Northern Ireland Planning Service

Northern Area Plan 2016
Strategic Plan Framework: Retail, Services and Offices The Public Realm-Shopfronts and Security

Policy RSO 4 Shopfronts
Planning permission for new or replacement shop fronts will be granted where the scale and design of the proposal relates satisfactorily to the architectural character and unit width of the parent building, and to the rhythm of the street frontage within which it is located. Where two or more shop fronts are to be amalgamated, the proposed design must reflect the traditional rhythm of the street, avoiding overly long unbroken fascias and extensive areas of glazing.
Shop fronts can create an interesting and attractive street level environment if carefully designed, and integrated into the architectural style of the parent building. Proposals should have regard to the proportion, scale and overall design of existing buildings, and should take account of the positive design features of nearby shop fronts to ensure the development will fit in with the character of the street. The design of new shop fronts should make a positive contribution to enhancement of the urban environment.
Policy RSO 5 Security Grilles and Shutters
Where new development is proposed that includes the installation of security shutters, these must be fully integrated into the frontage of the building at the initial design stage, with the shutter box recessed behind the fascia, and the guide rails concealed within the shop front surround or window reveals.
In the context of building refurbishment and installation of new shop fronts, security shutters shall either be fully recessed behind the fascia, or properly integrated into the new fascia.
In respect of existing buildings, surface mounted shutters will not be permitted.
Shutters shall be perforated or lattice type, and colour coated to match the shop front. Unpainted galvanised shutters are not acceptable.
Externally mounted roller shutters are not acceptable on Listed Buildings, or on buildings within Conservation Areas or Areas of Townscape Character.
Increasing levels of crime and vandalism, and the fear of them, have led to many businesses taking measures to improve security. A number of options are used, including video surveillance, alarm systems, provision of removable external grilles, and other external roller shutters of various designs.
Whilst some of these measures have little impact on the appearance of a building, others can have a significant impact both individually and collectively on the street scene. Externally mounted security shutters can be highly intrusive and damaging to the appearance of an area. Their impact can, however, be reduced by installing latticed or perforated shutters, colour coated to match the shop front. This also permits some penetration of light from within the premises creating a more pleasant night-time environment.
Internal lattice grilles are the least damaging, allowing window displays and lighting to remain visible. Use of toughened glass is another alternative.
Planning permission will normally be required for external grilles and shutters. Their acceptability will depend on the balance between their impact individually and cumulatively on the street scene and the need for security.
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