Design

Design

Well-designed places and buildings are not just about aesthetically pleasing places, but about improving the quality of life of our communities, helping create economic and social value by improving sustainability, access, and connectivity. 

The planning system currently manages design through strategic and non-strategic policies in development plans. These can be supported by supplementary planning documents, design guides, and design codes. 

It is clear that  the Government places design quality at the heart of planning, with the recent publications of Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission (BBBBC).,The National Design Guide, and National Model Design Code and the recent additions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

The design of buildings and places not only has a key role to play in the aesthetics, character and sense of place but is also a tool in the fight against climate change, which can help places mitigate and adapt to a changing climate. 

Well-designed places can help promote sustainable development and influence layout, materials and where development happens. This will help improve buildings efficiency and energy use which will help to reduce carbon emissions and waste.

The reviewed policy will look to improve areas of the current guidance on design with these considerations in mind. 

View the Design Policy Options

Go to Policy Options Questions