§ Lord Desaiasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they welcome the joint good practice guide on tall buildings produced by English Heritage and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment. [HL1969]
§ The Minister of State, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (Lord Rooker)The guidance note on tall buildings prepared jointly by English Heritage and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) is published today.
The Government expect new development to be well-designed, safe and sustainable, whether it comprises a tall building or low rise. It considers that all buildings should be designed with regard to their likely impact on their immediate surroundings and the wider environment. The policy is set out in PPG1 General Policy and Principles, and is supported by good practice guidance, By Design.
In response to last year's Select Committee inquiry on tall buildings, the Government encouraged English Heritage and CABE to finalise their draft guidance note Guidance on tall buildings, taking full account of the committee's recommendations. The Government consider that such a note, in support of government policy and existing good practice advice, will contribute to sound planning decisions on tall buildings.
The Government therefore welcome the publication of the joint guidance note. The Government consider that the good practice advice provided will be of value to local planning authorities in drawing up their planning policies for tall buildings, and capable of being material to the determination of planning applications.
I will place the copy of the document in the Libraries of the House shortly.