About Design Review
The Cornwall Design Review Panel provides independent, expert advice to raise the quality of design and placemaking across Cornwall. It helps ensure development delivers lasting value for residents and visitors. The Panel is managed by Design West on behalf of Cornwall Council. It brings together independent professionals from architecture, planning, urban design, landscape, ecology, sustainability, transport and other relevant disciplines.
The National Planning Policy Framework requires local planning authorities to encourage Design Review and other design processes. This is particularly for strategic sites and significant projects. Cornwall Council will consider the Panel’s recommendations, alongside other relevant planning matters.
Design Review is most effective early in a scheme’s evolution. This is while there is still flexibility to respond to recommendations. The Panel operates in accordance with the Design Network National Design Review Charter. This ensures an independent, transparent and consistent review process.
Schemes recommended for Design Review
Design Review is recommended for:
strategic sites, urban extensions and reserved matters parcels
schemes of 10 or more units
important public buildings and landmarks
major infrastructure, public realm and regeneration schemes
proposals introducing an innovative design approach
development affecting sensitive views or areas, and/or the historic environment
proposals likely to establish a precedent for future development
council-led schemes and policy documents.
Planning Officers will usually identify and recommend that major or sensitive proposals are referred to the Design Review Panel, normally through the pre-application process.
Applicants, agents and developers can request a review directly. We encourage early discussion with your Planning Officer to help identify the most appropriate stage in the process for Design Review.
Design West may contact applicants directly where a scheme appears suitable for review.
Other Council officers or Members may suggest that a scheme should be reviewed.
Design West will liaise with the applicant and Cornwall Council on timing and type of review.
How to arrange a review
Discuss Design Review with your Planning Officer where possible. You can then:
book through the Design West website; or
email review@designwest.org.uk
Design West will confirm the review type, date, information required and total fee.
Reviews normally include a site visit, an applicant presentation and a Panel discussion. Design West issues a written feedback letter within 10 working days.
Review types and fees
Review type | Format | Suitable for | Fee |
Full Day Review | Up to 6 hours, in person with site visit | Schemes of 200 or more homes, urban extensions, major regeneration and infrastructure | £4,950* |
Half Day Review | Up to 4 hours, in person with site visit | Schemes of 20-200 homes, mixed-use development, public buildings and town centre schemes | £3,950* |
Returning/Small Scheme Review | 2 hours, online | Returning schemes and smaller proposals, normally or 10 or more homes | £3,000* |
Building for a Healthy Life (BHL) | Desktop assessment (plus site visit) | Residential proposals assessed against Building for a Healthy Life | £2,950* |
*Additional charges for travel, venue hire or refreshments may apply. All fees exclude VAT. Full fee details: Design West Website.