what criteria sets apply to my scheme?
This page helps applicants navigate their design criteria compliance obligations, in other words, it signposts the design restrictions that apply to schemes according to the size, type and impact of proposals. All schemes are required to comply with the Design Quality Framework Criteria as shown below.
Additionally, area-specific design criteria (NAWC) might also apply, and this will vary according to the site location.
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small retail and commercial schemes
New Streets Design Criteria (only if access, crossings or new streets are proposed as part of the works)
Major Residential and mixed use Schemes
A Major Scheme is a term used to refer to the provision of 10 or more dwellings, or a site with an area of 0.5 hectares or more where the proposed number of dwellings has not been specified.
MRS.1 Proposals involving 10 or more new dwellings
Nationally Described Space Standards
New Streets Design Criteria (only if access, crossings or new streets are proposed as part of the works)
Shopfront Design Criteria (only if the scheme includes retail or commercial space)
MRS.2 Design Review
Schemes might be required to be examined by an Independent Design Review Panel and Carbon Neutral Review Panel
Small Residential Schemes
Refers to the provision of less than 10 dwellings, or a site with an area of less than 0.5 hectares where the proposed number of dwellings has not been specified.
SRS.1 Permitted Development Rights allow improvement and extension of homes without the need to make a planning application within very specific conditions regarding the size and impact of the proposal.
SRS.3 Proposals involving 1 to 9 new dwellings
Carbon Neutral Guide for Home Owners
Nationally Described Space Standards
New Streets Design Criteria (only if access, crossings or new streets are proposed as part of the works)
SRS.4 Refurbishments and Repurposing Existing Buildings
For up to 10 dwellings, the clauses above apply (SRS.1, SRS.2 and SRS.3)
For 10 dwellings or more, see ‘Major Residential and mixed use Schemes’ on the left.
SRS.5 Residential Schemes with Retail or Commercial Uses
For up to 10 dwellings, the clauses above apply (SRS.1, SRS.2, SRS.3 and SRS.4)
For 10 dwellings or more, see ‘Major Residential and mixed use Schemes’ on the left.