New Forest National Park Authority have published a draft design guide – seeking comments from 10th September to 5pm on 22 October 2021. When adopted, it will constitute Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPD) and be a material planning consideration on relevant planning applications. It supplements the policies in the New Forest National Park Local Plan (adopted August 2019).
Alan Davies, Associate Director at Chapman Lily explained “As would be expected for an area that is designated as National Park, it is very detailed and gives helpful guidance on all levels of development – not just referring to new dwellings, but covers commercial development such as shop fronts and signage. It acknowledges the fact that if used carefully, contemporary materials and technologies can be used effectively to improve a buildings energy efficiency while also sitting comfortably alongside traditional buildings in the landscape”.