Residents, businesses and community groups across North Hertfordshire are being invited to help shape the design of future homes and neighbourhoods as part of a new district-wide Design Code.

The draft Design Code, produced by North Hertfordshire District Council, will guide how new developments are designed, with the aim of ensuring new homes and streets are safe, sustainable and reflect the character of local communities such as Hitchin, Letchworth and Baldock.

Once adopted, the Design Code will support the current North Herts Local Plan (2011–2031) and help shape future planning decisions across the district.

The document has been developed with input from residents, councillors, council officers and external specialists in architecture, urban design, civil engineering, transport and landscape design.

The draft Code focuses on two main areas:

Seven "Place Objectives" that set the overall vision for new development

Technical design guidance covering streets, open spaces, building design and neighbourhood layout

Councillor Donna Wright, the council's Executive Member for Place, said: "This Design Code is about making sure future development in North Herts is high-quality, sustainable, and fits the character of our communities. Residents' input is vital – your feedback will help shape streets, homes, and green spaces that we can all be proud of."

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The council says the Design Code will not replace planning permission or residents' rights to comment on individual planning applications. Instead, it will set clear design standards for developers from the start, with the aim of delivering developments that are better designed, better connected and more suited to local communities.

Residents can give feedback on both the overall vision and the detailed guidance before the document is finalised and adopted.

The consultation closes on 2 April 2026.