B3.1.4 Integrating neighbourhood infrastructure into open space

Requirements for energy, water and drainage infrastructure must be embedded into the site layout from the earliest stages of the design process. Development proposals must demonstrate how the requirements and placement of infrastructure (such as the maintenance and access of SuDS, power provisions, including substations, pumping stations and similar utility buildings) have been integrated into the proposed layout and must not be left as an afterthought.

Proposed above ground infrastructure (like substations and pumping stations) must be carefully located and designed to avoid key corners, vistas, primary sight-lines, and areas of open space. They must be well screened using high quality landscaping and boundary detailing (such as attractive railings) to minimise visual impact and, where possible, contribute positively to the overall character and biodiversity of the development.

The strategic requirements for block-level infrastructure (such as communications access chambers, service strips and delivery points) must be identified and integrated from the earliest stages of concept development. This integration must continue throughout the design process, demonstrating how utilities, landscaping and public realm work together seamlessly.

For service strips, proposals must address the:

• required width of the strip

• depth of services and tolerances for any planting above or around them

• permissible deviation to enable integration of on-street tree planting

For junction boxes and other access chambers, proposals must demonstrate:

• the required size, based on calculated voltage

• access requirements for maintenance and operation

• appropriate screening to reduce visual impact, which is low-maintenance and designed to avoid creating blind spots or compromising public safety. Where feasible, prioritising the use of planting

Applicants are strongly encouraged to work closely with utilities providers, highways engineers and landscape designers early on to ensure positive coordination and integration of these elements within development proposals.

The spatial and access requirements for public realm infrastructure must be planned and integrated from the outset to support resilient streetscapes and the coordination of green, grey and blue infrastructure. Proposals must demonstrate how service strips and utility chambers have been designed to integrate with street planting, drainage and surface treatments.

For service strips proposals must ensure that:

• tree planting and utilities are carefully coordinated, ensuring services are routed and laid to prioritise healthy tree growth

• designs incorporate both hard and soft materials that can be easily lifted and replaced without compromising quality, contributing holistically to character and function of the street

For access chambers proposals must ensure that:

• they are set back from the footway to minimise obstruction

• the perimeter (whether fencing or casing) is screened on three sides to a managed height that effectively conceals the box from view

• they are not located in prominent or highly visible areas