SE14 - Local vernacular

(2 credits available)

Aim

To ensure that the development relates to the local character whilst reinforcing its own identity.

Assessment Criteria

The following is required to demonstrate compliance:

One credit

1. A review of the proposed development site and surrounding area is undertaken to establish the local character.
2. Consultation has taken place between the local authority, developer, community representatives and other stakeholders. As a minimum the consultation considers the following:
   • building materials
   • building colour
   • architectural style
   • building heights and forms
   • continuity between building style within the development and the surrounding area
   • the ability of residents to personalise their own dwelling.
3. The results of the consultation have been analysed in conjunction with the outcome of the local character review to determine the key elements to be implemented in the design of the site.

Two credits

5. Criteria 1 to 3 are achieved.
6. Steps have been taken to reinforce the local identity, this may include but is not limited to:
   • use of local materials
   • use of local building forms, heights and architectural features
   • inclusion or retention of historic features/associations (e.g. retaining archaeological foundations, etc.)
   • use of local or regional plant species throughout the development
   • use of public art
   • involving the community in the design of community focal points and open spaces etc.

Compliance Notes

Ref	Terms	Description
CN1	Design Competitions	For the purposes of this issue, design competitions can form part of the consultation process provided that it can be demonstrated that the community and key stakeholders have been given the opportunity to review and comment on submissions.
CN2	Reinforcing local identity:SE 14 – Local vernacular	It may not always be appropriate to build on the local character or to reinforce the local identity through alignment with existing local vernacular within and surrounding the site. In some cases it may be appropriate to have a significant building or landmark on site that deviates from the surrounding local character to act as a focal point and to demonstrate high architectural quality. Equally the consultation and local character review may have identified a need for the whole site to deviate from the surrounding local character in order to reinforce local identity and act to regenerate the local area.

Evidence

Criteria No.	Final Assessment
1	Summary of the local character review.
2	Documentary evidence of consultation.
3	Summary of the analysis and written commitment from the developer.
5	Design specifications and/or masterplans or relevant site plans.

Additional Information

None.

See Also

BREEAM Communities technical manual
Reference: SD202 – Issue: 1.2
Date: 14/08/2017
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