The existing site plan should analyse and record the characteristics of the site; including its natural and built features that contribute to the site's identify and character.
A site plan is the starting point of any development, as it is the first step in understanding the current situation. It is required in all Design Statements and is a standard requirement for all resource consents.
A successful site analysis enables someone to understand the key attributes of your site and its immediate surrounds. It provides a summary of the land and the existing physical, environmental and cultural elements that are located on it.
As a visual tool, it enables someone to quickly learn about the development site. The knowledge gathered when preparing a site analysis is crucial to the resulting development proposal.
A well prepared site plan will tell us what elements of the site contribute to the site’s identity and character, including natural and built features.
Key points
- You can use symbols, colours and labels to add information to your map.
- Always remember to include a key, a north arrow and a scale bar to help others use the map.
- You can include supporting text to elaborate on the information, such as descriptions of the type of fencing along the boundary, or the value of the stream to the property.
A good site plan explains:
- What elements of the site are valued?
- Where are buildings, windows and private open space located on adjoining sites and how do they interact with the subject site (e.g. overlooking from second storey decks)?
- Are there views to, through or from the site that should be considered?
- Is the site affected by climatic conditions such as predominant winds or shadowing from structures/trees?
- What constraints does the site have (e.g. steep topography)?
- What is the edge condition on all boundaries (e.g. neighbouring uses, busy road, solid fences, vegetation)?