Find out why we need a Design Code, how the Code has been produced and what it means for Castle Point. This page will be updated throughout the consultation, as new common questions arise.
What is a Design Code?
A Design Code is a tool to guide the physical development of buildings and public spaces to ensure that new developments reflect local character and meet high standards of design. It sets out what is required from those submitting planning applications, and guides developers, house builders and architects as they prepare submissions and site-specific design codes.
Why does Castle Point need a Design Code?
In 2023, the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act (LURA) introduced a legal requirement for local authorities, including Castle Point Borough Council, to prepare a design code. This requirement was further strengthened in 2024 with additional guidance. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) places greater emphasis on design quality through Chapter 12: Achieving Well-Designed Places, which mandates all local planning authorities to prepare design guides or codes.
The Castle Point Design Code will replace the existing Residential Design Guidance (2012). This update ensures that design standards reflect current national policy and local aspirations for high-quality, sustainable development.
How has the community been involved so far?
Engagement events took place between January and March 2024 with councillors and the local community. A total of 252 responses were collected. Key themes informed the production of the Castle Point Design Code.
A further consultation is now underway, please have your say and respond to the consultation here: LINK
What governance process does it have to go through?
On Wednesday 22 April 2026, at a meeting of Cabinet, the decision was made to go out for public consultation.
Once the consultation closes and any amendments to the Castle Point Design Code have been made, the document will go to Council for members to decide on whether to adopt the Castle Point Design Code as a non-statutory material planning consideration.
What happens next?
Following the close of the consultation, all responses will be reviewed and any necessary amendments made to the Design Code. The revised document will then be presented to Council for a decision on whether to adopt it as a non-statutory material planning consideration.
When will this be implemented?
It is intended to be taken to Council for a decision to be taken before the end of the year.
Can it be implemented before the Castle Point Plan?
Yes, the Castle Point Design Code is a separate standalone document and can be approved for use as a non-statutory material planning consideration once the consultation and relevant amendments have been made.
Is the Design Code linked to the Castle Point Plan?
Yes, as well as being a standalone document, the Castle Point Design Code forms part of the evidence-base for the Castle Point Plan. It will support the Castle Point Plans implementation by providing detailed design guidance.
Can the Design Code be referred to when determining planning applications?
Yes, it is expected that the Castle Point Design Code is used from the earliest stages of scheme development and will clearly and transparently set out the key design requirements and identify specific standards relevant to the application. This will help to improve the quality of submissions and ensure proposals align with the Councils expectations for high-quality, context-responsive development. Planning Officers will be able to refer to the Castle Point Design Guide and give it material weight when determining an application.
Does this enable better development design within the borough?
Yes, the Castle Point Design Code sets out clear, consistent and locally specific design expectations which help to raise the overall quality of development within the Borough.
Is there flexibility?
Yes, while the Castle Point Design Code established clear standards, it also allows for appropriate flexibility and creative freedom when designing a scheme.
Does it prevent bespoke design?
No. The Design Code does not prevent bespoke or innovative design solutions. It sets out clear expectations for quality, character and sustainability, but applicants may propose alternative approaches where they can demonstrate that the outcome meets or exceeds the objectives of the Code. Bespoke design is encouraged where it contributes positively to the character of the area in which it is located.
Will it encourage more of similar building styles?
No. The Castle Point Design Code does not require uniformity or replication of a single architectural style. It identifies the defining characteristics of the Borough and sets principles to ensure new development responds positively to its surrounding context. The purpose is to encourage cohesive and high-quality design while avoiding inappropriate or out of character development.
What is a perimeter block?
A perimeter block is an urban design term used to describe a block of development where buildings are arranged around the edges of a site facing outward onto the road and leaves the rear gardens enclosed within the centre of the block. These create walkable, coherent street networks, encourage natural surveillance and provide useable outdoor amenity space that is private.
Will there be interactive maps?
It is intended that to accompany the Castle Point Design Code that an interactive map will be developed and published online, for free of charge use, for applicants and planners to locate their site within the Boroughs mapped character and identity areas. This will be developed later in the year.
Does the Design Code allow for eco-friendly design and climate/water conservation?
Yes. Sustainability is embedded throughout the Design Code. It includes guidance on energy efficient design, sustainable materials, biodiversity enhancement, Sustainable Drainage Systems, water efficiency, climate resilience and the integration of green and blue infrastructure. These principles support the Borough’s wider environmental objectives and national policy requirements.
Is SuDs considered?
Yes. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are addressed within the Castle Point Design Code at page 83. It promotes the integration of SuDS features such as basins, swales, rain gardens, permeable paving and green roofs (Urban Greening) into the design of new development. This supports flood risk management, water quality improvements and biodiversity enhancement.