Steps taken by Gloucester City Council to improve the design of new buildings in the city have been given a ringing endorsement by one of the city's leading architectural firms.

Gloucester City Council's cabinet was last night presented with a report by Andrew Gravells, the member for planning and housing strategy on driving up architectural standards.

The council is aiming to increase awareness of what is good design and to encourage developers to raise their standards.

And that news has been welcomed by Joe Roberts, director of leading Gloucester architects Roberts Limbrick.

He said: It's fantastic to see Gloucester City Council taking such positive and collaborative steps to improve the standards of design in our beautiful City.

"Roberts Limbrick have been delighted to be involved in these discussions and look forward to seeing the benefits of this approach in the future."

Ahead of last night's motion to cabinet, the city council met with architects, including the Chair and Director of the Wessex region of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

They also met with developers to discuss the plans and hear from them what steps could be taken to drive up architectural design in Gloucester.

The council will work with the RIBA and other professional institutes to share best practice and promote better communication with the industry and planning officers.

They will also consult on major schemes with the Gloucestershire Design Review panel and celebrate good quality design.

Councillor Andrew Gravells, cabinet member for planning and strategic housing at Gloucester City Council said:

"This initiative is something I'm incredibly passionate about and have pushed forward to make progress on.

"Gloucester is a dynamic and growing city, rapidly strengthening its position as a key driver in the South West.

"The standards of design and architecture that we permit are critical in building high quality homes and buildings that boost pride in our City, and bring more people to it.

"The meeting was a really positive first step towards working closer with local businesses on this important agenda."

Jon Watkins, RIBA Regional Director, said: "The RIBA is excited to be involved in working with Gloucester City Council, professional colleagues across the city, and the Gloucestershire Design Panel to support the Driving up Design initiative.

"Architects can use their expertise, experience and passion to help politicians and city leaders ensure that the built environment is safer, better and more sustainable"