Welsh Government publishes charter on planning and placemaking

The Welsh Government has issued a charter intended to put quality, sustainability and community at the heart of planning.

More than 25 organisations have signed up to the Placemaking Wales Charter, which was developed with the Design Commission for Wales.

Signatories have committed to involve communities in the development of planning proposals, to choose sustainable locations for new development, give priority to walking, cycling and public transport and create safe and welcoming streets and public spaces.

They will also promote a sustainable mix of uses and value the distinctive qualities and identity of places.

Julie James, Minister for Housing and Local Government, said: “We need to get our economy back on its feet. However, we need an environmental, social, cultural and economic recovery which is sustainable. Now, more than ever, we need to think about places and placemaking.”

She said the development industry, local planning authorities, public bodies, the third sector and the Welsh Government all had roles to play in this.

Mark Smulian