Leave your mark, not a blot - advice for councillors

The coalition government's approach to localism marks a fundamental shift in the way to approach good design and place-making. Councils, and councillors, now have real freedom and power to influence the quality of their local area. 

For the first time, CABE has published online practical ideas for councillors on delivering good design and great places. Advice is targeted at leaders and mayors; executive members and portfolio holders; committee members and ward members.

Case studies demonstrate councillors in operation, from a ward member playing an honest broker role over a school, to leaders delivering transformation in Gateshead. The case studies also highlight the work of councillors within six areas of influence, from green space – for instance supporting meadowland purchase in South Northamptonshire - to town centres, driving the groundbreaking redevelopment in Liverpool; and developing a visionary masterplan for Soham, Cambridgeshire.

The online resource includes the seven principles of urban design which can be used to decide whether a proposal is any good, and maximise returns on any level of investment.

Richard Simmons, CABE chief executive, said:

‘Councillors can shape the future of their area and help to make it a great place to live and work. 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’.

Notes to editors

• To find out how councillors across the country are using good design to improve their area visit www.cabe.org.uk/councillors
• CABE is the government’s advisor on architecture, urban design and public space. As a public body, we encourage policymakers to create places that work for people. We help local planners apply national design policy and offer expert advice to developers and architects. We show public sector clients how to commission buildings that meet the needs of their users. And we seek to inspire the public to demand more from their buildings and spaces. Advising, influencing and inspiring, we work to create well-designed, welcoming places. www.cabe.org.uk