Defining and assessing what constitutes good building design is not an easy or straightforward task. Opinions vary on what makes for a good building or development, and judgements are often coloured by personal tastes and preferences.

         To provide a means by which proposals may be assessed in a consistent and reasonably objective way, the Guide sets out 5 key design principles based on widely accepted architectural and urban design concepts. The key design principles will form the basis of the Council’s design assessment of all development proposals.

          The key design principles make clear the various issues the Council expects designers to take into account when drawing up proposals. Whilst designers should have regard to all of the design principles listed, it is acknowledged that the relative importance of each principle will vary according to the particular circumstances of a development. It is important to note also that the 5 principles are closely related and overlap one another - particular design issues will often touch on several, if not all, of the principles. In some cases, trade-offs between competing design objectives will be required

1. respect for context
   New development should integrate well with its surroundings, and take full account of site features and local character. New development should be neighbourly and, where appropriate, reinforce local distinctiveness.
   
2. sense of place
   New development should be designed to create a sense of place and identity. Particular attention should be paid to the design of spaces and places between and surrounding buildings
   
3. good looking buildings
   New buildings should be pleasing to the eye, soundly built and fit for their purpose. Particular attention should be paid to issues of scale and proportion, visual balance and order, architectural expression, detailing and the use of external materials.
   
4. sustainable construction
   New developments should be based on established principles of sustainable construction. Particular attention should be reducing energy consumption.
   
5. a safe and healthy
   environment New developments should create places where people feel safe and that are easily accessible to all.