New independent Design Review Forum confirms appointment of members to champion design excellence

The independent forum was launched to champion the highest standards of design across Salford. Its role is to constructively challenge developers to achieve the best possible design outcomes for the city. Design reviews will typically take place at an early stage in scheme development before planning applications are submitted to the council, offering constructive advice and feedback to help shape emerging proposals.

Design review panels are already well established across London and the south east and Salford’s new forum marks a significant step in embedding design excellence into the city’s planning process.

Stephen Gleave, Chair of the forum said: “It is an honour to be the first Chair of this new forum and I am hugely excited to get started. Salford is at the forefront in pioneering the establishment of this independent design review forum. We have 35 very talented and committed forum members who will bring their incredible wealth of experience to the forum and help shape the future of the city for the better.

“Our guiding aim is to work collaboratively with the development community to achieve the best possible outcomes for the people of this city. We’re proud to be leading the way with our forum in the north west."

The Design Review Forum will meet regularly to assess emerging major development proposals and provide independent, expert advice to help shape a better built environment for Salford.

Ernst ter Horst, Vice Chair of the forum added: “The forum will offer early-stage guidance that can shape projects for the better. Reviews will focus on key themes such as placemaking, climate resilience, accessibility, and architectural integrity. It will help ensure that new developments reflect the ambition, character and quality that Salford’s communities deserve.”

Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council said: “This city has seen transformational growth and development over recent decades. And this pioneering approach will ensure we are creating places that truly enhance the quality of life of our residents, places that afford exceptional working environments, and places that celebrate our culture and grow the city’s visitor economy.

“Salfordians are very proud people and we want to ensure that we achieve the highest standards of design and sustainability for the city and our residents.”

The full membership of the forum is detailed on the council’s website together with biographies of the forum members.