UKGBC responds to the NPPF and National Model Design Code consultation
The consultation sought views on draft revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) intended to implement policy changes in response to the Building Better Building Beautiful Commission “Living with Beauty” report.
It also sought views on the draft National Model Design Code, devised to provide detailed guidance on the production of design codes, guides and policies to promote successful design.
Philp Box, Public Affairs and Policy Officer at UKGBC said:
“The changes proposed to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and the introduction of the National Model Design Code, mark a welcome step in the right direction in terms of tackling the issues with design quality, highlighted by the likes of the Housing Audit 2020.
“Whilst we welcome the direction of travel, we believe many of the changes suggested need to be strengthened and enhanced further, in order for them to fully support the stated goal of delivering significant improvements in design quality and sustainability across the built environment.
“There is currently insufficient recognition of the planning system as a key strategic vehicle for decarbonising the economy, enhancing climate resilience and reversing biodiversity. As we highlight in our response, this must be rectified by ensuring that these reforms align clearly with delivering our key environmental objectives, notably including our net zero target in the Climate Change Act.”
More information about the consultation can be found here.