South Kesteven District Council is asking local people for their opinions on proposed new design guidance for planning applications.

The council is undertaking a six- week consultation on its draft Design Guidelines document, closing on Friday 12 March.

The document, which will form part of South Kesteven's Local Plan, sets out the Council's design expectations.

Working in partnership with Rutland County Council, SKDC has prepared guidelines to provide all applicants - either for single domestic projects or larger development schemes, with a clear understanding of good design, including landscaping. They also reflect what members of the Council's Planning Committee look for when considering an application.

Cllr Robert Reid, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: "We want to hear from anyone interested in what this Council considers to be quality new development and what is important when designing new communities and neighbourhoods.

"For instance, we want to make sure any new development responds to the demands of climate change, now one of the council's top priorities, as part of creating a clean and sustainable environment."

Draft guidelines illustrate the various stages of the design process, including how to respond to, and comment on, local planning applications from a design perspective. The final guidance will help applicants understand the issues they need to consider prior to applying for planning permission.

Cllr Reid has encouraged as much feedback as possible, both from the public and the planning and development sectors. He added: "By involving local people in this process and considering any improvement suggestions, we want to ensure that the final guidelines will work for everyone.

"This is your chance to shape the design of new development, including new neighbourhoods, in South Kesteven. Please spare a few moments to let us have your views."

For a link to the survey and to see the draft document go to www.southkesteven.gov.uk/designguide