4.1.24  External Spaces

All external spaces shall be well defined with their function clearly defined and appropriate for the age or disability of the intended residents.  Gardens should be colourful, safe and have plants that can be enjoyed all year round.  The sensory nature of the gardens is of paramount importance in contributing to the care of the tenants.

Where possible it will be beneficial to retain any existing hedges and trees.  Any new trees planted should be of semi-mature or advanced nursery stock.

All roadways, footways, street lighting, sewers and the like shall conform to the relevant Authority's requirements to allow adoption wherever possible.  Non adopted assets will remain the responsibility of the Contractor.

Appropriate car parking facilities and suitable access for delivery vehicles, waste collection, ambulances and the like shall be provided, taking account of the size of each development and the number of daily visitors, and comply with the requirement for a Green Travel Plan.

Developments shall also be provided with cycle storage with suitable means for securing bicycles.

A canopy shall be provided to the main entrance to allow individuals access under cover to ambulances or similar transport.

Manholes in pathways shall be hidden (i.e. manhole to have same finish as path); pathways should have contrasting colour edges; changes in colour in paving used to show junctions in paths or changes in direction; and very rough surfaces and steps are to be avoided.