A Lancaster University Professor has been appointed to a Government expert panel which will see communities across the country leading the way in shaping the design of their neighbourhoods.

Professor Nick Dunn has been appointed to the Design Code Pathfinders Programme Expert Panel for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

Its purpose is to ensure the planning system delivers more sustainable buildings and places by producing exemplar design codes and design coding processes.

Initially developing these through 25 Pathfinder Authorities, the programme will enable the national rollout of better places by design.

Professor Dunn, an urban designer and Head of Lancaster University’s design-led research laboratory ‘ImaginationLancaster’, will provide place specific expert advice, guidance and review to develop best practice and support for authorities preparing design codes.

He said: “This appointment recognises the important research we are doing here at ImaginationLancaster on the future of places and its ability to directly inform policy.

“I am delighted to be able to further share my knowledge and expertise in the pursuit of sustainable places and better buildings through design excellence.”

Professor Dunn is Executive Director of ImaginationLancaster, where he is also Chair of Urban Design.

As part of the Government’s plans to level up for communities across the country, 25 areas in England from Bournemouth to Carlisle, were awarded a share of £3 million earlier this year to help them set their own standards for design locally.

The Design Code Pathfinder Programme will empower communities to have their say on the development of new homes, buildings and amenities, such as shops and workspace, in their area and help restore people’s pride in the places they live.

The codes are a collection of design-principles to help local areas deliver more beautiful and sustainable places and communities – such as specifying local building materials or deciding the layout of streets.