Final chance to have your say on Spelthorne Design Code

The consultation will last for 6 weeks and close on Monday 4 August. Have your say at Spelthorne Design Code | Commonplace.

The Spelthorne Design Code is a new planning document, intended to be adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). It gives clear, community-informed guidance to ensure new development is well-designed, locally supported, and sustainable, helping to shape places that work for people and reflect the character of the borough.

The code includes guidance on:

building height, scale and layout
landscape and green space
streets layout and access
public spaces and the areas between buildings
new housing sites, brownfield development and household extensions

Councillor Malcolm Beecher, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, said, "The Design Code is shaped by local feedback and sets out a shared vision for how we want our borough to grow. Following the extensive engagement that took place with residents, the Design Code reflects what matters most to the people of Spelthorne. This survey is your final chance to help shape this important planning document so please do have your say."

Cllr Tony Burrell, Chair of the Spelthorne Design Code Task Group, said "We want to hear from residents on what they think about the Design code, which been developed using national guidance and aligns with the emerging Local Plan. The Code will help ensure that future development is well-designed, high quality, and respects the character of our towns and open spaces."

What has changed since the last Design Code draft?

During March and April 2025, the first draft of the Design Code was published for public feedback. This followed a year of engagement with residents, the Citizens' Panel, and other local and technical stakeholders.

Based on the comments, the following key changes have been made:

stronger building height guidance in Staines-upon-Thames Town Centre and now also Staines Village
updated guidance for suburban areas to reflect typical development styles
more detailed advice on landscaping and sustainable drainage systems
more emphasis on protecting Conservation Areas
a focus on the Staines-upon-Thames riverfront
improved layout and easier navigation of the code documents

The full updated Design Code is now available to read online at https://designspelthorne.commonplace.is/

Printed copies will also be available at the Council Office in Knowle Green and in local libraries during the consultation.

Read our guide on how to have your say

Guide - Have your say on the Spelthorne Design Code (pdf, 372.75 KB)

Email the team at designcode@spelthorne.gov.uk for further information.