Guidance

National Model Design Code

The National Model Design Code provides detailed guidance on the production of design codes, guides and policies to promote successful design.

• From: Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2018 to 2021) and Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
• Published: 20 July 2021
• Last updated: 14 October 2021 — See all updates

Applies to England

Documents

National Model Design Code: part 1 - the coding process

PDF, 6.01 MB, 51 pages

National Model Design Code: part 2 - guidance notes

PDF, 10.8 MB, 98 pages

National Model Design Code: part 1 - the coding process (accessible version)

PDF, 6.71 MB, 51 pages

National Model Design Code: part 2 - guidance notes (accessible version)

PDF, 12 MB, 98 pages

National Model Design Code: part 1 - the coding process (html accessible version)

HTML

National Model Design Code: part 2 - guidance notes (html accessible version)

HTML

National Model Design Code: Illustrations

ZIP, 71.9 MB

Details

​The National Model Design Code sets out clear design parameters to help local authorities and communities decide what good quality design looks like in their area.

The National Model Design Code forms part of the government’s planning practice guidance and expands on the 10 characteristics of good design set out in the National design guide, which reflects the government’s priorities and provides a common overarching framework for design.

Published 20 July 2021
Last updated 14 October 2021 + show all updates

1. 14 October 2021

   Added zip file of National Model Design Code: Illustrations.

2. 8 September 2021

   Added html versions of the National Model Design Code part 1 and 2.

3. 9 August 2021

   Added accessible versions of National Model Design Code: part 1 - the coding process, and National Model Design Code: part 2 - guidance notes.

4. 20 July 2021

   First published.