A 2003 Local Government study found that 89% of councils indicated that further design skills were required in their planning department and the Local Government Association's Urban Commission survey reported that 83% of councillors considered their area was in the process of 'reinventing itself'.

The study aims to address this by examining and presenting nine case studies of local authorities which have been identified as demonstrating good practice in their role in the land use planning system, the maintenance of public space and investment in the built environment.

Local authorities have a key role in the creation of better public places and the maintenance of public space as well as a high degree of control and responsibility over the physical design of their local environment.

The outcomes of their work are celebrated by a range of reports and awards, however relatively little attention has been given to good practice in the process of delivering good quality in the built environment.

Following the findings of CABE’s 2003 Local Government survey and an LGA Urban Commission survey this work contributes to the body of good practice knowledge in this area.

Working with the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), the NLGN Research Unit examined leadership practice and process within a group of nine local authorities recognised for their good work in design. This included a workshop and interviews with staff and members of the authorities included in the research.

There is no one correct approach however there are a range of significant factors in achieving better public places including:

New Local Government Network (NLGN) Research Unit

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01/04/2004

New Local Government Network (NLGN) Research Unit in partnership with CABE.

research

Urban Policy > Urban environment

Urban renewal, Land use