The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MCHLG) has opened consultation on new design and placemaking planning practice guidance (PPG).

It says that the measures will ‘raise the bar’ for new build developments by setting ‘a clear benchmark for well-designed neighbourhoods, ensuring new developments are well-connected to local shops and services’.

According to MCHLG, the guidance will form part of its new rules-based system where developers meeting clear standards can move quickly from plans on paper to spades in the ground.

Measures to smooth the path of well-planned development are welcome although design guidance that becomes over-prescriptive, creates more red tape, affects viability and ultimately places more barriers in the way of the construction of much needed new homes will prove counterproductive to the MCHLG’s aims.

We will watch with interest and submit representations as necessary.

Consultation on the draft guidance is open until Tuesday 10 March.

Please contact us to find out more about how the latest government reforms and development proposals will affect your plans or project.