B3.2.4 Building line

A building line is the position of a building’s main façade in relation to the street or public realm. It defines the edge between public and private space and contributes to the rhythm and enclosure of the street.

Where a street has an established and consistent building line, as identified through the Local Character and Context Assessment (1.3c, and where applicable 1.4g), any new infill development must respect and align with it. This approach helps maintain a coherent streetscape, reinforcing the rhythm, character, and visual continuity of the area.

Exceptions:

•  a departure from the building line may be appropriate where a proposed building is intended to serve as a local landmark or focal point. In such cases, a setback or projection may be used intentionally to create visual emphasis, provided it is carefully designed to complement the surrounding context

• it may also be appropriate to step back from the prevailing building line where the aim is to introduce a small civic or public space (such as a pocket park, plaza, or seating area)

New major developments must establish a clear and purposeful building line strategy for each applicable street type within ‘List 3: Street Hierarchy’ and illustrate this on the masterplan or within a Design and Access Statement (DAS). In addition, proposals must demonstrate the intended approach to defining key gateways, character areas and open spaces (as required).