Announcing the details in advance of the Tall Buildings Conference, Arlene Foster, Minister of the Environment, said that her intention is to provide design guidelines that will advise developers and the general public.
The guidelines will also assist Planning Service in its assessment of development proposals that include taller buildings.
Commenting, the Minister said: “There is an increasing trend in the demand for development to go higher than has previously been the case. Tall buildings can have an immense impact on our landscape, and my announcement will ensure that a more strategic approach is taken to this issue.
“The new guidelines will also ensure that proposals are not simply considered and determined on a purely ad-hoc basis. The guidelines will be a useful tool in helping to shape the form of development in Belfast over the forthcoming years."
The Minister pointed out that the guidelines produced will be complementary to the urban design policy framework that is emerging through the Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan. In light of this the Department of the Environment will be seeking the assistance of urban design consultants and will also be seeking relevant views through an appropriate consultation process.
Notes to Editors:
- The draft Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan 2015 was published on 30 November 2004.
- The Planning Service wrote to the Planning Appeals Commission on 31 March 2006 requesting them to conduct a Public Inquiry to give objectors the opportunity of having their views considered in public before a decision is made.
- The Inquiry commenced on Monday 16 April 2007 and finished on 1 May 2008. The Planning Appeals Commission will now prepare a report for the Department following which the Department will proceed to adopt the final plan.
- Draft BMAP designates 9 character areas in Belfast City Centre that recognize distinctive aspects of character and development design criteria. The design criteria includes a series of building height ranges and also recognizes the concepts of accessibility nodes and key gateways.
- There is an increasing trend in the demand for developing taller buildings, particularly in and around Belfast City Centre.
- It is considered that guidance on taller buildings would serve to assist the Department in its considerations and also developers who are intending to incorporate taller development in any proposal.
- For further media information, please contact the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned
