MAG - what we do, and how we can help
The Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) for Architecture and the Built Environment in Northern Ireland was established to advise the Minister for Communities on the implementation and development of the Architecture and the Built Environment policy (currently under review).
What we do
MAG is here to support communities, developers, local authorities and government to create high quality places, buildings and landscapes that promote well-being, sustainable futures and the economy in Northern Ireland.
Objectives
- identification and promotion of best practice in the design of our urban and rural places through strategic advice into spatial policy making
- identification and promotion of best design practice in landscape, urban, and building design, with particular reference to the climate crisis
- identification and promotion of procurement models that recognise the qualitative value of good design
- identification and promotion of best practice in design-review procedures to ensure design quality is ultimately delivered through individual design proposals
- identification and promotion of civic stewardship as an integrated concept ensuring the sustained viability of well-designed spaces, places, and buildings.
- promotion of design as a creative approach to placemaking with widespread potential benefit for society.
We will do this by providing independent, constructive, and expert advice on development proposals to facilitate the planning process and deliver results. We are here to promote successful:
- cities
- towns
- villages
- streets
- communities
- buildings
- landscapes
MAG seeks to address the challenges in our built environment and facilitate efficient design and development through a variety of means.
We offer and facilitate
- free and impartial design advice from experienced professionals, including those in the fields of architecture, landscape, planning, transport and community engagement.
- independent advice to mediate and expedite the engagement between local authority planners and developers.
- a design review process that facilitates best outcomes quickly.
- educational outreach to schools and communities.
- best practice guides.
- annual conferences and regular seminars.
View an overview of this support in the How MAG can help guide.