Worcester City Council has launched a search for volunteers to provide independent advice on improving the design quality of new and refurbished buildings and development in the city.
They will form a new Design Review Panel, providing constructive, impartial advice to planning applicants, their agents and architects – and also to the Council’s own planning officers.
It is hoped that by encouraging a focus on the design, the result will be better outcomes for developers and the local community.
The Council is looking for people to join the new Panel who have a background in architecture, urban design, planning, landscape architecture, heritage, sustainability or related fields, and who are passionate about design quality and the future of Worcester.
Councillor Karen Lewing, Chair of the City Council’s Planning Committee, said: “By launching this important initiative we are hoping to raise the quality of new buildings and other development across Worcester.
“By drawing on the independent expertise of professionals from a range of relevant fields, we hope to encourage more schemes that show innovative, high-quality contemporary architecture, while also protecting and enhancing Worcester’s heritage and strong local character.
“If you work in architecture, urban design, planning or a similar area, are passionate about the quality of design in Worcester, and can spare some of your valuable time, we would love to hear from you.”
The Council is asking for expressions of interest from people who would like to join the Design Review Panel.
