Belfast·SPG005 Placemaking and Urban Design·Page 47·4.11.6
Servicing and utilities design and location
Servicing and utilities including bin storage, water, sewage, drainage, gas, electricity and digital infrastructure should be planned from early design stages. Their location, design, visual impact, maintenance access, technological adaptability, and integration of refuse and recycling facilities must be carefully considered to avoid detrimental impacts on street-level quality and experience.
The servicing of new developments should be considered from the early stages of the design process so as to avoid retrofitting measures later on. This is to ensure development is serviced well without impacting the quality of design or experience of those within the area. Elements such as bin storage, utility services and facilities such as water, sewage, drainage, gas, electricity and digital infrastructure while all vital components of new developments, if not handled sensitively, can have a detrimental impact at street level. Careful consideration should therefore be given with respect to; • Their location and design and any potential visual impact at street level, with the aim of avoiding unnecessary clutter. • Their ease of access for maintenance and repair. • The adaptability of these elements to adjust to advances in technologies. • The provision and integration of adequate refuse and recycling facilities, including provision of any necessary temporary pick-up areas.
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