B3.2.2 Block size

Modern urban design principles recommend block widths of 80 metres to 90 metres to support a walkable and pedestrian-friendly environment.

To allow for variation across the Wakefield District and to ensure developments respond appropriately to local context, block dimensions should fall within a minimum of 40 metres and a maximum of 120 metres per side. This range provides flexibility while promoting walkability, permeability, and a coherent urban form.

Exception: It may be acceptable for some major employment sites to incorporate larger block dimensions to accommodate the required building sizes for technical requirements.

To maintain the character of the surrounding urban grain, development proposals should reflect the typical block sizes found in the local context. Applicants should take reference from the Local Character and Context Assessment (1.3c, and where applicable 1.4g) to determine suitable block dimensions and ensure proposals integrate sensitively with their surroundings.

Exception: Some existing blocks may be historically larger than would be considered appropriate by modern urban design principles. In these cases, it is acceptable to subdivide larger blocks thoughtfully to better align with the standards set out in 3.19g and to improve connectivity and walkability.