Design and Access Statement (DAS)

What's in a Design and Access Statement?

Design and access statements are required to provide information covering the design process and physical characteristics of the scheme. The questions to ask before submitting such a statement are:

• Does the statement show that the applicant has assessed the site's full context, including physical, social and economic characteristics and relevant planning policies?
• Has the applicant demonstrated how they have taken account of the results of any community involvement?
• Does the statement show that the scheme has emerged from a rigorous assessment ,involvement, evaluation design process rather than trying to justify retrospectively a pre-determined solution?
• Would the application help to create an appropriate mix of uses in the area?
• Would different uses work together well or would they cause unacceptable annoyance?
• Is the density appropriate?
• Could the neighbourhood's services support the amount of development planned?
• Do all spaces have a purpose?
• Will public spaces be practical, safe, overlooked and inclusive?
• Will private spaces be adaptable, secure and inviting?
• Will the buildings sit comfortable with their surroundings?
• Will they and parts like doors and windows be of a comfortable scale for people?
• Has landscaping been properly considered from the start?
• Will it help to make the place look good and work well, and will it meet any specific aims for the site?
• How will the development visually relate to its surroundings?
• Will it look attractive?
•  Will the place be safe and easy for everyone to move around?
• Will it make the most of the surrounding movement network?
• Has the applicant clearly described their policy approach and consultation process, whether carried out or planned?

Please see further information on how to write, read and use a design and access statement from Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE)