Shop fronts and security shutters consultation

Rochdale Borough Council is producing a new Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) which will provide not only update guidance in respect of the design of shop fronts, but also will contain detailed guidance in respect of the Council’s approach to security shutters.

At the Township Planning Sub Committees in January 2012, and Licensing and Regulatory Committee in February 2012, the Council’s proposed approach was outlined and agreed.

The first part of the document is an update of the existing 1995 SPG, which outlines best practice in terms of principles for creating attractive shop fronts. This will be used to inform applicants and agents of the design and information expected. The second part of the guidance addresses shop front security measures specifically, in particular roller shutters; it is recognised that traders and businesses often have legitimate concerns in respect of security issues, but roller shutters can make an area look intimidating and uninviting, and do not always have the intended effect of improving security. A balance needs to be struck, and the guidance therefore gives detailed advice in respect of the security options available, and what might be most appropriate in particular circumstances. It also seeks to offer greater clarity about what the Council will expect in terms of design details once the options have been considered, both in all areas of the borough and in Conservation Areas in particular.

Now the council has drafted the guidance they want to get the views of residents, businesses and other interested parites so they can take account of these in producing the final document.

Closing date is 8 May.

View Draft:

http://consultations.rochdale.gov.uk/strategic-planning/shop_fronts_and_security_shutters_spd/supporting_documents/20120323_LDF_SPD_Shop_fronts.pdf


Response Form:

http://consultations.rochdale.gov.uk/strategic-planning/shop_fronts_and_security_shutters_spd/consultation/intro/view