The Design and Access Statement

Is a technical and policy-driven document, not a manifesto or branding tool.

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What is a Design and Access Statement

A Design and Access Statement (DAS) is a concise report that accompanies certain planning applications and explains:

Design Rationale – What you’re proposing and why it looks, functions, and fits the way it does. This includes:

• Use – What the building or development will be used for.

• Amount – How much development is proposed (e.g. number of dwellings or floorspace).

• Layout – The arrangement of buildings, routes, and open spaces.

• Scale – The height, width, and length of each element.

• Appearance – Visual aspects including materials, colours, and style.

• Landscaping – Planting, boundaries, trees, and green space.

Access Strategy – How people (including those with disabilities) will move through the site and access buildings.This includes:

• Inclusive design principles

• Movement and transport connections

• Compliance with accessibility regulations

Why is a DAS required?

It is a legal requirement under the UK’s planning system for:

• Major developments

• the provision of one or more dwelling houses; or the provision of a building or buildings where the floor space created by the development is 100 square metres or more.

• Applications in designated areas (e.g. Conservation Areas or World Heritage Sites)

• Listed building consent applications

It helps:

• Decision-makers understand the design thinking and compliance with policy.

• Demonstrate a thoughtful, well-considered approach to context, community, and use.

• Engage with local consultation or policy guidance where applicable.

What a DAS is not:

• A sales pitch.

• A mood board.

• A philosophical vision statement.

• A notional story about the day in the life of a future resident

In short:
It’s a technical and policy-driven document, not a manifesto or branding tool.