Part 5: Basements

Basements - digging under an existing home to create more living space - are becoming more popular. This chapter provides detailed guidance on the technical considerations relating to new basement accommodation below buildings. Detailed guidance is provided on basement depth and basement extent, the quality of residential accommodation in basements and on the appearance of external alterations. A section on heritage assets explains the approach that should be taken in relation to listed buildings and to basement development in conservation areas. There is a section on what is required in Basement Impact Assessments (BIAs) and Construction Management Plans (CMPs) and a section for neighbours of basement development proposals so that they can understand the planning process and the  considerations that are and are not covered by the planning regime.

Part 5 provides detailed guidance on the technical considerations relating to basement development and detailed guidance on basement depth and extent, quality of residential accommodation and on the appearance of external alterations.

Following first consultation the revised SPD now includes additional guidance on flood risk policy.