星空传媒

CABE would like to congratulate the Housing Corporation on its promotion of the role of design champions to housing association boards and senior management ("'Design champions' to be a condition of development grants", 28 February, page 13).

Far from being seen as a threat and the imposition of onerous conditions, it should be seen as the positive force that the title "design champion" implies.

Engaging with good design should be a matter of principle for housing associations. After all, housing makes up approximately 70% of our built environment and good design can enhance the quality of life of those who live in the homes or pass them by. The championing of functionality, sustainability, efficiency, aesthetics, safety and high build quality is not about enforcement but the efficient use of public resources.