Leave your mark, not a blot
14 July 2010
The coalition government's approach to localism marks a fundamental shift in the way to approach good design and placemaking, so councillors need to be better prepared to make decisions about urban design.
New Road, Brighton. © Shaw and Shaw Photography.
CABE has published online practical support for councillors using their power to influence the quality of their local area. Advice is offered to leaders and mayors; executive members and portfolio holders; committee members and ward councilllors, to help them deliver good design and great places.
Case studies illustrate effective initiatives by councillors, from a ward member playing an honest broker role over a school, to leaders delivering transformation in Gateshead.
Other case studies highlight the work of councillors within six areas of influence. These include work for improved green space, such as supporting meadowland purchase; and for improved town centres, whether it is redeveloping Liverpool City Centre or developing a visionary masterplan for the Cambridgeshire market town of Soham.
The new online resource includes seven principles of urban design which can be used to decide whether a proposal is any good.
Richard Simmons, CABE chief executive, thinks that the new resource will support councillors in shaping the future of their area, and maximising return on investment. ‘Few people are better placed to know what the community wants for their neighbourhood than a councillor. And few are better placed to help them get it’.
Practical support for councillors
Leaders and mayors
You set the direction. You have the authority to insist on design quality. Planning and urban design will help your council to deliver on its priorities and achieve your long-term vision for your area.
Executive members and portfolio holders
You are in a position to lead inside and outside the council in demanding high-quality design. The planning and development portfolio is the one with the key responsibility.
Committee members
You are in a position to lead inside and outside the council in demanding high-quality design. The planning and development portfolio is the one with the key responsibility.
Ward councillors
As a ward councillor, you are a community leader. You represent local people and involve them in decision-making. You can press the council to improve the quality of buildings and spaces.
Areas you can influence
Large scale planning
Your influence over design involves understanding how different themes and activities can be brought together to make better places.
Town centres
Your decisions can make the difference between a successful town centre and a declining one, with an impact across an even wider area.
Housing
Housing conditions will always feature in your caseload, but your involvement in new schemes could reduce problems for the future.
School design
Whether you’re building a new school or refurbishing an existing one, it’s vital to get the most out of any investment. A well-designed school makes students feel valued and boosts educational attainment.
Green spaces
There is a direct link between the quality of public space in an area and public satisfaction with the local authority that manages it. Parks and green spaces can help to make a place successful or create a sense of neglect.
Streets and squares
The state of local streets and squares is bound to be high on the list of your constituents’ concerns. Simple interventions can turn streets into popular public spaces in their own right.