Other Publication

Quality in Town and Country

A discussion document

This is a scanned and digitised version of Quality and Town and Country, published by in 1994 by the Government under John Gummer, Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. 

The initiative was a catalyst for the re-establishment of the importance of design quality in the planning system.

Download Quality in Town and Country

Summary

The document “Quality in Town and Country” from 1994 discusses improving the quality of built environments in urban and rural areas, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and maintaining vibrant town centres.

Key Points

  1. Context:
    • There is a need to balance economic growth with improvements in living environments, considering technological advances and changing lifestyles.
  2. Towns and Villages:
    • Towns and cities must adapt to meet modern needs to remain viable, while preserving their character and heritage.
  3. Vital and Viable Town Centres:
    • Town centres should provide cultural and commercial services to attract people, with support for mixed developments and strategic planning to maintain vitality.
  4. Local Environment:
    • Quality urban design and public spaces are crucial, as good design fosters community, reduces crime, and attracts investment.
  5. Heritage:
    • It is important to balance the preservation of architectural heritage with the demands of urban economies.
  6. Better Quality Building:
    • Buildings should be durable, adaptable, and maintainable, with stakeholders responsible for ensuring high-quality construction and maintenance.
  7. Traffic and Travel:
    • Sustainable development should reduce dependence on cars, promoting efficient land and energy use, and better public transport systems.
  8. Housing:
    • Housing developments should cater to diverse lifestyles and demographic changes, providing access to services while minimizing travel needs.
  9. Quality and Investment:
    • Good quality urban environments are economically beneficial, and wise investment in design and infrastructure fosters economic growth and sustainability.
  10. Taking Decisions in the Round:
    • Integrated decision-making involving all stakeholders is necessary to ensure comprehensive and sustainable urban planning.
  11. Future Actions:
    • The document invites discussion and debate on how to implement the outlined principles, encouraging contributions from government, developers, and communities to improve the built environment.

Government Initiatives

  • Planning Policy Guidance:
    • Emphasizes integrating urban functions and maintaining the vibrancy of town centres.
  • Regeneration Programs:
    • Focuses on redeveloping derelict land and encouraging sustainable urban growth.
  • Research and Development:
    • Supports research into sustainable urban planning and efficient resource use.

Conclusion

The document highlights the importance of quality in urban and rural environments for economic and social well-being, promoting sustainable development practices that consider long-term impacts on both the environment and the community.