- Planing for Sustainable communities: Layout and design approaches   click here to open paper content464 kb
by    Schlebusch, Sanmarie | 21695377@nwu.ac.za   click here to send an email to the auther(s) of this paper
Short Outline
Policies and strategies should not merely endeavour to eradicate poverty,
create jobs or deliver houses, but embrace decisive lively and sustainable
initiatives that will effectively transform an area in a liveable and
lively community where noticeable changes are observed to aspire and to
stimulate active community participation.
Abstract
The composition and dynamics of the urban environment have become
increasingly complex. The planning and development approach of a specific
area and its ajacent areas should primarily promote specific lively
elements that will effectively enhance liveability, sustain meaningful and
continuous community development and subsequently attract and retain more
people to that particular place. However, cultural diversity in rigions,
cities, towns and local communities has emphasised the need to reconsider
and redesign, planning and design approaches that aim to harmonize the
natural environment and resources of an area with the diverse needs and
aspirations of the community.

Resourceful design approaches, strategies and policies employed in the
planning of sustainable communities and the redevelopment of existing
areas, will ultimately lead to well managed and protected, healthier,
safer, greener, economic sustainable and liveable communities. Varied use
of activities and facilities such as employment centres, residential
neighbourhoods, natural areas, parks, local trails, schools, and public
places can lead to a physical connection to create authentic
neighbourhoods. Sustainable communities tend to have lower transportation
costs, less traffic, are more economic in terms of housing and market
demands, decreasing costs in terms of infrastructure, reduced air pollution
and the ability to create a safer environment.

This research aims to explore and understand international and local
integrated planning and design approaches currently utilised to guide the
planning of sustainable communities. Reviewing different international and
local layout and design approaches will aid to define and create improved
planning approaches for sustainable communities. Place making and planning
approaches should closely observe social and environmental complexities of
modern society. Public participation therefor plays an essential role in
determining the basic needs of the community and must be included as a
fundamental building block in the planning process.

The long-term strategy should be transparent and directed to encourage the
involvement of local government, the community and inventive professional
consultants such as, environmental specialists, town planners, economists,
engineers and architects.
Keywords
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