Appendix 4: What good looks like: Area Types

Contents

4.1 Introduction

This appendix is all about bringing the Design Code to life. Here, you will find modern built examples and best practice case studies (located within the Wakefield District or Northern England), which show how the codes and guidance within this document can be used to achieve high quality design across our district.

Each case study within this appendix gives a clear picture of the types of development we are aiming for, whilst taking into consideration the right balance of density, character, and design quality.

The case studies are organised around the different Area Types set out in the Design Code. Four Area Types relate to different densities of new residential developments (measured in dwellings per hectare (dph)). The fifth Area Type relates to all employment developments. The five Area Types are:

Residential Area Types:

  • Highly Urban (80+ dph)

  • Urban (50+ dph)

  • Suburban (40+ dph)

  • Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph)

Employment Area Type:

  • Employment

By showing ‘what good looks like’ in practice, these examples make it easier to imagine how the codes and guidance can be applied through the design process.

They highlight the simple but important design choices that help to create well-designed, welcoming, and sustainable places for people to live and work.

More detail on the Area Types themselves, what they are and where they apply, can be found in section A3.4.2 in Part A of the Design Code.

Shows a map of the listed Area Types across the Wakefield District for residential densities and employment. The key included highlights residential areas dwellings per hectare (dph) which shows the listed Area Types as Urban at 50(dph) Suburban at 40(dph) and Outer suburbs and villages at 30(dph), with employment shown across the full district.

Figure 216: Shows a map of the listed Area Types across the Wakefield District

4.2 What good looks like - Highly Urban (80+ dph)

In accordance with national policy to make the best use of land, the Council supports development at the Highly Urban residential density where appropriate, as long as it does not conflict with other development plan policies.

3-D model sketch showing a highly urban neighbourhood comprised of terraced houses, mews and apartment blocks, with a density of 80+ dwellings per hectare. Includes a plan layout of the 3-D model view and a 'zoom in' of a part of the sketch showing balconies, parking and street trees with green planting. Numbered annotations from 1 to 6 are associated with text in section 4.6.1 which provides additional details on key design considerations.

Figure 217: Illustrates an annotated sketch and associated Site Plan which highlight what good looks like for the Highly Urban (80+ dph) Area Type via six key design principles

4.2.1 Key design principles and considerations for the Highly Urban (80+ dph) Area Type

The design principles below highlight six key design considerations which have been illustrated in Figure 217 as follows:

  1. Creating ‘gentle density’: Utilising a mixture of housing typologies (including town houses and small to medium footprint apartment blocks) helps to increase density in a context-sensitive and human-scaled way, whilst achieving best use of land.

  2. Prioritising active frontages: Every dwelling has a defined entrance to activate street-facing elevations. Fenestration and architectural detailing can also enhance gables. Larger apartment blocks incorporate mixed-use active ground floor uses such as retail, leisure, cafés, restaurants, or commercial spaces.

  3. Green and welcoming streets and spaces: Street trees and planting help to soften the streetscape. Small public spaces are well-lit, well-overlooked, and offer places to rest for all users. Street layouts frame views of public spaces, landscapes, or landmarks to support intuitive wayfinding.

  4. Sensitive parking solutions: A range of well-designed parking options which include on-plot, on-street, and basement parking are successful when integrated into the design with planting and street trees to avoid visual dominance by cars.

  5. Integrated waste management and cycle storage: Bin storage is successful when well-screened, well-located, and easily accessible for collection, whether on-plot or in a communal store. It is important for this to be considered early in the design process.

  6. Permeable blocks for pedestrians and cyclists: Safe, attractive, and accessible routes promote active travel opportunities and enhance connectivity.

Two blocks of modern three storey terraced housing of alternative white and grey colours with two walkways between the blocks and low level planting including bushes between the walkways.

Figure 218: Shows townhouses in the Climate Innovation District, Leeds, that provide dense city centre living, whilst only 3 storeys in height

Row of terraced three storey dwellings on the right hand side of the image with the row going into the distance. The dwellings are clad in grey material and have small balconies at first floor level with small gardens containing low level bushes to separate the dwellings from the adjacent tarmac pavement.

Figure 219: Shows how each home havingits own front door creates a good sense of overlooking in New Islington, Manchester

Five storey apartment block clad in white with black balconies on all but the ground floor. The apartment block is on the left hand side with a wide concrete canal towpath on adjacent and then a canal with a barge shown.

Figure 220: Demonstrates how an increase in building heights in strategic locations (such as along a waterfront as shown here in New Islington) can help to achieve higher densities

4.2.2 Highly Urban (80+ dph) case study 1: New Islington, Manchester

New Islington is a mixed-use neighbourhood on the edge of Manchester City Centre. It offers a variety of modern apartments and townhouses, many set along the canal, alongside commercial units for shops, cafés, restaurants and workspaces. The development is anchored by high-quality public spaces, facilities, and green areas, which provide places for recreation and social activity. A new bus route and tram stop were also provided as part of the public transport improvements for the local area, helping to create a more resilient and sustainable community.

Key information:

  • density ranges from 60 to 150 dph

  • developer / landowner: Urban Splash (lead), and Manchester City Council

To the left hand side there are three storey dwellings clad in grey material with small balconies at first floor level with small gardens containing low level bushes to separate the dwellings from the adjacent tarmac pavement and towpath. There is a canal in the centre of the image with a further small towpath and eight storey brick building to the right hand side of the canal.

Figure 221: Shows a mixture of modular townhouses and apartments facing onto newly created public realm and pedestrian routes alongside the canal which link to the city centre and nearby public transport

Black metal gate securing a residential parking area to serve apartments which are shown on the left hand side of the image. There is a tarmac road and there are cars parked in the secure parking area with the side of the cars visible.

Figure 222: Shows that the design includes secure shared parking courts, integrated into the layout to reduce car dominance

Three storey dwellings clad in grey material with small balconies at first floor level with parking bays in front of the dwellings separated by low level hedgerows with some trees.

Figure 223: Demonstrates how homes are arranged to maximise views, daylight and privacy with screened on-plot parking integrated into the design

4.2.3 Highly Urban (80+ dph) case study 2: Climate Innovation District, Leeds

The Climate Innovation District in Leeds is a pioneering sustainable neighbourhood on the banks of the River Aire close to Leeds City Centre. It brings together low-carbon homes set amongst green and welcoming spaces and high-quality public realm. Citu homes consist of eco-friendly features (such as sustainable integrated drainage systems, solar panels, green roofs and surfaces, specialist mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems and cycle storage provision), with walking routes and cycle paths incorporated throughout the development.

Key information:

  • density ranges from approximately 125 to 130 dph

  • 1000 homes on a 10-hectare site expected to be built by 2031

  • developer/landowner: Citu Group LLP

Three storey dwelling shown at the top of some steps which have low level planting alongside them. The dwelling is dark grey on the ground floor with light grey cladding on the upper two storeys. There are windows and a door on the front of the dwelling with a Juliette balcony on the second storey.

Figure 224: Shows medium-density housing, with eco-friendly rainwater harvesting features at the front of these back-to-back properties

Newly planted tree and low level planting in the foreground with light coloured block paving shown as a path running into the background. Alongside the path are two blocks of terraced three storey dwellings with alternate cladding colours for each dwelling of red, light grey and dark grey.

Figure 225: Illustrates streets that are designed for pedestrians and cyclists, with safe, accessible routes, minimal car dominance and strong active frontages which provide enclosure and surveillance

Homes fronting along the River Aire with low level planting in the foreground with a row of three storey dwellings of alternating dark grey, white and light brown colours. A taller building is shown in the background.

Figure 226: Demonstrates green infrastructure (such as riverside parks, communal gardens and planted streetscapes), which help improve air quality, reduce urban heat and support biodiversity

4.3 What good looks like - Urban (50+ dph)

The Urban Area Type (where at least 50 dwellings per hectare are expected to be achieved) applies to Wakefield City Centre, Castleford and Pontefract Town Centres, and sites located within a 500-metre radius of rail and bus station public transport hubs.

3-D model sketch showing an urban neighbourhood comprised of terraced houses and mews, with a density of 50+ dwellings per hectare. Includes a plan layout of the 3-D model view and a 'zoom in' of a part of the sketch showing a central pocket park. Numbered annotations from 1 to 6 are associated with text in section 4.3.1 which provides additional details on key design considerations.

Figure 227: Illustrates an annotated sketch and associated Site Plan which highlight what good looks like for the Urban (50+ dph) Area Type via six key design principles  

4.3.1 Key design principles and considerations for the Urban (50+ dph) Area Type

The design principles below highlight six key design considerations which have been illustrated in Figure 227 as follows:

  1. Permeable blocks: Safe, attractive, and accessible pedestrian routes are provided to encourage walkability and improve connectivity.

  2. Well-defined boundaries: Whilst front boundaries aren’t always necessary in urban areas, boundary treatments can clearly distinguish public and private spaces. Metal railings, low walls, and low-level planting are suitable options.

  3. Shared outdoor spaces: In higher-density areas where private outdoor space is limited, communal outdoor areas are essential. Variations in building lines can help to shape these shared spaces within streets and blocks, giving a sense of enclosure and security.

  4. Integrated cycle storage and waste management: Discreetly screened bin and cycle storage maintains street quality, whilst remaining easily accessible, whether on-plot or communal. It is important for this to be considered early in the design process.

  5. Active façades: Window placement and architectural detailing avoid blank façades and ensure that buildings ‘turn corners’ to contribute to overlooking and street activation.

  6. Sensitive parking solutions:  Thoughtfully integrated parking minimises visual impact and car dominance. On-plot, on-street, and courtyard parking are successful when well-overlooked and screened with street trees, landscaping and appropriate boundary treatments.

Terraced block of two storey dwellings facing the front of the image each with two windows on the first floor and a window and door on the ground floor. Each has a hedgerow to separate their small front garden from the flagstone paving in the foreground.

Figure 228: Demonstrates well-defined boundaries which helps to distinguish public and private spaces in Timekeepers Square, Salford

Iron sculpture representing a sycamore seed sculpture which is shown on stone coloured planting with trees and a stone coloured three storey building beyond the sculpture and the top of a historic stone coloured church spire shown behind the three storey building.

Figure 229: Shows a well-overlooked public square that provides a place to gather, whilst also creating a pedestrian route in Timekeepers Square, Salford

The frontage of dwellings set out in a terrace with part dark brick and part red brick with integral wooden clad bin stored adjacent to the front doors of the dwellings.

Figure 230: Demonstrates active gables which contribute to overlooking and street activation in Gills Yard, Wakefield

4.3.2 Urban (50+ dph) case study 1: Timekeepers Square and Valette Square, Salford

This residential development forms part of a phased mixed-use masterplan for the regeneration of central Salford. Timekeepers Square and Valette Square are residential neighbourhoods which consist of terraced homes within the St Philip’s Conservation Area. Reinterpreting the Georgian terrace, they integrate sensitively with the historic streetscape, with landscaped public spaces focusing on the principle of framing views of St Philip’s Church, whilst providing a network of highly permeable routes.

Key information:

  • density ranges from 50 to 70 dph

  • 36 homes have been developed over 0.54 hectares in Timekeepers Square

  • a further 33 homes have also been developed over 0.58 hectares in Valette Square

  • developer/landowner: English Cities Fund

View of a stone paved civic square separated from the road in the foreground by metal posts. The square contains modern three storey buildings to the left hand side of the image alongside the civic square. The civic square contains raised planting areas including semi-mature trees with a historic clock tower visible above the trees in the background of the image.

Figure 231: Shows how development reinstates Salford’s historic street pattern, enhancing legibility and reinforcing the setting of the Grade II* listed St Philip’s Church as a focal point

Car parking bays shown in the foreground on a stone coloured block paved surface separated by low level planting and one central tree. The parking areas are separated from the brick built three storey dwelling the background by low level planting.

Figure 232: Demonstrates streets that are designed as home zones, prioritising pedestrians and play, with limited off-street parking integrated into courtyards

York paving stones shown with the path leading from the foreground into the distance. On the left hand side of the footpath is a raised planted area including a semi-mature tree and right hand side of the football is the wall of a new stone coloured dwelling with the ground floor and part of the first floor visible with hedgerows and metal black rail fencing between the dwelling and the footpath.

Figure 233: Shows how materials such as Yorkstone paving and metal railings reinforce the traditional character of the conservation area

4.3.3 Urban (50+ dph) case study 2: Gills Yard, Wakefield

Gills Yard is a new residential development consisting of contemporary mews homes in Wakefield’s historic Wood Street area. The homes feature private terraces and communal gardens, with brick in varying shades that complement the surrounding architecture. The design reactivates former backstreets, enhancing the character of the streetscape and repairing the urban grain.

Key information:

  • density ranges from 65 to 90 dph

  • 17 townhouses and 12 new mews houses which form part of a larger regeneration project

  • developer/landowner: Rushbond Development Limited

Partial birds eye view of the rear of dwellings set out in a terrace row with part dark brick and part red brick including a private footpath and shared gardens to the rear of the dwellings.

Figure 234: Demonstrates a modern interpretation of Wakefield’s traditional terraced homes. The rhythm of the roofline and the use of brick provides a contextual yet innovative approach (Image credit: Rushbond and Ravage Productions)

The frontage of dwellings set out in a terrace with part dark brick and part red brick with integral wooden clad bin stored adjacent to the front doors of the dwellings.

Figure 235: Shows how a strong building line and good sense of enclosure reinforces the development’s city centre location

Solar panels shown on top of new build terraced housing along the rear of a pitched roof which is south-facing. The solar panels have been sensitively integrated by utilising a brick division panel design between each homes individual roof section to help hide the panels from specific viewpoints along the street scene.

Figure 236: Shows how the use of a brick banding division between each home’s individual roof can help to sensitively screen and integrate PV panels within a heritage setting

4.4 What good looks like - Suburban (40+ dph)

The Suburban Area Type (where at least 40 dwellings per hectare is expected to be achieved) applies throughout the Wakefield, Castleford, and Pontefract Urban Areas, excluding areas which fall into the Urban Area Type.

3-D model sketch showing a suburban neighbourhood comprised of detached, semi-detached and terraced homes, with a density of 40+ dwellings per hectare. Includes a plan layout of the 3-D model view and a 'zoom in' of a part of the sketch showing an end of terrace detail highlighting active frontages. Numbered annotations from 1 to 6 are associated with text in section 4.4.1 which provides additional details on key design considerations.

Figure 237: Illustrates an annotated sketch and associated Site Plan which highlight what good looks like for the Suburban (40+ dph) Area Type via six key design principles

4.4.1 Key design principles and considerations for the Suburban (40+ dph) Area Type

The design principles below highlight six key design considerations which have been illustrated in Figure 237 as follows:

  1. Clear route hierarchy: From primary distributor roads to private drives, developments follow a clear street hierarchy to create legible and well-structured neighbourhoods. Varying design treatments of the street hierarchy help to further reinforce character.

  2. Integrated sustainable drainage systems: New developments incorporating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) use a layered, multifunctional approach that prioritises natural solutions over engineered ones.

  3. Space for leisure and growing: Outdoor space is essential for health and well-being. In suburban areas, private gardens can be large enough for growing, playing, and relaxing.

  4. Sensitive parking solutions: Thoughtfully integrated parking minimises visual impact and car dominance. On-plot, on-street, and courtyard parking are successful when well-overlooked, and screened with street trees, landscaping and appropriate boundary treatments.

  5. Well-defined plot boundaries: Boundary treatments offer privacy and comfort whilst maintaining community connections. Low brick or stone walls, railings, hedges, and mixed planting are all suitable options to achieve this.

  6. Dual aspect homes which provide appropriate overlooking: Homes designed to provide dual aspect views, ensure effective overlooking of streets and spaces, offering a level of security and safety via natural surveillance, whilst avoiding blank façades to aid with legibility and wayfinding.

Red brick, block paved area in the foreground as the main feature with a white two storey dwelling to the left hand side of the image and a block of four terraced two storey brick built dwellings in the background with a car parking on the driveway in front of one of the middle dwellings.

Figure 238: Demonstrates how different surface treatments highlight a change in street hierarchy in Curlew View, South Elmsall

View down towards a vista central block of terraced dwellings along a footpath with black metal fences separating the open space in front of the dwelling from the red brick block paved road in the foreground.

Figure 239: Shows outdoor space for health and well-being is provided throughout Navigation Point, Castleford

Three white wooden clad dwellings each with three storeys fronting on to a shared surface red brick block paved area and an grassed open space surrounded by wooden bollards.

Figure 240: Shows how parking provided to the side of the property ensures frontages are not visually dominated by hard-standing at Navigation Point, Castleford

4.4.2 Suburban (40+ dph) case study 1: Navigation Point, Castleford

Navigation Point is a suburban residential development along the River Aire and River Calder in Castleford. The development combines contemporary homes with private gardens, integrated balconies, and green spaces. Designed to maximise river views and encourage pedestrian-friendly streets, providing active travel connections and opportunities along the waterway.

Key information:

  • density ranges at approximately 45 dph

  • 279 homes over a 6-hectare site

  • developer/landowner: Greenhaven Homes Ltd.

A grassed open space in the foreground separated from the adjacent road by wooden bollards. In the background is a row of three storey detached dwellings each with a brick ground floor and two white wooden clad storeys.

Figure 241: Demonstrates how the development features distinctive façades with eccentric window placements and white finishes, creating a unique architectural identity and a strong built form enclosing a central green space

New residential dwellings with a three storey dwelling in the foreground which has a brick ground floor and white wooden clad second and third storeys including windows on the frontage and two Juliette balconies. The dwelling has a small garden separated from the red brick block paved road by a hedgerow including a tree and a black metal fence. There are two semi-detached dwellings and one detached dwelling in the background all of which are two storeys.

Figure 242: Shows that the site includes landscape buffers and views of surrounding plants and trees, enhancing biodiversity and promoting well-being

New housing which is raised above an adjacent canal and tarmac towpath. The raised areas are retained by brick walls with the three storey white wooden clad dwellings with balconies at first floor level overlooking the canal.

Figure 243: Shows homes that are positioned to take full advantage of uninterrupted views over the River Aire and River Calder, offering a strong visual and emotional connection to the water

4.4.3 Suburban (40+ dph) case study 2: Curlew View, South Elmsall

Curlew View in South Elmsall comprises a variety of contemporary homes that give the area a new and distinct character. The development includes well-overlooked green spaces and playgrounds, whilst its orientation and layout encourage a positive interaction with Frickley Country Park. The development also offers a variety of active travel routes that connect to the wider public right of way network, whilst capturing scenic views and creating a welcoming environment.

Key information:

  • density ranges at approximately 40 dph

  • 188 homes over a 4.66-hectare site

  • developer/landowner: Keepmoat Homes

Public open space surrounded by a black iron fence and with some newly planted trees. There is red brick block paving between the open space and dwellings to the left hand side. The dwellings are three storeys and rendered white with solar panels shown on the roof.

Figure 244: Shows how the layout encourages a sense of community, with homes overlooking shared green spaces and play areas

A natural open space which is not formally mown so has been left to nature with three houses to the background of the image which face onto the natural open space.

Figure 245: Demonstrates properties are within walking distance of Frickley Country Park, providing access to nature and recreational space

Dual aspect of a new dwelling with modern design including tall angular feature to the front of the property with a long window. The dwelling has white render with stone coloured dwellings shown in the background.

Figure 246: Shows how contemporary architecture creates a positive new character for the area whilst respecting the scale and layout of existing homes

4.5 What good looks like - Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph)

The Outer Suburbs and Villages Area Type (where at least 30 dwellings per hectare are expected to be achieved) applies to the remaining areas of the district. This includes other Urban Areas, Local Service Centres, Villages, and the Green Belt.

3-D model sketch showing a village or outer suburban setting comprised of detached, semi-detached and terraced homes, with a density of 30+ dwellings per hectare. Includes a plan layout of the 3-D model view and a 'zoom in' of a part of the sketch showing outward facing homes to create a positive outlook, and sensitive transition along the settlement edge. Numbered annotations from 1 to 6 are associated with text in section 4.5.1 which provides additional details on key design considerations.

Figure 247: Illustrates an annotated sketch and associated Site Plan which highlight what good looks like for the Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph) Area Type via six key design principles

4.5.1 Key design principles and considerations for the Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph) Area Type

The design principles below highlight six key design considerations which have been illustrated in Figure 247 as follows:

  1. Variation in plot size: Varying plot sizes helps to prevent uniform housing developments by reflecting local character, supporting mixed typologies, and encouraging flexibility and adaptation. Changes in plot size can also encourage a more organic built form through the variation in building orientation and a less formal building line.

  2. Green and welcoming streets with well-defined boundaries: Planted front gardens, hedgerows, verges, and street trees contribute to green, inviting streets. Street layouts terminate with views of surrounding landscapes to help aid legibility.

  3. A sensitive response to the settlement edge: Transitions to countryside and green spaces are carefully considered. Development reduces in density and massing, whilst becoming more loosely arranged near the edge, with outward-facing homes softened by locally appropriate planting or green buffers.

  4. Responsive infill development: New buildings on underused infill sites reflect local character and reinforce existing street patterns, scale, rhythm, and materials.

  5. Connection to the countryside: Existing networks and routes are enhanced, with new routes created to help create a permeable development edge.

  6.  Views oriented towards local landscapes: Streets are designed to orient views toward local landscapes, enhancing legibility and sense of place.

Three dwellings in a line shown with the closest one to the photographer being a stone coloured property in the foreground with the others further away being brick built. All have front grassed gardens with a driveway between the first two dwellings shown.

Figure 248: Shows how variation in plot size, shape and building line creates a characterful development in Wild Orchid Way, Pontefract

Mature tree shown within the centre of a grassed area of open space within a new housing development. There are benches around the base of the tree and new brick build dwellings in the background.

Figure 249: Demonstrates views oriented towards local landscapes including a retained mature tree in Wild Orchid Way, Pontefract

Traditional stone dwellings shown on the left hand side along a single carriageway road separated by a hedgerow and grassed area from new stone coloured dwellings to the right hand side to demonstrate how new development can respond to existing character.

Figure 250: Shows how new development (right) responds to local character (left) in Church Fields, Boston Spa (Image credit: Historic England)

4.5.2 Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph) case study 1: Wild Orchid Way, Pontefract

Wild Orchid Way in Pontefract provides a spacious neighbourhood with a mixture of homes, designed in a traditional architectural style. The development includes generous green spaces, and its layout promotes a sense of openness which encourages connections between homes and local communal spaces.

Key information:

  • density ranges at approximately 31 dph

  • 204 homes over an 8.91-hectare site

  • developer/landowner: Barratt and David Wilson Homes Ltd.

Mature tree shown in the centre of public open space within a new housing development. Houses are shown to three sides of the open space with a footpath running to the right hand side of the image.

Figure 251: Shows houses overlook a generous green space containing a retained mature tree at its core.

Brick build dwellings with a larger 4 bedroom sized dwelling in the foreground to the right hand side and others along the same row shown but further into the distance. There is a red brick block paved area in the foreground and the dwellings have small gardens approximately 1 metre in depth with low level bush planting.

Figure 252: Shows houses that are built in a traditional style with the larger plot sizes accommodating detached and semi-detached homes

A natural open space which is not formally mown so has been left to nature with three houses to the background of the image which face onto the natural open space.

Figure 253: Demonstrates how the positioning of homes takes advantage of the area’s proximity to open countryside

4.5.3 Outer Suburbs and Villages (30+ dph) case study 2: Church Fields, Boston Spa

Church Fields is a residential extension on the edge of a historic village located in Boston Spa, Yorkshire. This residential development features re-interpreted traditional stone-built homes that respect the village’s historic character and Conservation Area. Generous green spaces and retained mature trees enhance the sites setting, whilst the layout maintains strong connections with the adjacent River Wharfe and views towards the Grade II listed St Mary’s Church.

Key information:

  • density ranges at approximately 31 dph

  • 153 homes over an 8-hectare site

  • developer/landowner: Taylor Wimpey

A range of two and three storey stone coloured dwellings are shown in a row going into the distance. These have chimneys and some have dormer windows. There is a small part of a dark block paved road in the foreground and then an area of open space between the road and the dwellings with two people walking a dog on the grassed area.

Figure 254: Shows houses facing onto shared green spaces, creating a sense of enclosure and natural surveillance that supports a safe and welcoming community (Image credit: Historic England)

New stone coloured semi detached dwelling viewed from the front. The frontage contained 3 upper floor windows, one ground floor window and a door for each of the two dwellings. The dwellings have a front garden bounded by hedgerows and a grassed area of open space in the foreground.

Figure 255: Demonstrates how traditional materials, roof forms, and architectural styles reflect and enhance the character of the village’s heritage (Image credit: Historic England)

A range of three storey stone coloured dwellings are shown in a row doing into the distance. Theses have chimneys and there is open space between them. There is a road and grassed area in the foreground.

Figure 256: An example of how a mixture of house types, set-backs, and rooflines prevents monotony and brings variety and interest to the streetscape (Image credit: Historic England)

New dwellings at Boston Spa showing the dual aspect of an end of terrace three storey stone coloured dwelling with chimney. Open space and a footpath are shown in the foreground.

Figure 257: Shows a well-considered corner treatment, including the sensitive use of bay windows and careful handling of side gables, to avoid blank walls and add visual interest (Image credit: Historic England)

4.6 What good looks like – Employment

The Employment Area Type applies to all scales of employment development across the district.

3-D model sketch showing an area of employment development comprised of a mixture of warehouse buildings and surrounding landscaping. Includes two 'zoomed in' detailed areas of the sketch, one shows an example of a sensitive step-up transition from residential to industrial development. The second detailed area shows a roadside Sustainable urban Drainage System (SuDS) detail. Numbered annotations from 1 to 6 are associated with text in section 4.6.2 which provides additional details on key design considerations.

Figure 258: Illustrates an annotated sketch which highlights what good looks like for the Employment Area Type via six key design principles

4.6.1 Key design principles and considerations for the Employment Area Type

The design principles below highlight six key design considerations which have been illustrated in Figure 258 as follows:

  1. Attractive outdoor amenity spaces: Amenity areas that are easily accessible from building entrances offer employees and visitors a welcoming place to rest and recharge.

  2. Active and attractive frontages with articulated façades: Architectural detailing, integrated landscaping, or public art included in employment buildings enhance visual interest, aid with legibility and avoid long blank elevations.

  3. Active travel routes: Employment sites are successful when well-connected with safe, accessible footpaths, cycle paths, and recreational routes. These can also support informal exercise opportunities and employee health and well-being.

  4. A sensitive transition between different uses: In areas of transition (such as where residential and employment uses meet), carefully placed and oriented large buildings create a gradual shift in height and massing to avoid overbearing effects.

  5. Well considered parking and service areas: Thoughtfully placed and designed parking and service yards, or zones including soft landscaping and tree planting, help to further reduce visual impacts and urban heating effects.

  6. ‘Soft’ boundaries and SuDS-integrated landscape buffers: Landscape buffers incorporating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) maximise opportunities to enhance green spaces, habitats, wildlife and water quality, whilst reducing flood risk.

Paved junction area with a view towards an office building surrounded by trees and planting, with parking areas and footpaths.

Figure 259: Shows parking areas that are screened and interspersed with planting at Calder Park, Wakefield

A large green living wall consisting of varying planting on a large industrial building, framed with multiple timber panels, a glazed horizontal feature sits above and a curved metal roof.

Figure 260: Shows Leeds Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility, where Europe’s largest living wall provides ecological benefits and softens the building’s visual impact

Tree planting along a paved shared public cycle/footpath showing multiple 2-storey red-brick office buildings in the background with parking and further planting along their frontage, with a drainage feature in the centre dividing the public realm and employment area.

Figure 261: An example of landscape buffers which include swales in Calder Park, Wakefield

4.6.2 Employment case study 1: Calder Park, Wakefield

Calder Park is a high-quality business park located to the south of Wakefield City Centre offering a lower-density alternative to other regional business parks. Landscaped grounds, retained trees and SuDS integrate with well-connected pedestrian and cycle routes, support sustainable commuting, and increase ecological value. Buildings are thoughtfully positioned and screened by trees and planting, with modular designs creating an attractive, well-integrated environment for high-quality businesses.

Key information:

  • set within 100 hectares

  • 40-hectare nature reserve

  • over 70 occupiers

View of a 3-storey office building consisting of black and grey cladding material, with large glass feature panels on the key corner frontage towards the street. Parking and planting are located at the front of the building with trees and hedgerows.

Figure 262: Demonstrates how a lower development density than other business parks in the region allows for the preservation of open space and ecological value

A large grey panelled warehouse with a large corner window overlooking the street. The street has tree planting and street lighting, with low-level boundary features and a pedestrian desire line is visible along the front of the building via a dirt track along the grass.

Figure 263: Shows buildings are screened by trees and thoughtful planting which help to embed them within the landscape

Wide tarmac road to the right hand side with a grass verge separating the traffic from pedestrians and tree lined green space to the left hand side.

Figure 264: Demonstrates how pedestrian footpaths are separated from the carriageway by generous grass verges encouraging walkability

4.6.3 Employment case study 2: Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility, Leeds

The Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility in Leeds features a striking design inspired by World War One (WWI) airship hangars, giving it a distinctive silhouette that contributes to Leeds city skyline. The site includes landscaped areas, dedicated pedestrian and cycle routes, EV charging points and bike storage. Modular construction methods reduced environmental impact and improved safety during the installation.

Key information:

  • 42m high / 123m long

  • 1,800m² vertical living wall

  • architect: S’PACE Architecture

A large industrial building with curved metal roofline with the front of the building being glass fronted. The building is shown with a dual carriageway and traffic lights in the foreground.

Figure 265: Demonstrates how the facility’s design, inspired by WWI airship hangars, creates a distinctive silhouette that enhances Leeds’ skyline and identity

Zoomed in view of a curved metal roof panel and high-level glazing features and solar panels.

Figure 266: Shows solar panels that are designed into the structure emphasising the building’s sustainable credentials

A large industrial building with curved metal roofline including a green living wall forming the right hand side of the building. The front of the building is glass fronted.

Figure 267: Illustrates how the facility achieved “Excellent” ratings under Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), reflecting its high standards in environmental performance

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