The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has commented on the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s plans to introduce new local beauty, quality and design standards.
RIBA President, Alan Jones, said:
“I am encouraged by the government's increasing focus on quality, design and consultation, and its acknowledgement of the critical role local councils play in creating communities. It's also positive to see National Design Code plans progress – I hope the draft matches the rhetoric and provides a blueprint for safe, sustainable design.
But a new national design guide will not solve the crisis of quality alone. The government must break down the monopoly held by a small group of developers who often put upfront cost ahead of longer-term value, and provide tougher sanctions to those who bend regulations to prioritise profit over people’s health and wellbeing. The RIBA will be consulting with its members, their clients, and the communities they serve over the next eight weeks."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Contact: Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org or +44 (0) 20 7307 3811.
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
