Design for Gravesham, a new Borough-wide Design Code developed by Levitt Bernstein has been adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).

The new tool underpins the Council’s expectations for high-quality, sustainable regeneration and development in the decades to come. This strategic plan responds to Gravesham’s incredible community and its unique villages and neighbourhoods. It has been made accessible to everyone to support quality place-making, regeneration and development in the borough.

Design for Gravesham is the result of a joint effort led by the Levitt Bernstein team in close consultation with Gravesham’s Council officers and local members, and has been prepared in accordance with the framework provided by the National Model Design Code.

The document introduces a set of parameters aimed at delivering high-quality buildings and spaces that are respectful of the town's unique character and heritage and improve access to the river and Gravesham’s array of outstanding green spaces.

Throughout a year-long consultation process we engaged with thousands of local people through Gravesham’s Big Conversation initiative, a mix of digital engagement outreach and a series of public events held in Gravesend, Northfleet and villages across the borough. The design code was informed by this consultation process and responds to the priorities and aspirations of the local community in line with the council’s Corporate Plan and Climate Strategy.

Design for Gravesham will aid a shift to high-quality, community and place-led sustainable development by promoting great places and spaces and environmental enhancements that respond to the council’s ambition to be operationally net zero by 2030.

As a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), Design for Gravesham will give planning certainty to developers who chose to apply the design code to their design proposals whilst improving the transparency and consistency of the planning process for all.