Could design quality be embedded in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill?

The Government is in the process of deliberating one of the most ambitious pieces of legislation in recent history. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill would improve the process in England. It aims to speed up delivery of projects while also protecting the environment and working to push economic growth. Crucially, RIBA recently suggested a key amendment to the Bill to prioritise design quality. We want to have a closer look here, then you can rely on us if you need help from architects in London.

The amendment

RIBA has drafted an official amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. They want to see the legislation include design quality in Spatial Development Strategies. The SDSs are crucial because they provide guidance for local planning, specify requirements for infrastructure, and help with site identification. However, they currently don't have any obligations for when it comes to quality. This could open the door for the wrong kind of developments.

What RIBA would like to see is the requirement that every SDS include a design vision. This would look at key things like quality, placemaking, and future developments. Crucially, they believe that consulting local communities and stakeholders should also be a priority to ensure developments are beneficial for the areas.

Comments

RIBA's current president, Muyiwa Oki, said they are strongly advocating for "a strategic approach to planning policy". It is essential for achieving targets for housing and new infrastructure, as well as economic prosperity. But, quality design should be the focus to ensure projects deliver a wide range of improvements. Without a requirement for a design vision, RIBA worry "there is no guarantee that this will be delivered".

The amendment is getting support from a number of crucial stakeholders as well as many peers in the House of Lords. As top architects in London, we can see the benefits too. Making a design vision a requirement would ensure that developments are more considered.

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) is one stakeholder to voice backing for the proposal. President Eddie Weir said quality design is "fundamental to creating places that people love". Therefore, it should be a requirement. Plus, including it in SDSs would give communities a bigger say in developments at their early phases.

There was also support from the Design Council. President Edward Hobson said a design vision is "fundamental". It provides a wide array of benefits, including creating resilient communities.

What next?

Baroness Thornhill tabled RIBA's amendment in the House of Lords. As a result, there will be a debate about it after summer recess. It will be interesting to see where it goes from there. Ultimately, it could become part of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.

Ensure design quality with top architects in London

Coffey Residential ensures that good design is always a fundamental element of our projects. It is essential for creating sustainable homes that improve the wellbeing of residents. At the same time, it can ensure a project is great for the area, suiting the character.

So, if you want to work with some of the most passionate architects in London, get in touch with us. We'll help you to shape your design vision from the very start of the project.