September 2015 Issue No. 104 new planner

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Planning for Places What is placemaking? | Creating people-centred cities Community engagement | Digital placemaking evolves Awards for Planning Excellence GALA DINNER

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2 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner This Issue contents

Guest Editorial 4

CONTACT President’s Message 6 General Enquiries Suite 404, Level 4, 32 York St, Sydney NSW 2000 Executive Officer’s Report 7 T: 02 8904 1011 E: [email protected] New Planner Planning Perspectives 8 E: [email protected] W: www.planning.org.au/news/new-planner-nsw From the Minister 9

CONTRIBUTIONS PlannerTech 10 The New Planner contributor guidelines are available at: www.planning.org.au/news/new-planner-nsw How place-oriented planning can create 11 Expressions of Interest to write an article or opinion people-centred cities piece for the December 2015 issue should be emailed to [email protected] by Monday 14th September. There’s no place like home 14

NEW PLANNER EDITORIAL TEAM Mind the gap! Rethinking public transport as a 16 Managing Editor valuable public space Andrew Wheeler, UNSW Australia Lead Editor (September 2015 Issue) In the Courts 18 Laura Wynne, UTS Associate Editors NSW Young Planners 19 Elle Clouston, HillPDA Camille Lattouf, Architectus Planning as a social art form 20 Rose Saltman, RM Planning Ken Shepherd What do Australia and England have to learn from 22 Alice Strömstedt, Hames Sharley each other regarding community engagement in planning? PIA Staff Maurene Horder, NSW Executive Officer Successful centres: protecting Sydney’s long-term productivity 24 Amanda Maskill, NSW PD & Events NSW Consulting Planners 26 COVER Clovelly Road Better Block Healthy Built Environments 28 (Photo: Andrew Wheeler) Norton Rose Fulbright Review 30 SUBSCRIPTIONS New Planner is available on subscription to non-members The Inbox 31 of PIA at a cost of $88 per annum, GST inclusive. Email: [email protected] International Snippets 32 The views expressed in New Planner are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Planning Institute of Australia. Copyright for all images belongs to the respective article Stay up to date with the latest news from author(s) or the Planning Institute of Australia unless otherwise noted. New Planner. Follow us today!

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Guest Editorial The evolution of placemaking – what’s next? Kylie Legge MPIA, Director, Place Partners

Norberg-Schulz defines the genius loci as our main streets, mixed-use developments What exactly is placemaking and what a thing or place is and also what it and even malls were left with gaping how can it help create, enhance and wants to be, and reflects the focus of the first vacancies, a degraded public realm and, in manage places that are attractive era of placemaking – that is, delivering place turn, fewer people spending time and money character, identity or meaning. in them. There were many problems and little and meaningful to people? money for large-scale capital improvement Community participation works or economic programs to fix them. The second key period in the history of Economic revitalisation Strangely, considering the current trend placemaking occurred in the mid-20th toward placemaking across a wide array century, and centred on New York and the This third era is where the promise of of community, economic and design work of community activist Jane Jacobs placemaking has come into its own as a professions, defining placemaking has not and urbanist William Whyte. This period relatively low-cost process that involves been high on the agenda. Like a mirage, represents the birth of contemporary local people engaging in the revitalisation definitions can change to reflect the desire of placemaking. It catalysed a move from the of local places. This process aims to share the protagonist, and this is why placemaking macro planning of cities via infrastructure- responsibility, build connections between is attractive to so many. oriented development, to the micro people and local places and, of course, build environments of communal activity and Despite this, most people would agree that and sustain local economies. The third era of relationships. From the professional to the placemaking is about delivering at least placemaking has truly begun. personal, whether that was the community one, or perhaps all three, of the following 3 activism led by Jacobs to save Manhattan’s In 2010, the Knight Soul of the Community objectives: place character, community unique villages, or Whyte’s commitment to research was released and, what for many participation and economic revitalisation. It creating urban public spaces that allowed for had been intuitive, now became definitive. is, then, perhaps no coincidence that these social interaction, the focus of placemaking Place attachment – how loyal a person is objectives reflect the history of placemaking, during this period was on community to their place – is a direct result of three as well as its evolution. participation, both in planning and activation factors: (1) how welcoming the place is to Place character of public spaces. a diversity of people; (2) aesthetics – the look and feel of the place; and (3) social Any consideration of placemaking begins At the turn of the century, professional activities – what the place offers in terms of with an understanding of what place placemaking was still on the periphery, opportunities to connect with other people. is and why it is valued as an objective. not widely known, understood or utilised. Place can define a location, a personal However, the foundations of placemaking – This research proved that place attachment relationship to an environment, or act as a collaboration, the experience economy, place is real and, more importantly for many critics, re-presentation of the spirit of the land and branding and the re-localisation movement that there is a measurable economic benefit our unspoken communion with it. In the – were gaining greater acceptance. Then, associated with it. The research showed that simplest terms, ‘place is a space that has in late 2008, came the tipping point: a places that have higher levels of attachment a distinct character’.1 At its most complex, global financial crisis that, on the back of also have higher levels of GDP growth and it embodies the essence of a location, its growth in Internet shopping, changes to economic resilience. Put simply, people who community, spiritual beliefs, stories, history consumer values and increased competition, were connected to local places were more and aspirations. 2 This essence or sense fundamentally changed the way our urban likely to shop locally and support fellow of place is its genius loci, its ‘place-ness’. centres function. The result was that many of community members in their businesses.

4 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner editorial . | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 5 planner new Phenomenology of Architecture, Rizzoli, New York. Rizzoli, New of Architecture, Phenomenology that King, TF 2003, Places York; Books, New Vintage Childs, MC Creek; Walnut Press, Count, AltaMira Journal of Urban Design, 2001, ‘Civic Ecosystems’, 6, no. 1, pp. 55-72. vol. Norberg-Schulz, C 1980, Genius Loci: Towards a C 1980, Genius Loci: Towards Norberg-Schulz, 2nd edn, of Place, T 1991, The Experience Hiss, See: knightfoundation.org/sotc/ UN Habitat’s ‘Future of Places’ and Green Cities, to name but a few presented at the Venice Architecture Biennale, an internationally regarded speaker having Endnotes Endnotes 1 2 3 is a leading voice in placemaking. as on-site analysis. strategic placemaking project involving extensive engagement with local businesses and residents as well Before and After, Lyons Road Corner, Drummoyne, Sydney. This tactical intervention was the result of a Differently’ and ‘Future City Solutions’. She is book series, and has published ‘Doing it in. Kylie is the author of the Urban Trends the kinds of places people want to spend time and how we can work collaboratively to create between people and their urban environments, Australia. Her interests lie in the relationship placemaking consultancy based in Sydney, Director of Place Partners, a multidisciplinary curator, entrepreneur, and a founding She is an architect, planner, author, facilitator, Kylie Legge Legge Kylie n aims to look at look aims to perspectives erent New Planner This issue of This issue recently on exhibition. on exhibition. recently the Gladesville Village Centre DCP, which was Village Centre the Gladesville primary driver of a proposed amendment to amendment to of a proposed primary driver then using local values and aspirations as the and aspirations values then using local with the community early and extensively, and extensively, early with the community Council, aimed to test this premise, engaging this premise, test Council, aimed to delivered with the community and Hunters Hill Hunters and community the with delivered these tools. Our Future Gladesville project, project, Gladesville Our Future these tools. process that allows for the co-creation of the co-creation for that allows process people value, but also in the collaborative but also in the collaborative value, people tools to support the creation of places that of places the creation support to tools placemaking movement, not only by creating by creating not only movement, placemaking the opportunity to engage positively with the engage positively the opportunity to This is where the planning profession has the planning profession This is where structural or systems-based problems. problems. systems-based or structural stone to long-term solutions, particularly to to solutions, particularly long-term to stone game – that is, providing a tactical stepping stepping a tactical game – that is, providing engagement and a distraction from the main from engagement and a distraction waste of precious resources, a way to avoid avoid a way to resources, of precious waste happening. However, they can also be a can they happening. However, low cost and show that something is and show cost low as they are relatively easy to deliver at deliver easy to relatively are as they are attractive, particularly to governments, governments, to particularly attractive, are they are not always sustainable. ‘Quick wins’ ‘Quick wins’ sustainable. not always are they similar urban trends are transplantable, transplantable, are similar urban trends are substantial. While ‘pop ups’ and other ‘pop ups’ While substantial. are versus process-focussed placemaking placemaking process-focussed versus The risks inherent in product-focussed in product-focussed The risks inherent – and one that it is still struggling with. struggling – and one that it is still primarily focussed on delivering product product on delivering focussed primarily This is a massive shift for an industry an industry shift for This is a massive come from the process, not the outcome. not the outcome. the process, from come environment arena – is that real benefits – is that real arena environment placemaking – particularly in the built – particularly placemaking The defining aspect of what we call strategic strategic call we The defining aspect of what social, cultural or physical improvements. or physical social, cultural whether the goal is to deliver economic, economic, deliver whether the goal is to of any placemaking work is fundamental, is fundamental, work of any placemaking fact, understanding the value proposition proposition the value understanding fact, rationale behind many of our projects. In In behind many of our projects. rationale and it does not discount the economic economic the and it does not discount the values and aspirations of the community of the community and aspirations the values considers the uniqueness of each location, of each location, the uniqueness considers history, theory and best practice. It It practice. theory and best history, for our work and a synthesis of placemaking and a synthesis of placemaking our work for definition aims to be both a process diagram diagram a process to be both definition aims the unique qualities of each location’. This This of each location’. the unique qualities focussed places that reflect and respect respect and that reflect places focussed creating, enhancing and managing people and managing people enhancing creating, placemaking is ‘the collaborative process of of process is ‘the collaborative placemaking At Place Partners, our definition of our definition of Partners, At Place festival or purchasing a new home. a new or purchasing festival meeting friends, buying a coffee, attending a attending a coffee, meeting friends, buying spend time and money in, whether that be in, spend time and money today is to create places that people want to that people places create is to today key objective of most placemaking projects projects placemaking of most objective key principles across a range of disciplines. The of disciplines. a range across principles growth of the profession and the uptake of its the uptake and the profession of growth placemaking has been a key driver behind the driver a key has been placemaking In Australia, the economic benefit of benefit the economic In Australia, At home that you enjoy these diff enjoy that you political, the creative and many more. I hope more. and many the creative political, lenses: the international, the academic, the the academic, the international, lenses: planning and placemaking through various various through planning and placemaking President’s Message Do planners help make places great? David Ryan MPIA CPP, PIA NSW President

The next important step in the planning I have to make an admission. I’m a light touch guy when it comes to process is knowing when to stop planning. planning. Don’t get me wrong, planning is essential when it comes to Planners deliver the fundamental elements making great places, but we need to know when to stop planning and to create an environment within which let the rest of the non-planning world have a go at making places culture and commerce can flourish. great too. Over-planning, micro management and rigid development controls, with imposed solutions to every element, can create I reflect on places that have been planned them great places to be. And, more often soulless, uninspiring places. and whether they are great. Paris, Barcelona than not, this is not an outcome of planning. Planners need to take a risk to prevent micro – yep, these are great places and the result So, then, what role can planning play in managing every decision. of some pretty serious planning intervention. making places great? However, the question is, are they any better Be prepared to accept that mistakes than places like Venice, the high watermark I’m sure the authors who feature in this issue may occur as a result (there have been of great unplanned places? Probably not. are more qualified to answer this question than enough ‘planned mistakes’ to allow the odd How about Canberra or, closer to home, me, but I think the key elements are having a unplanned ones to be forgiven). It’s often Darling Harbour and Barangaroo? The jury’s vision and co-ordinating the essential elements the anomalous, the weird and wonderfully still out on the latter, but the headland park that will enable that vision to be realised. unexpected elements of a place – the things is expected to create a great historic place Planning is about identifying and envisioning that are likely to be ‘planned out’ if we had a for Sydneysiders to enjoy. In the burbs, the potential for transforming places from chance – that make them great. Rouse Hill Town Centre is also a pretty good prosaic to great. It’s also about translating However, while unplanned elements can example of a successfully planned place. vision into tangible greatness. That is, improve a place, in my view, true greatness establishing the general layout of a place and So what are the ingredients that make great cannot be realised without the vision and places (planned or otherwise)? co-ordinating the delivery of the essential infrastructure needed to support it, such as structure that planners deliver. Sure, the tree lined boulevards, regular the transport and pedestrian systems, public So do planners have a role in making places grid lines and building heights of Paris spaces, facilities and services, and other better? Absolutely! and Barcelona help make them physically elements that are necessary to provide the attractive. But it’s also what happens ‘on the place with an overall structure and make it We just need to recognise when to butt out ground’ in those places, and in unplanned ‘fit for purpose’. This is no easy feat, as we and let the rest of society have their turn at Venice and King Street Newtown, that makes all know in NSW! making those places even greater n

6 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner editorial n | 7 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 7 planner new Philip Brogan Director Philip Brogan liveable built environments in the face of in the face built environments liveable pressures. growth increasing of no shortage have planners While of them, our annual in front challenges us provide Planning Excellence for Awards and recognise stop with an opportunity to and achievement leadership practice, leading a large received have We in the profession. this year’s number of nominations for their to forward and I am looking Awards, Gala Dinner Awards judging and the exciting of 11th November. the date – save nominations for for will be calling We and the NSW Divisional Committee I weeks. in the coming sub-committees engage with this to all members encourage as it is and any subsequent elections, call set that we the Divisional Committee through priorities and shape the future our program of the profession direction and Andrew Wheeler; PIA National Young Planner Director at the recent Planning Reform Series event. Kirsty Kelly, PIA CEO; The Hon Rob Stokes, NSW Minister for Planning; David Ryan, PIA NSW President century. Today, we have a Minister who is a Minister have we Today, century. and personal vision for articulating a strong as a State planning, as well to commitment to funds significant committing Government development. major infrastructure support community gaining Nevertheless, and engagement in the the profession for As a challenge. remains planning process to ensure ideas find new does the need to On the occasion of his address, of his address, On the occasion

(2009): Cities, Citizens New Planner. PIA NSW Executive Officer Executive PIA NSW

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on government expenditure and organisation. watchful about the implications of new reforms an array of community views in ways often elected representatives who represented business-people, an innocent public, and pitched to hostile property owners, apathetic very idea of town planning. This message was issues in time. Their major cause was the projects although they took on a raft of specific not merely advocates for particular needs and Australian Town Planning Associations profession has evolved over more than a more over has evolved profession How interesting it is to consider how the how consider it is to interesting How As Robert Freestone notes in notes As Robert Freestone formed in Sydney in October 1913. in October in Sydney formed Planning Association of New South Wales was South Wales of New Planning Association of Australia. Even further back, the Town further back, the Town Even of Australia. The original town planning associations were then, on 1 July 2002, the Planning Institute 2002, the Planning Institute then, on 1 July the Royal Australian Planning Institute and, Planning Institute Australian the Royal Planning Institute. It was subsequently named It was subsequently Planning Institute. 11 August 1951 as the Regional and Town 1951 as the Regional and Town 11 August planned society’ in NSW. PIA was formed on PIA was formed planned society’ in NSW. have played in shaping ‘a democratically in shaping ‘a democratically played have our Institute and earlier planning associations and earlier planning associations our Institute passed, it is timely to reflect on the role that role on the reflect to it is timely passed, With another PIA birthday, our 64th, just With another PIA birthday, our 64th, just a regular contributor to to contributor a regular Planning, The Hon Rob Stokes, who I am delighted to say is to become become say is to to who I am delighted Planning, The Hon Rob Stokes, PIA members were recently addressed by the NSW Minister for for by the NSW Minister addressed recently were PIA members Maurene Horder, Horder, Maurene Shaping a democratically planned society planned a democratically Shaping Executive Officer’s Report Officer’s Executive

and Environmental Reform: Histories of systems thinking for ‘a democratically planned society’. democratically ‘a thinking for systems influence that sociologist Karl Mannheim has had on him by applying on him by applying Karl Mannheim has had that sociologist influence planning: relationships, restoration and resilience. He explained the He explained and resilience. restoration planning: relationships, the Minister discussed three areas that underpin contemporary that underpin contemporary areas three discussed the Minister Planning Perspectives NSW 2015-16 Budget Steve O’Connor FPIA, PIA Director (NSW Board Representative)

infrastructure in NSW, thanks to the intended The budget handed down by the NSW Treasurer in June provides sale of 49% of the State’s electricity network. an insight into what the NSW Government intends to do in terms of Conclusion planning reform. In his media release on 23 June 2015, the Minister The higher-than-usual allocation of funds for Planning highlighted that $1 billion has been set aside over the to the Planning and Environment portfolio is next four years for planning for houses, jobs and services, and for welcome and will allow vital ongoing projects making the planning system simpler and more efficient. This article like ePlanning to continue to be refined and enhanced. It will also support important new looks at what form this billion dollar investment will take. initiatives, such as halving the time taken to assess State Significant Projects. State Budget Greater Sydney Commission The highest budget allocations are for significant projects like the provision of In Budget Paper No 1 (the Budget Paper), the $19 million has been allocated to establish the infrastructure in Priority Precincts in the local Government states that it is expecting a $2.1 Greater Sydney Commission. This includes government areas of Blacktown and The billion surplus in 2014-15 and a $2.5 billion A Plan for Growing Sydney the delivery of . The Hills, where $77.6 million has been allocated. surplus in 2015-16. With the budget bottom budget papers refer to a projected additional Funding targeted at infrastructure provision line in surplus, it is not surprising that 2.2 million people living in NSW by 2035-36 in key urban release areas will boost there is significant funding allocated to new compared to 2013-14. Sydney is expected to employment in construction and make more projects across a broad range of portfolios. accommodate over 80% of this growth. development projects economically viable. The NSW economy is expected to grow at Reforms to local government and the planning It also has the potential to facilitate better 3% per annum over the next two years, system are highlighted as critical to ensuring planning outcomes, which is something the which is above the long-term average. the delivery of 664,000 new dwellings in Government appears to have recognised. Dwelling investment is being fuelled by low Greater Sydney between 2011 and 2031. There is no mention of new planning interest rates and pent-up demand. Annual legislation in the budget, which should Infrastructure spend housing production is reported at 50,000 come as no surprise. The planning reforms dwellings, which is above the levels achieved In addition to the record infrastructure referred to are unlikely to require legislative in recent years. As a result, the government spend proposed in the budget, an additional change because they focus on what can be has received higher than expected revenues $20 billion in spending is planned for done under the existing planning regime n from property transactions and taxes. Speeding up approvals $89.1 million has been set aside in the Planning and Environment cluster over the next four years to speed up processing times. In the next 12 months, $16.9 million has been allocated to halve the time taken to assess State Significant Projects, expand community consultation and provide adequate resources to assess the impacts of the proposed major infrastructure investment. ePlanning and other initiatives A total of $19.9 million has been committed to implement the next stage of ePlanning (an online planning portal which is simpler to use). There is also mention in the Budget Paper about high profile planning initiatives such as a review of the Mining State Environmental Planning Policy in the second half of 2015, and the allocation of $17 million to address mine subsidence issues. However, no further details are provided. The Government’s record infrastructure spend will support development in key growth areas.

8 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner From the Minister Planning for Places in the Harbour City editorial The Hon Rob Stokes MP, NSW Minister for Planning

NSW Government is working with the local Ask most Sydneysiders and they’ll agree the Harbour council to help develop Parramatta as City is one of the most liveable cities in the world. In fact, Western Sydney’s number one location for PricewaterhouseCoopers last year named it as the most liveable health and education services. This will help create thousands more jobs for people city in the world in its Cities of Opportunity Report. When it came to closer to where they call home. social and economic factors, Sydney outshone 30 other cities, while We know the needs of Sydneysiders will we drew with Stockholm on the sustainability scale. continue to evolve over time; our challenge is to keep up with this evolution and create convivial neighbourhoods for its residents. As home to Australia’s only global city, NSW just housing estates, but hubs with jobs, has a responsibility to the nation. We have schools, transport and shops. These Our access to open space is also uniquely a responsibility to plan effectively, to ensure new communities will make Western Sydney, with more than 90% of Sydneysiders we’re not merely placing dots on a map and Sydney an employment epicentre, with living within a five to 10 minute walk of building houses. We have a responsibility to more than half of Sydney’s new jobs to be green space. We value our open space, and create communities, real neighbourhoods created in the region. The Western Sydney that’s why the NSW Government is creating where residents reinvent public spaces as Employment Area has been extended, with Sydney’s Green Grid. The Green Grid will the heart of every community. 4,500 hectares of land dedicated to housing link a network of open spaces, parks, With community-based participation at 57,000 jobs over the next three decades. bushland and waterways with walkways and its core, an effective placemaking process Business hubs like Norwest and Macquarie cycleways. This landscape will create green capitalises on a local community’s assets Park are also growing across Sydney. connections across Sydney, from homes to and potential. This results in public spaces In concert with these new hubs, the NSW workplaces. being created that contribute to people’s Government is unlocking huge areas of Community input is paramount in the health, happiness and wellbeing. land for new homes in Sydney’s southwest placemaking process. That’s why we’re It’s important for people to feel connected and northwest, with a variety of housing constantly asking for community feedback to their area, designing excellent built including apartments, homes and terraces for new communities we’re creating. We environments that are sustainable and to suit a variety of budgets. It’s not just also want community feedback on areas mindful of natural environments. about laying the slab, it’s about making sure we’re renewing, a process which provides these neighbourhoods also have a local a great opportunity to revitalise places and Placemaking is about designing communities shopping centre, a neighbourhood centre, make them more environmentally friendly. for people. Good planning enables homes, plenty of trees, cycleways and walkways. We want to know how people live in their jobs and a convenient way to get between the communities, what’s important to them, two. Good planning is also in harmony with Access to transport is also paramount, with the environment, and creates communities our greenfield developments in Sydney’s and what they want to see changed. that radiate energy and vibrancy. This is what I northwest within easy access to Australia’s A couple of months ago we asked work towards every day. largest infrastructure project, the Sydney Sydneysiders to take part in a social Metro Northwest. Sydney’s southwest will media conversation, asking them what In Sydney today, more than 400,000 people also benefit from improved public transport, work in the CBD, compared to 11,000 in they love about their neighbourhoods and including a potential extension of the South suburbs. The feedback from the #MySydney Blacktown, in the city’s west. Many of West Rail Link. those who travel into the city for work call campaign will be used to help shape Sydney’s west home, either because that’s This is effective placemaking at its heart, localised plans for each Sydney suburb. creating communities with a focus on the where they grew up, or they’re in pursuit This campaign was the biggest social social and environmental aspects. of the Great Australian Dream. In the past media conversation ever undertaken about this has meant trade-offs and choices It’s about integrating jobs, transport and planning in NSW and was focused on for people, with many having to question homes. A Plan for Growing Sydney, for better understanding what people value whether to live closer to work, or closer to example, officially recognised Parramatta, in their local area. It shows how serious their loved ones. in the city’s west, as Sydney’s second the Government is about responsible The NSW Government is changing this, CBD. Parramatta’s importance as a jobs placemaking and how good planning can creating new communities that aren’t generator can’t be underestimated. The help NSW achieve its aspirations n

newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 9 PlannerTech Digital placemaking: connecting people and place with technology John O’Callaghan, Director, JOC Consulting

Most importantly, we see our role as helping The future is bright for placemaking. Even more so when we add stimulate research and development, while technology to the mix. But where are we heading and how can digital educating civic leaders and placemakers infrastructure improve our public spaces? I recently spoke with around these future opportunities. We are Glenn Harding, Managing Director of Urban Screen Productions, to currently running a symposium series around Australia called xCommunicate, better understand the emerging field of ‘digital placemaking’. leading up to an international conference on digital placemaking called MAB16 that we are hosting with the Media Architecture Many of our readers would be familiar with Square, Melbourne, back in 2004. After Institute in Sydney in July 2016, as part of placemaking, especially after this special managing their technology platforms for six Vivid Festival. issue of New Planner, but what is the years, we have subsequently been consulting relationship between technology and place? to local councils and cultural institutions on These public symposia showcase the work Our cities are under constant pressure from the design and installation of urban screens of artists, technologists, academics and increased urbanisation, climate change and and community engagement platforms. place managers working in this exciting new other social and economic forces. Effective More recently, we’ve been designing and field. Our next xCommunicate event will be placemaking requires a collaborative implementing audience development and held at Federation Square in February. approach towards strengthening the digital literacy outreach programs through Where are we heading? What should we social and cultural connections within our subsidiary brand ‘Audience’. expect to see over the next 5-10 years? our communities. Digital placemaking We also work collaboratively with artists Recognising the role of recent technological simply involves the utilisation of technology and leading academic researchers on the advancements, universities around the world to improve civic, economic and social development of leading-edge strategy and are already adopting broader interdisciplinary interaction in public spaces. technology platforms. At the moment, we’re approaches within their architecture and The opportunities created through the excited to be working with UNSW, University planning faculties. Civic authorities and place of Sydney and QUT on a new interactive convergence of placemaking and ‘smart managers are increasingly rolling out free platform for urban screens to enable city’ approaches are limitless, and we are WiFi. The efforts in this space are currently audience participation through urban media only now starting to scratch the surface of predominantly bottom-up, application-driven as a diagnostic method in urban planning. We this potential. The explosive growth of social solutions, but we will increasingly see well- are also working with the same team on an networking and data analytics in the virtual considered, top-down strategic approaches Australian Research Council grant-funded space, coupled with the proliferation of mobile as the value of digital placemaking becomes project for digital placemaking in Australia more widely recognised n devices and broadband wireless networking, and China in partnership with Federation have created the opportunity to apply these Square, Willoughby City Council, the ACT Email Glenn Harding for more information: tools to the task of better connecting people Government and several institutions in China. [email protected] in the physical world through applications that encourage broader social participation, create opportunities for the democratisation of public space, and work towards breaking down social, cultural and communication barriers within the community. I believe that the creation of new platforms for two-way dialogue in public space allows for invaluable feedback to help keep planners in touch with the evolving needs and opinions of their constituents and stakeholders. How does your work at Urban Screen Productions support digital placemaking? Our first involvement at the intersection of technology and public space began when I was commissioned to draft the multimedia and technology strategy for Federation Activating space (digitally) at the xCommunicate Symposium, COFA, Sydney (Photo: Glenn Harding)

10 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner How place-oriented planning can create people-centred cities

Malcolm Snow, Chief Executive, National Capital Authority, Canberra feature

government under state-level legislation. How our cities look and work and whether they meet community However, in the face of strong economic needs is pivotal to Australia’s future. Indeed, it can be argued cities and population growth and the resultant are the most important determinant in maintaining our quality pressures on infrastructure provision, new governance models for managing of life because they produce a high percentage of our country’s the way cities are made have had to be GDP and jobs. Notwithstanding this economic imperative, for too applied. Municipal government – more long city planning in Australia concerned itself primarily with the usually preoccupied with delivering physical environment and only secondarily with the people who use essential services – has had to rise to the challenge of not only making new places, that environment. but renewing existing places by becoming more adept at planning strategy and its The overt physical bias of our planning, but are essential for people not just to conversion to innovative implementation. and its blindness to social context, has survive, but to thrive. The results have been patchy, complicated contributed to poor place outcomes in many Economic opportunities and efficient by forced amalgamations and a lack of parts of Australia. Fortunately, however, markets have given most of us an enviable skilled staff. As a city-state, Canberra priorities are shifting as we return to the core enjoys spatial and political advantages that values of planning. This includes empowering quality of life, but when asked what they want from their cities, Australians mean it is better placed to tackle these communities, and the people in them, to issues compared to other state capitals, solve problems and realise their potential. frequently cite the need for social interaction and a feeling of connectedness. where the planning landscape is more Australian capital cities rank highly in the All cities must meet the social as well complex. In many planning jurisdictions, international surveys that assess how they as material needs of their residents, but a more organised community and a more are performing against global competitors. city surveys do a bad job of taking this vocal development lobby have made the Liveability is a criterion in many of these into account. At a time when Australia’s task more contested. They have also driven indices and, like other cities competing economy is under renewed pressure, how recognition that the factors now shaping to attract inward investment and social well our cities function is an essential the placemaking process, particularly capital, so the condition of our cities has element in the choices we make. where there are aggregations of different been elevated to a topic of media debate. uses and activities, demand new types of Responsibility for urban planning has What these city league tables struggle partnerships and delivery mechanisms. to measure, or value, are the intangible largely been devolved in the name aspects of city life that can’t be quantified of subsidiarity to regional and local continued on page 12

How can planning help Sydney evolve into an even greater city for people? &

PLACEMAKING Q PLACEMAKING QA Great cities are home to strong communities, a robust economy, and sustainable development and renewal. This requires vision, action and long term planning. In 2007, we undertook the largest ever community consultation in the City’s history. The result was Sustainable Sydney 2030 – a comprehensive, visionary plan that guides our work. Sustainable Sydney 2030 recognises that exceptional liveability is the driver for prosperity and economic growth for global cities – the places where people want to live are the places where they want to work and to set up business. The Plan sets clear strategies to cut carbon emissions by 70% by 2030, increase transport options, build stronger communities, foster a diverse cultural life, and make the city an affordable and attractive place to live, work, study in and do business. With vision and a long-term commitment to real action, we will ensure Sydney is great, both now and in the future. Clover Moore, Lord Mayor of Sydney

“ newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 11 Place management done well is, in reality, an amalgam of things which together combine to sustain and enrich place experience. I liken it to a jigsaw puzzle; all the pieces must be in play and correctly fitted for the complete picture to be realized. Clean, safe, flexible, popular places are more likely to be the norm in our cities when priority is given to how they look and to how they function. This mean being in tune with people’s experiences in and of the place. Increasingly, greater numbers of city administrations are been asked by their constituents to rethink their approach to the way they realise place-based outcomes that are aligned to both corporate and community aspirations. By making place a central organising idea in how they Belconnen Town Centre, Canberra, on a weekday morning. An example of an uninviting and underutilised place. structure their approach to the way they plan, program, design, fund and maintain Over the last two decades, Australian experience and use of public space is their assets, more city governments metropolitan areas have had a striking ability primarily limited to local places close to globally are coming to the realisation they to benefit from globalisation, and to compete where they live, such as parks and shopping can be much more efficient at delivering for ‘footloose’ investment and labour; the centres. With the push for higher densities, value and in creating place capital. evidence of this can be seen in the central particularly in the inner city, we’re seeing a What, if instead of silos of interest for business districts which have an impressive change in ingrained patterns of public space the different components of making, quality and vitality. This can be sustained usage. With few new green spaces being managing and maintaining cities, there into the future, however, two related sets of created, planners are at last acknowledging was a whole-of-enterprise view of how problems need to be addressed. the importance of the street as a city’s we thought about the people-place most important public space, and greater The first problem is income inequality. While nexus, and aligned our work practices attention is being directed to making the globalisation brought growth to our cities, it non-vehicle user’s experience a positive one. accordingly? Place then functions not only also exacerbated income inequalities. These as a central organising idea, but also as are increasingly reflected in concentrations To create wealth, societies everywhere a way of empowering and then enabling of lower-income households living in poor- seek to build capital, a production factor the capacity of a community, whether they standard housing and without adequate not often sought for itself but for its part are residents, traders, shoppers, property social infrastructure close by. The second in producing other goods. There are many owners or tenants, to accept responsibility problem is the environmental costs of kinds of capital – human, social, cultural, for sharing in the strategies for making high growth. We’re already seeing rising natural, and infrastructural – but one of the their places prosper. domestic energy, water and fuel costs, and possible keys to unlocking lasting wealth this is likely to continue. and efficiently leveraging these other kinds Aligning place management with an end of capital is to focus on place. Place capital, vision Good city planning and management will both built and natural, is the shared wealth be about maximising choices in the new The third factor on my list is organisational of a city’s public realm and it is increasingly ‘accessibility’ era if we are to avoid a ‘haves capacity. This involves aligning the business becoming one of the most important means and haves not’ polarisation and see a further of managing cities and making places of generating sustainable economic growth widening of the social disadvantage gap. so it is results-oriented and with a total for urban communities. The public places commitment to the realisation of the end Creating a high quality public realm we most value display this wealth, and they vision. City administrations achieving ‘next- also support its preservation and expansion. So what are the factors that help shape a practice’ outcomes have structured their skill Focussing on place can build and leverage more people-centred city? Top of my list is an recruitment, decision making and operations many kinds of capital, while creating investment in the creation of a high quality to ensure everyone in the business of making resilience and stimulating innovation. Where public realm which not only strengthens and managing people-centred places is place capital is strongest, people compete pre-existing place characteristics, but also working towards a common set of goals. to add to this shared wealth, often changing introduces elements that contribute new their behaviour in ways that ultimately Too often, Australian cities with their overly values. A shared characteristic of successful support the value the place gives to others. complex and politicised local governance city precincts is that, from inception, their structures, have seen the placemaking planning placed priority on making the public Ensuring that places work well effort as non-core business, something that environment the focus of attention. A city’s Second on my list of key success factors through ad hoc organisational arrangements public realm, or the ‘third place’ as American for a more people-centred city is a might be realised more by good luck than academic Ray Oldenburg labelled it, supports commitment not just to designing high- good management. Revitalising strategic one of its fundamental roles as providing quality urban environments but also to but underutilised parts of Australian places for exchange, but in particular, social ensuring the places within them work well. cities is now seen as sufficiently urgent to interaction. In Australia, we still don’t think This recognises that aesthetics alone do shift responsibility to dedicated agencies critically about the role cities and their public not guarantee that people will be motivated whose statutory remit is to accelerate the spaces play in satisfying this basic need. to use places repeatedly, or that they will redevelopment of key precincts unhindered Ours is a nation of suburbs. Land-wasteful adapt them to how they best meet their by the factional interests, competing budget and car-dependent, urban sprawl has needs as tourists, traders, residents, priorities and short-term compromises that meant that for many Australians, their workers, customers or citizens. afflict some city administrations.

12 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner feature is one of Australia’s leading the Australia Award for Urban Design. Australia’s highest urban design accolade – including, on three separate occasions, awards for design and urban management has been the recipient of more than 35 of Landscape Architects. With others, he and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of several not-for-profit organizations for a decade. Malcolm has been the Chair Head of Design for the City of Melbourne Bank Corporation in Brisbane and was firm, Urbis. He is the former CEO of South a Director with international consulting as Chief Executive in 2014, Malcolm was to joining the National Capital Authority advisor to all spheres of government. Prior both as an urban planning consultant and Australia, Asia and the United Kingdom, city revitalization programs throughout Canberra, June 2015. creating better cities. He has led major & Regional Futures Seminar, University of urban designers and advocates for a strategy for realising it, team with it, team realising for a strategy exercise to encouraged are citizens who imagine to and capacity their freedom is This possibilities. fresh and present planning, participatory through achieved structures community supportive through an ability and through and social reform, time. over places adapt and transform to people on helping centred that are Places n their potential reach This article is based on a talk to the Urban Snow Malcolm

Developments

Mapping Services (WMS) empowerment of their communities. The of their communities. empowerment which urban leadership, of shared concept cannot alone that government accepts an offers challenges, complex tackle that many cities, big paradigm alternative it take adopting. What would and small, are cities? this in Australian adopt us to for citizens models encourage positive More city futures shape their own actively to engagement. genuine and spirited through enlightened Such models require to politicians and public administrators way of this alternative to be committed vision and Cities with a clear working. Web through Planning Instruments (EPI) Environmental LEP amendments and State Significant for LEP or address specific property a

[email protected]

based constraints SEPP land and property location one in For more information contact: For

Portal NSW Planning • Enable open data sharing • and local Find both State Launching in late 2015, the NSW Planning Portal Planning NSW the 2015, late in Launching • Get alerts on will improve access to planning information and services.and information planning to access improve will to: able be will You • by Search Little Stanley Street, South Bank Brisbane, on a weekday morning. An example of an active and dynamic place. of cities, the places within them and the within them of cities, the places roadblock to realising the untapped potential potential untapped the realising to roadblock of refusal. This misapprehension is a This misapprehension of refusal. is limited to the oppositional: their right to is limited city planning and other public processes city planning and other public processes many citizens assume their influence in their influence many citizens assume problems bedevilling cities today is that cities today bedevilling problems and hands must be involved. One of the One be involved. and hands must understanding that many hearts, heads understanding through the power of partnerships and by of partnerships the power through successful places are created and managed created are places successful active participation and a recognition that participation and a recognition active This leads me to the final factor, which is factor, the final me to This leads Power of partnerships Power There’s no place like home Roberta Ryan MPIA, Director, Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government and Centre for Local Government, UTS, Sydney and Alex Lawrie, Researcher, Centre for Local Government, UTS, Sydney

However, 63% of NSW’s outer metropolitan Australian policy makers are often surprised at the strength of areas consider it extremely or very community reaction to planning reform. Our Australia-wide study important, the second lowest of any State. provides some insight into what it is about planning that makes These distinctions in the value different communities tick. It reveals nuanced differences in the value of communities place on strategic planning strategic planning and development assessment, and place qualities and development assessment provide some insights into why inner metropolitan for different communities. communities appeared nervous about the NSW Government’s 2013 planning reforms. They also align with findings of a 2013 Over the last few years, we’ve watched comparing States and areas. Across telephone survey ACELG conducted on the urban and regional planning rocket almost every State, inner metropolitan attitudes of 2,750 NSW residents towards to the top of various lists of ‘hot’ or residents find strategic planning more the State’s planning system. The survey ‘future-proof’ professions.1 While this important than outer metropolitan found about 60% of regional and rural might not be news to most planners, a residents. The exception is New South residents felt their area could handle more major piece of social research by the Wales (NSW), where about 75% of inner housing and people with effective strategic Australian Centre of Excellence for Local metropolitan residents find it extremely planning, compared to fewer than 40% Government (ACELG) reveals just how or very important, about middle of the across metropolitan Sydney.3 important communities across Australia pack nationally. This rises to 83% for outer What outcomes matter? deem planning is in their lives. metropolitan areas, the highest of any State. Yet regional and rural communities The significance of strategic planning for In 2014-15, ACELG asked over 2,000 are the real standout. In almost every NSW’s outer metropolitan, regional and Australians questions about the place State, 85% or more of regional and rural rural communities is illuminated when where they live. We wanted to know what looking at what place qualities matter to makes people feel good about where they residents find strategic planning extremely live, what makes it tick and feel like home. or very important. them. Availability of good schools, health and aged care, cohesive communities, Most importantly for planners, we asked The same can be said for development positive economic outlook and job how significant strategic planning and assessment. Across every State except opportunities, and affordable housing top development assessment are, and what Victoria, inner metropolitan residents find the list. These are also place qualities with outcomes communities want to see for their development assessment more important which communities are most dissatisfied. area. The findings are compulsory reading than outer metropolitan residents. For for planners, policy makers, and anyone NSW, about 75% of inner metropolitan In contrast, these qualities don’t rate interested in urban and regional affairs.2 residents find it extremely or very anywhere near as highly for inner- What type of planning matters? important, the second highest of any State. metropolitan communities. Their focus is One of the standout findings for planners is the value different communities place 90% on strategic planning and development 80% assessment. Both feature in the top 70% five most important services for local 60% communities. About 80% of residents 50% of metropolitan areas across Australia 40% find strategic planning extremely or 30% very important; this climbs to 85% in 20% regional and rural areas. Contrast this to 10% development assessment, where about 70% 0% find it extremely or very important. Inner Metropolitan Outer Metropolitan Regional Rural Most communities consider strategic planning more important than n Strategic planning n Development assessment development assessment. However, there are interesting distinctions when The comparative importance of strategic planning and development assessment to people in NSW.

14 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner on parks and open space, local shops, a has the highest or second highest result the significant value of local government safe environment, and that metropolitan across the country. Despite some of the and strategic planning outcomes to outer bugbear: convenient public transport. arguments about low place attachment metropolitan, regional and rural NSW n Conversely, these place qualities are and social cohesion that attend areas with Associate Professor Roberta Ryan is

also those with which inner metropolitan high population turnover, something is feature communities are most satisfied. clearly going right for the State’s inner a leading social research and policy, metropolitan areas. program evaluation, and stakeholder What matters about connection to place? engagement practitioner and researcher Looking to the future Another standout finding for planners is with over 30 years’ experience. With a that communities are very connected to The findings of this groundbreaking study strong interest in the relationship between ‘place’. An astounding 88% of Australians suggest strategic planning for inner- people and places, she has worked in strongly or moderately agree they feel at metropolitan areas has yielded dividends and with local government in areas of home in the place where they live. There for – but is yet to be sold to – these community services, land use planning, are similarly high levels of agreement communities. They also suggest the real sustainability, organisational change when asking whether they feel connected work for the State’s planners remains in and development, and stakeholder to friends and neighbours (75%), and outer metropolitan, regional and rural and community engagement. Roberta whether the place where they live has the areas. Planners in these areas should, is the Director of the Centre for Local qualities they value (78%) and landscapes however, take heart from the findings. Government based at the University of that make them feel good (77%). Despite these communities finding they Technology, Sydney and the Director of the have been let down by strategic planning, Again, the real story is in the State and Australian Centre of Excellence for Local they remain hopeful of the dividends it can area breakdown. In most States, outer Government. pay for their area. metropolitan and regional and rural Alex Lawrie is an urban planner with a residents feel more connected to the What matters to people are the outcomes major in demographics and an emerging landscape around them, and at home planners influence on a daily basis, but leader in the fields of urban planning, where they live. Yet NSW bucks this trend: the relative importance of these outcomes public policy analysis and evaluation, and 82% of the State’s inner-metropolitan varies for different places. Busting a stakeholder and community engagement. residents indicate there is something common myth, when compared with He has particular research interests in about the landscape around them that inner-metropolitan areas, the study shows urban governance and the governance of makes them feel good, second only outer metropolitan and regional and rural metropolitan regions, inter-jurisdictional to Tasmania. In NSW, 93% of inner communities have a stronger desire to be relations, urban renewal and regeneration, metropolitan residents are more likely to involved in making decisions about their evidence-based strategic planning and feel at home where they live, the highest of area, and are more likely to think good policy, and land use conflict resolution. any State. decisions are made when communities, service users, experts and government Alex is a Researcher at the Centre for The same can be said for how embedded work together. Local Government based at the University and connected NSW’s inner metropolitan of Technology, Sydney. communities feel. For residents in these With outer metropolitan and regional Endnotes areas, 49% feel part of the history of the and rural communities considering local 1 See: www.fastcompany.com/articles/2007/01/ place, 69% consider that place to be full government best placed to make decisions top_jobs_2007.html; blog.mccrindle.com.au/the- of important memories and stories, whilst about their area, local government mccrindle-blog/generation-z-the-most-overrated- 78% feel connected locally to friends and planners will be in the box seat over the and-underrated-degrees; www.getdegrees.com/ careers/tips/top-60-jobs-that-will-rock-the-future neighbours. About 80% think there is next decade. As the infrastructure and 2 Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government something about that place that makes renewal spotlight shines brightly on 2015, Why Local Government Matters, full report them feel good, whereas almost 60% feel Sydney in the future, commitment by local available at: acelg.org.au/wlgm a cultural connection to the place. For all government planners to engage with their 3 Centre for Local Government 2013, Attitudes Towards the NSW Planning System, University of Technology, these indicators, inner metropolitan NSW communities will be crucial in furthering Sydney.

How can planning help make better places for people? &

PLACEMAKING Q PLACEMAKING QA The spread of residential buildings within our CBDs, coupled with the general intensification of residential densities in the inner and middle rings of cities, means that one of our greatest challenges going forward is providing urban environments that support people and families. Raising children in urban environments in a climate and culture where we spend sub- stantial time outside requires both specific places for play as well as child friendliness in the general public realm.

Creating innovative ways to achieve this in an urban framework is an area that Australia has the potential to lead global thinking. The other aspect that needs to be addressed is the overlay of inclusiveness from both the play and child friendly point of view, and the multi-generational application; as we live in our cities, we grow up and then we age there. It’s a great challenge to create a planning framework to support this. “ Lisa-Maree Carrigan, Director, GroupGSA newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 15 Mind the gap! Rethinking public transport as a valuable public space Stefanie Matosevic, Junior Place Maker, Place Partners

be used. Projects vary from rooftop urban While roads are increasingly seen as a valuable component of our public farms in Tokyo delivered through business space network, public transport networks are rarely viewed through the partnerships,3 to creative and interactive 4 same lens. Existing public transport infrastructure has the potential to advertising at bus stops and train stations, to temporary activation events such as Train become a valuable public space – a ‘portable place’ for all citizens. Tracks in Sydney and Tram Sessions in Melbourne. The mark of a great city is how it works for quality public space, as well as attractive So what strategies can we employ to improve its citizens each and every day. Consider alternatives that may alleviate unrelenting the social dimensions of public transport Sydney’s ferry network: its primary purpose traffic congestion. We are provided with infrastructure? Here are some ideas: is to move people around the city. Uniquely, an opportunity to fundamentally change 1. Flexibility in both design and use: Public however, it has a secondary function of user and professional attitudes to public transport is excessively prescriptive and being a distinct experience in itself, for both transport and transform it into a valued part regulated, allowing for little flexibility or locals and visitors who treat the journey of the public realm. sense of ownership. Providing a greater as a ‘destination’. In many ways, Sydney’s Sydney’s public transport infrastructure range of seating configurations would ferry network is an ideal form of public as public space be beneficial. More broadly, greater transport: simultaneously functional, iconic flexibility in the spaces at stations and and ‘everyday’. But ferries only account for Sydney’s public transport network already stops has the potential to improve 2.8% of the 564 million trips taken on public exhibits some of the key characteristics passengers’ waiting experience, and transport yearly in New South Wales,1 of a great public space. By its very nature, allow spaces to be adapted for other while other modes of public transport are public transport is accessible, connected uses outside of peak hours. relatively uninspiring and underutilised and democratic, affording the opportunity 2. Specialisation: Providing dedicated in terms of the everyday experience they to move freely across the city. It meets carriages – such as bike, family and provide citizens. basic human needs by being comfortable, working carriages – and spaces for safe and well maintained, and for the most specific user groups allows these part provides passengers with seating and spaces to meet certain needs or link weather protection. people that share a common interest. However, there are also areas that need 3. Engage: Passively and actively to be improved before truly great places stimulating passengers through can be created. With the exception of the measures such as artwork, lighting ferry network, Sydney’s public transport installations, or interactive interfaces lacks a strong identity and there is a will foster a sense of attachment. bland homogeneity across the network. 4. Experience: To increase attractiveness, More importantly, though, very little is public transport should provide an offer Unused space at Newtown Station in Sydney offered to users, either while travelling or specific to its use that is not available in Public transport networks are the backbone waiting, meaning that ‘travel’ time is often a private vehicle. Technology, for one, is of cities. However, we limit the potential considered wasted. In addition, it is a highly changing the way we use public transport of this infrastructure by narrowly focusing regulated environment where passengers and providing an opportunity to extend on technical mobility and functionality. are offered little freedom, leaving the leisure time into transit time. Other Although transit should undoubtedly remain already notoriously reclusive ‘commuter options include small kiosks and buskers, its primary function, it is time to take a community’ unengaged socially and with a particularly outside of peak hours. more holistic and progressive approach negative perception of public transport. A model for implementation to transport planning, and reconsider Moving forward public transport infrastructure2 as a Implementation of these strategies requires multi-functional public space that plays The value of public transport working as a progressive, non-traditional transport an essential social, economic and cultural public space is gaining momentum globally, planning and effective place management, role in cities, and is a significant part of the where placemaking and place management and is dependent on a serious change urban experience. With the unprecedented in conjunction with grassroots initiatives of culture. This allows for a long-term, population growth expected in Sydney, there are presenting an alternative perception strategic outcome with greater cumulative is an increasing demand for more high- of how public transport infrastructure can benefits than relying on opportunistic

16 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner grassroots initiatives, which – while cheaper and easier – provide no ongoing impact. Globally, transport planning is becoming increasingly dynamic, inclusive and focused on user experience. The New York City feature Department of Transport (DOT), for example, has a management model that focuses on pedestrians, considers people beyond being a ‘customer’, and encourages mass transit (there is even an Art Department within the organisation!). The DOT led the way for the Broadway pilot plazas, which were almost unthinkable at the time, but have been highly successful and resulted in permanent TfNSW’s Customer Experience Framework (Source: TfNSW, 2012) change. The DOT exemplifies an approach to transport planning that looks beyond new ideas. Les Wielinga has stated that engagement with the commuter community functionality. It demonstrates what can be ‘transport will always be about people and have the flexibility to enable bottom-up achieved when there is a concerted focus on and connections’,5 and TfNSW’s Customer ideas, tools and tactics to evolve and allow people and user experience. Experience Framework even notes the the public to hold some responsibility. importance of the experience of a journey. In New South Wales, placemaking seems In the future, it would be fantastic to see to be increasingly on the agenda of local A place management policy prepared by professionals thinking more innovatively government, with little commitment from the Policy and Regulation division and about our public transport networks and state government. Although integrating delivered by the Customer Experience considering transit as an enriching urban placemaking into Transport for NSW division could provide a strong framework experience that is genuinely focussed on (TfNSW) seems to be unrealistic, the to move towards a new way of managing people. As professionals, we inherently organisation’s values reflect a customer- public transport infrastructure and treating understand that planning is about more than centric focus and an aim of delivering it as a valuable part of the public realm. The physical infrastructure; we need to start sustainable and innovative solutions and policy would need to be informed by genuine actively recognising this and incorporating it into current practices, so that every public transport trip provides the same great experience as an iconic Sydney ferry ride n Stefanie Matosevic has a background in subdivision planning and has worked as a dedicated placemaker for two years, developing placemaking strategies and policies across Australia. Endnotes 1 See: visual.bts.nsw.gov.au/dashboard 2 This article defines ‘public transport infrastructure’ as both fixed installations (stations, stops) and moving parts (buses, carriages, ferries) that allow the networks to operate. 3 See: www.fastcoexist.com/3027821/no-time-to- garden-at-home-at-this-train-station-you-can- garden-on-your-commute 4 See, for example: time.com/21640/montreal-bus- shelter-hold-hands-heat/ and www.citylab.com/ design/2015/07/this-swingin-bus-stop-is-pittsburghs- smallest-jazz-club/399155/ 5 Transport for NSW 2012, Corporate Plan 2012-17: Train Tracks event in Sydney (Source: Boaz Nothman, 2014) Connections, NSW Government, Sydney.

How can planning help Sydney support the arts, culture and temporary activation? &

PLACEMAKING Q PLACEMAKING A People who work in the public domain often have an intimate working knowledge of how public spaces work. Street performers can tell you why a particular square is never going to attract a convivial lunchtime crowd; market-stall holders can tell you why visitors will avoid a particular stand; and festival organisers can tell you how the shiny new plaza is just not practical for outdoor cinema. These practitioners work daily with the dynamics of crowds and place – and they can tell you that place is largely about people: their habits, feelings and impulses. So while much placemaking falls to the nonetheless important fields of urban design and architecture, there is often a missed opportunity to gather knowledge from broader fields. Ensuring that people and culture are at the centre of planning – along with analysis of the built form – is surely central to planning excellence. Dr Michael Cohen, Creative Producer, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority

“ newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 17 In the Courts Uncertainty in planning for places Peter Williams MPIA, Senior Lecturer in Planning, Faculty of Built Environment, UNSW Australia

standard could be contravened, cl 6.1(3) was Despite the simplification of statutory planning controls driving the a condition precedent to the permissibility introduction of the Standard Instrument Local Environmental Plan of development, namely that the Council (SI LEP), uncertainty still exists in a key area of planning control must first be satisfied of the matters set out in the clause to determine permissibly. – development standards. Specifically, confusion as to whether a Further, the Court noted that the SI LEP provision of an LEP is a development standard or prohibition has specifies that uses may be added to the bedevilled planning in NSW for decades and, unfortunately, remains list in the land-use table of developments to be definitively resolved. that are permitted or prohibited in a zone. Clause 6.1(3) was the means of imposing prohibitions in a specific place – the Warriewood Release Areas. Karimbla Constructions Services (NSW) of the PLEP – imposed a ‘no dwellings’ Pty Ltd v Pittwater Council [2015] NSWLEC restriction on a designated buffer area in Clause 6.1(3) also failed the second step 83 involved an appeal against refusal of the Warriewood Valley Release Area. in Poynting, because it did not specify a development consent. Importantly in this case requirement or fix a standard in relation to The applicant argued that this restriction an aspect of the development. Specifically, the Court was required to interpret provisions was a development standard to which the clause was a control that provided that – including local controls – of the SI LEP. cl. 4.6 could be applied to approve ‘on land of characteristic X no development The SI LEP contains, in Part 4, its Principal construction of dwellings in the buffer area. may be carried out’ (per Mahoney JA in Development Standards. Clause 4.6 of The Council contended that the control North Sydney Municipal Council v P D Part 4 provides the mechanism for gaining acted as a prohibition and, as such, cl. Mayoh Pty Ltd [No 2] (1990) 71 LGRA 222). exceptions to development standards. Apart 4.6 could not be utilised in order to gain In conclusion, it is clear that any controls from the ‘standard’ or common provisions development consent. contained in Part 4 of the SI LEP are in the first five Parts of the SI LEP, scope The Court held that the ‘no dwellings’ development standards and, as such, cl. is available for additional specific local specification for a buffer zone designated 4.6 can be applied to seek an exception provisions – including further development in cl. 6.1(3) of the PLEP was not a from these controls. However, the situation standards and prohibitions – to be included development standard, but rather a regarding controls found in other parts in subsequent parts of the LEP (i.e. Parts, prohibition. The Court reached this of a SI LEP remains uncertain. Such 6, 7 etc.). conclusion by following the two-step provisions in each SI LEP in NSW will need Specifically, the question the Court had to approach set out by the NSW Court of to be considered individually to ascertain determine was whether a provision in Part Appeal in Strathfield Municipal Council v whether the control is a development 6 Urban Release Areas, of the Pittwater Poynting [200] NSWCA 270. standard or a prohibition. If it is the former, LEP 2014, was a ‘development standard’ First, the Court found that cl. 6.1(3) had then cl 4.6 may be used in the event of a to which cl. 4.6 of the PLEP applied. The the character of a prohibition. Unlike cl. breach; if it is the latter then cl. 4.6 cannot particular provision – in a table in cl. 6.1(3) 4.6 which applies where a development be used n

randwick urban activation precinct sydney CBD and southeast light rail barangaroo delivery authority WestConnex parrammatta road corridor grafton second crossing study transport planning and advisory government and public sector

www.gta.com.au NSW Young Planners Elle Clouston MPIA, Senior Consultant, HillPDA and Christina Livers PIA (Affiliate), Convenor, NSW Young Planners & Consultant, AEC Group review

Gadens), couldn’t separate the two teams In this issue, we explore what great places are to young planners and called the debate a draw. Clearly, the and provide a recap of two recent Young Planners’ events. message of the night was that planners and developers should work together to drive urban innovation! With the event a What are great places to young planners? are dynamic and adaptable, constantly sell-out and resounding success, it is likely evolve and change, and re-excite and evoke that PIA and the Urban Taskforce will make What makes a great place is determined our attention. Such places have a strong this an annual event – so stay tuned. by people’s perceptions and experiences character, are diverse, and become a of place. Great places are not necessarily Density, but not just downtown – is this destination that we want to go back to and the ones that are the most beautiful, the the future of Sydney’s Growth Centres? share with others n most iconic or the most celebrated. To an The NSW Young Planners recently held an individual user, a great place is often one Elle Clouston is a member of the NSW event titled, Density, but not just downtown that evokes emotion and elicits positive Young Planners Committee. She is also a – is this the future of Sydney’s Growth memories – a place they feel connected to Senior Consultant at HillPDA. Specialising Centres? The event was attended by over and want to visit again. in strategic planning. 100 young professionals and sponsored Great places cannot just be made; they Recent Young Planners events by Bartier Perry, AEC Group and Cox evolve over time and become identifiable Young Planners vs. Young Developers Architects. Building on a groundbreaking destinations in their own right. However, study led by AEC’s Property Economics planners can influence the success of PIA and the Urban Taskforce recently Team, which investigated housing supply places by effectively balancing a number joined forces to host an inaugural debate, and demand in Sydney’s Growth Centres, of underlying principles. From a young which pitted Young Planners against Young the event looked at the key factors planner’s perspective, great places are: Developers. The topic was ‘Planning Rules affecting change in Sydney’s Growth Drive Urban Innovation’, with the Young Centres and their impact on development • Identifiable: they incorporate design and Planners arguing for the motion. The topic and urban design n theming that makes them special and was hotly contested, with lively discussion distinguishable, e.g. public art, unique Christina Livers is Convenor of the NSW and convincing arguments on both sides. architecture and natural features. Young Planners. She is also a Consultant at • Diverse: they provide choice through a In the end, our judges, David Ryan (PIA AEC Group with expertise in planning and mix of uses and social experiences. NSW President) and Aaron Gadiel (Partner, economics. • Functional: they are well designed and easy to navigate. • Convenient: they are easy to get to and meet everyday needs. • Viable: they are economically successful and create micro economies of similar uses, i.e. eat streets. • Adaptable: they evolve and change, providing opportunities for non-core uses, i.e. entertainment, markets. • Connected: they are connected both physically and technologically through transport and WiFi. • Safe: they are places where we feel comfortable, day and night, due to the level of activity, good lighting, and passive surveillance. For a generation that has grown up in a society that is fast paced and technologically connected, young planners desire places that stimulate the senses. We like places The recent Young Planners event, ‘Density, but not just downtown – is this the future of Sydney’s that have character, encourage interaction, Growth Centres?’

newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 19 Planning as a social art from Cara Courage, PhD candidate, University of Brighton, UK

Urban co-creating goes beyond a top- My PhD research, focusing on participation in arts-based urban down, proscribed participation to become placemaking, has uncovered pertinent issues of who constitutes a horizontal, collaborative process. The co-creating group will be formed from the ‘decision makers’ in the urban realm. This practice, which I have termed urban, arts and community sectors and ‘social practice placemaking’ (SPPM), has potentially expansive – and non-professionals (the community). positive – implications for planners. The purpose of creating art in SPPM is not merely the end product, but is the shared and collaborative process of intervening Social practice placemaking public space and what can occur in it. It is in a space. Local and expert knowledge is focussed on the process as much as the SPPM is a conjoining of social practice arts used as a resource in SPPM. The ‘non- output – the process being the conversations – that is, art methods that are concerned professional’ co-producer may have no that occur between people, and the piloting- formal training, but contributes to the with human interactions and their in-place of new urban design and function. social context – and placemaking. In the process by bringing other skills – from placemaking context, social practice arts In SPPM, the term ‘participant’ is extended their lived experience – into the process. works to draw attention to urban issues and to that of ‘urban co-creator’. This term is The professionals will also be valued for encourage new thinking-and-then-doing, an amalgamation of Klanten and Hübner’s their expertise – for example, as creative with the practice acting as a catalyst for ‘urban creative’ and Kageyama’s ‘co- thinker or negotiator. social and material change. The artwork in creator’. The ‘urban creative’ term is based Theory in application this scenario – anything from a parklet to a on the notion that the city is predisposed to live art performance or a community lunch – be a fertile ground with a wide appreciation Artists were observed in my PhD research is created by the community. of who is creative. ‘Co-creator’ refers to case studies – Art Tunnel Smithfield, a diverse mix of professionals and non- Dublin1, The Drawing Shed, London2 (see Such social practice is termed professionals. By merging the two terms Figure 1) and Big Car, Indianapolis 3 (see ‘performative’, an artform that engages the to form ‘urban co-creator’, an inclusive Figure 2) – using their unique skills in public in dialogue and interactive scenarios relationship between the ‘professional’ and organising and mobilising the talents and that call into question what constitutes ‘non-professional’ can be formed. knowledge of community members in an

The Drawing Shed, LiveLunch, during Underpass mural painting for IndyDoDay, LiveElse[W]here, Walthamstow, London, 2014 artist Niina Chochran, Big Car, Indianapolis, 2014

20 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner SPPM project. This was an empowering process for all involved – one that engaged both professionals and non-professionals to address social, environmental, technological and physical issues. It also feature capitalised on the community’s first-hand knowledge of the area. In Dublin, for example, grassroots SPPM projects have focussed on how the (conservatively) estimated 61 hectares of vacant land across 282 sites4 in the city could be put to use. SPPM projects have created a new urbanism for Dublin that is overturning low-expectations of inner-city living. These projects have been reflexive, in the process of thinking, and subsequently transformative, in the process of doing, empowering participants to make decisions and create their own urban realm partnerships separate to external organisations. What can be observed in Dublin is the creation of ‘neighbourhood strategies’, where local groups at the grassroots level A placemaking typology (Courage, 2014) 5 are fundamental to transforming society. Where many experience the planning for the urban realm. The value of SPPM And Dublin City Council is listening. It is process as being contrary to their interests, is that it enables planners to see models currently considering a vacant land levy and a SPPM approach can be responsive and of everyday use – it gives them data in looking for open-sourced ideas for creative inclusive, using artists and architects the thinking-and-then-doing, and creates and functional public realm changes though as ‘cultural translators’ and dissolving intellectual and material space for new its ‘Beta Projects’ initiative – one of several tensions between the potential binary of interactions, functions and meanings n two-way communication channels it has ‘top down’ and ‘bottom up’. opened to crowdsource urban design and Cara Courage is a final year placemaking planning ideas. In many ways, SPPM in But not all placemaking is the same; it PhD candidate with a professional Dublin is as much about co-operation has varying degrees of public and creative background of 20 years in the arts and between citizens and the city administration agency, and works from and to differing built environment. Her research interests as it is about material urban change. SPPM concerns and aims. The placemaking span the arts and the urban in relation to interventions are thus a self-activating typology (see Figure 3) differentiates co-production, arts practice and process process: people recognise the potential of a placemaking practices, and can be used to agencies, civic participation and social space, and then decide to use it creatively to both describe and design practice. movements, and city space and place. suit their own needs and desires. Professor of Urban Studies and Planning Endnotes at Portland State University, Ethan Seltzer, 1 See: www.arttunnelsmithfield.com Implications for planners 2 states that in planning ‘the question that See: www.thedrawingshed.org 3 See: www.bigcar.org SPPM is just one practice in a arises is, “What can we do to be as smart 4 Kelly, O 2015, ‘Dublin city audit finds 282 vacant sites placemaker’s portfolio. Placemaking can as possible about the future?”’. He goes on ahead of land-hoarding levy’, The Irish Times, 3rd March 2015. involve a wide constituency and, as with to say, ‘it turns out that the only way you 5 Guattari, F 2000, The Three Ecologies, Athlone, London. tactical urbanism, it is about ‘how city can be smart about the future is to get as 6 Lydon, M & Garcia, A 2015, Tactical Urbanism, Island leaders and citizens together can create many people involved as possible’.7 Dublin Press, Washington, p. 20. 7 Finkelpearl, T 2013, What We Made: Conversations a more responsive, efficient, and creative is just one city that is using SPPM projects on Art and Social Cooperation, Duke University Press, approach to neighbourhood building’.6 to pilot or prototype material alternatives Durham, p. 165.

Is planning for people places different in the Middle East? &

PLACEMAKING Q PLACEMAKING A Surprisingly, despite the scale and the pace of planning and development conducted in Al Ain, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, it has been remarkably successful and there are key positive lessons to be learnt.

The most important being the value of a clearly expressed and appropriate vision, supported by suitable governance systems and the necessary human and financial resources that can be held to steadfastly over almost two generations.

Stephen Goldie, City Planning Adviser, Abu Dhabi Department of Municipal Affairs “ newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 21 What do Australia and England have to learn from each other regarding community engagement in planning? Biljana Savic, Programme Director, The Prince’s Regeneration Trust and Director, The Academy of Urbanism, UK

Australia it is the rejection of densification Earlier this year I visited Australia and spoke with over 200 built policies, in England it is often the fear of environment practitioners, local and state government officials, low-quality developments, rather than academics and representatives of community groups about your outright rejection of growth, that drives most NIMBY campaigns. planning systems, and particularly the engagement of citizens – local residents and business – in urban planning and development. In this A greater proportion of planning applications seem to be determined by officers in article, I provide some thoughts on the similarities and differences Australia than in England. Decisions in between Australia and England, as well as what we can learn from Australia are generally made on the basis of each other to make community engagement more effective. plot-based regulations (zoning), determined at the strategic-planning stage. Therefore, the main opportunity for communities to Similarities and differences in-my-backyard) campaigns. Interestingly, engage is at policy-forming stage and, at the the key issue behind NIMBYism seems to initial idea-gathering stage. Indeed, there are Both Australia and England rely almost be different in the two countries – while in innovative methods of engaging large groups exclusively on the private sector to deliver development, and have largely market- driven planning systems. With the dwindling public sector investment in housing and deregulation of planning in England over the last five years, the systems are, in this respect, becoming ever more similar. As a result, the engagement of communities in both countries is often conducted in an adversarial context, with legal battles against private developers, and statutory planning authorities increasingly playing the role of facilitator or mediator. In England, there has been a gradual shift of emphasis away from the policies of integrated spatial planning of the How communities (top) and private developers (bottom) view each other – word clouds based on surveys conducted as part of the Community-Private Sector Partnership Brokers Pilot by Locality and The Prince’s 2000s, bringing it closer to the Australian Regeneration Trust. zoning system, reinforcing the division between urban planning and other built environment disciplines, particularly urban design. With planning policy development mainly focussed on land-use allocation (often not considering the spatial or the detail of implementation on the ground), engaging local people in the process is difficult, as for most community members, it is the shape and feel of development on the ground that they can relate to and that motivates them to engage. Both Australia and England are countries of homeowners, where a person’s home is their primary investment. In many cases, it is the perceived negative impact of planning decisions on the value of their home which catalyses residents to engage in NIMBY (not-

22 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner of people in idea-gathering processes, including many online tools developed by Australian companies. In parallel, there are an increasing number of practitioners offering consultancy services related to community engagement, many of whom article trained to use the IAP2 Spectrum, which is still rare in England. In addition, there are considerable attempts to ensure proper representation in engagement processes, using population analysis to inform the makeup of deliberative panels (or citizen juries), which in some areas make major investment and planning decisions. Inversely, more statutory powers are given to communities in England, with greater weight placed on community engagement in determining planning applications. Generally, the English development- management system is more flexible and based on negotiation, with somewhat greater opportunities to engage than in Australia. At the policy making level, a major initiative has been the introduction of new Neighbourhood planning in action – participatory workshop in Highgate, London, facilitated by The Prince’s Foundation, 2013. community rights through the Localism Act (2011). Among them, the Right to Plan composing representative panels used in are shared, awareness of wider agendas (commonly referred to as neighbourhood Australia in response to the concerns raised and consensus over preferred solutions planning) has created the opportunity for over the self-selecting Neighbourhood instantly developed, enabling local people Parish or Town Councils – or, in non- Forums. Australia, on the other hand, to have a greater understanding and sense parished areas of the country, self-selecting could take a lesson form England’s of ownership of the resulting policies Neighbourhood Forums – to produce neighbourhood planning processes and the and proposals. Even though there are statutory planning policies for their own implementation of other community rights, practitioners in both countries who do all of neighbourhoods. Neighbourhood Plans as well as the proliferation of community- their work through participatory workshops, are approved through local referenda, driven development projects. they remain isolated examples. based on a simple majority. 75 such plans had been approved by mid-July 2015, with Educating the public regarding the impact Finally, the built environment and the neighbourhood planning activities underway of planning and the physical environment citizens in both countries would benefit in over 1,500 areas. on everyone’s quality of life, including greatly from a better integration of planning issues related to demographic changes, and other built environment disciplines In England, there are also many more climate change, the environmental impact through the education system, professional community-driven development projects of development and development viability, institutes, legislation and practice. More than appears to be the case in Australia. could go a long way in both countries in emphasis should be placed on a holistic Thousands of community trusts, addressing NIMBYism in affluent areas or approach to shaping places, as a dynamic, Community Interest Companies and other engagement apathy in less affluent areas, inter-disciplinary endeavour that links forms of community-led organisations and enable communities to engage in aspirations, high-level strategies with the are regenerating existing, or building planning in a meaningful manner. To my reality of development on the ground. It is new, developments and acting as clients. mind, this can only be achieved through only then that more citizens will begin to Whether a result of the government’s (government-funded) support programmes. engage in planning in a meaningful and austerity measures, or of a genuine move constructive way n towards a greater devolving of power to A greater emphasis on development Biljana Savic i communities, these are certainly positive quality in planning policy and development s a chartered architect and town planner based in London. She trends, as they often deliver important management, rather than further is Programme Director at The Prince’s community facilities that cannot attract deregulation (of the kind currently Regeneration Trust and Director at The commercial developers. underway in England) could address key concerns of NIMBYs, stimulate more Academy of Urbanism. In the past she held Making community engagement more senior positions at The Prince’s Foundation, positive engagement of local people and effective The Commission for Architecture and the could speed up many planning applications. Built Environment (CABE) and Space Syntax So, what can we learn from these varied Both countries also have a long way to go Limited. In 2014, Biljana received a grant models of community involvement? towards encouraging truly collaborative from the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust England can certainly learn a lot from planning practices. Although there which enabled her to travel to Australia, Australia, especially in terms of online are increasingly sophisticated online New Zealand and Cuba to study community and large-scale engagement in idea- engagement tools, nothing can replace engagement in urban planning and gathering processes in the early stages of face-to-face communication and joint development. A full report on her findings policy formation. Neighbourhood planners decision making through participatory will be published on the Trust’s web site in England should consider methods of processes, where concerns and ideas (http://www.wcmt.org.uk) in late 2015.

newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 23 Successful centres: protecting Sydney’s long-term productivity Diana Griffiths MPIA CPP, Director of Urban Design, Studio GL and Elle Clouston MPIA, Senior Consultant, HillPDA

uses, ringed by the less valuable Urban centres lie at the heart of many local communities, but manufacturing land that could be converted recent debate on city growth has tended to focus exclusively on to higher-value uses as the centre expanded. The challenge arising is a case increasing residential densities rather than ways to strengthen urban of encirclement as fringe areas reach centres. In focussing on accelerating one urban activity – residential development capacity, there is limited development – it is possible that we are failing to facilitate other uses expansion opportunity or an ‘escape path’ in this critical core of our urban settlements. for commercial and civic uses when the demand for such a product arises again. HillPDA and Studio GL have identified a Urban centres are defined by many names, The Plan notes: number of common characteristics of vary in geographic scale, provide different Sydney’s largest and most important hubs successful centres. These include providing purpose, encompass diverse uses and attract for business and employment are ‘strategic a wide mix of uses, encouraging activity diverse users. The ultimate success of a centres’ and Sydney’s ‘transport gateways’. 24/7 and accommodating different activities centre will be dependent on balancing the Together, these locations account for 43 in a place that is accessible, connected and needs of these uses, leveraging off a centre’s per cent of all jobs across Sydney. These able to evolve over time. Successful centres niche market and protecting its competitive locations will be an important focus for are not only commercially viable, they are edge. Unfortunately, however, in the case of future growth because of their size, diversity also well designed, reflecting the unique Sydney’s Strategic Centres, more frequent of activities, their connections (mainly characteristics of the place, and recognised pressures from the market and politics have to the rail network), and the presence of by the community as the ‘heart’ of the begun influencing, and sometimes eroding, major institutional activities such as health local area. the underlying diversity and commercial and education facilities or Sydney’s major Successful centres are adaptable and able 1 success of our centres, ultimately varying airports and port. to grow and change with increased needs their direction and long-term capacity to The Plan identifies a strategic intent to and demands. While buildings can easily prosper as employment hubs. grow the employment network, provide convert from commercial to residential due Centres in strategic planning more jobs closer to homes and improve to single ownership and generous floor-to- our city’s overall productivity. Considering floor dimensions, it is almost impossible A Plan for Growing Sydney (The Plan) defines this, it is concerning that many core to change a large residential building into three types of centres in Sydney: Sydney CBD employment lands and Strategic Centres a commercial use due to the complexity of (2), Regional City Centres (3) and Strategic are transitioning to residential places. multiple owners and the vagaries of strata Centres (21). The definition of a Strategic title. This issue is relevant in Sydney as Challenges for successful centres Centre is, ‘locations that currently or are the high returns obtained from residential planned to have at least 10,000 jobs. These Historically, centres were the employment development are removing large amounts are priority locations for employment, retail, hubs containing the higher-value of commercial and industrial fringe land housing, services and mixed-uses’. commercial, retail, civic and community from Strategic Centres across the city. Another challenge is that, under the standard instrument, ‘commercial premises’ encompasses a retail premise, an office premise or a business premise. Retail and commercial generate different types of jobs but these are considered the same under the instrument. Shop- top housing is also permissible in most centres (B1 Neighbourhood Centre, B3 Local Centre, B4 Mixed Use) but this can take the form of limited ground-floor retail with residential apartments above and a predominance of this type of development will limit the opportunity to provide significant employment-generating uses The diverse land use distribution in a centre (left) runs the risk of becoming predominantly apartment development (right). within the centre.

24 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner opinion A

CBRE Inc. most of most A

4 &

Q , NSW Planning and PLACEMAKING Sydney Office Market Productive Cities: Opportunity NSW Government. NSW Government. Grattan Institute, Melbourne. Institute, Grattan | 25 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 25 Residential Conversions: planner new Kelly, J and Mares, P 2013, J and Mares, Kelly, in a Changing Economy, Research Report June 2014 Plan for Growing Sydney, CBRE Australia 2014, CBRE Australia 2014, International Colliers NSW Government Planning and Environment 2014, Planning and Environment NSW Government Infrastructure, Sydney. Infrastructure, Keeping Sydney’s Office Market Balanced,

government and private clients. urban renewal, and local centre viability for Elle’s interest is in planning policy advisory, HillPDA. Specialising in strategic planning, function of Australian cities and towns. Elle Clouston is a Senior Consultant at passionate about improving the design and NSW’s Urban Design Chapter. Diana is at UNSW Australia and also chairs PIA Architectus. She lectures on Urban Design urban design roles at Arup, Stockland and Planning, Diana has previously held senior qualifications in Architecture and Urban Design at Studio GL. Holding dual identified by the Grattan Institute, identified by the Grattan 2 3 4 Diana Griffiths is the Director of Urban Endnotes 1 Sydney’s Strategic Centres are well located located well are Centres Strategic Sydney’s populations but their surrounding serve to attract to if the ability of these centres only education, (retail, these types of services protected. and is retained services) personal is that the Sydney facing The challenge is of many centres and resilience diversity very is a risk that the in decline and there driving activity that is currently development damage irrevocably could and the economy n forever these centres Monica Gibson, Regional Director of Planning, City Plan Services of Gibson, Regional Director Monica best use, however if we continue to erode erode to continue if we use, however best will shifts, there them, when the market future significant opportunity for be limited centres. in our space office commercial here? from to Where and market in the commercial Uncertainty will industry the development from pressure in shapingrole play a defining to continue Without solidifying of our centres. the future and of centres intent the non-residential planning process amenable a more facilitating that these use types, it is likely incentivise to options will supply commercial large-scale Therefore, title. of strata under a sea be lost objective a reinforced and foresight strategic within our diversity and protect retain to our city’s ensure needed to are centres remain has the support to productivity overall scale. on a global competitive are centres key Sydney’s Furthermore, and rail road on key located predominately play a to expected and are infrastructure for the city’s in providing role significant jobs and housing needs but the future is use places mixed of successful creation occur to and unlikely multi-layered complex, planning, centres Without careful by accident. rather monocultures lifeless become could a substantial that make places than vibrant employment decentralised to contribution and endeavours business attract in Sydney, and civic life. cultural support the city’s will centres of Sydney’s a few only While services’ the ‘high order attract to be able

and Colliers 2 are all projecting commercial commercial all projecting are Our plans need better healthy minds. Our plans need better healthy bodies and for need places urban living, we compact of more In a future plan for to forget can’t But, we streets. local to squares town formal – from together that bring people public places rambling like places include must life Our healthier future and self-reflection. quiet contemplation that allow places into these places incorporate to with their associates work need to Planners spaces. and sacred public gardens urban plans. long-term 3 How can planning help make better better planning help make can How people? for places Recent articles by CBRE articles Recent clustered in the centre’s core. core. in the centre’s clustered of commercial uses need to be retained and be retained to uses need of commercial objective of a polycentric city, a critical mass mass city, a critical of a polycentric objective growth in our centres and to deliver on the deliver and to in our centres growth line). To support the intent for employment employment for support the intent line). To for example, onto a resident’s clothes clothes a resident’s onto example, for next to an apartment building (and looking, building (and looking, an apartment to next business uses, rather than being located than being located uses, rather business want to be clustered with other premium with other premium be clustered want to like uses. For example, premium businesses businesses premium example, uses. For like attracted to clustering opportunities with opportunities clustering to attracted understand agglomeration benefits and are benefits and are agglomeration understand to hold and attract businesses. Businesses Businesses businesses. and attract hold to need to retain a critical mass of like uses of like mass a critical retain need to Studio GL, industry feedback identified the feedback Studio GL, industry In a recent study undertaken by HillPDA and by HillPDA undertaken study In a recent The creation of successful mixed-use places is complex, multi-layered and requires strategic foresight to protect and incentivise a wide mix of uses. development is currently the highest and the highest is currently development in demand at present and that residential and that residential in demand at present that the commercial office market is not market office that the commercial uncertain’. It is acknowledged and agreed and agreed It is acknowledged uncertain’. ‘the long-term capacity of this precinct is of this precinct capacity ‘the long-term ‘pressure for residential development’ and development’ residential for ‘pressure the North Ryde Office Precinct, there is there Precinct, the North Ryde Office and in well-established areas such as areas and in well-established there is limited ‘future expansion potential’ potential’ expansion ‘future is limited there Olympic Park, it has been identified that Park, Olympic is strong demand, like Rhodes and Sydney demand, like is strong residential uses. Even in areas where there there where in areas uses. Even residential Sydney will effectively transition out non- out transition will effectively Sydney Burwood, Hurstville, Epping and North Epping Hurstville, Burwood, Centres of St Leonards, Chatswood, of St Leonards, Centres development, particularly in the Strategic in the Strategic particularly development, centre demise. Demand for residential residential for demise. Demand centre

International “ NSW Consulting Planners More native weeds in the garden: placemaking in the age of inclusion Chris Procter, Director Strategic Design, JBA and Krista Murphy, Communications Manager, JBA

collaborative approach, we run the risk of When we create a place, we aim to create a connection between the consent authority assessing a future people and their environment. But how do you strike a relationship vision of a place that is reduced to a between people and a ‘place’ that doesn’t yet exist? This is a written, drawn or modelled representation, common challenge that consent authorities confront when with limited insights from the people who assessing plans for a place. It begs the question: how can we plan matter the most. The consent authority is, after all, making decisions on behalf of a inviting places for everybody, but nobody in particular?. constituency to which they do not belong, and who are characterised by various socio-economic profiles, ages, cultures Effective placemaking is one way to shape – as if the tangible shape were all and expectations. address this dilemma, employing a range of that matters. By engaging with key groups techniques to empathise with a constituency such as the existing community, neighbours, How we conceptualise and communicate of people to which we don’t belong, with action groups, peak bodies, technical experts proposed changes to a place can be whom we’re not involved. An industry and government stakeholders early in fraught with challenges. colleague of ours recently addressed this the development process, a very different We tend to craft our own narratives empathy challenge by speaking from the outcome can be achieved. This can be one perspective of a plant during a presentation that maximises shared value and facilitates about the future world we are planning. to landscape architects. This tactic to engage real connections between the community In the 1960s and well into the 1970s, we the audience might seem a little odd, to say and the places in which they spend their commonly made appeals to the physical the least. However, according to Palestinian- precious leisure time. context of place as a strategy to determine American literary theorist, Edward Said, it whether new built works would fit is possible to empathise with a constituency comfortably alongside existing works. This who are beyond our direct experience, and We need to re-evaluate and often occurred without any consideration not be labelled delusional. update how we communicate with of long-term vision or the needs and We voice our intention to create a better stakeholders and consent authorities desires of future residents. Context was a term that generally captured little future for a place every time we plan or about how places are envisioned. promote major urban change – sometimes more than a formal physical reference to without appropriate consultation with the buildings. It addressed height, setbacks end users of that place. We invent a vision The same inclusive approach to and essential built form elements. Context, for the future of a place, we present it to communication with a consent authority at that time, had little to do with the spaces stakeholders, we draw it and we build a that approves or declines development around buildings, let alone how people model of it, long before we give it tangible applications is paramount. Without this might interact within spaces.

26 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner We need to re-evaluate and update how we communicate with stakeholders and consent authorities about how places are envisioned. Fortunately, there has been a recent shift

away from the expressive symbolism of review architecture as comprised of built forms with meaning, toward placemaking, which is focussed more on associations and interactions between people and places. At the same time, communicating with consent authorities about the design and planning of places has been on the ascendant; at least three successive changes have radically altered the way we plan and design large settlements.

Placemaking enacts a relationship between people and their environment, and the shift towards T-shirts, strollers and heels: variety at Barangaroo (Source: ASPECT-OCULUS). engaging predominantly larger consulting firms puts at risk the This trend toward greater collaboration puts at risk the representation of bold, representation of bold, minority may enable more people to realise their minority activity. own aspirations for a place. activity. You could argue that to deploy many hands A second change in the way cities are on a future place will serve to dissipate a made and understood is that government site’s unity and confuse the vision with too The first is that today, more than ever, has become more reliant upon the many voices. However, that is the world placemaking is a collective enterprise. It private sector to conceive of places and to we live in: messy, bold, beautiful and has shifted from the prerogative of a few shoulder the risk of failure – be it a failure imperfect; full of dandelions and native decision makers who – if you’ll indulge the of engineering, construction or finance, or weeds, varied and complex. Places built on foundations of collaboration are survivor metaphor – play the role of the gardener of a failure to win public embrace. places, with resilient and adaptive relations a patch, to the custody of the community The risk of failure brings us to the between constituents and context. Survivor who will ultimately own the place: the plants third change, whereby consultants are places are akin to native weeds – robust, themselves. Of course, it is not universally increasingly required to demonstrate deep and in it for the long haul n the case that placemaking is a collective and broad self-regulation. Indeed, the Christopher Procter is Director of Strategic enterprise, and it becomes a source of great NSW Government requires consultants to Design at JBA. He has more than 20 years’ public angst when constituencies are not be authorised engineering organisations experience as an architect and urban involved or do not feel empowered in the in order to meet standards of regulation planning of a new place. designer in the use of buildings, landscape and compliance. However, more often than and infrastructure to create major urban As far as we can recall, the last public not, only the very large firms are equipped improvement in the US, Middle East, New domain of any great scale that was to pass these standards and shoulder the Zealand and cities of Australia. designed essentially by one primary risk put upon them. Smaller firms are less likely to have the resources to fulfil a Krista Murphy is Communications designer is Sydney Olympic Park, by Manager at JBA. She is an experienced government’s test of compliance. George Hargreaves (1996-2000). In communications professional contrast, Barangaroo in Sydney and Placemaking enacts a relationship with specialist skills in strategic Fishermans Bend in Victoria are the new between people and their environment, communications, public relations, normal. These places have been shaped and the shift towards engaging stakeholder engagement, community by many people through a fusion of ideas. predominantly larger consulting firms consultation, advertising and marketing.

NSW Environment and planning team Norton Rose Fulbright Australia

Jacinta Studdert Felicity Rourke Noni Shannon Partner, Sydney Partner, Sydney Partner, Sydney Tel +61 2 9330 8500 Tel +61 2 9330 8665 Tel +61 2 9330 8346 jacinta.studdert@ felicity.rourke@ noni.shannon@ nortonrosefulbright.com nortonrosefulbright.com nortonrosefulbright.com

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newplanner | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 27 Healthy Built Environments Making public places for a healthy city

Susan Thompson FPIA, Professor of Planning and Associate Director (City Wellbeing), City Futures Research Centre, UNSW Australia

Peter McCue, Executive Officer, NSW Premier’s Council for Active Living (PCAL)

activity and access to healthy food – be it As our cities densify, we have fewer private gardens and play areas on a community garden or a convivial eating our doorsteps. Public spaces are, therefore, becoming increasingly place – are frequently accommodated in important for everyday activities and special occasions. It is in public public spaces. spaces that we can relax and contemplate, enjoy a bike ride, power walk The URMO principles for health or leisurely stroll, play with our children, have a picnic with friends, or supportive placemaking in the denser city celebrate a family birthday. So how can public places support the community’s physical and mental health? Our model, URMO (Understanding; Planners have a key role in creating For those who are isolated from others, Reviewing; Making; Ongoing), brings meaningful and health supportive public whether they are elderly and alone, together traditional ideas about spaces in the denser city. For this special disabled and unable to easily get out and placemaking using a health lens. URMO’s issue on placemaking, we propose a set about, or simply at home a lot – maybe in 20 principles are designed to be employed of principles for public space-making a caring role – the provision of accessible flexibly to accommodate diverse initiations to support health – for people, the public space is vital to health.1,2 Green of placemaking – from the community to environment and the creatures with whom natural space is a critical component of the local council or a long-term proposal we share our lives. public space and is fundamental to the in a plan. maintenance of wellbeing. It contributes to Understanding What is a public open space? positive mental health and provides us with Public open space encompasses land that respite from the stresses of urban life.3 This principle is about knowing the is freely accessible by everyone. It often Providing space for recreational physical community – its needs, hopes and includes green space – from expansive parklands to smaller gardens and hard surfaced plazas or town squares with trees and shrubs dotted around. Other spaces in cities today are increasingly seen as potentially open and public. These include laneways, shared spaces, community gardens and temporary spaces given over to a community for a short time. The key distinction is that such spaces are not commercially owned, nor is there any fee charged for use. When we think of how public spaces are used, the principal activity is recreation – again, this varies from formal sporting events, to passive pursuits such as walking, sitting and just being in the space. Artistic and cultural expression is a feature, ranging from grand installations to small cultural artefacts of belonging, including musical and other performances. The health supportive role of public spaces Public spaces support physical and mental health in different ways. They are particularly important in connecting us with each other across our diversity and difference, building relationships which The Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston is a great example of a healthy public space. In the heart of lay the foundation for social capital, local the city, it incorporates ‘green’ and ‘blue’ space, a community food garden, a mix of private and public belonging and a sense of cultural identity. areas, and is a place for family celebrations, as well as citywide events.

28 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner review

5677 specialists

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planner new Maintenance – how will the space be will the space how – Maintenance medium and in the short, maintained terms? longer the community’s to Responsiveness time, particularly changing needs over and family shifts in health status stage. formation so everyone, for Ensuring accessibility and democratic is truly that the space inclusive. www.envisageconsulting.com.au [email protected] Experienced

Beyond Blue to Green: http://www.hphpcentral.com/ Green: Blue to Beyond wp-content/uploads/2010/09/beyondblue_togreen.pdf http://www.pps.org/ Public Spaces: for Project reference/what_is_placemaking/ See Thompson, S and Capon, A 2015, ‘The co- and action for understanding benefits framework H et al: http://www. change’, in Barton, on climate routledge.com/books/details/9781138023307/ HBEP Literature Review: http://www.be.unsw.edu. Review: HBEP Literature au/city-futures/city-wellbeing/literature-review; Sheets: http://www.be.unsw.edu.au/city- HBEP Fact futures/city-wellbeing/fact-sheets http://www0. Checklist: Healthy Urban Development health.nsw.gov.au/pubs/2010/pdf/hud_checklist. by Design: http://www. pdf; Healthy Active healthyactivebydesign.com.au/

the community is engaged in this process engaged in this process is the community them to be up to It will start. the from meet to continues that the space ensure being as health needs, as well emerging is The community maintained. adequately – the of the space custodian the ultimate placemaking: successful to key 18. 19. 20. us know on URMO – let feedback invite We us what else should be included and tell health supportive about some of the great making! n are you places Endnotes 3 4 5 1 2 5 Try it out – if possible, install a install it out – if possible, Try it works see how to space temporary This it might be improved. and how or force on board bring everyone can The eventual re-think. a necessary public space. will be a better outcome Work with the community from the from with the community Work public, across partnerships – build start the in creating NGO sectors and private and ensuring its longevity. space the budget – use the co-benefits Argue the cynics. help persuade to framework Incorporate opportunities for physical physical opportunities for Incorporate activity, including play, as appropriate. nearby areas, from accessibility Ensure transport. by active ideally design principles. universal Incorporate Through Use Crime Prevention Design (CPTED) Environmental place. this a safe make to principles conditions Design with environmental shading is there example, in mind – for and wind protection? inclusion of commercial cafés, pop-up cafés, inclusion of commercial gardens. kiosks or community by providing comfort personal Ensure such as seats, toilets, infrastructure and rubbish. What else does the bubblers need in this particular space? community Enlist champions to support the champions to Enlist venture! placemaking

15. 16. Making of URMO – tenet This is the central participation underpins community some are Here placemaking. successful that this occurs: ensure to steps essential 14. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Ongoing and is about governance This final principle that It is critical of the space. the future 17.

4 Include green (vegetated) and blue (vegetated) Include green which has health benefits space, (water) and the planet. both humans for their and how creatures Consider fellow by the space be supported health can for bush gardens dog parks to – from biodiversity. a convivial, create to Consider food – this might be the space celebratory Understand who the space is for – what is is for who the space Understand of the relevant make-up the demographic and cultural its health status community, unmet currently needs? What needs are help? the proposal can and how Determine why the public space is why the public space Determine play to it can needed and the roles support human and environmental these questions, answer health. To of what is already an understanding is crucial – as is area in a local available the community of how an appreciation of local is changing and the nature and threats. stress environmental Review the scholarship on placemaking – on placemaking the scholarship Review ideas and of information, is a wealth there placemakers the classic from inspirations gurus such as Jan Gehl recent more to specialising in socialand consultancies planning. and cultural of good practice examples Review and of abundant local the range across ideas. international

6. 7. 5. with the community: this needs to be done in close consultation consultation be done in close this needs to supports health. It goes without saying that to consider in creating a public space that space a public in creating consider to place – the elements that planners need that planners – the elements place This principle is about what might be in the This principle Reviewing 3. 4. 2. 1. placemaking, but here are some vital issues: some vital are but here placemaking, depending on who has initiated thedepending on who has initiated aspirations. There will be variations There aspirations. Norton Rose Fulbright Review Parks in the courts: when community groups take legal action Jacinta Studdert, Partner and Rosemary Bullmore, Associate, Norton Rose Fulbright Australia

Jacinta Studdert, Partner Felicity Rourke, Partner Noni Shannon, Partner

38 Stuart Street and peripherally 40 Stuart The management and use of public land and open space is often a Street Manly. In this case the community key area of concern for the community during the development of association was unsuccessful. The case strategic plans or in the assessment of a development proposal. In concerned a planning proposal to rezone this article we look at the planning legal framework for public land the three properties from ‘RE 1 – Public Recreation’ to ‘E4 – Environmental Living’ and discuss some recent cases brought by community action groups and impose various controls. After the regarding that framework. proposal went on public exhibition, the judgement in Save Little Manly Beach Foreshore Incorporated v Manly Council The community interest in public land is the relevant legislation regardless of (No 2) was given. As a result of this reflected in the planning legal framework whether they are directly impacted by the judgement No 34 and No 36 were removed by: development. For example, s674 of the from the proposal and the planning LG Act and s123 of the Environmental proposal was subsequently made. The • the obligations placed on councils to Planning and Assessment Act 1979 Court held that the changes to the classify and manage land as “community provide that any person may bring planning proposal were not so materially land” or “operational land” under the proceedings in the Land and Environment different from the exhibited planning Local Government Act 1993 (LG Act); Court for an order to remedy or restrain a proposal and as such there was no breach • the scheme for management of Crown breach of that Act. of the legislation. land under the Crown Lands Act 1989; Friends of King Edward Park and Save Little Many Beach • the imposition of public recreational In Save Little Manly Beach Foreshore In Friends of King Edward Park Inc v or open space zonings by planning Incorporated v Manly Council (No 2) Newcastle City Council (No 2) [2015] instruments. [2013] NSWLEC 156, the community NSWLEC 76, a local community association challenged the grant of a Land owned by councils is controlled by association was successful in restraining development consent for the purpose the LG Act. Land classified as “community Manly Council from selling two parcels of a commercial function centre with an land” often consists of public parks and of land (No 34 and No 36 Stuart Street) associated kiosk on a prominent coastal is subject to strict controls, such as the on the basis that they were classified headland in Newcastle. The site has been requirement for the land to be managed as “community land” under the LG Act. reserved from sale for the purpose of in accordance with a plan of management. For “community land” to be sold by a public recreation under s87 of the Crown A number of other restrictions in the LG council, it must firstly be reclassified as Lands Act 1989 (NSW) and was the subject Act are intended to preserve the qualities “operational land” by a new or amended of a plan of management under that Act. of “community land”. In particular, it local environmental plan. In this case, the court ruled in favour of the community The Court held that development for cannot be sold, exchanged or otherwise the purpose of “function centre” in both disposed of (other than under limited group and found that two of the Council’s resolutions purporting to reclassify the Reserve and Park was prohibited, circumstances). Land classified as and granted a declaration that the “operational land”, such as a council the relevant land as “operational land” were beyond power and ineffective. development consent and the relevant depot, can be dealt with more freely by plan of management were invalid and of councils. The Council’s further resolution to sell the relevant land was also found to be no effect. The community association was Community action invalid and it was restrained from selling, also successful in restraining any step to exchanging or otherwise disposing of the use the land for any purpose other than In certain circumstances, a sector of land for so long as it is was classified as public recreation. the community, often in the form of a community land. community association, may commence Lessons learnt proceedings in the NSW Land and Two years later, on 8 May 2015, another With high levels of public interest, it is Environment Court to challenge the judgment in Save Little Manly Beach important for public authorities and decision of a public authority relating Foreshore Incorporated v Minister for developers to be aware of the statutory to public land. A number of pieces of Planning (No. 3) [2015] NSWLEC 77 was obligations regarding public land and legislation provide that any person may given in relation the same portion of the ensure that the required statutory commence proceedings to enforce Sydney Harbour foreshore as well as No processes are followed n

30 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner Eber Butron is the new Manager of strategic planning and economic advisory The Inbox Strategic Land Use and Catchment capabilities. Planning at Fairfield City Council, filling the Vince Berkhout has returned from AECOM Elle Clouston MPIA shoes of Rob Cologna, who commenced at Delhi office to run the Sydney planning Parramatta Council earlier in the year. business, along with Amanda Harvey who

Reinforcing the Queensland contingent is the new Associate Director of Planning. news at Liverpool Council, Bruce Macnee has David Barnard joined AECOM from joined Toni Avery’s team as Manager Stockland, becoming the National Urban of Strategic Planning. Kylie Powell has Design Lead. farewelled Camden Council to take on an Helen Deegan has joined The Planning economic development role at Penrith Group’s NSW team as the Director of Council. And, in other local government Planning. We would also like recognise news, Linda McClure recently finished up recent promotions at JBA, with Ben Craig at Willoughby Council. becoming the newest Associate, Claire City Plan Strategy and Development Burdett and Kate Tudehope, Principal welcomed Brad Roeleven as an Associate Planners, and Brendan Hoskins, Senior and Alice Finn as a Project Planner in their Planner. Oliver Klein departed JBA, accepting It’s back! Following an extended Sydney office. Andrew Biller joined the a Senior Associate position at RobertsDay. sabbatical, The Inbox column Newcastle office as an Associate, adding Finally, congratulations to Alice Strömstedt has retuned to the pages of New valuable experience in the Hunter region. (nee Reilly) who recently tied the knot Planner to keep you informed of Elton Consulting has been expanding their in the picturesque hills of Italy. Before planning expertise in Sydney, welcoming the latest industry news (and the departing to get married, Alice accepted Claire Middleton, Karen Wright, Will a position as an urban designer at Hames odd bit of gossip!). Read on to find Pearson and Sophie Efkarpidis. Jeff Horn Sharley, leaving a big hole at PIA NSW. out about notable movements from will be the Project Director of this NSW Alice will, however, continue to play an across the State. planning contingent. Formerly of ACT Land active role in PIA, particularly as one of Development Authority, Dan Stewart will be New Planner’s valued editors! n leading Elton’s ACT office. Do you know of any industry news, such as a Late last year, Marcelo Occhiuzzi Tracy Davey and Sedat Erol have recently recent recruitment, promotion or retirement, commenced as Manager of Strategic joined Cardno’s Sydney office as Senior which would interest New Planner readers? Planning at North Sydney Council. Katarina Planning Specialists. HillPDA has also If so, we’d love to hear from you! Send an Pikoulas has also joined the team at North welcomed Eve Tan, Elle Clouston and email to [email protected] with Sydney as a Student Planner. Shona Porter to their team, boosting their ‘The Inbox’ in the subject line.

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Michigan ups investment with CrowdFunding “Do you have a passion to help make a great new public space a reality in your community?” That question was recently posed, not by a city planner in a boisterous town hall meeting in Detroit, but on a crowdfunding website operated by CrowdfundingMI.com. Now, thanks to both a new state law and a new state economic development initiative, Michigan residents have options to invest in local businesses, public parks, and other projects. Michigan has joined 18 other states and the District of Columbia, which have either laws or rules to enable intrastate crowdfunding. The MILE (Michigan Invests Locally Exemption) Act, for example, allows unaccredited state Artist’s impression of part of Google’s proposed headquarters (Source: Google) residents to invest up to $10,000 in state- Mega-firms such as Google now seem intent The Liveability Index based businesses through intrastate on building corporate monuments in the crowdfunding. Thanks to the MILE law, The Livability Index (aarp.org/livabilityindex), suburbs. Yet, at the same time we see that IT Michigan is at the forefront of a sea released by AARP at APA’s National Planning firms are also moving into older city centre change in local community investment. Conference in April, pulls information from cores that are very attractive to precisely the And in a state in which investment more than 50 sources, chiefly federal data kind of young, hip workers that IT firms need. and community development is sorely from the American Community Survey and needed – from Detroit to the rural Upper Michael Teitz, Town & Country Planning the major agencies – transportation, housing, Peninsula – the approach might brighten (UK), March 2015 environmental protection, labor, agriculture. It its future, one small project at a time. Pedestrianisation scores places in seven categories – housing, Corry Buckwalter Berkooz, neighborhood, transportation, environment, The word “pedestrianisation” – like the health, engagement, and opportunity – and Planning (USA), June 2015 word “freedom” – is a word that is often then ranks communities against the U.S. The Google puzzle used despite the fact that most people median in as many as nine subcategories for do not understand what it means. There Google is an enormous presence, both each. The categories grew from research on are places where pedestrianisation works in Mountain View City and the region, AARP’s members – who are 50 and older – as beautifully well, and there are places where employing 19,000 people. In accord with the well as the recommendations of a technical it absolutely does not. Planners have to company’s policy of reducing automobile advisory committee. But they don’t just track be aware there is no blueprint for success commuting, it contracts a fleet of over 150 the community traits, such as accessible and each place has to be assessed on its large white buses that bring workers from housing, that are good for older people. all over the region, especially San Francisco respective merits. Planners are expected to be a big audience and the East Bay. Now Google is proposing Auckland came up with idea of introducing for the tool. “We see this being used by city to scale up to 30,000 employees on a a shared-space concept: a pedestrian dramatic new 60 acre campus. dominated area where vehicles are allowed planners in at least two ways, but we really to meander through but at a slower pace. want planners’ ideas of how they might use it It proposes 2.5 million square feet of to support their work,” Lynott says. Planners development, in modular cluster units, Traditional traffic engineering was turned on its head by removing all the curbs and signs can use the index to assess and monitor housed within a massive, translucent, efforts in their local communities, she says, climate-controlled environment that would and creating flexible places where people and to engage the public and policy makers. rise 150 feet high. The design heavily sit, walk and dine; where children play and “We really see it as an advocacy tool to emphasises environmental concerns, cars drive. They’re becoming places where catalyze these community conversations.” replacing parking lots with vegetation, and anything is possible and democracy prevails. creating an urban-like environment. Ludo Campbell-Reid, The Planner (UK), 2015 Meghan Stromberg, Planning (USA), June 2015

32 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | newplanner news May 2015 (UK), March 2015 | 33 | SEPTEMBER 2015 | 33 David Boyle, Town & Country Planning planner new Julia Thrift, Town & Country Planning (UK), Green space in London Devolution localists for times It has been interesting on Scottish referendum the since and the fall-out The result independence. on on the debate has had a bigger impact than some in of Britain the governance seemed and Whitehall Westminster expect. to of ourselves reminding It is also worth city governance out of kilter how just other with in the UK is in comparison and just countries, Western advanced go. The international to need we far how better that cities perform shows evidence centralised less that are in those countries powers, greater cities have and where Taxes and responsibilities. resources and regional/state by local determined 3% in the UK amount to governments of business and a proportion tax (council in Canada, Germany, whereas rates), is over and Spain the proportion Sweden 10%. Put another way, London receives from transfers through 74% of its income with 37% compared government, central 26% for York, New Madrid, 31% for for Tokyo. 8% for Berlin, and only “Carefully planned investments in natural in natural investments planned “Carefully will locations, at the best targeted capital, and for money value significant deliver it states. returns”, economic large generate case economic a strong found have “We near towns planting...located woodland for net generate can and cities, such areas of £500 million excess benefits in societal per annum”. Planning (UK), April 2015 Rob Imri & Kim Kullman, Town & Country Green infrastructure Green about the know now much we how Given – infrastructure benefits of green vital health, urban to including its contributions of air pollution and flood reduction cooling, invested money mitigation – why isn’t more answers many interrelated are in it? There is factor but an important this question, to systems the way that financial accounting value the financial instance, For operate. infrastructure of the benefits that green appear on does not usually creates of the cost sheets, whereas balance it does. As a consequence, maintaining of financial directors the point of view from a like look to tends infrastructure green than a valuable rather of money waste would any prudent organisation that asset maintain. pay to and improving on protecting A report and wellbeing prosperity for capital natural was published in January 2015. It has a lot and, more infrastructure say about green to benefits about the economic generally, environment. in the natural of investing have been committed to the creation of a the creation to committed been have designed society. universally societal an emerging This reflected of in Japan that the pursuit awareness gender equality, the elimination of age of equal discrimination and the provision were people disabled opportunities for all example, For concerns. pressing of 3,000 with an average stations railway provide to required per day are users accessible paving, hand rails, lifts, tactile platforms entry between and level toilets, Some of the other design and trains. include stations in Japanese rail features machines at variable of ticket the provision wheelchair accommodate heights to carry to able that are and escalators users users. wheelchair Planning (UK), May 2015 Mathew Carmona, Town & Country Establishing a voluntary ‘Citizen Place ‘Citizen Place a voluntary Establishing all and advise on consult to Board’ help hold priorities and to place-based account. to services place-related local the community, to Making available or other public organisations private under-utilised bodies any prominent beneficial publicly for land or sites uses. temporary and awareness-raising Putting in place encourage to assistance technical direct engage to communities advantaged less and in the environment with their local neighbourhood planning process. and corporate and business leaders leaders and business and corporate by elderly and disabled people, politicians people, and disabled by elderly buildings which are accessible and usable and usable accessible buildings which are 1994, which promotes the construction of the construction 1994, which promotes the passing of the Heartful Building Law in the passing particularly the case in Japan, where, since since in Japan, where, the case particularly national political and policy agendas. This is national political times, become a more important part of important a more times, become products and places for all, has, in recent all, has, in recent for and places products The notion of universal design, or designing The notion of universal Universally designed environment in Japan designed environment Universally • • • For example by: example For aspirations and initiative. aspirations facilitating, wherever possible, bottom-up bottom-up possible, wherever facilitating, in the pursuit of place quality, including of place in the pursuit in order that they become full partners full partners become that they in order of shaping and re-shaping local places places local of shaping and re-shaping and local businesses in the processes in the processes businesses and local Centrally engage local communities communities local engage Centrally empowerment, and on much, much more. empowerment, making, on community togetherness and togetherness making, on community on our democracy and local decision- and local on our democracy an impact on the way we govern ourselves, ourselves, govern an impact on the way we activities and social opportunities. Place hasactivities and social opportunities. Place of wellbeing. Place underpins cultural Place of wellbeing. our physical and mental health and sense and mental our physical The experience of place is fundamental to fundamental is of place The experience Place quality Place Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, Oregon One of the largest independent planning practices in NSW

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