Northern Architecture - Promoting better places in the North East

This version of the Building for Life 20 questions is being developed by the Architecture Centre Devon and Cornwall. It is designed to provide a plain English version of the questions for use with residents, community groups and stakeholders. There are minor alterations to the language used, additional prompt questions, tips on what to look for and issues which would benefit from interactive exercises or more detailed workshops. Illustrated examples should accompany the presentation of the questions. The way in which Building for Life is used should be described with and introduction to the importance of design in the context of making a great place to live. All the questions should be explained and the relevant context provided as to how the questions would be answered in an assessment. These cards are designed to be used in conjunction with the standard guide and can be inserted as supporting guidance.

Commissioned by the Design Council in April 2011, Peter Bishop undertook an extensive consultation, involving more than 450 representations via written submissions and roundtables held across the country. The Review was supported by an expert advisory group of industry leaders and organisations including the RIBA, RTPI, RICS, Landscape Institute, BPF, HBF, Architecture Centre Network and the Prince?s Foundation. The Bishop Review is an independent report to the Design Council. It examines the legacy of the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) in the context of the new planning system and economic and political context, and makes recommendations for a new ecosystem of design support in England.

An introduction to neighbourhood planning produced by the department for Communities and Local Government

Quarter Newsletter from the Green alliance: Issue 29 Autumn 2011 What is planning for? This edition tackles the purpose of planning, which is inextricably linked to the big question of what role the state should have in shaping our environment. It?s not clear the government?s planning reforms will work at either a policy or political level. We feature views from the experts about what planning should be before and how it could be reformed to really benefit the economy, society and the environment. Featured writers: Dame Fiona Reynolds, National Trust; Alex Morton, Policy Exchange. Simon Roberts, Centre for Sustainable Energy, Hugh Ellis, TCPA; Trudi Elliott, RTPI; Faye Scott, Green Alliance; Amy Persson, Green Alliance; Rebekah Phillips, Green Alliance.

A booklet summarising the learning from Big Lottery Fund's Community Building projects has been published. It documents challenges faced by the projects, and ways they can be minimised or overcome. It aims to share learning to help others avoid common problems.