3.3. Relevant Policy And Resources
A summary of relevant national and local policies is listed below. This list is not exhaustive but presents a synthesis of background policies that form the legal basis for planning regulations within high streets and conservation areas. If you need to know more about the planning guidance affecting your building, these are a good place to start.
National Planning Policy
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) outlines the role of the planning and development process nationally in creating high quality places in which to live and work in a way that is supported by the local community.
The NPPF supports development within town centres that reflects the distinctive character of the local area.
The NPPF states that design quality should be a fundamental consideration in the development and assessment of planning proposals. Development should, add to an area’s overall quality; be beautiful in terms of architecture, layout, and landscaping; be sympathetic to the local character and heritage; create places that are safe, inclusive, and accessible and promote public health and well-being.
The full NPPF (July 2021) is available online at assets.publishing.service.gov.uk.
Local Planning Policy
The following policies from the March 2012 Isle of Wight Core Strategy form the policy context for shopfront renovations, renewals and works to high street buildings. They are significant in the determination of planning applications.
For the full list of policies, the Core Strategy document available online at iow.gov.uk.
- DM2 Design Quality for New Development outlines expectations of development proposals in terms of design, function, access, safety, and adaptability. This policy states that development proposals which preserve or enhance a Heritage Asset, or the setting of a Heritage Asset will be supported.
- DM9 Town Centres outlines how proposals are expected to contribute to the diversity, choice, vitality, and viability of town centres. This policy references higher density, mixed-use development, and the importance of being sympathetic to the local design vernacular.
- DM11 Historic and Built Environment outlines the council’s support for proposals that positively conserve and enhance the special character of the Island’s historic and built environment. This policy references the demolition or substantial harm of both designated and non-designated heritage assets and their settings.
In July 2021 a draft Island Planning Strategy was published for public consultation. The final Island Planning Strategy will specify revised policies for the Isle of Wight’s development between now and 2038. Upon its publication, the policies referenced above from the Core Strategy of March 2012 may become outdated.
