Development Types

Neighbourhood paths Burswood, Perth
Source: TPG Town Planning and Urban Design

The design and layout of a new neighbourhood or subdivision determines the nature of the urban form.   When a neighbourhood is well planned it: 

• sets the urban character and design of an area
• provides the footprint for public spaces that allow social interaction
• defines access and movement networks that will encourage active transport
• allocates land for a range of uses, eg shops, community centres, parks, thus enabling a community to meet most of their daily needs within walking or cycling distance of where they live

These outcomes will assist in enhancing the health and wellbeing of a community by encouraging people to be more physically active.

The physical characteristics of a subdivision that encourage people to be more physically active and connected to their community include:

• mixed land use offering a range of opportunities and destinations for the community to meet their daily needs, eg. employment, shopping, education recreation
• mixed density of development, increasing the population catchment around key destinations and improving the viability and vitality of activity centres
• an active transport network, including an interconnected street network and a safe and legible walking and cycling network that enables direct access to key destinations

Click here for more detailed information and practice advice on health and planning for Neighbourhood Planning and Design.