The National Model Design Code has recently been published by the MHCLG '...to provide detailed guidance on the production of design codes, guides and policies and to promote successful design...' (NMDC, MHCLG 2021, page 1).

But is this guidance enough? Will this help local authorities determine what is good design and what isn't? Do local authorities have the time and skills to prepare these design codes? What if they don't? Ultimately, will this document help achieve high-quality, well-designed and sustainable developments, or not?

Our panel will be discussing these questions and more in a fascinating and informative chat about this document.

Our panel for this discussion is:

Debi Sherman - Head of Planning at One Planning in Norwich,

Ian Dieffenthaller - Conservation Architect at City and Country in Essex,

James Bush - Head of Masterplanning at Brown & Co in Norwich,

Patrick Usborne - Director at Perpendicular Architecture in Cambridge, and

Sam Hubbard - Strategic Planning Manager at Great Yarmouth Borough Council