Theme 5

Placemaking

Examples of where the Group has been engaged in placemaking activities

With all new development opportunities, Longhurst Group assesses the design of a scheme and how it will suit the needs of our customers and the community using the Building for Life 12 (BfL12) design tool. BfL12 is based on a traffic light system and aims to achieve as many ‘greens’ as possible. Where there are ‘reds’ or ‘ambers’ we’re able to challenge the design and introduce changes, unless restricted by planning policy or technical aspects of the site. The Development Strategy sets a minimum threshold target of nine out of 12 as a score for all new developments to achieve. The assessment is undertaken prior to formal approval being sought for a development. Two case studies of using the BfL12 tool can be found at Appendix 3 and Appendix 4.

Building for Life 12 (BfL12) design tool

Integrating into the neighbourhood

1 Connections

Does the scheme integrate into its surroundings by reinforcing existing connections and creating new ones, while also respecting existing buildings and land uses around the development site?

2 Facilities and services

Does the scheme integrate into its surroundings by reinforcing existing connections and creating new ones, while also respecting existing buildings and land uses around the development site?

3 Public transport

Does the scheme integrate into its surroundings by reinforcing existing connections and creating new ones, while also respecting existing buildings and land uses around the development site?

4 Meeting local housing requirements

Does the development have a mix of housing types and tenures that suit local requirements?

Creating a place

5 Character

Does the scheme create a place with a locally inspired or otherwise distinctive character?

6 Working with the site and its context

Does the scheme take advantage of existing topography, landscape features (including water courses), wildlife habitats, existing buildings, site orientation and microclimates?

7 Creating well defined streets and spaces

Are buildings designed and positioned with landscaping to define and enhance streets and spaces and are buildings designed to turn street corners well?

8 Easy to find your way around

Is the scheme designed to make it easy to find your way around?

Street and home

9 Streets for all

Are streets designed in a way that encourage low vehicle speeds and allow them to function as social spaces?

10 Car parking

Is resident and visitor parking sufficient and well-integrated so that it doesn’t dominate the street?

11 Public transport

Will public and private spaces be clearly defined and designed to be attractive, well managed and safe?

12 Public and private spaces

Is there adequate external storage space for bins and recycling as well as vehicles and cycles?