Design Access statements

• Demonstrates Thoughtful Design: A DAS is an opportunity to show that the design of the proposed development has been carefully considered. It demonstrates how the project respects and integrates with its surrounding environment, community, and culture.

• Addresses Accessibility: One of the key components of a DAS is to ensure that the design accommodates everyone, including people with disabilities. It explains how accessibility has been integrated into the design of the building, including entrances, circulation, and facilities for people with mobility challenges.

• Helps Planning Authorities Make Informed Decisions: A well-prepared DAS enables local authorities to understand the rationale behind the design and how it meets planning policies and guidelines. This improves the likelihood of your application being approved.

• Legal Requirement for Certain Projects: In many jurisdictions, including the UK, a DAS is a mandatory requirement for certain types of planning applications, especially for larger projects, listed buildings, or developments in conservation areas.

A comprehensive DAS should include the following key elements:

1. Design Principles and Concepts: This section should explain the overall design concept of the proposed development, addressing the design decisions regarding the building’s form, layout, materials, and architectural style. It should also explain how the design has considered the local context, including the impact on neighboring properties, the streetscape, and the community.

2. Use of the Building or Space: The DAS should outline how the proposed development will be used, including details on the purpose of the building or space and how it will function within its surrounding context. This section helps demonstrate the practicality of the design.

3. Amount, Scale, and Layout: This section should provide details about the size, massing, and layout of the development. It should explain how the scale of the project fits within the surrounding area and how it addresses any potential concerns related to density, height, and overall impact.

4. Landscaping and External Spaces: If applicable, the DAS should include a discussion of how the external areas of the site, such as gardens, courtyards, or public spaces, have been designed. This section should show how the landscaping contributes to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the site.

5. Access and Accessibility: A critical component of a DAS, this section explains how the design ensures access for all people, including those with disabilities. It covers details on vehicle access, pedestrian routes, parking facilities, and any special provisions to ensure accessibility throughout the site and building.

6. Sustainability: The DAS should outline how the design incorporates sustainable practices. This might include energy-efficient building materials, water conservation measures, waste management strategies, and efforts to reduce the overall environmental impact of the development.

7. Safety and Security: The statement should explain how the design addresses safety and security concerns, such as lighting, surveillance, and natural surveillance through design (e.g., clear sightlines to reduce opportunities for crime).

A DAS is required for most planning applications in certain circumstances, particularly for:

• Major Developments: For large-scale projects, including residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
• Listed Buildings: Any project that involves a listed building or structure will require a DAS to show how the design respects the historic value of the building while meeting modern requirements.
• Conservation Areas: If a development is located in a conservation area, a DAS will demonstrate how the design responds to and complements the local character and heritage.
• Change of Use Applications: When changing the use of a building (for example, from residential to commercial), a DAS will help explain how the design and access provisions support the new use.

In the UK, a DAS is required under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 for certain applications, though smaller developments or minor alterations may not require one.

• Streamlined Approval Process: A clear and thorough DAS increases the likelihood of your application being approved, as it shows that you have considered important factors and are complying with planning policies.

• Informed Stakeholders: A DAS allows stakeholders (such as neighbors, local authorities, and community groups) to understand the rationale behind your design decisions. This can be especially helpful in areas where public consultation is required.

• Improved Design Quality: The process of preparing a DAS forces the designer and developer to carefully consider accessibility, sustainability, and integration with the local environment, leading to a better-designed project.

• Compliance with Legislation: For projects involving listed buildings or located in sensitive areas like conservation zones, the DAS ensures compliance with the relevant heritage and conservation policies.