Concept statement Protocol
Purpose
1. A statement of the preferred design approach to development based on site
analysis, local context, market demands and urban design principles.
2. The core element of a planning brief and the basis for more detailed guidance
and development options.
3. Provides an integrated land use, access, and built form structure that should
underlie development proposals.
4. Demonstrates how development aspirations can be reconciled with site specific
constraints.
5. Illustration of options for how the concept might be realised, including
comparisons and examples.
Format
Diagrammatic plan and succinct statement of principles, normally on an A3 sheet or 2-4
sides of A4.
Criteria for use
Development sites identified in Policy DS4 of the Replacement St Edmundsbury
Borough Local Plan
All other major development sites where the principle of development is
acceptable.
Sites which demand a design strategy view because of their relationship to
other sites or activities.
Other sites for which there have been applications or enquiries based on an
inappropriate conceptual approach.
Who produces it?
Borough Council planning officers or consultants employed by the Council.
Status
Informal, without prejudice to the determination of planning applications, a product of
stakeholder and community involvement. It should of necessity, remain open to
discussion as design work shows what is or is not possible.
Production process
Site and context survey, information gathered quickly from Council services and
local representatives.
Statement produced in consultation with relevant council officers, elected
members and the landowner/developer.
