The future of design guides and codes The latest proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) take some initial steps in the direction of the wider proposed reforms to the planning system. Notable here is the focus on good design quality and placemaking, with local planning authorities being required to prepare ‘design guides or codes’ consistent with the National Design Guide and the recently published draft National Model Design Code (NMDC) and Guidance Notes for Design Codes (GNDC). These guides and codes will need to be tailored to each locality, reflecting distinct character, design preferences and aspirations – based on community engagement. To carry weight in decision-making, they should also be prepared as part of a plan, or as a supplementary planning document.