B5.4.3 Overlooking and privacy

Code: 5.31c

The requirements for privacy and effective overlooking to create safe and secure streets and spaces must be carefully balanced and must respond to the area’s density and character taking reference from the Local Character and Context Assessment (1.3c, andwhere applicable 1.4g).

Proposals must demonstrate within layout plans and/or a Design and Access Statement (DAS) or a Planning Statement that considerations of privacy and overlooking are integrated from the earliest design stages and ensure that these principles are upheld through to the approval of reserved matters or detailed planning.

Guidance: 5.32g

For buildings taller than two storeys, windows on upper floors should be carefully positioned to protect the privacy of neighbouring properties. This includes minimising direct sightlines into nearby homes or other sensitive spaces. Additional design measures such as angled window placements, high-level or obscured glazing, and stepped or set-back façades should be considered to reduce overlooking and maintain residential amenity.

Stone built two and three storey dwellings where the windows are carefully position to avoid directly viewing into other properties to reduce overlooking

Figure 153: Shows carefully positioned windows in a new development in Newmillardam, Wakefield. These avoid direct sightlines, and buildings are also set back to reduce overlooking (Guidance: 5.32g)