Urban design is about the relationship between different buildings and the streets, squares, parks, waterways and other spaces which make up the public domain.
It is concerned with the nature and quality of the public domain and the relationship of one part of a village, town or city with other parts, as well as the pattern of movement and activity within and between them.
It can promote sustainable development, improve the quality of the existing environment, attract business and investment and reinforce civic pride and a sense of place.
It can help to secure continued public acceptance of necessary new development. Urban design is as concerned with the process of change as it is with the actual products of development.
Key points
- towns centres and places to live must provide a high quality environment it Lewisham is to be the best place in which to live, work and learn
- the Council is committed to promoting high standards of design in new development
- designs that add interest and variety and which reflect their local context should be encouraged
- design proposals should have proper regard to their relationship with their surrounds and should develop and enhance local character
- designs should contribute to the vitality of the public realm by avoiding blank frontages or being inward looking