2.3.10 Sustainable Communities and Neighbourhoods

The creation of good, sustainable neighbourhoods which support thriving communities and provide for a wide range of household types, age groups and tenures with community facilities close by is a priority of this plan. In order to achieve this, criteria and standards for good neighbourhoods are a central part of this strategy.

These principles are intended to ensure, for example, that infrastructure such as schools, shops and childcare facilities are provided in a phased and coordinated manner. The creation of good neighbourhoods and socially-inclusive communities applies to both the inner and outer city.

The importance of local neighbourhood shopping centres within walking distance of residential communities is re-affirmed in this key strategy. Guiding principles to promote the regeneration of certain social housing areas into attractive mixed-use neighbourhoods is also included in the plan.

Significantly, the development plan puts a new emphasis on institutional lands as an important community resource for the city in providing educational, recreational, community and health facilities, for both the city and local neighbourhoods. The plan protects these lands as a strategic asset for the city.