In the response it is stated that:

Early discussion centred on comprehensive design drawings, models, 3D illustrations or other graphic representations that adequately display the spatial nature of the proposal, can only be beneficial in reducing risk and uncertainty for the development community and encouraging greater and more meaningful public participation.

It is of concern that the new procedures could introduce considerable delays to the development process by introducing a further layer of bureaucracy and this may do nothing to improve the efficiency of the process or the quality of the output. However, if the ‘front loading’ of the process contains appropriate design advice from qualified and skilled officers, this could reduce uncertainty and risk, possibly aiding greater efficiencies.

Design will always be a key consideration, regardless of the size or scale of development and it is imperative that notwithstanding procedural agreements and related issues, design should be at the heart of any pre-discussions, discussions and meetings on the applications.