Belfast·SPG001 Affordable Housing and Housing Mix·Page 29
Early engagement and design requirements for affordable housing
Developers must engage with RHAs early, ensure affordable housing is clearly identified in drawings, prepare design codes for outline applications, and submit phasing plans if phasing is intended. All dwellings must meet HAG design standards and specified policy requirements.
At an early stage, discuss proposals directly with a RHA who can provide advice on design and layout for the development of social housing, particularly the HAG's design standards. In relation to intermediate housing, design requirements and financing should also be discussed at an early stage with a RHA. Ensure that the drawings that accompany any planning application clearly identify the affordable housing locations within the scheme layout. For Outline applications, prepare a design code to ensure consistency in design approaches to help achieve tenure blind development overall. If it is intended to phase the development, submit a phasing plan clearly outlining at what stage the affordable housing units will be provided. Ensure that the design of all dwellings (private and affordable) meet the appropriate requirements as set out in the HAG design standards, design Policies DES1-DES4 and RD1-RD3 and Policies HOU4: Density of residential development and HOU7: Adaptable and accessible accommodation. Prepare a Design and Access Statement for submission to the Council as part of your planning application.
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