Consultation now closed: final version of the Elmbridge Design Code

This consultation is now closed. Thank you to everyone who took part.

Our five week residents’ consultation to support the final version of the Elmbridge Design Code is closing soon.

The Design Code is a set of simple, concise, design requirements which set principles for new development in an area. It will support the implementation of the existing Local Plan policies relating to design matters in Elmbridge.

We have been engaging with residents since the initial stages of preparation of the Design Code in January 2022. Its creation and content have been informed by discussions with our community.

Through Commonplace, you have the chance to let us know if you think we have taken your previous comments on board in the right way.

If you would like to talk to us face-to-face, you can drop by the Civic Centre in Esher on the following dates and times:

• Monday 9 October: 16.00 - 18.30
• Tuesday 10 October: 13.00 - 15.00

Your priorities contained with the draft Design Code

During the engagement events you told us, among other things, that improvements to cycling and walking infrastructure would incentivise active travel. Although the responsibility to create such infrastructure lies with Surrey County Council as the County Highway Authority, we have included numerous design guidance points in the draft Design Code.

You told us that provision of parking in new developments is a priority. Parking standards for vehicles and cycles in terms of their numbers are set out in our Local Plan. However, how the parking layout is designed on development sites is considered as part of this Design Code. Both mandatory and advisory design parameters for cycle parking are included in the draft Design Code.

Additionally, you told us that urban greening and street trees in new and existing spaces are important to you, highlighting the importance of access to local green spaces that greatly contribute to Elmbridge’s identity. The draft Design Code includes mandatory requirements as well as set of guidance principles relating to these issues.

There are other community priorities that have been developed within the draft Design Code for Elmbridge.

Councillor Robin Stephens, Portfolio Holder for Planning, Enterprise and Local Economy, is encouraging residents to get involved in this final engagement on the Elmbridge Design Code:

"Having a strong Design Code for Elmbridge is important in helping to shape the future of our borough, from building height to residential extensions to cycle parking and trees and green spaces, the Design Code will contribute to design principles for years to come.

"From January 2022, we have been in Farmers Markets and community halls talking to our residents about the Design Code and what is important to them. We have taken those views and brought them together in this proposed Design Code.

"I would encourage all residents to get involved in this Design Code consultation either online or drop-in to one of the face -to face sessions at the Civic Centre."

The Design Code consultation is now open and will be available until 11.59pm on 5 November. You can access the online survey and find out more information at Design code.