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Introduction

1.3. How does the code relate to existing guidance?

This is an area-wide design code, as defined by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 (LURA), the August 2026 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and associated secondary legislation. It has been developed in partnership between Cheshire West and Chester's Planning, Highways and Transport teams, with support from Create Streets. It is a one-stop shop for council design guidance and street design.

This code will be a material consideration when determining planning applications.
It replaces the Cheshire Design Aid (1996) to ensure that street design and transport planning reflect the NPPF’s "vision-led approach."

The Design Code applies to both planning and highways and therefore some sections only apply to a particular function.

Aligning with the National Model Design Code (NMDC), this code helps to create well-designed places that best reflect local character and placemaking objectives. It is fully consistent with national best practice and reflects the 2026 update to the National Planning Policy Framework.

The design code is a key implementation document for the delivery of:

  • The Cheshire West and Chester Borough Plan 2024-2028
  • Local Plan Part One (2015) and Part Two (2019) and any potential update
  • The emerging Local Transport Plan 4 (which will replace Local Transport Plan 2011 – 2026)
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Fig 1.1 How the code relates to national and CW&C guidance

The borough wide design code sets out clear guidance to deliver the following Local Plan policies. Please refer to the Local Plan for specific policy wording.

Local Plan (Part One)

  • STRAT 10 Transport and accessibility
  • ENV 6 High quality design and sustainable construction

Local Plan (Part Two)

  • T 5 - Parking and access
  • DM 3 – Design, character and visual amenity
  • DM 4 – Sustainable Construction
  • DM 6 – Sustainable transport
  • DM 19 - Proposals for residential development
  • DM 20 – Mix and type of new housing development
  • DM 26 – Specialist accommodation
  • DM 35 – Open space and new development
  • DM 44 – Protecting and enhancing the natural environment
  • DM 45 – Trees, woodland and hedgerows