The national standard for well-designed homes and neighbourhoods.
09. Do the buildings and layout make it easy to find your way around?
Manual for Streets (2007): “Street layouts…should aim to make the environment self explanatory to all users. Features such as public art, planting and architectural style can assist navigation while possibly reducing the need for signs.” p116
A housing development should have a clear identity and be easy to understand for residents and visitors. A neighbourhood that is easy to get around tends to feel safer and more secure. It will have a clear network of streets, courtyards and alleyways that are interesting, welcoming and people-friendly. This network should link to existing routes and developments.
Navigation can be improved by creating landmarks and focal points, views, clear routes, gateways to particular areas, lighting, works of art and signs.
Layouts such as cul-de-sacs with winding roads and the same types of houses can make it more difficult to get around; they also encourage car use rather than walking or cycling. Corner buildings should be treated with particular care as they are often a useful way of giving directions and helping people to find places. Looking at a sectional drawing through a neighbourhood will help identify the change of scale and heights at key points in the layout, such as junctions or public spaces.
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The 20 Criteria
Environment & community
Character
Streets, parking & pedestrianisation
Design & construction
| Does the development provide (or is it close to) community facilities, such as a school, parks, play areas, shops, pubs or cafes? |
Further reading
- Safer places, the planning system and crime prevention (ODPM and Home Office); Section 2, p16
- Better places to live: a companion guide to PPG 3 (DT LR and CABE, 2001); Chapter 5, p54
