James Small-Edwards

DEVELOPERS will have to cross a new hurdle in the planning process after the city council unveiled a design review panel made up of 31 big-hitting experts in the field.

All key applications are expected to be assessed by the panel which is co-chaired by Grand Designs TV presenter Damion Burrows, Savills director Vinita Dhume and leading architect Catherine Burd.

The council says the cost of the panel will be entirely met through a new “discretionary fee” – of at least £5,000 – that will be levied on applicants on a case-by-case basis.

Lower rates will be available for applications from charities while the council is reserving the right to up the fee for complex cases that may require more time for the panel to assess.

In some cases, the panel of experts – in the fields of architecture, ecology, sustainability, transport, inclusive design, landscape architecture, heritage, and urban design – will make site visits in addition to the work normally done by officers in the council’s planning department.

Co-chair Ms Burd said: “I’m interested in exploring how the need for growth is balanced against impacts on existing communities, and how new development can contribute to the wider public good in our city, be it through provision of high quality new open spaces, well-designed sustainable new buildings or creative, adaptive, reuse of existing buildings.”

The panel will work on top of the council’s “in-house” planning department. The co-chair Damion Burrows said he had “designed and delivered many projects within the city over decades”, adding that he was hoping to “both preserve and progress Westminster’s celebrated reputation for excellence”.

Another chair Vinita Dhume, who lives in the borough, said the panel “would enable further sustainable placemaking in Westminster”.

The Labour council said the panel would help meet ambitious targets it set itself in its 2022 manifesto.

Deputy cabinet member, planning and economic development, Cllr James Small-Edwards said: “I am thrilled to announce Westminster’s first ever ‘Design Review Panel.’

“This panel of experts from a broad range of disciplines will work with the council and provide independent advice on planning decisions.

“There are more than 11,000 listed buildings in Westminster, and the city is home to some of the most recognisable buildings and public spaces in the world.

“This panel will ensure the future development of the city is sustainable, supports our communities, and maintains the high quality of architectural design that makes Westminster so special.”