The B&NES Design Review Panel provides independent expert advice on major, sensitive and strategically important development proposals in Bath & North East Somerset. B&NES Council recommends Design Review early in the design process, normally before submitting a planning application.
About Design Review
The B&NES Design Review Panel provides independent, expert advice to raise the quality of design and placemaking across the area, helping ensure development delivers lasting value for residents and visitors. The panel is managed by Design West on behalf of B&NES Council. It brings together independent professionals from architecture, planning, urban design, landscape, sustainability, transport and other relevant disciplines.
The National Planning Policy Framework requires local planning authorities to encourage the appropriate use of Design Review and other design processes, particularly for strategic sites and significant projects. We will take the panel’s recommendations into account, alongside other relevant planning matters.
Design Review is most effective early in a scheme’s evolution, while there is still flexibility to respond to recommendations. The panel operates in accordance with the Design Network National Design Review Charter, ensuring an independent, transparent and consistent review process.
Types of schemes recommended for Design Review
Design Review is particularly suitable for:
- strategic sites, urban extensions and reserved matters parcels
- schemes of 10 or more units
- important public buildings and landmarks
- major infrastructure, public realm and regeneration schemes
- proposals introducing an innovative design approach
- development affecting sensitive views or areas, and/or the historic environment
- proposals likely to establish a precedent for future development
- council-led schemes and policy documents
Referring a scheme for review
There are a number of ways to refer a scheme for a review..
- Planning officers will usually identify and refer major and sensitive proposals, normally through the pre-application process.
- Applicants, agents and developers can request a review directly. We encourage early discussion with your planning officer to help identify the most appropriate stage in the process for Design Review.
- Design West may contact applicants directly where a scheme appears suitable for review.
- Other council officers or elected councillors may suggest that a scheme should be reviewed.
- Design West will liaise with the applicant and B&NES Council to agree the appropriate timing and type of review.
The review process and fees
Reviews normally include a site visit, an applicant presentation and a panel discussion. Design West issues a written feedback letter within 10 working days.
| Review type | Format | Type of project | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full day review | Up to 6 hours, in person | Schemes of 200 or more homes, urban extensions, major regeneration and infrastructure
| £4950 |
| Half day review | Up to 4 hours, in person | Schemes of 20 to 200 homes, mixed-use development, public buildings and town-centre schemes
| £3950 |
| Returning or small scheme review | 2 hours, online | Returning schemes and smaller proposals, normally of 10 or more homes
| £3000 |
| Building for Healthy Life (BHL) Assessment | Desktop assessment following a site visit | Residential proposals assessed against the Building for a Healthy Life framework
| Approx £2500 |
Additional charges may apply for travel, venue hire or refreshments. All fees exclude VAT.
Arrange a review
We recommend discussing Design Review with your planning officer where possible. Or you can visit the Design West website to find out more and book. They will confirm the review type, date, information required and total fee.