Apply for planning permission
Design review service
We work with an independent design review service, Design: Midlands, who review planning proposals to help deliver design excellence within the borough.
The planning service stipulates applicants to use a design review process in the following applications:
- all major development applications
- development significantly affecting Newcastle town centre
- development in a historically or environmentally sensitive area
- development with special architectural or environmental qualities
We would advise all applicants to consider the design review service. Where a project has a design review, we will consider the panel’s recommendations in our planning process and decisions.
What does the design review service involve?
Design: Midlands deliver the service as an independent, impartial, multi-disciplinary service with the aim to improve design quality across the Midlands region. A panel of built environment experts, usually about 3-4 panellists, is convened with specialisms to suit the specific needs of the applicants. For example, heritage, ecology, urban design and architecture who will critically review the proposed scheme and offer recommendation and suggestions for improvements.
Design review is referred to in the National Planning Policy Framework. Paragraph 138 of the framework states: "Local planning authorities should ensure that they have access to, and make appropriate use of, tools and processes for assessing and improving the design of development."
Design review at the early stages of a scheme saves time and money by arriving at the best solutions to schemes at the concept stage.
Types of review
Depending on the scale and complexity of the proposal, alternative review formats are offered, and Design:Midlands will advise on the best type of review for the scheme. Please review our Local List of Validation Requirements
Small
Recommended for single dwellings and up to 30 homes, Individual buildings, including isolated homes in the open countryside / Para. 80 NPPF, infill and less than 20 dwellings.
Duration: half day £3,500.00 + VAT
Medium
Recommended for Mixed use or 20 homes +, Mixed use, regeneration, town/city centre, public buildings, housing developments of 20+ dwellings.
Duration: half day £4,000.00 + VAT
Major
Recommended for large scale / complex schemes when a full day is needed such as a garden village, an urban extension, major regeneration development etc.
Duration: full day £6,000.00 + VAT
How to apply
Applicants, agents and developers can apply directly to Design:Midlands via their website. It is recommended to discuss with them the types of review or panelists and you may require.