New government design guidance puts focus on quality and resilience to climate change

You can read six things we learned about the latest NPPF changes here.

Matthew Pennycook, housing and planning minister, said: “Exemplary development should be the norm, not the exception, so that more communities feel the benefits of new development and welcome it.

“As we act to boost housing supply, we are also taking steps to improve the design and quality of the homes and neighbourhoods being built.

“These standards will help ensure new homes and neighbourhoods are attractive, well connected, sustainable and built to last”.

The guidance also encourages stakeholders to support local jobs and amenities by design, ensuring local shops and services like GP surgeries are within walking distance.

To help smaller developers bring forward much-needed homes and to set realistic expectations on larger developments, the government is intending to create model design codes – set to be launched later this year – with clear rules to create successful places.

Local authorities are expected to set the vision for their areas through local plans, ensuring clear design expectations using masterplans, local design codes and guides.

Joe Stenson, head of urban design at Barratt Redrow, said: “We know that strong, thoughtful design is essential to creating great places to live over the long term.

“We therefore support the ambition of government’s proposed update to national design guidance, putting people at the heart of placemaking and creating a consistent approach that will help to speed up local decision-making.”

The government has set out seven key features of well-designed places. These are liveability, climate, nature, movement, build form, public space and identity.

Alongside designing buildings that cope with climate change, the plans aim to create well-located spaces that encourage social interaction, green spaces to reduce overheating and rooms sized to promote health and well-being.

Chris Williamson, president at RIBA, said: “Today’s updates to national design guidance should have a positive impact on our future homes and neighbourhoods.

“It’s encouraging to see the guidance taking a holistic approach to good design, emphasising the importance of accessible amenities and green, high-quality spaces, while acknowledging the vital role of local context and culture.

“The unique skills of architects will be crucial in bringing this guidance to life. We look forward to continuing to work alongside the government and sector to shape places that truly meet people’s needs.”