PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Be First Design Guidance: Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar
CONTENTS 02 Introduction 04 Design Vision 12 Design Objectives 34 Design Details
INTRODUCTION These guidelines set out Be First’s PURPOSE design ambition for the landscape and public realm across all new Be First The purpose of the guidelines is to developments. They were created in ensure that from the outset, the design collaboration with London Borough of of the landscape and public realm is a Barking and Dagenham (LBBD), Reside priority and remains so throughout the and My Place to ensure a high quality design and construction process so that public realm that is robust, functional it can then be maintained and managed and can be efficiently managed and to a high standard for years to come. maintained. They form part of a suite of guidance documents aimed at those It is paramount that a realistic budget who develop, design, construct and for the external works is established manage projects on behalf of Be First. and agreed at the outset of the design process and protected as the project There are many factors that affect and proceeds through design development, have an influence on the planning, design tender and construction. The budget and management of the public realm. must also include an appropriate sum There is now a greater emphasis on: to ensure that management and maintenance is also carried out to the ·· Housing growth and increasing highest possible standard. urban density In this way the landscape and public ·· Economic development realm will be effective, cherished and and inward investment nurtured for future generations. ·· Modal shift from vehicles to pedestrians ·· Public health, inclusion and well-being ·· Air quality and environmental pollution ·· Climate change and environmental resilience ·· Habitat fragmentation and biodiversity crisis 2
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES STRUCTURE COMPLIANCE The guide is divided into three sections. Be First’s schemes should be designed to meet these standards. It is a The first section explains the importance requirement that all stakeholders of high quality design and how Be First’s concerned in the planning, design, design vision and aims are fundamental delivery and management of Be First’s to their regeneration programme, developments clearly demonstrate addressing climate change, reducing that these guidelines are being carbon emissions and delivering new high followed and adopted. Where it is not quality neighbourhoods and communities. possible to meet all the guidelines it will be incumbent on the design The second section sets out a series of and construction teams to illustrate design objectives that should be used alternative approaches that still support to inform and guide design quality, its Be First’s design vision and aims. composition and characteristics. Be First will use this guide in assessing The third section sets out the design the quality and appropriateness of the detail and provides guidance on how design proposals brought forward for the various features are assembled and approval and construction. Similarly, integrated to ensure a well constructed it will form part of the criteria against and co-ordinated public realm. which projects will be reviewed by the London Borough of Barking and DESIGN Dagenham Quality Review Panel. PRINCIPLES These guidelines are not a substitute for Be First Design Guidance: statutory planning guidance and should Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar be read in conjunction with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), The PUBLIC REALM CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS BIM EIR National Design Guide (2019) and the GUIDELINES GUIDELINES REQUIREMENTS relevant GLA London Plan and LBBD Be First Design Guidance: Local Plan policies and supplementary Be First Design Guidance: Be First Design Guidance: Be First Design Guidance: Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar guidance. It is recommended that Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar Hearts and Minds, Bricks and Mortar reference to further advisory documents is made and these are listed at the end of the document. 3
Our ambition is to deliver new residential The landscape and public realm must neighbourhoods and communities be of a high quality and should respond that have a distinctive and attractive to the factors described in the landscape setting and integrated public introduction that have an increasing realm of the highest quality. We believe influence on the design of the public investing time and expertise in the realm. These include improving public design process is needed to establish a health and promoting more active clear design vision at the outset that lifestyles, adapting to a changing ensures value as well as quality. climate and enhancing biodiversity. A landscape architect should be The design vision for landscape and appointed at an early design stage to public realm design should achieve prepare a comprehensive landscape the following six aims that describe vision and public realm strategy in the purpose and outcomes for the conjunction with the architect, engineer, public realm: ecologist, arboriculturalist and other members of the design team. ·· Attractive and desirable ·· Responds to context We believe that collaborative team ·· Increases social and ecoomic value working is essential in delivering Be First’s ·· Promotes health and well-being vision and expect the landscape and ·· Resilient to a changing climate public realm design to have equal weight ·· Supports biodiversity and reduces carbon in the development process. 4
1.0 DESIGN VISION 5
DESIGN VISION 1.1 ATTRACTIVE AND DESIRABLE Be First believes it is important to invest of the project in tandem with the in high quality design, construction and architecture and site planning so as to management of the public realm. This make a positive contribution and deliver investment should deliver exemplar open a community asset that is attractive, spaces that delight, flourish, give pride to desirable and is well-used. those who visit, live, work and play in them. The landscape and public realm design should be considered at the outset 6
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1.2 RESPONDS TO CONTEXT Be First’s developments must be place influence character including an analysis specific, express local identity and of townscape, street patterns, heritage character and take account of relevant features, topography, views and character studies. materials. We expect the design approach to We want design teams to work demonstrate an understanding of the collaboratively with communities to context, appreciate what is there identify attributes of the place, which and develop a design response that are important to local people. is appropriate to that context. This should take account of factors that 7
DESIGN VISION 1.3 INCREASES SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC VALUE The design of the public realm should equality, diversity, safety and be shown to enhance both social social cohesion. and economic value. There must be collaboration with our local residents The public realm should be designed and stakeholders throughout the design with flexibility to accommodate and delivery process to understand their public events and activities that requirements and to promote ownership deliver social benefit, engender a and self-management. sense of civic pride and encourage conversation and social interaction. Inclusive places should be designed for all to use that support and encourage 8
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1.4 PROMOTES HEALTH AND WELL-BEING The landscape and public realm environment that both respects privacy, should promote a healthy and encourages sociability and enriches the sustainable lifestyle providing plenty of lives of residents. opportunities to keep physically active and socialise with neighbours in a clean Play features and playable landscapes green environment. that promote outdoor activity for all ages and abilities should be provided. It should support family life and individual well-being within a safe 9
DESIGN VISION 1.5 RESILIENT TO A CHANGING CLIMATE The principles of sustainability will be together and can be maintained to a promoted through all stages of the high standard. design process. The selection of low water demand plant The ease of future management will be species and integration of sustainable an essential component of any design surface water management systems must proposal. We expect design proposals will form an integral part of the proposals. specify good quality materials with low environmental impact that are well put 10
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1.6 SUPPORTS BIODIVERSITY AND REDUCES CARBON Design proposals must achieve an As part of Be First’s commitment increase in the green infrastructure to make our developments more in the borough, improve ecological environmentally sustainable we are connectivity and deliver a net gain in reducing energy use and carbon biodiversity. This will be a fundamental emissions, reducing waste and part of Be First’s approach to addressing encouraging biodiversity. the impacts of climate change. Proposals must support this ambition. LBBD has declared a climate emergency and aim to be carbon neutral by 2030. 11
Be First’s overarching Design objectives maintenance in a well-designed, are to fulfill the design vision and create inclusive and sustainable way. safe and engaging landscapes and public realm. This section sets out the ten key It is recommended that design objectives to guide the development development takes particular note of process to achieve this goal. TfL guidance on street design including SuDS in London (2016), Healthy Streets The quality and quantum of the public for London (2017) and Streetscape realm must be considered an integral Guidance (2019). part of the design at the outset of the project. It must inform the building The Objectives layout and make a valuable contribution to the character of the development ·· Character and Identity and quality of the local neighbourhood. ·· Simple and Legible ·· Human Comfort, Safety, Health Streets, squares, communal gardens, play areas and terraces help connect and Welfare people and support the activity ·· Movement, Access and Inclusivity and social interaction which is vital ·· Play and Informal Recreation for a successful and well integrated ·· Open Green Space community. These objectives help ·· Biodiversity and SuDS guide development and the future ·· Services, Servicing and Parking ·· Materials and Furniture 12 ·· Commitment to Management
2.0 DESIGN OBJECTIVES 13
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.1 CHARACTER AND IDENTITY The design should have a distinct The alluvial flood plain across much identity either in response to the of the southern half of the Borough existing character and culture of the between the River Roding in the place, or by developing a new character west and the River Beam in the east, and sense of place, if appropriate. gave rise to extensive industrial and residential areas, which are now part of Streets and spaces must make positive a regeneration programme in Barking connections between new and existing and Barking Riverside. To the centre communities that are clear and legible. of the borough is the distinctive leafy garden character of the Beacontree The Borough’s character is rich and Estate on the River Terrace Gravels. The varied, influenced by the underlying London Clay, on the northern higher geology, landscape and human land informs the character of Chadwell activities. Industry and housing have Heath and Marks Gate. Broad open shaped large parts of the Borough. spaces of the green belt extend down Design should take account of the the eastern side of the Borough. 10 character areas described in the Barking and Dagenham Townscape and Socioeconomic Characterisation Study (2017) and make note of the London’s Natural Signatures (2011) study. 14
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES River Roding Mayesbrook Park Marks Gate 15
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.2 SIMPLE AND LEGIBLE The public realm must be legible, have Provide clear definition between public order and clarity of purpose with a and private space in the street, within hierarchy of streets and spaces. communal areas and on terraces through the careful selection of paving materials, The design of the external environment planting and vertical enclosure. will consider scale, proportion and composition so that is it easy to The design of the public realm must understand and creates an attractive respond to and complement the experience at ground level or when seen adjacent ground floor uses. from surrounding homes. Consider the design of the street as a The design must consider the resident’s whole space from building edge to building experience to their front door, edge. This should include the optimum whether directly from the street or via location of the carriageway, which may communal areas through consistent use not be central within the section. of materials, defined thresholds and creating a sense of arrival. 5 4 3 2 6 1 1 Play on the way 4 Parking A co-ordinated and legible street 2 Rain gardens & 5 Servicing & underground street trees refuse storage 16 3 Places to socialise 6 Planted defensible edge
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1 Communal entrances & thresholds 6 Planting to blank walls 2 Private entrance & thresholds 7 Carriageway 3 Private defensible space 8 Seating close to building entrances 4 Pedestrian Footway 9 Hedge planting to private terraces 5 Parking & servicing 10 Planted rain gardens 4 10 5 3 8 1 7 6 65 8 9 9 2 3 10 17
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.3 HUMAN COMFORT, SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELFARE Design should ensure the landscape and design progresses to ensure adequate public realm is welcoming and takes space is provided. full account of human comfort, safety, health and welfare. These are important Air Quality design considerations for all our schemes and must be at the forefront of design Tree and hedge planting must be considered development and decisions. where there is a need to improve air quality in accordance with GLA guidance, Sun, Shade & Wind ‘Using Green Infrastructure to Protect People from Air Pollution’, April 2019. Design teams should ensure the building form and massing maximises Consider air quality when locating seats opportunities for direct sunlight into all and play areas, particularly in relation open space and onto the street. to traffic. Consider aspect and other environmental Safety conditions in the layout and design of the street, eg walking and sitting on the Maximise overlooking of the street sunnier side, parking and servicing to the and open spaces to provide natural shady side. surveillance wherever possible. Consider the amount and location of tree Ensure all communal gardens and planting to provide shade and to reduce shared roof terraces are appropriately the build-up of peak summer temperatures overlooked and easy to use. known as the heat island effect. Undertake summer and winter shade Residential entrances should be visible modelling of buildings. streets and spaces from the public realm, easy to find with to inform the collaborative design process. a clear and safe route from the street. Entrance areas must be overlooked Use tree planting and other types of and provide a safe environment when vegetation to reduce the impact of wind entering and leaving the building. in the external environment. Make sure this is assessed at an early stage as the The design should follow the site layout principles contained in Section 1 of 18 Secured by Design Homes 2016.
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Maximise street planting for 1 Parking on shady side comfort & well-being 2 Continuous rain gardens, tree planting & seating on sunny side 3 Defensible planting 12 3 19 Social activity on the sunny side of the street
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.4 MOVEMENT, ACCESS AND INCLUSIVITY Walking and cycling should be The landscape and public realm should encouraged by creating safe, attractive be accessible to all and be designed and connected streets and spaces. The in accordance with Part M Building cycling and walking experience should Regulations, the 2010 Equality Act and be considered along the whole length of current good practice. the route to provide design consistency and attractive setting. Consider the experience at building entrances and provide adequate The presumption is that cyclists will use space to manoeuvre with buggies and the residential street network, which will wheelchairs, with places to pause, wait be designed to limit vehicle speeds. for friends and socialise. All entrances will have flush thresholds and designed Streets should be designed to encourage to avoid ramps. a variety of uses and be wide enough to allow for planting, seating, on-street The distance of Blue Badge parking parking and access. from building entrances must be kept to the minimum. Consider the play and social value of the street and where possible design the width Steps should generally be avoided, to encourage incidental play on the way, if steps are required an alternative chance meetings and places to dwell. non-step route must be sensitively integrated into the design. Pedestrian routes should connect into wider movement patterns and desire The physical limitations of pedestrians lines, with safe clear crossings to streets. with mobility impairments should be considered when specifying kerb heights Ground level dwellings should have direct to ensure inclusive standards are met. access into their communal amenity space in addition to their front doors, where possible. Controlled access will be incorporated from the street into the communal gardens. 20
Planted defensible edge & defined entrance 2 1 6 34 5 1 Building entrance & flush threshold 4 Planted defensible edge 2 Direct access to communal garden 5 Opportunities to chat 3 Place to pause & socialise 6 Signature tree at entrances 21
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.5 PLAY AND INFORMAL RECREATION Designs should incorporate a variety of available. Introduce a variety of formal formal and informal areas for play in the and informal play opportunities for public realm. They offer an important different age groups and abilities. facility for health and well-being of Facilities for different types of play and children and young people, ecouraging play experience should be considered, social interaction and cohesion. Where developments have 10 children or Natural play features more using the GLA Population Yield Calculator (update October 2019) then play space must be provided in accordance with the London Plan SPG, ‘Shaping Neighbourhoods: Play and Informal Recreation, 2012’. Where it is not possible to provide all the required play space within the development, clearly demonstrate safe walking routes to external play facilities and how they may be able to accommodate the additional play use. Identify enhancements to capacity and the facilities to meet the additional demand. Locate play areas sensitively to minimise noise issues, ie close to family homes, further away from smaller flats and older person living and ensure that there is natural surveillance from surrounding homes. Play should be fun and engaging for all children and appropriate to the space 22
Fixed play equipment for all ages Play on the way for younger children Young person & adult play including play on the way in streets, Fencing is discouraged. The need to informal natural play and more organised fence play areas should be carefully fixed equipment for play in larger areas. considered and if required sensitively The provision of youth play and sports integrate the enclosure with the courts should also be considered. overall design such that it is safe but not intrusive. Dog management must Integrate seating in appropriate areas for be reflected in the open space and parents and carers, that overlooks play managment plans. Enclosed play areas and arranged to encourage conversation. must have two means of access and egress to improve personal safety and Tree planting, pergolas and shade avoid potential bullying. structures should be integrated to provide shade where necessary.
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.6 OPEN GREEN SPACE All residents should have convenient Communal spaces should be integral to access to good quality well designed the building design, durable and with a open green space, where people sense of delight to encourage and foster can come together, enhance their a sense of ownership by the residents. well-being and have access to healthy exercise, meet other Open space will be child and family people and find companionship. friendly and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. Design teams must carefully consider the routes residents will take to use green Food growing and opportunities for spaces and these should be made clear outdoor eating should be integrated and fully accessible. within communal gardens, to encourage activation of the communal parts and It is expected that the quantum of promote a sense of neighbourliness. open space will exceed the minimum open space planning standards where The street must also be seen as an possible. Standards of provision for both opportunity to provide green space. the quantity and accessibility of open Ensure sufficient width is created in spaces are set by current Local Plan and the street section to maximise the London Plan policies. opportunity for planting and increase the greening of the street. All green space must be planned, designed and managed as an integrated The inclusion of pocket parks as part part of the residential development and of the public realm is encouraged to aim to increase biodiversity, enhance increase the opportunity for local and connect with the wider green communities to enjoy outdoor space and infrastructure network. help build social cohesion. A combination of communal gardens, They may provide food growing spaces, green streets, courtyards and shared informal play and recreation facilities amenity areas should be provided. They and new landscape that support must be usable, offering worthwhile Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDs) recreation and social benefits for all and biodiversity improvements. residents. They should be provided at ground level wherever possible. 24
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Communal Resident Garden Green streets Pocket Park 25
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.7 BIODIVERSITY AND SUDS Design of the landscape and public significantly enhance provision for realm must enhance the natural and insects and should be considered. local environment, minimising impacts Design proposals should seek to and providing net gains for biodiversity. increase the diversity and abundance of pollinators for example by taking Design teams should engage an account of opportunities to expand ecologist early in the design process to the B-Line for London initiative. determine the existing ecological value, Other features such as stumperies, establish strategies for improvement and and insect hotels, which support meet the policies and targets set by invertebrates, should also be the NPPF (2019), the London Plan and considered and integrated with Barking and Dagenham’s Biodiversity the landscape proposals. SPG (2012). Derbyshire Street rain garden A coherent ecological network should be established for the benefit of wildlife, by linking green infrastructure, including the All London Green Grid and Blue Ribbon network to the wider public realm, utilising street trees, green roofs and other components of urban greening. Design teams must demonstrate positive urban greening in line with the Urban Greening Factor. Planting proposals must include at least 50% native tree species and incorporate scrub and hedgerow species and establish a variety of ecological habitats. The integration of flower-rich grasslands and wildflower meadows that incorporate native and ornamental species can 26
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES The design of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) should take account of national guidance including CIRIA’s SuDS Manual (2015) and TfL’s SuDS in London (2016). Sustainable surface water strategies should include porous paving, infiltration strips, swales, rain gardens and geo-cells and form an integral part of a wider, connected blue/green network. Blue green roofs should be considered as part of a comprehensive SuDs strategy. Below ground water storage and attenuation tanks must be designed and integrated into the landscape and allow adequate depths for tree planting above. Swale & biodiversity features at Greenwich Peninsula Playable rain garden at Bridget Joyce Square 27
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.8 SERVICES, SERVICING AND PARKING Services Servicing Below ground services, covers and access Consider the implications of refuse requirements can have a detrimental collection, emergency and maintenance impact on the quality and area of vehicles and internet deliveries on the usable external space. public realm. Their requirements should be integrated within the overall strategy. The co-ordination of services and utilities must be carried out at all stages of the Combined Blue badge parking with service public realm design process to minimise bays will generally not be permitted. impact and retain maximum space for planting and public use. Consideration Where occasional service access and should also be given to the future repair vehicle turning is required, these should be and replacement of services and utilities designed as a flexible multi-use area that to minimise disruption and damage to can be used by residents at other times. the public realm. Consider refuse & cleaning strategies at the early design stage to ensure adequate space is provided to avoid any reduction in planting and usable open space. Refuse storage is not permitted in the defensible space within residential thresholds and adjacent to property entrances. 28
2 PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1 3 4 5 1 Proprietary refuse system, where used 2 Street planting zone 3 Parking bays with electric charging points 4 Service vehicle bay 5 Visitor cycle parking with seating as protection 29
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.8 SERVICE, SERVICING AND PARKING Continued Parking Cycling Parallel street parking is to be Cycling will generally be within encouraged over parking within the carriageways, which are conceived as development. It should be sensitively cycle streets permitting two-way access integrated into the street scene, with to all vehicles, but at slow speeds, with no more than three bays between rain cyclists having effective priority. gardens and tree planting. Resident’s cycle storage will be The parking bays should be co-ordinated incorporated within the building with with other street features, such as visitor cycle parking integrated in the lighting and electric car charging points. public realm, close to entrances with Provision for electric car charging points natural surveillance. should be made in accordance with TfL’s Streetscape guidance. Provide and integrate Blue Badge parking and other occupational health requirements as appropriate and in accordance with the current Approved Document M - Access to and use of Buildings (2016). 30
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 3 1 2 4 31 Co-ordination of services & tree planting 1 Co-ordinated service route beneath footway 2 Root barrier to tree pit 3 Tree pit within street edge planting with connecting drainage pipe 4 Tree cells beneath carriageway where required
DESIGN OBJECTIVES 2.9 MATERIALS AND FURNITURE A restrained material palette should be The design of bespoke elements should developed that is robust, appropriate for be avoided whilst materials and furniture use and easily maintained. In this way should be selected, which are likely to the public realm can be delivered in a be available for the foreseeable future phased way, whilst retaining a coherent or similar products can be procured from and legible appearance. other sources. How materials weather over time must The selection of materials should respond be considered, in respect of changes to to the surrounding context, reinforce the colour or surface degradation. spatial and movement, hierarchy and aid legibility. A consistent colour pallete Greenwich Peninsula should be proposed. Paving must be robust and economic, with key areas such as thresholds and gateways highlighted with a material change, such as granite or clay paving. Carefully consider the function and use of paved areas to avoid large expanses of underused and redundant paved surfaces. Consideration must be given to minimise the carbon footprint of selected materials and assess life-time costs at an early stage in the design process. 32
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 2.10 COMMITMENT TO MANAGEMENT The long term success of the landscape Prepare management plans as an and public realm lies in its effective integral part of the design process to maintenance and management. ensure that the costs are recognised and included within the budget. The management must be considered early in the design process and financial Management plans must include a commitment included in appraisals of schedule of maintenance activities, a whole-life costs. programme of work and an identification of those responsible for undertaking Future management responsibilities and the work. They must describe all liabilities must be defined and agreed at maintenance and management activities an early stage including areas that will for a minimum period of 10 years. be offered for adoption by the Council. Greenwich Millennium Village 33
The careful consideration of design Simple material palettes are preferred, detail is an essential component of good that are effective, easy to lay and quality public realm. It is important for repair and are inherently sustainable. Be First that design teams prioritise the external budget in areas where it will Details make the greatest qualitative difference to those using the external space. ·· Surface Finishes ·· Trees and Planting High quality does not mean the most ·· Ecology and Biodiversity expensive materials, but rather that the ·· Furniture composition and detail design are well ·· Lighting and CCTV executed to achieve the best result. It ·· Parking is expected, with a commitment to high ·· Enclosure quality design and attention to detail, ·· Play good workmanship and regular future ·· Raised Terrace Gardens management, more can be done with less. ·· Communal Gardens and Pocket Parks 34
3.0 DESIGN DETAIL 35
DES I GN DETAIL 3.1 SURFACE FINISHES Good footways are simple, durable Granite slab & cropped sett loading bay and well maintained. The footway and Cropped granite sett & kerb highway design should be to adoptable standards even though they may not be adopted. Crossovers and dropped kerbs should reflect movement patterns and be clearly visible. All tactile paving should be designed, set out and laid in accordance with TfL’s Streetscape Guidance (2019). Design teams should carefully consider paving sizes and setting out in relation to levels, thresholds, dropped kerbs and crossings. Where surfaces are shared between vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, follow best practice and in accordance with Manual for Streets (2007, or later) guidance. Avoid speed humps in roads and consider other devices such as surface material changes, width restrictions and planting. Design teams should consider the character and function of the street, minimise the use of road markings and limit the clutter of street signs. 36
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Selection Types of surface A restrained material palette should be 1 Pcc concrete paving to footway developed that is robust, appropriate for use, high quality and easily maintained. 2 Porous pcc setts to parking bays with granite kerbs Careful consideration must be given to limit the carbon footprint of selected 3 Asphalt carriageway with granite kerbs materials and determine life cycle & tactile paving at raised crossings. costs. The Green Guide to Specification, BREEAM 2008, should be used to 4 Asphalt carriageway assess the environmental impact of the materials and products. 5 Clay paviors, pcc setts or stone to thresholds & entrances All paving must comply with BS slip and skid resistance testing requirements 6 Pcc setts to private terraces and be easily jet washable (eg no loose gravel) and porous where possible. 7 Pedestrian crossing with central refuge island 8 Resin bound gravel, clay paviors or in situ concrete to communal gardens & parks 9 Resin bound gravel or in situ concrete to pocket park 8 1 3 4 6 1 1 5 2 7 9 37
DES I GN DETAIL 3.1 SURFACE FINISHES Continued Communal Gardens & Pocket Parks Streets Paths will be resin bound gravel, clay paving or textured concrete setts. The Barking Code was developed in 2008 Do not use resin bound gravel above to inform Barking town centre’s public services, where it may be dug up in realm. Be First will follow these principles the future. When proposing textured and make applicable to developments concrete setts, consider earth colours. in all town centre locations, comprising granite slabs, with granite sett service In certain places consideration could edge and granite kerbs. be given to in-situ concrete or asphalt with exposed decorative aggregate Elsewhere the footway to the streets will surface finish. be pcc paving slabs, with granite kerbs. Play Areas Thresholds and areas of defensible space will be clay paviors, textured Play surfaces will be a combination of silver grey concrete setts or natural resin bound gravel, sand and play safety stone. Any trims will match the paving. surface. In certain areas sand will be Upstands adjacent to the carriageway considered as an integral part of the will comprise granite kerbs, elsewhere play experience. textured silver grey pcc kerb laid flat will be used. Concrete slabs Granite slabs Porous pc Granite setts Clay paviors concrete setts Resin bound In-situ Asphalt with Granite kerbs, trims gravel concrete exposed decorative & upstands aggregate 38
Paving Sizes PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Footways will be 1800mm minimum Kerb heights will be maximum 125mm width and generally comprise and 60mm minimum where an upstand 900x600mm pcc slabs laid with joints is required between footway and one third overlapping. Consideration can carriageway. At pedestrian crossings be given to 600x600mm slabs. the kerb will be laid flush. Clay paviors will be a minimum of 1:4 plan Laying & Setting Out ratio when laid on edge and stretcher bond. Concrete setts should be laid Surfaces should be laid such that they single size herringbone in parking bays. are comfortable underfoot, minimise trip Elsewhere they can be laid using three co- hazards and are well drained. ordinated sizes in off-set stretcher bond to manufacturer’s recommendations. Edge details, level changes and insertions within the paving must be Kerbs resolved by the design team prior to the construction stage. Kerbs provide an important visual and physical delineation between footway Cutting and setting out of paving in and carriageway. Granite kerbs relation to street corners, service covers, should be used to provide a clear and dropped kerbs and crossings should be consistent aesthetic for all street types in accordance with TfL Streetscape on all developments. Guidance 4th Edition 2019 Rev I. Kerbs should be square cut with radius, Service covers must be recessed to transition and corner units used in accommodate the adjacent surface accordance with British Standards. material, co-ordinated with the direction of paving joints and set out in line with Transition to occur at pattern avoiding a change in material natural point e.g edge within the length of the cover. of building 2400mm Uncontrolled pedestrian crossing with refuge island (min) 39 800mm (min) Setting out of paving at junctions
DES I GN DETAIL 3.1 SURFACE FINISHES Continued 900 900 300 Where porous paving is not installed, Paving alignment provide adequate cross falls, appropriate to paving finish to ensure good drainage and no ponding. Paving at building thresholds to fall away from facades – any additional threshold drainage (to capture water from the face of buildings) to be a slot drain, integrated within the paving design. Design and contractor teams must carefully consider the use of cuts to achieve changes in gradients, where paving slabs are used. The number of cuts should be kept to a minimum. Side Road uncontrolled crossing with raised entry treatment 40
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 3.2 TREES AND PLANTING The planting design and species selection The minimum width for planting should should enhance amenity, increase the be 500mm where it is protected on one variety of habitats and deliver a net side by a wall or railing. Where planting gain in biodiversity through the use of is exposed on both sides, the minimum native species and pollinator plants. width should be 1500mm. Where failures occur, plants must be Plant species must be selected to replaced as soon as possible to maintain suit the location, growing conditions integrity of hedge or planting area and and low maintenance regime, provide this must be carried out promptly during seasonal colour and composition. Future the establishment period. Consider maintenance must be considered in the temporary protection of planting to planting design and in selecting trees, ensure successful establishment. shrubs and other plant species. Provide adequate depth of growing medium, ensure haunching is limited Planting which makes a positive so as not to restrict planting areas contribution to the sensory experience particularly in the street. should also be considered to offer additional interest residents with visual Haunching to kerbs to be kept to a minimum and hearing impairments. Planting should be at an appropriate specification and density for the chosen species and provide an initial impact and full appearance. Maximise areas of planting wherever possible providing substantial and maintainable areas. Avoid small areas of planting in vulnerable areas that are not protected and can be easily damaged. The minimum width for hedges is to be 500mm and incorporate steel post and wire fence to protect hedge planting during establishment. 41
DES I GN DETAIL 3.2 TREES AND PLANTING Continued Planting on raised terraces must be recommendations included in British considered and detailed at an early Standard (BS) 5837: Trees in relation to stage to ensure the structure can design, demolition and construction – accommodate the additional loading. Recommendations 2012. Provide opportunities for food growing The assessment should cover their and community gardening as a way of condition, significance and landscape and bringing residents together, encourage environmental value. Categories of A, B communal use and healthy activities. and C trees shall be initially considered These should be considered in communal for retention. The BS5837 default tree residential areas and pocket parks. protection barrier shall be used to protect all trees agreed for retention Existing trees within the development during the construction process. site should be assessed by a qualified arboriculturalist early in the design Tree species will be carefully selected, stage in accordance with the specified and appropriate for their location and future growth, particularly in relation to adjacent buildings and traffic. Reference should be made to guidance from Trees and Design Action Group (TDAG) including Trees in Townscape (2012), Trees in Hardscape (2014) and the Tree Species Guide and Database. The specification for minimum tree sizes should be semi-mature 20-25cm girth in all locations with underground guying system and watering systems. 500mm 1500mm (min) (min) Planting against building edge Exposed planting 42
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES 1 Shrub & perennial planting 2 Wildflower 50mm mulch 300mm low nutrient soil 350mm topsoil Loosened sub-grade 350mm subsoil Loosened sub-grade 4 Hedge 3 Turf 450mm (min) 150mm topsoil 150mm subsoil 500mm Loosened sub-grade (min) 50mm mulch 350mm topsoil 350mm subsoil Loosened sub-grade 43
DES I GN DETAIL 3.2 TREES AND PLANTING Continued 1 5 9 2 6 7 8 3 1 75mm Mulch 4 2 350mm Top soil 10 3 650mm Sub soil 4 Drainage layer 6 Rootball 5 Aeration pipe 7 Underground guying 44 8 Indicative tree cells backfilled with topsoil 9 Root reflector 10 Drainage collection
Trees in paving PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Trees in planting Consider tree pit drainage at an early 50mm 350mm stage to enable appropriate connections to wider drainage infrastructure. 650mm Where the trees are in paved areas, 200mm the volume of growing medium should be based on the final canopy size and tree species. Where necessary install proprietary tree cells and construct tree trenches where lateral space is limited. Where paving is required above the tree pit, install a recessed tray system that allows the adjacent paving to be adequately supported over tree pit. Include for removable sections for tree growth. Soils The healthy specification, structure and condition of soils are an essential factor for good plant growth. Design teams, contractors and landscape managers must safeguard and utilise on-site subsoil and topsoil resources where possible and ensure that the entire soil profile is in a condition to promote sufficient aeration, drainage and root growth. All soils should be formally tested and assessed for the risk of past contamination and particular attention should be given to areas identified for future food growing. Where imported soils are required, use a reputable supplier, establish the source of the soil and ensure imported soils are certified to be weed free and suitable for the intended use. The protection, storage, movement and placement of soil must avoid compaction or cross-contamination and should be considered through all stages of design, construction and future maintenance. The guidance in DEFRA’s ‘Construction Code of Practice for the Sustainable Use of Soils on Construction Sites’ (2009) should be adopted and specifications should follow BS 3882:2015 for topsoil and BS 8601:2013 for subsoil. 45
DES I GN DETAIL 7 8 3.3 ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY Planting areas provide a significant opportunity to improve a variety of habitats for wildlife and deliver a net gain for biodiversity. Reference should be made to TCPA’s Biodiversity by Design (2004) and UK Green Building Council’s Biodiversity and the Built Environment (2009) guidance. Design proposals should incorporate a variety of native tree, scrub and hedgerow species and establish a mix of ecological habitats. A minimum of 50% of native tree species must be specified. Proposals should also integrate a variety of wildlife features including nest boxes, bug hotels and stumperies to support invertebrates. Consider opportunities for flower-rich grasslands and wildflower meadows incorporating native and ornamental species. Ensure that a minimum of 30% of shrubs and herbaceous plants are pollinator species. Consider green or brown biodiverse roofs to all buildings following the Mayor of London’s technical report on Living Roofs and Walls (2008) and good practice guidance (2019). Consider integration of water butts for community use as part of rain water harvesting strategy. 46
PUBLIC REALM GUIDELINES Interpretation of ecological Grey to Green SuDS Initiative in Sheffield enhancements Marks & Spencer Chester 2 3 4 7 15 6 1 Communal garden with pollinator plants 5 Green wall 2 Biodiverse roof integrated with PV panels 6 Native hedgerow species 3 Native Trees 7 Bird and bug boxes 4 Rain garden planting 8 Swale planting 47
DES I GN DETAIL 3.4 FURNITURE Seating Elsewhere a robust timber seating range should be proposed from a The design and placement of street furniture supplier such as Streetlife or furniture must be considered as part equivalent. This will facilitate easy repair of a coherent strategy rather than and replacement of parts should it be placed randomly. required. Seats and benches will have a proportion with backs and arm rests. Seating should be arranged to Bespoke fabricated alternatives will not encourage conversation and located be approved as these may be difficult to in sunny sheltered locations. repair or replace. Seating should be provided both in Where seating is integrated within the street and communal areas and raised planter edges, the design and positioned to encourage use, for specification should incorporate timber instance on desire lines, intersections seats with backs and arm rests. of pedestrian routes and within small pocket parks. All timber must be certified from a sustainable timber source as defined The Barking Code identified the by TRADA. Barking Bench within the Town Centre. It is based on a proprietary product and should be used where seating is proposed in town centre locations. It can be arranged in multiple configurations depending on location. Seating with back & arm rests integrated with raised planters 48
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