Local councils in the West Midlands are launching a new charter to promote better design and architecture in the built environment throughout the region.

Dudley, West Midlands

Dudley, West Midlands

Source: Shutterstock/padmak

On Thursday, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in partnership with the region’s local councils endorsed the principles outlined in the new West Midlands Design Charter. The WMCA is made up of 18 local authorities.

The document outlines high-quality design in housing, civic architecture, urban spaces, parks and transport infrastructure among the targets for the 12 principles it endorses.

The principles include local distinctiveness, climate resilience, building active communities, regional networks, promoting wellbeing, and delivering inclusive growth among others.

“Great design and creativity can have a huge and positive impact on the quality of life and wellbeing of our communities,” said the mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street. “But this Charter is not just about raising the quality of the homes, places, buildings and natural environment around us it’s also about championing and promoting our design sector, helping to drive our regional economy and new jobs.”