Design Excellence

In NSW, the definition of design excellence is broadly consistent across planning legislation, where it is often summarised as ‘the highest standard of architectural, urban and landscape design.’

Penrith City Council is committed to ensuring that the highest standard of architecture and urban design is achieved for Penrith’s built environment. The Penrith Local Environment Plan 2010 (LEP) requires certain development proposals to be subject of review by the Penrith Urban Design Review Panel. In addition, the Penrith LEP 2010 also requires certain proposals within the Penrith City Centre to undergo an Architectural Design Competition and demonstrate the achievement of design excellence.

For development proposal within the Penrith City Centre, regard should be given to Clause 8.4 of the Penrith LEP 2010 as this clause outlines design excellence considerations that must be reflected within any development proposal pursued. This clause also outlines requirements relating to the pursuit of an Architectural Design Competition.

For development proposals within the broader Penrith Local Government Area, regard should be given to the applicable State Environment Planning Policies (SEPP), most notably the SEPP (Housing) 2021, and Penrith LEP 2010 when preparing a development proposal. This is because certain environmental planning instruments provide requirements for engagement with the Penrith Urban Design Review Panel which should occur in the preparation of a concept design for any proposed development intended to be pursued.

If you have any enquiries regarding the relevance of State Environmental Planning Policies, the Penrith LEP 2010 and requirements for the achievement of design excellence, please contact Council's Development Advisory Officer on (02) 4732 7991. To make arrangements to present to the Penrith Urban Design Review Panel or commence an Architectural Design Competition please contact Council's Development Services Administration Team on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .