The Bexley Local Plan sets out a blueprint for how the borough will change and grow over the next 15 years whilst protecting what we love most about the place. High quality design will lie at the heart of achieving this objective as it is fundamental to the look and feel of new buildings and spaces and how they are used.  This Design Guide SPD, the first of a series of new guidance documents, sets out the key principles of good design and, provides practical support for those developing, commenting on and deciding applications for new buildings and public spaces within the borough.

The key objectives of the document are to ‘be more Bexley’, promote good design and provide clarity. Striving to ‘be more Bexley’ means supporting development that is rooted within the borough and draws upon the local distinctiveness of the area to ensure development complements its surroundings. The guide explores the design challenges and opportunities that exist across the borough and how these can be addressed by being clear about what good design means and how it can be achieved. In that way we can make sure the Council receives high quality proposals backed up by sound evidence which will make for quicker decisions, reducing costs and delays for everyone.

The benefits of good design are significant and far reaching not only making places in Bexley better but helping the environment, addressing climate change, improving the quality of life for all and supporting economic growth. As such, I take great pleasure in presenting the Design Principles for use by applicants, residents and decision makers alike.

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Councillor Munur, July 2025