What is urban design and why is it important?
The form of buildings and spaces and how they relate to each other is known as urban design. It plays an important part in the quality of life, regeneration and economic wellbeing of local residents. Poor design is known to have social costs for a community. This is why central government is promoting good design through its policies and guidance on planning. Design is now a ‘material consideration’ in the planning process (that is a factor which will be taken into account when reaching a decision on a planning application) and planning permission can be refused on design grounds alone. Raising standards in Fife We are aiming to raise the standard of design for new developments and public spaces across Fife by working with people in the public and private sectors, including developers, local communities and other decision-makers. We are setting out new policies and design guidance in the Structure Plan, the new Local Plans, and in detailed advice for specific places or topics. We hope
