6 November 2020

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

Mid Sussex District Council has adopted a Design Guide to ensure future developments are sustainable, inclusive and enhance the unique character of the District

Mid Sussex is characterised by its historic settlements and beautiful countryside, much of which is protected for their special qualities. A fundamental objective of the Design Guide is to ensure that new developments are respectful of this context, are designed to a high standard, and have a positive influence on the way people experience the villages, towns and homes that they live, work and socialise in.

The new Mid Sussex Design Guide was formally adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document by Mid Sussex District Council on 4 November and is available to view on the Council’s website. The guide will assist landowners, developers, applicants and planners in assessing the design quality of schemes. It will also help to support decision making by the Council’s Planning Committees.

The Design Guide has been prepared in line with Government policy, which places increasing emphasis on design. It provides design principles for a variety of developments, from large scale housing schemes, employment and commercial to small projects like single houses, household extensions and building conversions.

Councillor Andrew MacNaughton, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning said:

“Mid Sussex District Council has always believed in the importance of good design. When appropriate, we ensure schemes are assessed by a Design Review Panel and we run a regular Design Awards scheme to celebrate and showcase the best designed buildings in the District.

“Our new Design Guide puts forward principles and standards aimed at creating safe and attractive places that are sensitive to the special character of our area, but also allows for creative and innovative design solutions.

“High quality design is essential to deliver the kind of places that will provide economic and environmental wellbeing and quality of life for our residents both now, and in the future.

“This Design Guide provides clarity to those involved in development about what is expected in our area, ensuring that there will be many more buildings which we can celebrate in years to come”.