Character in Cities and Large Towns

Within cities and large towns of over 5,000 population, established residential areas often display a clear spatial structure. Building forms, plot sizes and shapes are sometimes similar with a well defined pattern of local development. Properties may exhibit comparable design styles including common architectural detailing and treatments. Areas of public amenity space together with the private gardens of properties are frequently defined with mature trees, shrubs and hedgerow planting. The overall spatial structure is often delineated by a clear network of streets and roads. However, it is recognised that there are also settled housing areas where there is a greater range and mix of dwelling styles and where the overall pattern of development is less uniform. These areas too have an established residential character worthy of protection against redevelopment or infill at a significantly higher density than that found in the locality.