Design and Townscape Guide - Refresh 2009 (Consultation Draft)

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight

Overall I would like to say that this is excellent document and the revisions that have been made add a lot of value however I have made a few suggested comments sorry for the delay in coming back to you:

Update of introduction in light of recently adopted policy and guidance - no comment
Cross links to the Core Strategy, East of England Regional Spatial Strategy and saved Borough Local Plan Policies - no comment
Improved guidance on
Scale, Height and Massing - could include a recognition that within streets there may be a character within individual street block ie chalkwell esplanade or a characteristic row of properties in a street ie where there is a run of bungalows in a street that is predominantly 2 storey semis.
Sustainable Development and Design - I could not see any where where it is emphasised that these options should be incorporated into the design and not left to be a condition, reference could be made to the local list and that this could be a reason to invalidate the application
The Historic Environment - no comments
Amenity Space - amenity decks and roof terraces - mention a common design solution to prevent overlooking from roof terraces is to set the boundary in from the edge of the roof which removes the need for unsightly obscure panels whilst retaining views of the townscape - the prevention of overlooking can effectively be shown using cross sections
Backland and Infill Development - no comments
Tall Buildings - could maybe add a comment about what you said at the 22 the Leas meeting about have the odd building in strategic locations breaking though the general height of buildings, direct reference could be made to the tall building locations identified within the Central Area Master Plan
Pavement Cafes - no comments
Space Standards including Lifetime Home Standards - this does not go so far as to state a standard for flat sizes (not room sizes) which I thought we were heading towards, maybe we could just adopt those as our standard, I know it is a common thought that the market should determine appropriate sizes however surely we could link the flat sizes to the delivery of a range of accommodation sizes which were identified in the background information that fed into the core strategy
How to Submit an Application - reference that the council's local lists provide further information as to when additional supporting documentation is required which can be found on the council's web site
2.3.2.1 Overshadowing - I think we need to make a commitment to a shadowing school of thought ie P J Littlefair's 'Site layout planning for daylight and sunlight a guide to good practice' as a method that the authority agrees to (this was the guy who came in to do the talk and is nationally renowned in this field)
2.3.4.5 Public Art - I think the word typically is not strong enough for the 1% contribution, it should be more like a 1% contribution will be required unless otherwise agreed with the Council
2.3.5.4 Conversions - houses into flats - Viv may want to look at strengthening this up as I think there is a general push to stop this outside of town centre areas, maybe can be achieved by referencing the Core Strategy
2.3.2.2 Overlooking and privacy - cross sections can be an effective tool to demonstrate overlooking is not possible the Council uses a height of 1.7 metres for eye lines
5.3.8 beach huts - roller shutters are not acceptable in any circumstance even where there is repeat vandalism. When I contacted a number of other authorities with beach huts they do not allow roller shutters as they look like garages. In speaking with colleges in building control they are satisfied that using better hinges and locks on the doors will be just as effective. Staining of beach huts is unacceptable and was accidently included in the first version of the design and townscape guide and should now be omitted. The colour of the beach huts must be vibrant pastels going further than just 'will be welcomed'. I know there are a lot of examples of pretty poor design including roller shutters and staining however over time as these are replaced (generally every 10-15 years) it will be possible to really improve there appearance.
4.5 conservation areas - I could not see it but did we mention about the window grants scheme the council offers - there should be a paragraph stating "Traditional windows are essential to the character of historic buildings and conservation areas. Many need repairing; others have been replaced by inappropriate designs. Window Grants are, therefore, available to help repair and reinstate traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Window Grants provide 40% of the cost of repairing and reinstating traditional windows in Conservation Areas. Grants are up to £500 per property and are restricted to traditional windows facing the street which contribute to the area's character. Grants are discretionary and will depend on funds being available when an application is made. Grant application forms are available from Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council telephone 01702 215004 or can be downloaded from this page. Estimates from two contractors based on the same specification must be enclosed with the application. The offer of a grant is discretionary and will be subject to acceptable estimates and to funds being available. A grant cannot be offered for work that has already been started or carried out. If a grant is offered, it will be in writing and will be subject to appropriate conditions. Subject to agreement, work may be deferred for up to a year following a grant offer. Payment of a grant will normally be made after the work has been completed satisfactorily and receipted invoices have been submitted. Interim payments for larger projects may be made in some instances. Consent under planning legislation and the Building Regulations may be needed before work starts. The Council will advise and help you make any necessary application."
2.3.1.3 - internal arrangements and space standards - all habitable rooms 'must' not 'should' have natural ventilation and daylight