Overview
Each year local authorities see thousands of new proposals which have the power to create better quality places. Design Review is a tried and tested method of achieving that potential, while also delivering a cost-effective and efficient way of improving the quality of proposals.
The importance of good design is recognised in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which requires local authorities to establish sound, clear and easy to follow design policies and processes that can be followed by developers and local authorities.
The strength of a design review panel’s advice lies in its independence, objectivity and ability to analyse a scheme within the context of wider good practice.
Why us?
Design Review is an independent and impartial process for evaluating the design quality of developments across England.
Since the service was set up in 1999, our team has delivered more than 3,500 Design Reviews across England and internationally. Proposals reviewed include significant developments, new buildings, public spaces and major infrastructure projects
Our service draws on the world-leading expertise of our multidisciplinary Built Environment Experts who assess the design quality of a proposal through constructive advice which identifies and communicates:
- The strengths and weaknesses of the design
- The next steps that should be taken to maximise the benefits that can be achieved through the development of its design.
Design Review is ideally carried out at the early design and planning stages, and reviews can be built into the project's timeline to support local authorities, developers and design teams in creating successful places throughout the development process.
The process is managed to the high standard established in Design Review: Principles and Practice – co-authored by Design Council, Royal Town Planning Institute, Royal Institute of British Architects and the Landscape Institute.
Cabe Design Review can be a powerful tool for bringing fresh eyes to important design aspects of large scale schemes.
Seema Manchanda, Former Assistant Director of Planning, LB Wandsworth
Experts
Our Built Environment Experts (BEEs) are drawn from a range of sectors and together comprise a network of highly respected specialists.
They provide multi-disciplinary support to local authorities, developers and communities. They advocate and champion the importance of good design in creating spaces and places that improve everyone’s quality of life.
- For a full list of our BEEs, read A guide to our built environment experts