Planning minister Nick Boles has honoured the first five schemes that meet the updated criteria for the new Building for Life 12 design standard.<br> <br> Bfl12 is government endorsed and in partnership with HBF, Cabe at the Design Council and Design for Homes. It was relaunched last September to align it more closely with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Localism Act.<br> <br> The revision was also inspired by North West Leicestershire Council which has been promoting design quality through its "ourplace" initiative, featuring 12 criteria which were developed according to communities' views. Bf12 aims to involve communities in the shaping of attractive, sustainable homes and neighbourhoods.<br> <br> Speaking at an event in the House of Commons, Westminster to recognise the schemes, Boles commented: "I feel that everyone on any income or from whatever origin deserves to live somewhere beautiful. The industry has provided this with the Building for Life standard."