A schedule of ‘early suggested changes’ to the new London Plan was issued by the Greater London Authority earlier this month, ahead of a formal public examination expected to start in January. Here are four of the key changes proposed, with reaction from commentators....
The articles in this issue of the Urban Design Magazine explore some of the shifting models, opportunities, challenges and foci of design review. The topic opens with an article that explores mainstream practices of design review: Matthew Carmona, Wendy Clarke and...
Matthew Carmona (Place Alliance), Philip Waddy (West Waddy ADP), Ruth Reed (RIBA) and Neil Cameron (Landmark Chambers) on the final revised National Planning Policy Framework and importance of design quality. Read more →
The IHBC has welcomed a new study by PLACE Alliance and partners – Reviewing design review in London – examining design review cases in London to provide ‘a 360-degree analysis of the diversity of design review practices across London and the benefits that flow from...
The Place Alliance today welcomed the new strong endorsement in the revised NPPF for the importance of design. The new policy leaves no doubt that design should be taken seriously by local authorities and developers alike, and should be prioritised everywhere. Read...
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) revisions emphasising the need for high-quality development have been welcomed in principle, but some question whether the government’s aspirations are achievable in practice. Read the full article here →
Elizabeth Hopkirk summarises a round-up of tweets and statements from architects and planners. Meanwhile, Place Alliance welcomes the new stronger emphasis on design in the revised NPPF. Read more →
Councils and developers alike can benefit from independent design reviews to improve building design and the quality of places, a research report has concluded. Read the full article here →
This paper explores the link between the quality of the built environment and its value, in health, social, economic and environmental  terms. This is theorized as  ‘place value’  which, alongside ‘place quality’, is conceptualized as existing within a virtuous loop...
