The Design Deficit

Posted by Atoll Ltd on 23rd July 2021 -

The Main Findings of this report produced by Place Alliance, Urban Desgin Group and Design Council summarises the findings of a short survey of urban design skills and approaches within England’s local planning authorities, and how they have changed over time. A response rate of 71% was achieved.

Reviewing the evidence, it is possible to conclude that whilst urban design and related skills in local authorities have stabilised, they remain at a low ebb and far below where they need to be in order to address the ambitious national agenda on raising the design quality of new development. Signs of the growing use of design review and design codes are positive, but recruitment of design officers into local government remains challenging, proactive community engagement in design is minimal, and design related training remains basic.

 At the current rate of change it will take until 2077 to have at least one urban design officer in every local planning authority in England.

Ian Banks has recently been re-appointed on the updated Design Council Experts Directory as one of their new ‘Expert Specialists’ working nationally – In Ian’s case, with an expertise in public art and creative engagement in regeneration. This meets with Desgin Council aims to help foster Healthy Placemaking for Healthy Lives, and who “collectively embody the organisation’s commitment to make life better by design”. More information on that afilliation here.

Ian is also a voluntary member of the Arts and Place Consortium as part of the Place Alliance. Led by Chair Professor Charles Quick, this consortium is comprised of a range of cultural professionals and artists, supported by Beam in collaboration with Farrells, architects and Place Alliance. It was formed of course to address and promote the role of the arts and artists in placemaking. In particular the planning, design, making, and animation of ‘place’, and how this might be further developed. More information on that afilliation here.

Check out the advice from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and download their various free guides, including their information and advocacy on the benefits of Working With an Architect on Your Home .

Ian Banks has been a Chartered RIBA Architect now for over 30 years, and would be delighted to assist you. Call him now on 07717710014 or email him at [email protected] .

Further information and guides are also accessible off Atoll Blogs on both The Landsite, Houzz Pro and the main website for Atoll Architecture.