IT is often thought that, to get planning permission in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, it is necessary to make the new building work look just like its surroundings – as though it has always been there.

It is true that this “safe” approach is often successful in getting planning permission and, indeed, where a village or group of buildings is particularly unspoilt, this is a sensible guiding principle. However, there is a tendency for it to result in boring, repetitive building styles that do little to create excitement or give visual stimulation.

As a design approach, it does not necessarily produce buildings that are harmful or ugly – but neither does it encourage architects to experiment with new techniques and materials which, with careful handling, could be used to add vitality and interest without harming their setting.

As the planning authority, we want to get the message across that we are much more open to good new design than people think, and that we positively encourage innovative approaches.

There is always the proviso that new development should “fit in”, but this definitely does not mean that existing buildings have to be replicated.

This is the underlying theme to our Design Guide, which offers help and advice to anyone thinking about carrying out development of any sort. It is due to be republished in a revised and expanded form later this year, and it is also one of the main reasons that we are currently running our second Best Building Design Award competition.

The competition is open to anyone who owns or has in any way been involved in a development that has been substantially completed since January 1, 2003, or anyone who simply thinks that a particular development is worthy of an award.

Nominations have to be received by June 11 after which finalists will be shortlisted. All finalists will then be visited during July by a team of four judges, chaired by the international architect Robin Snell and including local conservation architect Paul Crosby.

Details of the awards can be found on our website, yorkshiredales.

org.uk/bbda or contact Lesley Knevitt at the park authority on 01969-652326.