England · National documents
Design: process and tools
Explains the use of design guides, design codes, masterplans and review processes in planning for well-designed places.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Design: process and tools (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 26-001-20191001
Identify which local design tool applies
The guidance describes design work throughout policy preparation, applications and the post-approval stage. It distinguishes design guides, codes and masterplans and asks that the National design guide be read alongside it. Its older Framework paragraph references need checking against the 2026 text.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 26-001-20191001
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.