A Design and Access Statement (DAS) is a brief report that can accompany a UK planning application. This serves only to illustrate the rationale behind its design, and how people will be able to approach that place in a safe fashion and use it comfortably.
This isn’t just some polished brochure. A DAS is a simple, in natural-language solution to help planning officers understand why the proposal looks like it does.
The basics usually listed in a Design and Access Statement are as follows:
The location and surroundings: existing and future
How the space tells a story: layouts, dimensions and finishes of external public space materials and landscaping
How it relates to the site: neighbours, streetscape, texture of the city/ privacy
Means of entry (doors), wayfinding, access/egress, parking provision space layout and usage, along with DDA & Equality Act compliance. For advice from a Monmouth Architect, contact //www.hillsandcompany.co.uk
When do you need one?
You do not need to use a DAS for every project. If it is a household application (eg simple extension to one house), you may not require it.
You will need one of these for:
Major developments
Applications in conservation areas
Listed building-related work
For changes of use or schemes that are bigger
Requirements can differ among local authorities so it is worth checking your council’s planning validation list.
Why it’s worth doing well
A good DAS can save time for both parties, give them confidence that you understand the local environment and planning policy context – making your development easier to appraise.
If you are unsure, an architect can confirm whether this is necessary and will be able to prepare it alongside your drawings.