts, grass

Please see the Local Development Scheme for details of the timetable for publication
Principally the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

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snakes, the common lizard and slow worms. Where a protected species is
encountered, potentially on any scale of development, consideration of the impact
and where necessary, mitigation will need to be demonstrated through an ecologicalstatement by a suitably qualified ecologist.

Table 2.16: Biodiversity and habitat quality
Requirements

Development
Scale

A development proposal should provide an ecological statement
as part of a submission which demonstrates how protection of
biodiversity and habitat quality will be achieved. This statement
should provide recommendations on where enhancements tobiodiversity can be made.

Major & Large scale

Useful References for Biodiversity and Habitat Quality:Biodiversity by Design: A guide for sustainable communities, Town and Country Planning
Association 2004 http://www.tcpa.org.uk/data/files/bd_biodiversity.pdf

advice, research and promotion of green roof systems for environmental urban regeneration
see livingroofs.org and www.greenroofs.org

Trees in the townscape: A guide for decision makers, Trees and Design Action Group
November 2012 http://www.tdag.org.uk/trees-in-the-townscape.html

Trees in the Hard Landscape: A Guide for Delivery, Trees and Design Action Group 2014
http://www.tdag.org.uk/trees-in-hard-landscapes.html

Planning for a Healthy Environment: Good practice for green infrastructure and biodiversity;
July 2012 http://www.tcpa.org.uk/pages/planning-for-a-healthy-environment-good-practicefor-green-infrastructure-and-biodiversity.html

Rain Garden Guide, Bob Bray, Dusty Gedge, Gary Grant & Lani Leuthvilay, 2013
http://raingardens.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/UK-Rain-Garden-Guide.pdf
Environment Agency advice on Biodiversity, flora and fauna http://www.environmentagency.gov.uk/research/policy/40131.aspx

London Biodiversity Action Plan Strategy priorities - http://www.lbp.org.uk/londonhabspp.html

2.17 – Archaeological Investigation
2.17.1 Discovery is an important basis of archaeology. When researching the development potentialof a site, developers should, in all cases, assess whether the site is known or is likely tocontain archaeological remains. In line with the NPPF paragraph 128 where appropriate adesk based assessment and, where necessary a field evaluation may be required. As part ofthis evaluation the Greater London Archaeology Advisory Service (GLAAS) should be
consulted. GLAAS is part of English Heritage and provides expert archaeological advice tolocal authorities, developers and owners of sites as well as members of the public. It may
also be appropriate for the Hendon and District Archaeological Society to be consulted. The
Development Management Policies DPD in Policy DM05: Barnet‟s Heritage andConservation sets out the 19 Local Areas of Archaeological Significance in the borough.

Table 2.17: Archaeological Investigation
Requirements

Development
Scale

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Development within the 19 Local Areas of ArchaeologicalSignificance in the borough should provide detail of how
they will investigate, catalogue and where possible preserve
the remains in situ or in a museum.

Householder, Minor,
Major & Large scale

Development outside the 19 Local Areas of ArchaeologicalSignificance should assess whether the site is known or is
likely to contain archaeological remains.

All sites larger than
0.4 hectares

Useful References for Archaeological Investigation
Archaeology and Planning in London – A Charter for the Greater London Archaeology
Advisory Service, March 2011 English Heritage, https://historicengland.org.uk/imagesbooks/publications/archaeology-planning-greater-london/



Guidelines for Archaeological Projects in Greater London. April 2015 GLAAS
https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/glaas-standards-for-archaeologicalwork/Further detail on the Hendon and District Archaeological Society
http://www1.hadas.org.uk/

2.18 - Pollution Prevention, Contaminated Land Remediation
and Construction Management
2.18.1 To maintain the quality of the environment within Barnet, it is essential that good standards ofenvironmental management are maintained to prevent nuisance or harm to people and thenatural environment.
2.18.2 It is critical that incidents of pollution are prevented and any emissions to the environment aremanaged. The following set of generic principles is to be considered in the design andconstruction processes.

Design Principles:A.

Pollution prevention – ensure that good environmental management practices
are implemented. Construction sites and industrial activities can set up
environmental management systems which can be accredited through the BS7750 orISO14001 standards. Setting up such management systems and seeking
accreditation is not complicated if done at the outset of a construction project orindustrial activity. Achieving accreditation for an environmental management systemdoes not require commitment to any particular standards, but does require a company
to commit to a strategy of continuous improvement in environmental management, tohave pollution prevention procedures in place and to monitor performance.

B.

Contaminated Land Remediation – ensure that potential areas of contamination
are identified, adequately investigated and then appropriately remediated. If
there is any reason to suspect that a site might contain some historic contamination
left from previous uses of the site, then the planning applicant should consult the

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council and will need to follow the staged approach to investigation of contamination.
Applicants should consider the use of Category 4 Screening Levels. Category 4
Screening Levels have been introduced by DEFRA Statutory Guidance as a four
category system for classifying land under Part 2A, ranging from Category 4, where
the level of risk posed is acceptably low, to Category 1, where the level of risk isclearly unacceptable. Contaminated land will not inhibit new developments where site
investigation and, if necessary, remediation has resulted in a site suitable for its
intended use.
C.

Construction Management - construction sites can achieve good management
by preparing and implementing a Construction Management Plan. Such plans should
as a minimum address the following issues: water, waste, noise and vibration, dust,
emissions and odours, ground contamination, wildlife and features and archaeology.
Following best practice guidance such as that produced by CIRIA on the preparationof Site Environmental Plans will be helpful and commitment to the Considerate
Constructors Scheme can also be demonstrated (see 2.20). The Considerate
Constructors Scheme is a national initiative to improve the management ofconstruction sites and minimise nuisance caused to neighbours and the generalpublic. The scope of a Construction Management Plan should be commensurate to
the scale of construction, its impact and its context.

D.

Construction Management – basement excavation and construction should in
addition to Design Principle C ensure that proposals consider the accessarrangements for construction vehicles are both safe and do not create unreasonablenuisance to neighbouring residents

Table 2.18: Pollution Prevention, ContaminatedLand Remediation and Construction Management
Requirements

Development
Scale

Applicants should prepare and implement a Construction
Management Plan signed-off by the council prior tocommencement of any demolition or construction activities on site.
Where contamination is suspected then applicants should submit
a Preliminary Risk Assessment. Where contamination is found afull site investigation and remediation strategy will need to beagreed with the council before development can commence.

Minor, Major, Large
scale. Applications forbasements.
Minor, Major, Large
scale

Useful References for Pollution Prevention, Contaminated Land Remediation
and Construction Management:ISO 14001: Environmental Management System http://www.bsigroup.co.uk/en/Environmental Good Practice on Site (C741). CIRIA March 2015
http://www.ciria.org/service/Web_Site/AM/ContentManagerNet/ContentDisplay.aspx?Sec
tion=Web_Site&ContentID=8982

Considerate Constructors Scheme, http://www.ccscheme.org.uk/

Model Procedures for the Management of Land Contamination (CLR 11), Environment
Agency, September 2004
http://www.claire.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=911&Itemid=357

Development of Category 4 Screening Levels for assessment of land affected bycontamination - SP1010 DEFRA 2013

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http://randd.defra.gov.uk/Default.aspx?Menu=Menu&Module=More&Location=None&Co
mpleted=0&ProjectID=18341


A Framework for Assessing the Sustainability of Soil and Groundwater remediation:
Sustainable Remediation Forum UK (SuRF-UK) March 2010
http://www.claire.co.uk/index.php?option=com_phocadownload&view=file&id=61:initiativ
es&Itemid=78



Environment Agency – PPG6 – Working at construction and demolition sites: preventing
pollution guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/485215/p
mho0412bwfe-e-e.pdf.

2.20 - BREEAM
2.20.1

Barnet supports the use of Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment
Method (BREEAM)BREEAM is used to measure the environmental performance of non-residential buildings.
It assesses the following criteria to measure the overall performance of a building:











Energy: The total energy used in the building and the amount of carbon dioxide(CO2) produced.
Management: Site management and procurement
Health and Wellbeing: Ensuring that there are adequate levels of day-lighting,sound insulation and air quality to improve the quality of living
Transport: Proximity of location to local transport facilities
Water: Consumption both inside and outside the house as well as energy efficientmeasures
Materials: The life cycle and impact of materials on the surrounding environment
Waste: Construction efficiency that will seek to promote better waste management
and minimisation of waste materials
Land use: Size of building footprint as well as the use of the site
Pollution: Reduction of water and external air pollution emissions
Ecology: To ensure that there is minimum disruption to wildlife and there is acommitment to conserving and enhancing the site

2.20.2 BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM (Refurbishment) represent the suite ofenvironmental assessment schemes that are nationally managed by the Building Research
Establishment (BRE).25 Use of BREEAM may help to demonstrate compliance with London
Plan Policy 5.2 Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions.

25

Table 2.20: BREEAM Requirements

Development
Scale

Development proposals should achieve a minimum „Very Good‟rating.

Major & Large scale

See the BRE website at www.bre.co.uk.

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2.20.3 Exceptions to this requirement may be allowed in cases concerning the refurbishment oflisted buildings and buildings in conservation areas. Applicants will need to balance any
harm caused to the significance of the heritage asset against the wider sustainability
benefits in consultation with the conservation and design team. Applicants should justify any
exceptions in an Energy Statement. Schemes which can achieve an „excellent‟ rating will be
encouraged where practical. Further details can be found in „Energy Conservation in
traditional Buildings‟ published by English Heritage, 2008(www.climatechangeandyourhome.org.uk/live/)

Useful References for BREEAM / Ecohomes:


BREEAM scheme documents – see BREEAM resources
http://www.breeam.org/page.jsp?id=301



BREEAM domestic refurbishment (Ecohomes) tool http://www.breeam.org/page.jsp?id=228

2.21 - Considerate Constructors Scheme
2.21.1The Considerate Constructors Scheme is a national initiative to improve the managementof construction sites and minimise nuisance caused to neighbours and the general public.

2.21.2Barnet operates a Considerate Contractors Scheme and an annual award ceremonyhighlights those companies and individuals that have attained and exceeded the required
standards of the scheme.

2.21.3

The Council has adopted a Supplementary Planning Document on Skills, Employment
Enterprise and Training (SEET). The SPD sets out the Council‟s approach to deliveringskills, employment, enterprise and training initiatives from development to ensure that
residents benefit from the job opportunities created by new development across Barnet.
The SPD applies to development that generates new jobs through construction and / orend use as well as developments that involve the loss of employment space and require
planning permission. For further guidance on contributions please refer to the SPD.

Table 2.20: Considerate Constructors
Requirements

Development Scale

Applicants are encouraged to sign up to the Considerate
Constructors Scheme will be expected prior to commencementof any demolition or construction activities

Minor, Major & Large
scale

Useful References for Considerate Constructors Scheme:Considerate Constructors Scheme tool - http://www.ccscheme.org.uk/
Barnet considerate constructors tool - http://www.barnet.gov.uk/index/housing/buildingcontrol/considerate-contractors-scheme.htm
Skills, Employment Enterprise and Training SPD London Borough of Barnet October
2014 https://www.barnet.gov.uk/citizen-home/planning-conservation-and-buildingcontrol/planning-policies-and-further-information/supplementary-planningdocuments/draft-skills-employment-enterprise-and-training-seet-from-developmentthrough-s106/spd-on-delivering-skills-employment-enterprise-and-training-seet.html

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Section 3: Supporting Information
3.1.1 The level of information required to support planning applications will vary according to thescale of proposed development and its context. In this respect, the council will only seek
information as is appropriate to demonstrate that the new development will comply with
policy. A development‟s context is relevant. For example development in a noisy area willneed to demonstrate that design and layout helps to reduce exposure to that noise and thatsufficient noise insulation has been included in designs to ensure that comfort withinbuildings is adequate.
Figure 1: The hierarchy of planning application documents

Planning Application

Planning Statement – Advocating
the planning application

Technical Documentation including Planning Statements, Regeneration
Statements, Environmental Statements, Transport Assessments, Energy
Statements, Travel Plans and Flood Risk Assessments

3.2 Feasibility Studies and Associated Supporting
Information
3.2.1 The council recognises that certain design measures may have cost or value implications.
Where an applicant for a Major or Large Scale Development takes the view that it is notviable to meet a specified requirement, the council will require a fully justified feasibility study.
3.2.2 In requesting feasibility studies to be undertaken, applicants are asked to be open in theirdecision-making to allow us to understand the influences leading the applicant to make aparticular proposal. Justification is required where an applicant suggests that something is
not deliverable either because of increased cost or loss of value. This should be provided in
the context of the overall development with comparison to other design solutions, indicating
the degree to which different options have been explored to achieve the design requirements
set out in this SPD.

3.3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
3.3.1 EIA is a procedure for ensuring that the likely significant environmental effects of a new
development are fully understood and taken into account before the development is allowed
to go ahead. The regulations (European Union Directive (97/11/EC)) apply to two separate
lists of project. Schemes which fall under Schedule 1 will always require an EIA and include
for example energy infrastructure, certain industrial processing industries, waste
management or transport infrastructure.

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3.3.2 The assessment of Schedule 2 development will depend on the type, scale and location of
the development and is based on thresholds for various land uses. These are set out in theregulations26. Any significant development proximate to the Welsh Harp Site of Special
Scientific Interest (SSSI) will generally require an assessment. Where a developer is unclear
whether an EIA is required they may request a screening from the local authority. Further
detail on EIA is set out in National Planning Practice Guidance (Reference ID: 4-01820140306).
3.3.3 Where EIA is formally required, or where the council requests submission of anenvironmental statement in respect of a Schedule 2 development, planning applicants will be
expected to demonstrate that the development proposals not only act to mitigate any
environmental impacts, but that they also create a high quality environment within theboundary of the new development site. When a full EIA is not required, but a few discrete
issues, such as noise and air quality, need to be assessed, the council will expect suchassessments to be undertaken to the same level of detail and thoroughness as would be
required by a formal EIA.

26

The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/293/contents/made and Amendment Regulations 2015
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/660/pdfs/uksi_20150660_en.pdf

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Appendix 1 – List of Development Plan Policies
Sustainability
topic

Relevant Core Strategy
and Development
Management Policies

Relevant London
Plan policies andRelevant Mayoral
Housing
Supplementary
Planning Guidance

Minimum residential
space standards
and internal layout
and design

Policy DM02 – Development
standards

Policy 3.5: Quality and
Design of Housing
Developments

Outdoor amenity
space

Policy DM02 – Development
standards

Daylight, privacy,
outlook and light
pollution

Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations

Policy 7.6: ArchitectureStandard 24 andStandard 25 - Dwelling
Space Standards
Standard 31 – Floor to
Ceiling Heights
Standard 26 andStandard 27– Private
open spaceStandard 28 – Privacy
Standard 29 – Dual
aspectStandard 32 – Daylightand sunlight

Microclimate

Policy DM05: Tall Buildings

Accessible andadaptable dwellings

Policy CS4 – Providing quality
homes and housing choice inBarnetPolicy DM02 – Development
Standards
Policy CS4 – Providing quality
homes and housing choice inBarnetPolicy DM02 – Development
standards

Policy 7.6: Architecture
Policy 7.7: Location anddesign of tall and large
buildings
Policy 3.8: Housing
ChoiceWheelchair user
dwellings

Energy use in newbuildings anddecentralised
energyRetrofitting ofexisting buildings

Water efficiency

Waste strategy

Air quality

Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources

Standard 11 - AccessPolicy 3.8: Housing
ChoiceStandard 11 - AccessPolicy 5.2: Minimising
Carbon Dioxide
EmissionsStandard 35 – Energy
and CO2Standard 36Overheating

Policy 5.4: Retrofitting

Policy 5.15: Water use
and Supplies

Standard 37 – Water

Policy 5.18: Construction,
Excavation and
Demolition Waste

Standard 22 andStandard 23 – Refuse,post and deliveries

Policy 6.13: Parking
Policy 7.14: Improving Air
QualityStandard 33 – Air quality

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Noise quality

Flood risk and water
quality

Biodiversity andhabitat quality

Pollution
prevention,
Contaminated landand construction
management
BREEAM

Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations
Policy CS7: Enhancing andProtecting Barnet‟s open
spaces
Policy DM16: Biodiversity
Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources

Policy 7.15: Reducing
Noise and Enhancing
SoundscapesStandard 30 – Noise

Policy 5.13: Sustainable
Drainage
Policy 5.14: Water Quality
and Wastewater
Infrastructure
Policy 7.19: Biodiversity
and access to nature
Policy 5.11: Green roofs
and development site
environs
Policy 5.21:
Contaminated Land

Standard 38 andStandard 39 – Flooding
and drainage

Standard 40 - Ecology

Policy CS13 - Ensuring theefficient use of natural
resources
Policy DM04 – Environmental
considerations

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Appendix 2 – Glossary
TermDefinition

Accessibility
Accessible transport

The ease with which goods, services and employment are accessible and available.
Transport services and vehicles designed and operated to be useable by people withdisabilities and other transport disadvantaged people: such as the elderly, parents withprams and children and wheelchair users.
Areas where air quality objectives are not being met are normally designated as Air
Quality Management Areas. It is then a requirement that affected Local Authorities
implement a plan to improve air quality – a local Air Quality Action Plan.
Ongoing sound in the environment such as from transport and industry, as distinct
from individual events, such as a concert. Unless stated otherwise, noise includes
vibration.
Element of a location or neighbourhood that helps to make it attractive or enjoyable forresidents and visitors

Air Quality
Management Area
(AQMA)
Ambient Noise

Amenity
Outdoor amenity
space
Authorities
Monitoring Report(AMR)
Article 4 Direction

Biodiversity
Biomass
Brown Roofs
Building Regulations

Building Research
Establishment
Environmental
Assessment Method(BREEAM)
Change of Use

Combined Heat &Power (CHP)
Community
Infrastructure Levy
(CIL)
Conservation Area
Contaminated Land
Conversions
Core Strategy (CS)Those open areas within a development which are used exclusively by the occupants
for their recreation. These could be private gardens or communal open spaces.
Part of the Local Plan which monitors (measures) and assesses the implementation of
the Local Development Scheme and the extent to which policies in the Local
Development Documents are being successfully implemented.
A power available under the 1995 General Development Order allowing the council torestrict permitted development rights in identified locations and require planningpermission to be obtained from the council.
The variety of plants and animals and other living things in a particular area or region.
It encompasses habitat diversity, species diversity and genetic diversity.
The total dry organic matter or stored energy of plant matter. As a fuel it includes
energy crops and sewage as well as forestry and agricultural residues.
Roofs which have a layer of soil or other material which provides a habitat or growing
medium for plants or wildlife.
Sets minimum construction standards for building works. They exist to ensure thehealth and safety of people in and around all types of buildings (i.e. domestic,
commercial, and industrial). They also provide for energy conservation and access toand use of buildings.
Measures the environmental performance of proposed development.

A material change in the use of land or buildings from one class of use to another as
defined by the Use Classes Order constitutes development and therefore requires
planning permission.
The combined production of electricity and usable heat is known as Combined Heatand Power (CHP). Steam or hot water which would otherwise be rejected whenelectricity alone is produced, is used for space or process heating.
CIL is a levy that local authorities in England and Wales can choose to charge on new
developments in their area. The money can be used to support development by
funding infrastructure that the council, local community and neighbourhood want.
Areas of special architectural or historic interest the character and appearance of
which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.
Land which contains potentially harmful substances as a result of human activity orfrom natural causes may be regarded as contaminated land.
The sub-division of residential and non-residential properties into self-contained flatsor maisonettes.
A Development Plan Document (DPD) setting out the long term spatial vision andstrategic objectives for the Local Planning Authority area. It includes a spatial strategy,
core policies and a monitoring and implementation framework for achieving them.

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Decentralised
Energy Network
Density

A Decentralised Energy (DE) network produces heat as well as electricity at or near
the point of consumption.
A measure of the intensity of residential development. Usually expressed as thenumber of habitable rooms per hectare (hrha).

Density Matrix

Matrix in the London Plan 2011 which sets out density ranges related to existingbuilding form, massing and public transport accessibility level (PTAL).

Design & AccessStatement

A statement that accompanies a planning application to explain the design principles
and concepts that have informed the development and how access issues have been
dealt with.
The carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over orunder the land, or the making of any material change in the use of any buildings orother land. Throughout the DPD the term development is taken to include newdevelopment, redevelopment and change of use.
A Development Plan Document setting out the detailed borough-wide implementation
planning policies for development and forms the basis for local planning authority
decision making.
Statutory planning documents that form part of the Local Plan including the Core
Strategy, Development Management, Site Allocations DPDs and also Area Action
Plans.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 has now been repealed and replaced by the
Equality Act 2010. Formerly, it made it unlawful to discriminate against people inrespect of their disabilities in relation to employment, the provision of goods andservices, education and transport.
A building or any part of a building that forms a separate and self-contained unit
designed to be occupied by a single family or household.
Responsible for preventing or minimising the effects of pollution on the environment.
Issues permits to monitor and control activities that handle or produce waste. It also
provides up-to-date information on waste management and deals with other matterssuch as water quality, flood protection and advice.
Predicts the effects on the environment of a development proposal, either for anindividual project or a higher-level „strategy‟ (a policy, plan or programme), with theaim of taking account of these effects in decision-making.
An equality impact assessment involves assessing the likely or actual effects ofpolicies or services on people in respect of disability, gender and racial equality
Planning applications for development proposals of 1 hectare or greater in Flood Zone
1 and all proposals for new development located in Flood Zones 2 and 3 should beaccompanied by a FRA. This should identify and assess the risks of all forms offlooding to and from the development and demonstrate how these flood risks will be
managed, taking climate change into account. For major developments in Flood Zone
1, the FRA should identify opportunities to reduce the probability and consequences offlooding.
Flood Zones are the starting point for the sequential approach. Flood Zones refer tothe probability of sea and river flooding only, ignoring the presence of existing
defences.
A strategic body constituted under the Greater London Authority Act 1999, consistingof the Mayor of London, the London Assembly and staff, which has responsibility for
producing regional strategic policy in a number of areas, including transport, economic
development, planning, and the environment for London.
A national policy designation that helps to contain development, protect thecountryside and promote brownfield development. Development is strictly controlled in
the Green Belt.
These are areas of linked but separate open spaces and the footpaths between them.
They are accessible to the public and provide way-marked paths and other pedestrianand cycle routes.
The Green Grid is a strategic framework for creating a network of interlinked, multipurpose open spaces connecting the Green Belt, Metropolitan Open Land and open
space to places where people live and work.

Development

Development
Management
Policies DPD
Development Plan
Documents (DPDs)
Disability
Discrimination Act(DDA)
Dwelling
Environment Agency(EA)

Environmental
Impact Assessment(EIA)
Equality Impact
Assessment (EQIA)
Flood Risk
Assessment (FRA)

Flood Zones

Greater London
Authority (GLA)

Green Belt

Green Chain / Link

Green Grid

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Green Infrastructure

Habitable Room

Inclusive Design

Lifetime
Neighbourhoods

Listed Building

Local Plan

London Plan

Major Development(applications
decided by the
London Boroughs)

Material
Considerations

Mixed Use
Development
National Planning
Policy Framework(NPPF)Nature Conservation

The open environment within urban areas, the urban fringe and the countryside. It is a
network of connected, high quality, multi-functional open spaces, corridors and thelinks in between that provide multiple benefits for people and wildlife.
A room within a dwelling, the primary purpose of which is for living, sleeping or dining,2
including kitchens where the total area is more than 13m (including fittings), or thedining space if it is divided from the working area by a moveable partition. Rooms
2exceeding 20m will be counted as two.
Creates an environment where everyone can access and benefit from the full range ofopportunities available to members of society. It aims to remove barriers that create
undue effort, separation or special treatment, and enables everyone to participate
equally in mainstream activities independently, with choice and dignity.
Are designed to be welcoming, accessible and inviting for everyone, regardless ofage, health or disability, is sustainable in terms of climate change, transport services,
housing, public services, civic space and amenities making it possible for all people toenjoy a fulfilling life and take part in the economic, civic and social life of thecommunity.
An historic building recorded on a statutory list of buildings of 'special architectural or
historic interest' compiled by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on
advice from English Heritage, to ensure that the architectural and historic interest of
the building is carefully considered before any alterations, outside or inside, areagreed. A building is graded I, II* or II, with grade I being the highest. Listing includes
the interior as well as the exterior of the building, and any buildings or permanent
structures (e.g. wells) within the curtilage. A listed building is a heritage asset which isdefined in the Local Plan – Core Strategy.
The plan for the future development of the local area, drawn up by the local planning
authority in consultation with the community. In law this is described as thedevelopment plan documents adopted under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase
Act 2004. Current core strategies or other planning policies, which under the
regulations would be considered to be development plan documents, form part of the
Local Plan. The term includes old policies which have been saved under the 2004 Act.
The Mayor‟s London Plan sets out an integrated economic, environmental and social
framework for the development of the capital over the next 20-25 years. London
boroughs Local Plans are required to be in general conformity with the London Plan.
Policies in the London Plan guide decisions on planning applications by councils andthe Mayor.
Major Developments are defined as these:
 for dwellings: where 10 or more are to be constructed (or if number not given,area is more than 0.5 hectares).
2
 for all other uses: where the floor space will be 1000 m or more (or the sitearea is 1 hectare or more). The site area is that directly involved in some
aspect of the development. Floor space is defined as the sum of floor area
within the building measured externally to the external wall faces at each level.
Basement car parks, rooftop plant rooms, caretakers' flats etc. should be
included in the floor space figure.
Matters that should be taken into account in deciding on a planning application or on
an appeal against a planning decision. This includes such things as the number, size,layout, siting, design and external appearance of buildings and the proposed means ofaccess, together with landscaping, impact on the neighbourhood and the availability of
infrastructure.
Development for a variety of activities (and uses) on single sites or across wider areas
such as town centres.
Sets out Government‟s planning policies for England and how they are expected to be
applied. The NPPF replaces 44 planning documents, primarily Planning Policy
Statements (PPS) and Planning Policy Guidance (PPGs), which previously formed
Government policy towards planning.
Protection, management and promotion for the benefit of wild species and habitats, aswell as the human communities that use and enjoy them. This also covers the creation
and re-creation of wildlife habitats and the techniques that protect genetic diversity andcan be used to include geological conservation.

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Outdoor amenity
space
Permitted
Development Rights
Planning Conditions

Planning
Inspectorate (PINS)

Proposals Map

Public Transport
Accessibility Level(PTAL)

Renewable Energy

Retrofitting
RunoffThose open areas within a development which are used exclusively by the occupants
for their recreation. These could be private gardens or communal open spaces.
Rights to carry out certain limited forms of development without the need to make anapplication for planning permission, as granted under the terms of the Town andCountry Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995.
Planning conditions are provisions attached to the granting of planning permission.
The Government's five policy tests for conditions are that they must be necessary,
relevant to planning, relevant to the development to be permitted, enforceable, precise
and reasonable in all other respects. More detail on Government policy on planning
conditions is in Circular 11/1995 (found in Government policies)
The Planning Inspectorate is an independent Government agency that processes
planning and enforcement appeals and holds inquiries into local development plans. It
also deals with a wide variety of other planning-related casework, including listedbuilding consent appeals, advertisement appeals and reporting on planningapplications.
An obligatory part of the adopted development plan which shows the area base mapwith allocated sites for particular land use and development proposals and sets out thearea to which specific policies apply.
A detailed and accurate measure of the accessibility of a point to the public transport
network, taking into account walk access time and service availability. PTALs reflect : walking time from the point of interest to the public transport access points;
 the reliability of the service modes available;
 the number of services available within the catchment; and the level of service at the public transport access points – ie average waitingtime.
Energy derived from a source that is continually replenished, such as wind, wave,
solar, hydroelectric and energy from plant material, but not fossil fuels or nuclear
energy. Although not strictly renewable, geothermal energy is generally included.
The addition of new technology or features to existing buildings in order to make themmore efficient and to reduce their environmental impacts.
Runoff is the flow of water from rain or other sources over land. Greenfield run off
rates are a requirement set out in the London Plan and relate to the speed of run off
from an undeveloped site ie a greenfield.

Section 106
Agreements

These agreements confer planning obligations on persons with an interest in land inorder to achieve the implementation of relevant planning policies as authorised by
Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

Secure by Design
Sites of Importancefor Nature
Conservation (SINC)

The planning and design of street layouts, open space, and buildings so as to reduce
the likelihood or fear of crime.
SINCs are areas protected through the planning process having been designated fortheir high biodiversity value. SINCs are classified into sites of metropolitan importance,
borough and local importance for nature conservation.

Sites of Special
Scientific Interest(SSSI)

Areas of special interest by reason of its fauna, flora, geological or physiographic(landform) features. A classification notified under Section 28 of the Wildlife andCountryside Act (1981 as amended).

Standard
Assessment
Procedure (SAP)
Supplementary
Planning Document(SPD)Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the Government's recommended systemfor energy rating of dwellings and is based on the annual energy costs for space andwater heating.
Document providing supplementary information in respect of the policies indevelopment plan documents and not forming part of the development plan nor
subject to independent examination. Must be subject to public consultation if it is to beaccorded any weight in decisions on development proposals. SPDs can be taken into
account as a material planning consideration.
This covers development that meets the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
SUDS can reduce the total amount, flow and rate of surface water that runs directly torivers through stormwater systems.

Sustainable
Development
Sustainable Urban
Drainage Systems(SUDS)

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Tall Buildings
Three Strands
ApproachTown Centres

Transport for London(TfL)
Tree Preservation
Order (TPO)
Unitary Development
Plan (UDP)

Use Class

Use Classes Order

Wheelchair
accessible housing

Buildings which in Barnet are either eight or more storeys high, or which are 26 m
above ground level.
Three Strands provides the spatial vision that underpins Core Strategy and Local Plan.
The three strands are: Strand 1 - Absolute protection of the Green Belt, Metropolitan
Open Land and other valued open space from inappropriate development.
Strand; 2 - Enhancement and protection of Barnet's suburbs, town centres andhistoric areas; 3 - Consolidated growth in areas in need of renewal and investment
Covers  Metropolitan Town Centre, Major Town Centre, District Town Centre, Neighbourhood and local town centres
One of the GLA groups of organisations, accountable to the Mayor, with responsibility
for delivering an integrated and sustainable transport strategy for London.
Made under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 by the local planning authority
to protect trees of importance for amenity, landscape and nature conservation.
A statutory development plan introduced in 1986 and replaced by Local Development
Frameworks in the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Barnet's Unitary
Development Plan was adopted in May 2006.
The UDP is superseded by the Local Plan Core Strategy and Development
Management Policies DPDs following adoption in September 2012.
A category of landuse activities requiring planning permission which is set according toa use classes order. The uses are grouped into classes A, B, C and D and sui generis(a use not within a specified class). The classes are:A1 - shops
A2 - financial and professional services
A3 - restaurants and cafes
A4 - drinking establishments
A5 - hot food takeaways
B1 - business (office)B2 - general industry
B8 - storage
C1 - hotels
C2 - residential institutions
C3 - dwelling houses
C4 – small HMO
D1 - non-residential institutions
D2 - assembly and leisure
Sui Generis - a use not within a specified class.
A legislative mechanism under the terms of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990,
as amended by the Use Classes (Amendment) Order 2005, and the General
Permitted Development (Amendment) Order 2005, which sets out when permission is
or is not required for changes to the use of land and buildings, and the circumstances
under which such changes can be undertaken.
This refers to homes built to meet the standards set out in the second edition ofWheelchair Housing Design Guide by Stephen Thorpe, Habinteg Housing Association
2006.

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Appendix 3 – Monitoring Indicators
Topic

Indicator

Target2.1 – Minimum residential
space standards & 2.2 –Internal layout and design
2.3 – Outdoor Amenity Space

Residential units approved below
minimum space standards (indicatorfor DM02: Development Standards)
Residential units approved outside
town centres and regeneration areas
below minimum outdoor amenity
space requirements (LBB new)Number of appeals lost on privacy or
daylight grounds

To justify exceptions for new units

Lifetime homes approved (indicator for
DM03: Accessibility and inclusive
design)90% of homes should meetbuilding regulation M4 (2) –„accessible and adaptable
dwellings‟.

Wheelchair accessible homes
approved (indicator for DM03:
Accessibility and inclusive design)
See indicator for topic 2.18:

10% of new homes to bewheelchair accessible [adaptable]

2.4 – Daylight, privacy(minimum distance), outlook
and light pollution
2.6 – Accessible andadaptable dwellings

2.7 - Wheelchair
2.8 – Energy use
2.9 – Decentralised energy

2.10 – Retrofitting

Units connected to a decentralised
energy network (indicator for DM04:
Environmental considerations fordevelopment)
Number of feed in tariff applications

2.11 – Water efficiency

Average water consumption in Barnet

2.12 – Waste strategy

Amount of municipal solid waste(MSW) recycled
PM10 trends
NOx trends
Number of noise impact assessments
received as part of a planningapplication
Planning permissions granted contrary
to EA advice on either flood defenceor water quality grounds (indicator for
DM04: Environmental Considerations
for development)
Area of land in SINCs (LBB New)
(indicator for DM16: Biodiversity)
Number of developments including
green roofs
The number of developments on
contaminated land requiring full site
investigations

2.13 – Air quality
2.14 – Noise quality
2.15 – Flood Risk and Water
Quality

2.16 - Biodiversity and Habitat
Quality
2.17 – Pollution Prevention,
Contaminated land
remediation and construction
management
2.20 – Considerate
Constructors Scheme

None

Source: Uniform
To justify exceptions for new units
Source: Uniform
None

London Plan Policy 5.2:
Minimising Carbon Dioxide
Emissions
Colindale by 2016
BXC by 2021

https://www.renewablesandchp.
ofgem.gov.uk/Public/ReportManager.aspx
105 l/p/d (excluding and allowanceof 5 l/p/d for external water use).
To increase
Air Quality Action Plan
To justify exceptions for sensitive
uses in high noise areas or impactof a noisy use on a sensitive use
No planning permissions granted
contrary to EA advice

No net loss in area designated as
SINC
All high density developments toinclude some aspect of green roof
Remediation strategy agreed withthe council
Source: Scientific Services, BarnetCouncil
None

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Useful contacts
For further information and any specific queries, pleasecontact:
The Planning Service duty planner at:
Planning Reception
Barnet House, 2nd Floor
1255 High Road, Whetstone N20 0EJ
Tel: 020 8359 3000
Fax: 0870 889 6818
Email: planning.enquiry@barnet.gov.uk

Listed Building and Conservation Area enquiries:
Urban Design and Heritage Team
Tel: 020 8359 3000
Fax: 0870 889 6818
Email: planning.enquiry@barnet.gov.uk

Building Regulation enquiries:
Building Regulation Service
Tel: 020 8359 4500
Fax: 0870 889 7462
Email: building.control@barnet.gov.uk
For a comprehensive source of information concerning planning and building control matters please
visit the council‟s planning pages online www.barnet.gov.uk or Government‟s planning portal
website at www.planningportal.gov.uk

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Copies of this document can be viewed at any Barnet library and at the planning reception which islocated atBarnet House 2nd floor
1255 High Road,
Whetstone
London N20 0EJ
The reception is open Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Contact details
Strategic Planning, Barnet House 2nd floor, 1255 High Road
London N20 0EJ
Or email:forward.planning@barnet.gov.uk
Or contact us on: 0208-359-4990

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