The ethos for Lawley builds on the highest quality of design that has been integral within the development framework prepared for English Partnerships. This framework takes account of the urban design principles set out in English Partnerships’ Urban Design Compendium as well as principles established in English Partnerships initiatives for Sustainable Urban Extensions across the country.

Importantly the Lawley scheme also seeks to ensure that commercial viability and deliverability are integral and this will be considered throughout the selection process. All new build elements of the scheme will need to achieve the "very good" standard for BREEAM and ECOHomes sustainability charter marks.