B3.4.1 Addressing the public realm

Code: C3.21

Buildings must address the street or public space (including green spaces) with a primary elevation, typically defined by the main entrance and fenestration. This approach helps to create an engaging streetscene and enable effective passive surveillance.

Exceptions:

  • Highly Urban Area Type (80+ dph): In high-density areas where multi-occupancy buildings are common, it is acceptable for the main entrance to be located on a secondary elevation, if active frontage is maintained on the street-facing side through other ground-floor uses that overlook the street or open space

  • Employment Area Type: In Employment Zones, Employment Sites, and Special Policy Areas, buildings must have their main primary elevation addressing the street. This may be achieved through ground-floor uses such as visitor parking, drop-off points, disabled bays, public transport facilities, or public spaces that serve multiple user groups and activities

An area of open space in the foreground with three times three storey dwellings in the background with design where the third storey is within the roof space.

Figure 80: Shows strong and positive frontage, with homes facing the street, Navigation Point, Castleford (Code: C3.21)

Mature tree shown with in 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 81: Shows homes positively addressing the open space with their primary elevations, Orchid Way, Pontefract (Code: C3.21)

Code: C3.22

Where privacy is a concern, defensible space (such as raised thresholds, low walls, or landscaped buffers) must be incorporated into the layout. It is important that defensible spaces are designed to maintain openness to the street or public realm whilst providing an appropriate degree of separation. The assumed primary viewing level for privacy considerations is from a standing position inside the ground floor of the property, with views from upper floors considered where relevant.