Issue - meetings

To update Cabinet on a review of the South Kesteven Shopfront Design Guide 18 months after its adoption by South Kesteven District Council.

Decision

That Cabinet:

1.    Note the report on the South Kesteven Shop Front Design Guidance following the initial 18-month review period agreed during its adoption by Cabinet on 5 November 2024.

2.    Delegate authority to the Assistant Director of Planning & Growth in conjunction with Cabinet Member for Planning to approve ‘quick reference guides’ produced based on the document for use; and approve minor changes to the document including images and formatting which do not impact the substantive guidance given within the document.

Reasons for the decision

Clear and accessible shopfront design guidance was important to maintaining the quality of the historic environment within the district’s town centres, and thereby their attractiveness to visitors, residents and businesses.

The resolutions made within this report ensured that guidance remains accessible, accurate and relevant, and would support the maintenance of a high-quality environment within South Kesteven’s town centres.

Other options considered

The ‘do nothing’ option, to not implement any suggestions raised through the review of the document was considered. However, although this guidance document represented a very recent update in comparison to previous documents, it was important that the guidance be up to date and accessible to ensure that businesses were able to comply with all relevant requirements and legislation. As such the ‘do nothing’ option was discounted in favour of producing ‘quick reference’ guides on key topics within the guidance and reviewing Shopfront Design guidance on a pentannual basis.

Purpose of the report

To update Cabinet on a review of the South Kesteven Shopfront Design Guide, 18 months after its adoption by SKDC.

Decision

That Cabinet:

1.    Note the report on the South Kesteven Shop Front Design Guidance following the initial 18-month review period agreed during its adoption by Cabinet on 5 November 2024.

2.    Delegate authority to the Assistant Director of Planning & Growth in conjunction with Cabinet Member for Planning to approve ‘quick reference guides’ produced based on the document for use; and approve minor changes to the document including images and formatting which do not impact the substantive guidance given within the document.

Other options considered

The ‘do nothing’ option, to not implement any suggestions raised through the review of the document was considered. However, although this guidance document represented a very recent update in comparison to previous documents, it was important that the guidance be up to date and accessible to ensure that businesses were able to comply with all relevant requirements and legislation. As such the ‘do nothing’ option was discounted in favour of producing ‘quick reference’ guides on key topics within the guidance and reviewing Shopfront Design guidance on a pentannual basis.

Reasons for the decision

Clear and accessible shopfront design guidance was important to maintaining the quality of the historic environment within the district’s town centres, and thereby their attractiveness to visitors, residents and businesses.

The resolutions made within this report ensured that guidance remains accessible, accurate and relevant, and would support the maintenance of a high-quality environment within South Kesteven’s town centres. This guidance was applicable to covers, light fittings, windows, and doors, amongst other items.

There were minor changes to the design of the document and reference guides. It was recommended that the document be updated every five years.

The following points were raised during debate:

·       Many business owners would not be aware of relevant shopfront guidance and regulations. Carrying out unauthorised work to listed buildings was an offence that could be prosecuted.

·       Shop owners were encouraged to approach officers ahead of any changes they may wish to make to shop fronts. The following consents and permissions may be required:

o   Planning permission. If not gained, officers had various enforcement options.

o   Listed building consent.

o   Advertisement consent.

Failure to acquire listed building or advertisement consent could be classed as criminal activity.

·       Officers were thanked for their presentation to Stamford Civic Society.

·       It was hoped that councillors could pressure government for greater powers in this area.