Policy DC7 – Ribbon development

Planning permission will be refused for a building which creates or adds to a ribbon of development. An exception may be granted for the development of a small gap site sufficient only to accommodate a single dwelling within an otherwise substantial and continuously built up frontage and provided this respects the existing development pattern along the frontage in terms of size, scale, siting and plot size and meets other planning and environmental requirements. For the purpose of this policy the definition of a substantial and built up frontage includes a line of 3 or more buildings along a road frontage without accompanying development to the rear. In certain circumstances the infilling of such a small gap site with an economic development proposal appropriate to the countryside area may also be acceptable where this is of a scale in keeping with adjoining development, is of a high standard of design, would not impact adversely on the amenities of neighbouring residents and meets other planning and environmental requirements.