Dundee Aiming to be Streets Ahead
A new drive could get underway to help ensure that Dundee is streets ahead when roads are developed in the city.
Councillors are being asked to approve a new version of the ‘Dundee Streets Ahead Design Guide’, which is intended to update guidance for developers seeking planning approval and roads construction consent.
Last published in 2005, the guide sets out requirements for high-quality development and innovative street design.
The next meeting of the City Growth and Infrastructure Committee will hear that, in the last twenty years, national design standards have changed and an update is now necessary.
The new document reflects current best practice in street design and placemaking and aligns with the council’s wider ambitions around climate action and sustainable development, while ensuring consistency with national policies like National Planning Framework 4.
Committee convener Cllr Steven Rome said: “Since the last guide was published over twenty years ago, there have been many changes to national guidance.
“Active travel, sustainability and accessibility are vital considerations in our ongoing efforts to make Dundee a better place to live for everyone.
“Looking forward, the need to be aware of climate implications for every development will become increasingly important.
“We want to encourage developers to engage with us from an early stage to ensure that they can meet required standards and help keep our communities connected with well-designed projects that benefit the city.”
Councillors will be told that new guidance aims to:
Promote high-quality design through early and collaborative engagement in the planning and approvals process
Establish a framework for street design based on the five core principles of safety, equity, accessibility, sustainability, and climate resilience
Support the SCOTS National Roads Development Guide while outlining local variations specific to Dundee, like parking standards and road specifications
Offer guidance on securing Road Construction Consent and Planning Consent for new infrastructure in the city
Some of the key revisions include enhancements to cycling infrastructure in line with national guidance like Cycling by Design, as well as improved pedestrian accessibility.
Key stakeholders, including accessibility groups, developers and their design teams
were consulted and their feedback has helped to shape the revisions.
Further consultation with these stakeholders would take place before the document is finalised and published on the council website.
Catherine Wykes, chair of the Dundee Cycling Forum, said: “Dundee Cycling Forum welcomes the news that the Dundee Streets Ahead Guide has been updated in line with current best practice. Well designed streets aren't just about getting from a to b. They connect local communities, and make it a natural choice to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys. This much needed update will make sure our streets are safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.”
The City Growth and Infrastructure Committee meets on Monday February 16.
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