DEVELOPERS will be scrutinised to make sure their design and architecture is of the highest standards.

A new panel has been set up to consider plans for buildings, masterplans, public art, green spaces and other projects.

The 19-strong Cheshire West and Chester Design Review Panel will be made up of architects, engineers and other specialists to provide independent and impartial design advice and guidance to developers and their design teams.

It will be an advisory body without any formal decision-making powers but will produce a report on each project for consideration by members of Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning committees.

Clr Carolyn Graham, the council’s design champion, said: “By offering independent, expert advice - drawing on professional knowledge and experience within a local context - the panel will have a crucial role to play in assisting and encouraging developers to deliver design excellence."

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