Cheltenham Borough, Gloucester City and Tewkesbury Borough councils are set to produce a design code for the three authority areas as part of the SLP (Strategic and Local Plan).
The aim of the design code is to improve the design quality of new development in the area – and the councils are starting off by asking the community what it should contain and what it should say.
Alistair Cunningham, Chief Executive of Tewkesbury Borough Council and Senior Responsible Owner for the SLP, said: “The design code will help set out what the three SLP authorities’ design expectations are for new development. We want to know the views of residents, community groups, local businesses and other relevant organisations to help shape the design code.
“The questionnaire is on the SLP consultation portal alongside other new public engagement surveys. It’s open for 10 weeks until Friday, 2 January 2026 and only requires a few minutes to complete and is very easy to do – we want as many responses as possible to give us a clear way forward.”
What is the Strategic and Local Plan? The SLP is the long-term plan for Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury. While national planning policy sets the framework for how much development is needed and broadly where it should go, the SLP allows councils and communities to shape how new development is designed and delivered locally. It sets out where new homes, jobs, services and infrastructure should go, and how we will protect and enhance the environment.
What is a design code? A design code is for new development and is a set of simple, visual rules and guidance that show what “good design” looks like. It helps ensure new buildings, streets and spaces are well designed, reflect local character, and support healthy, sustainable communities.
The design code cannot decide how much development will happen or exactly where. Those decisions sit with the Strategic and Local Plan. It also cannot change national planning policy. But it can strongly influence how development looks, feels and supports climate, nature and community wellbeing.
Why are we asking for your opinion? We want the design code to reflect local needs and priorities. By sharing your views, you can help shape how new development looks and feels.
How will your views be used? Your feedback will help inform what the design code should contain. While not every suggestion can be included, all responses will be considered and will inform the next stage of the SLP.
Design code questionnaire: Project: SLP Design Code | Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury Strategic and Local Plan
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