A Town Planning Report may be required where a council, planner, project manager, architect or developer needs accessibility commentary as part of a planning submission. It may also be useful where the project includes publicly accessible areas, communal spaces, adaptable or accessible housing, changes in level, complex entries, hospitality spaces, community facilities or outdoor/public realm interfaces.

Addressing access at the town planning stage can help avoid delays later in the project. It allows the project team to identify whether key access principles have been addressed before the design becomes more fixed, and it can help clarify where more detailed access assessment will be required at later stages.

A Town Planning Report is especially valuable where the project team wants to show a proactive approach to accessibility, usability and inclusive design while still supporting the planning pathway and design intent.

• Review of the proposed development and relevant planning documentation.
• Commentary on building access, entries, paths of travel and changes in level.
• Review of common areas, communal spaces, amenities and accessible facilities where relevant.
• High level commentary on relevant NCC building classes and likely access requirements.
• Identification of key accessibility considerations for the next design stage.
• Practical recommendations to support planning approval and future compliance pathways.

Our access consultants understand that planning stage advice needs to be clear, practical and proportionate. We help project teams address accessibility requirements in a way that supports the planning submission while leaving room for more detailed assessment as the design develops.