Submitted Abstracts 2009

Submitted Abstracts 2009

Prof Brit Andresen

Professor

the university of queensland

qld Australia

Abstract Title: Sedimentary City

Abstract: Sedimentary City presents a spatial and temporal review of the city and speculates on alternative futures.

‘Envisioning One’

The project begins with a snapshot survey of the contemporary city layer followed by a sequence of future layers that incorporate interpretations of current forecasts and proposed developments. Culminating in a meditation on the intensification of these future city layers is the creative work titled “Envisioning One”.

‘Envisioning Two’

The project continues with a switch from future city layers to the past for a temporal review of the city beginning with the first surveyed layers of Sedimentary City. Imagining from the remnants and lacunae within these deep city layers is the creative work titled “Envisioning Two”.

'Envisioning Three'

The memory of the earliest city layer is then traced, layer, by layer, by searching for temporarily lost or hidden qualities and drawing these forward into the emerging new layer of Sedimentary City. This process of drawing concealed or misplaced elements into the future city is repeated in tracing through each city layer. Past city layers are also scrutinized for elements that may be reduced or erased to make way for latent qualities. The creative work titled “Envisioning Three” is constructed from elements excavated from past layers and from elements anticipating forecast futures.

The presentation culminates in a re-presentation of the three creative works and a spatial review with reference to the process underpinning the Sedimentary City project.

Mr Stephen Axford

Director

Urbis

Vic Australia

Abstract Title: Evoultion and Urban Design: Can Darwin be evoked to explain phenomena like Dubai, or more importantly, what comes next?

Abstract: This paper will look briefly at the “evolution” of Dubai, and argue that when seen through the perspective of evolutionary theory, it has important lessons for what the successful city of the “post GFC” environment might look like. It is often fashionable in conferences to hold up the fast developing cities of the Middle East as examples of exactly the wrong way to go; however it will be argued that this is to misunderstand the extent to which they were responding to a world environment, and to underplay their achievements in positioning themselves as global cities.

The present recession and “Global Financial Crisis” is a watershed for cities everywhere, and when seen through the perspective of evolutionary theory, is likely to lead to a wave of innovation and change that will challenge the conventional order of city life.

2009 is the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the publication of his seminal work, “On the Origin of the Species. The author believes that as arguably the most significant scientific theory of modern times, it is puzzling that it has had so little influence on the way we develop our cities.

It will be suggested this is because of some fundamental mis-understanding of the key elements of evolutionary science in popular understanding. With these cleared up we can begin to understand why successful cities of the future will be fundamentally different, and the drivers that will most influence success are already evident in places like Dubai.

Dr Bhishna Bajracharya

Associate Professor of Urban Planning

Bond University

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Setting up creative/knowledge precincts in regional towns: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract: While extensive literature exists on creative cities and knowledge-based urban development focusing on large metropolitan cities, there is a paucity of literature looking into similar developments in small regional towns. The major aim of the paper is to examine the nature and potential for building knowledge-based urban development and creative precincts in regional towns. The paper will review national and international literature on creative/knowledge precincts in small towns to examine their key ideas and principles. The paper will also report on a case study of a small town of Cooroy in Noosa, Australia. The Cooroy Lower Mill Site and its surroundings are the designated location for what may be called a community-based creative knowledge precinct. The paper will critically examine the challenges and opportunities for setting up a creative knowledge precinct in Cooroy. Lastly the paper will discuss the importance of such precincts and initiatives for developing socially and culturally responsive towns and cities.

Mr Brendan Baxter

Senior Associate

David Clarke Architects

ACT Australia

Abstract Title: Urban Design & Sustainability Lessons from Berlin 1989-2009

Abstract: This talk provides a critical review of Berlin’s new urban neighbourhoods built on brownfield and greenfield sites and suggests planning and urban design lessons for creating successful higher density and sustainable urban environments in Australian cities.

The talk presents an overview of the planning and design of several high-density residential and mixed-use suburbs in Berlin that form a show-case of best practice sustainable urban development: low-rise, mixed-use, fine-grain and high-density with a verdant public realm that supports walking, cycling and public transport.

We introduce the urban design master plan techniques adopted by the Berlin government as the central planning and regulatory tool for large new developments and also examine innovative new garden-oriented housing types that form attractive higher-density alternatives to low-density detached villa housing.

Of particular relevance to Australia’s financial situation in 2009, we describe how the Berlin government was forced to change its procurement methods for urban development from the economic boom times of the early 90s – when it entered into large scale public-private partnerships – to the recession years following 1999 – when it developed new development models that could be funded by individual households and small investor groups.

Mr Mike Biddulph

Senior Lecturer

Cardiff University

South Glamorgan United Kingdom

Abstract Title: Learning from the English "home zones" initiatives.

Abstract: This talk will review the origins of the UK's home zone initiatives and examine the results of schemes developed in England since the late 1990s. Home zones are shared surface residential streets based on the woonerf model introduced into the Netherlands in the 1970s. A number of interrelated initiatives have seen the development of both retrofit projects into existing communities and new build schemes. The talk will consider the design lessons emerging from a number of examples and review comparative data on how the projects have been received by residents. The impact of the initiatives of residential design guidance in the UK will also be discussed.

Mrs Susan Bidwell

Policy Analyst

Canterbury District Health Board

Canterbury New Zealand

Abstract Title: HEALTHY BUILDINGS: ENHANCING SUSTAINABLE BUILDING DESIGN TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract:

Aims: To review the evidence relating to office and civic building design that protects and promotes health and to explore the synergies with current initiatives in sustainable buildings.

Methods: A systematic search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsychINFO databases was undertaken, followed by a snowballing technique to gather reports, website resources and official documents. 70 documents located by the search were examined in detail.

Results: Indoor air quality, noise, workplace layout, and issues of personal environmental control were identified as the major problems that cause stress, absenteeism, and loss of productivity in office environments. Thermal comfort and lighting are also important - These are already addressed in sustainable building design. Indoor air quality, and issues of building location, use of natural lighting and plantings, and transportation are being tackled with new sustainable building codes that are becoming more widely accepted by designers. As yet, there has been minimal research into the potential for design to actively improve the health of building occupants by, for example, encouraging stair use and other arrangements that increase daily incidental physical activity.

Conclusions: ‘Building green” does not necessarily mean ‘Building healthy’. There is considerable untapped potential for sustainable building design initiatives to work together with public health specialists to ensure building designs promote and protect occupants physical, mental and social health.

Ms Jennifer Bopp

Architect & Urban Designer

Consultant

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Drawing on the Arabian Sands: Sustainability and Neighbourhood Design in the Middle East

Abstract: The significance of design on human activity is an important question in the built environment professions. For example, do certain architectural design measures minimise anti-social behaviour in high-rise apartment buildings? Are parks and public open spaces essential requirements for a healthy city? Does traditional neighbourhood design encourage a sense of community? In Western countries, these are just a few of the many topics in a discussion that connects human behaviour with architecture, landscape architecture and urban design.

Such questions are now overtaken by greater issues concerning environmental sustainability and the future of planet Earth, however, the built environment is the physical setting people construct for themselves using resources taken from the natural world, which are being depleted at an alarming rate. If a sustainable community is one that integrates economic development with the cultural and physical wellbeing of its people, and does not exhaust local natural resources, is it possible to reduce the destructive environmental impact of urban sprawl in desert locations?

This presentation explores new residential design layouts for the city of Al Ain in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Will a change in the arrangement of road networks and plots, such as replacing a fixed grid system with a meandering layout, promote a sense of community and encourage walking in local streets, or will cultural expectations about family villa design, and dependence on modern comforts, such as desalinated water, home air-conditioning, and the widespread use of privately-owned motor vehicles, negate attempts to create sustainable neighbourhoods?

Dr Caryl Bosman

lecturer

Griffith University

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: What does it take to make a 1990s master planned estate sustainable? Retrofitting to achieve ESD

Abstract: Retrofitting of existing residences can significantly contribute to achieving Ecological Sustainable Development (ESD) within the housing sector, through reducing demands on energy and water and implementing measures to minimise waste generation. The contribution of non-renewable energy use to global climate change is a growing concern that can be addressed by the implementation of renewable technologies at the individual household level. This paper aims to explore how retrofitting townhouses within an existing fully planned community development can achieve residences which are environmentally efficient, sustainable and reduce demands on natural resources. An holistic approach to retrofitting is adopted, to explore how several components of individual households – energy use, water consumption, waste generation and disposal and existing building design – interact and consume resources. The project undertakes an inventory of several existing households and produces a retrofit for each dwelling using locally available sustainable technologies and products. A cost-benefit analysis of the retrofit is executed to determine the initial costs and long-term benefits to residents and positive contributions to the environment. Research outcomes demonstrate that relatively small and simple incremental changes made at the household level significantly contribute to achieving ESD. Significantly, the research outcomes suggest that the research methodology is valid and transferrable to other existing residential developments.

Mr Richard Brecknock

Director

Brecknock Consulting P/L

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Commitment or Requirement: commissioning art for the public realm

Abstract: Over the last twenty years there has been growing support for the value of art as a vital element of urban design. There is today strong recognition that art in the public realm helps to humanise, enhance the sense of place and contribute to the fine grain quality of urban developments.

Despite this recognition there does not seem to be a significant or sustained increase in client commitment to the commissioning of artworks or a significant increase in the funding of artwork by the public or private sector. Indeed it seems that today the majority of commissions by both public and private sector clients are the result of requirements established by government policy or planning approval obligations and not as a result of a client’s commitment to enhanced urban design outcomes.

This presentation will explore the current situation in Australian cities with regard to Council policies and funding for their own public art programs and importantly what councils are doing to require and encourage the private sector to commission artworks for their development projects and associated public realm upgrades.

The presenter will show images of a wide range of recent public art projects and draw upon twenty years of experience to review the current state of public art as a distinct art practice. In addition the presentation will explore and illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of the various “percent for art” and “plot ratio bonus” schemes currently utilised by state and local governments in Australia.

Prof Paul Burton

Professor of Urban Management and Planning

Griffith University

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Leading into a Bold Future: the challenges of urban governance and leadership in a fast growing city

Abstract: In June 2007 Gold Coast City Council decided to set in train an ambitious process of constructing a vision of the future of the city that would serve to guide it in preparing all its subsequent strategic plans. It set up an Advisory Committee that gathered the views of thousands of local residents as well as experts from around the world to prepare this vision statement and a set of key operating principles. The work of this Committee was presented to Council at the end of 2008 which then endorsed the vision and principles early in 2009. One of these key principles spoke of responsible leadership and the first element of the vision set as its target that Gold Coast should be recognised as a city of inspired leaders and engaged communities.

This paper takes these as its starting point and explores what they might mean in practice. It critically reviews some of the main lessons of successful urban governance and leadership from around the world and considers how they might apply locally. The paper also discusses the specific circumstances of the Gold Coast and whether it represents a special case of urbanisation that presents a particular challenge for urban governance and leadership.

Mrs SIdonie Carpenter

President

Green Roofs Aust. Inc

QLd Australia

Abstract Title: LIVING WALLS AND ROOFS – an essential element of sustainable urban design

Abstract: Due to the large demands for food, energy and water, the growth in urban populations has and will continue to create a unique set of environmental problems, both within cities and in the surrounding areas. Many of these problems are either directly caused or exacerbated by the removal of vegetation to accommodate urban expansion. It is expected that many of these problems will be further exacerbated by climate change, particularly climate change impacts that exacerbate heat waves and the associated health problems, rapid temperature changes, stormwater runoff, water quality, biodiversity and food security.

By 2005, 50% of the world’s population will live in cities (Bindé, 1998), and in the industrialized world, the figure has already surpassed 80%.

The objective of this paper is to respond to the ever present and continuing issue of global warming, how it will affect the urban population and the need to implement changes within the design & construction industries.

One design solution that deals directly with the issues causing global warming and a solution to reverse the damage, is the implementation of living walls and roofs, a very real and achievable solution for supporting a sustainable urban environment.

In Australia, till now, living walls and roofs have been overlooked as a design priority or concern, thus at this stage we have limited knowledge and skill base for their design and implementation. It is an area that offers many diverse applications with outcomes that directly benefit society, the economy and the environment.

Living walls and roofs offer a number of environmental benefits, to both the social and economic sectors.

Aesthetically pleasing

Reduction of urban heat island effect

Reduction of carbon dioxide - Green House effect.

Reduction of air pollution

Reduction of heating AND cooling loads

Reduction of rainfall runoff impacts

Opportunity for Urban Agriculture & food production

Provision of open space in urban areas

Increases the productivity of Photo Voltaic cells and Air conditioning units thus reducing energy consumption.

The diverse issues shaping the discussion of viable agronomic systems in the urban fabric must continue to be pursued if we are to be successful in our leadership of the sustainable movement. This pursuit will guide the industry toward meeting our environmental responsibilities and project a broader meaning for living walls and roofs into the urban fabric.

Mr Nigel Cartlidge - academically peer reviewed

Adjunct Tutor

Bond University

Queensland Australia

Abstract Title: An Analysis of Walkability in a Late 20th Century Masterplanned Suburb on Australia’s Gold Coast.

Abstract: Robina Woods is a suburb adjacent to Robina Town Centre that is centrally located in the Gold Coast City with rail and road connections to the state capital city of Brisbane. Robina is one of the largest green field Master Planned Communities built by corporate developers in Australia. Started in 1980 it has produced an urban form that is characterised by low residential density, widely separated land uses, ‘big box’ retail development and an arterial road system designed to deliver consumers as customers

Robina Woods was selected as a study area for walkability due to its central position in the Robina/Varsity Lakes development. The market based urban design used in Robina has created extensive barriers to pedestrian movement. Mobility is restricted by private golf courses, artificial waterways, car focused urban highways, and a desire for exclusion and privacy expressed in the predominant cul de sac street form. Walkability has been further compromised by a lack of permeability to neighbouring communities by restrictive access points.

A case study was conducted on one of these residential suburbs to establish the nature of walkability for residents. Sample homes were selected, the local amenities identified and barriers to connectivity mapped. The road system was also analysed to calculate the degree of connectivity to destinations within and local to the suburb.

The conclusion of this paper is that residents of Robina have little ability to travel by anything other than private vehicle to the amenities, facilities and

employment they need within or outside of their residential suburbs. There is currently no viable option to meet these needs within their communities due to the lack of destinations within their neighbourhoods.

Mrs Alison Carver

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Deakin University

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Can safety-related features of the road environment stem declines in physical activity among youth?

Abstract: Purpose: To examine how objective measures of the road environment are associated with change over two years in active transport (AT) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among youth.

Methods: Longitudinal study of children aged 8–9 years (n=166) and adolescents aged 13–15 years (n=265) at baseline, in Melbourne. Walking/cycling to local destinations was survey-reported, while MVPA during non-school hours was recorded using accelerometers. Changes in AT and MVPA over two years were calculated. Road environment features within 800m radius of each participant’s home were measured objectively using a Geographical Information System (GIS).

Results: Children’s AT increased, but MVPA levels decreased in both age-groups over two years, with younger girls recording the greatest declines. Linear regression analyses revealed that for younger girls, the number of traffic/pedestrian lights was associated with ∆AT (B=0.45, p=0.004). Total length of walking tracks (km) was associated with ∆AT among younger girls (B=1.56, p=0.015) and among adolescent girls (B=1.58, p=0.002). For adolescent boys, intersection density was associated with ∆AT (B=0.03, p=0.030).

For younger boys, total length of local roads (B=3.81, p=010) and intersection density (B=0.49, p=0.007) were associated with ∆MVPA on weekends. For adolescent boys, speed humps were associated with ∆MVPA after school (B=0.23, p=0.015). For adolescent girls, total length of local roads (B=0.49, p=0.005), intersection density (B=0.05, p=0.036) and number of speed humps (B=0.33, p=0.020) were associated with ∆MVPA during non-school hours.

Conclusions: Safety-related aspects of the built environment are conducive to physical activity among youth and may help stem age-related declines in physical activity.

Ms Samantha Choudhury

Place Maker

Village Well

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: The Role of Place Making in the Regeneration of Newcastle CBD

Abstract:

Our aim is to case study leading edge Place Making approaches to urban waterfront regeneration and to share what we’ve learnt from our work in Newcastle.

Once in a while a city discovers its heart, its reason for being, and evolves into a great city. City retail plays a significant role worldwide in urban regeneration and Place Making. A dynamic and thriving heart can catalyse economic vibrancy, cultural and social renewal, and city revival.

Village Well, Australia’s first Place Making consultancy was engaged by the GPT Group to provide a holistic Place Making strategy and framework for the Newcastle CBD.

In our presentation, we’ll firstly detail what the aims of Place Making are and secondly we’ll expand on how the creation of a great place can be realised through the implementation of a tailored Place Making Strategy that responds to the unique aspects of a place. Finally, we’ll lead an interactive discussion during which we’ll share the lesson’s learnt from Newcastle; delve deeply into the essence of the ‘Newcastle Story’ and how it will inform the regeneration of one of Australia’s great, regional, ‘working waterfront’ city’s.

The processes to help inform the Place Making strategy will be discussed which included detailed research and an extensive community engagement process; underpinned by a dynamic and collaborative approach to the regeneration process. We’ll also outline the potential implications the outcomes of the process have for the development and delivery of a socially and culturally responsive Newcastle city centre.

Mr Alejandro Cohn

Director

PLACE Design Group

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: “A word is worth a thousandth of a picture”

Developing interactive tools for good urban design outcomes

Abstract: This presentation will inform on innovative tools and methodologies aimed to explore, analyse and resolve urban design challenges within a dynamic visual context. It will introduce a variety of tools designed to add value to projects in different ways.

The use of lateral and parallel thinking is instrumental to equip a tool box capable of tackling the exploration of complex urban design issues such as site analysis, building heights, setbacks, streetscape treatments, density yields, to logically underpin consequential design decisions.

Enhancing these tools with time as additional or 4th dimension deployed within an interactive realm; creates tangible opportunities to gain deeper understanding of the important intersection between the projects three-dimensional physicality and their corresponding time contexts.

The combination of these innovative approaches allows the conjecture of many scenarios on real time; becoming very effective at decision making points along the design process. The interactive nature of these tools facilitate exploration of the significant number of variables generated by the permutation of features such as heights, shadowing, plot ratios vs. GFA and building envelopes, building setbacks and the like.

This presentation will demonstrate how these tools became instrumental to manoeuvre design features in our projects and help us achieve the desired design outcomes.

KEYWORDS: Innovation, creativity, interactive, design, tools.

Mrs Penelope Coombes

Managing Director

The People for Places and Spaces

NSW Australia

Abstract Title: Revitalising Town Centres and Living Streets: Compelling visions and unstoppable implementation

Abstract: This presentation will tell four stories: the successful revitalisation of a rural town centre, of a culturally diverse suburban town centre and turning two residential streets from traffic infested to livable.

Principles, processes, outcomes and lessons learnt will be explored. These will include the importance of:

Creating environments that support life-enhancing experiences throughout the rhythms of the day and night.

Focusing on the lived experience and designing life-enhancing spaces and places rather than sprinkling people on drawings.

Rigorous preparation and a staged collaborative planning process.

Maintaining a continuing focus on economic, social, and environmental sustainability throughout the planning processes.

Fostering leadership, relationships and innovation to deliver better and unimagined outcomes.

Harnessing and maintaining political will throughout the planning and design processes.

Valuing the location experts (residents, workers, business, and property owners) and professionals different ways of knowing.

Ensuring citizens and professionals 'different ways of knowing' add value to the process rather than conflict.

Reaching out to the hard to reach and crossing silos and language barriers.

Dr Phillip Daffara

Principal

Futuresense

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Holistic City Development - A framework for implementing tommorrow's city

Abstract: There is a gap between contemporary urban planning theory and practice. Not only does this schism exist within the urban planning and design field, but also in regard to the social purpose and cultural meaning of the city. This problem persists in an era of increasing global urbanisation where, for the first time in human history, the majority of people will live in cities. In a rapidly changing urban world, new challenges need new thinking to improve our strategic planning toolbox for our cities and towns. The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual model to explore the holistic, multi-dimensional nature of the city and accordingly develop better policy. The benefit of an integral or holistic policy framework for city development; is that it arguably bridges the schism between urban planning theory and practice by articulating the 21st century city’s purpose, thereby constructing a bridge towards a healthy, humane habitat.

At a pragmatic level, the proposed model is applied in a case study of Sippy Downs and its development as a knowledge town by using the multi-dimensional policy criteria for holistic cities. This technique is referred to as the city holism policy audit. In the audit, an assessment of the policy frameworks and planning practices being implemented in the development of Sippy Downs is conducted to evaluate stakeholders’ policy capacity to create a knowledge town that is also sustainable.

Dr Phillip Daffara

Principal

Futuresense

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: City Foresight Toolbox (Interactive Workshop)

Abstract: The half-day workshop will provide participants with futures studies tools to assist them in questioning the future to develop holistic city/urban policy. Ideas from the fields of urban planning/design, cultural studies and futures studies will be presented and synthesised into clear outcomes. Firstly, impart practical knowledge about how to question and anticipate the future. Secondly, understand a model to explore the holistic, multi-dimensional nature of the city and accordingly develop better policy. Thirdly, present how the development of the city is related to the development of human consciousness and interacting cultures.

Workshop Synopsis:

In a rapidly changing world, new challenges need new thinking to improve our strategic planning toolbox for our cities and towns. Participants will experience an interactive session to understand:

Part 1

#how images of the future city can influence our thinking about it and our responses to it;

#how to map the urban forces of change influencing city futures

#how to explore alternative futures scenarios and anticipate new possibilities;

Part 2

#an integral model of the city that reveals its multi-dimensional nature;

#the critical subsystems of the city that focus interventions needed to create creative, vibrant futures;

Part 3

#how deeper worldviews, cultural paradigms and values-memes influence alternative futures about the city; and

#the myths behind sustainable city futures.

Material for the workshop is based on the doctoral research findings of the presenter, his journal publications and experience in policy development in local government and consultancy contexts. A modified session plan can be proposed if time constraints dictate a shorter workshop.

Mr Adam Davies

Principal

HASSELL

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Place Delivery and Management: Designing Beyond the Master Plan

Abstract: Place making extends beyond traditional urban design, architectural and landscape architectural response. Clients have a vital role to play in establishing the agenda for delivering and maintaining design quality from the first to the last development parcel and in some cases beyond. Individual site responses collectively determine the quality of the public realm, but the richness and vibrancy of place is determined by how people; the residents, workers and visitors use space, how often it is used and when it used.

Public and private clients are now paying great attention to the delivery of projects. Standards and processes that define quality are commonly used, design guidance/ design codes are part of this tool kit, as is the use of procurement processes and evaluation methods that demand and monitor the delivery of place. Astute clients are ensuring that development location, sequencing and even tenancy mix is managed to ensure that place is created early and sustained throughout the life of the development.

By way of local and international case studies this presentation will look at the various tools and techniques used to create place early, including:

the establishment of a place making strategy that defines and guides implementation and delivery,

procurement processes, including the use of expert advisers and methods to demand outcomes,

partnering arrangements ensuring a coordinated and consistent approach to infrastructure and service delivery and collective decision making, and

the use of active place making through tenancy management.

Mr Peter Dawson

Director

Fairweather Proberts Architects

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: FREEDOM AND THE CITY

Abstract: In this paper I look at the insidious conflict between individuals and society, and the role of the built environment in creating an engaging society. I question whether new places can achieve the social and cultural responsiveness of historical exemplars.

At a time in history when the individual has never had more freedom and power they seem less able than ever to produce a built environment that can be universally admired. The most admired examples of built environments were produced by economic systems or political regimes that we would find abhorrent. Poverty and or tyranny seem to make for good built places.

Along with political and economic freedom, aesthetics have been democratised. There is no longer consensus about good design. In response to this the safe option for some is to give up on our own time and to borrow a cacophony of styles from other places and eras.

Architects try to show the way when they produce ‘try hard’ one-off grand designs, but the results often go over the head of the public. Planning measures that dictate architectural solutions only result in a sort of enforced mediocrity.

The sustainable communities of the future cannot rely on historical examples of planning and architecture. How then should we go about making new places in a contemporary market economy? With reference to recent texts and built exemplars, I will consider what is good design and how can it be applied to creating sustainable and responsive places.

Mr alan derbyshire

Senior Lecturer

University of Central Lancashire

lancashire United Kingdom

Abstract Title:

Sustainable Urban Habitats: A study of the threads that connect design intentions to practical implementation.

Abstract:

The absence of a shared definition of the variable that is sustainability is a volatile element in the multi factor equation known to us as the urban landscape. The sustainable infrastructure of our urbanized habitats is a fundamental matter for planners and architects et al, but this is often more of a theoretical concern than a practical application of innovative design implementation. The lack of a shared understanding of sustainable practices contributes to a reliance of conventional orthodoxies, and the â€˜play it safeâ€™ approach to the design of public spaces structurally and aesthetically.

This study focuses on the methodological and creative threads that connect sustainable design concepts to their viable outcomes. The recent phenomenon of significant population growth within UK regional city centers has emphasized the demand for user-friendly ecologically enhanced public spaces. The synthesis of native species ecology and innovative utilization of hard landscaping is a fundamental element in the establishment of the concepts of ownership and place. The successful employment of these concepts are debatable, the strands that link worthy sustainable architectural and planning design intentions to their seemingly logical conclusions are frayed, tangled and often severed.

Through a selection of comparative case studies and examples of advanced initiatives this paper examines the causes of this entanglement and paradoxically also highlights the innovative capacity of reversing the existing â€˜fixed mould of aesthetic conventionâ€™.

Mr Dominique DIAS

Architect town planner

CETE Mediterranée

France Australia

Abstract Title: Urbanism Workshop to Save Suburbia from the Bankruptcy

Abstract: Cities spread out of three or four times their area in the last thirty years. This exceptional turnover in urban history is due to the combination of a single way of housing – the detached house- and a single way of transportation – the car -. This model is now condemned: climate change and oil shortage compromise economic, social and cultural balances of these suburbs. Here the middle class into debt for the house and remote from jobs is going to undergo the increasing cost of energy. Households are going to go bankrupt, and a suburban depletion is going to appear in the most remote suburbs. The scale of the turnover could pull a cultural and social reversal: the so wished suburbia lifestyle would turn in the nightmare and fall over to misery. A transformation of the model seems necessary to make it more sustainable. The abstract approach can activate these territories at the level of the stakes, to deal with the impoverishment, to imagine alternative systems for transport and the supply, to develop adapted economic activities, to transform lawn into small agricultural units, to fit out businesses and repair shops in garages, to reintroduce animal drive in the city… It supposes to think differently of the constituents of the city while watching the spatial coherence of the set. Such was the task of the students of the Lyon School of architecture investigating new practices of the suburban renewal for the constituted districts, and the extension project for the ones to come.

Ms Didem Dizdaroglu

PhD Student

Queensland University of Technology

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Revisiting Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD): Sustainable Stormwater Infrastructure in the Gold Coast

Abstract: Revisiting Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD): Sustainable Stormwater Infrastructure in the Gold Coast

Didem Dizdaroglu, Fatih Dur, Shinyi Lee, Tan Yigitcanlar and Ashantha Goonetilleke

Queensland University of Technology, School of Urban Development, Brisbane, Australia

tan.yigitcanlar@qut.edu.au, f.dur@qut.edu.au, d.dizdaroglu@qut.edu.au, shinyi.lee@qut.edu.au, a.goonetilleke@qut.edu.au

Rapid urbanization caused by globalization, industrialization and further fuelled by population growth has caused an increase in demand for land, transport and infrastructure. This demand and increase in consumption has in turn lead to unsustainable development, which has caused severe environmental degradation that is now widely recognised and acknowledged by all layers of population, from decision makers to the general population. To further compound this problem, the world is now also confronted by the increasingly severe impacts of climate change, which is tied to unsustainable urban development. In order to reverse this trend, decision makers and planners now have the responsibility to ensure that all future growth is conducted in a sustainable manner. This paper will focus upon one aspect of urban environment sustainability: stormwater quality and the infrastructure and design involved to ensure that its quality is acceptable, focussing on the city of Gold Coast. This study will explore the factors impacting upon stormwater quality, the infrastructure involved, WSUD policies of the Gold Coast and from this, develop strategies to ensure that future stormwater discharges are of acceptable standards.

Ms Susannah Drake

Principal

dlandstudio, llc

NY United States of America

Abstract Title: The Campus Landscapes of Beatrix Farrand

Abstract: Beatrix Farrand, the only female founding member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, designed campus landscapes at Princeton University, Yale University, and the University of Chicago between 1913 and 1943. This graphic and narrative analysis covers Farrand’s design vision, communication of ideas, maintenance strategies, and how subsequent users, groundskeepers, and preservationists of her built work have interacted with these landscapes over time.

Farrand communicated a particular design vision for each campus, creating a framework for future design and development. She articulated design ideas through a broad combination of correspondence, publications, lectures, as well as drawings ranging from finished watercolor renderings to layered and iterative line drawings.

Farrand’s clear and persistent communication of overarching design guidelines was enforced by a system of maintenance strategies that was economical, efficient, and extraordinarily far-sighted. At each university, Farrand facilitated the hiring of campus gardeners and the establishment of on-site nurseries to foster plant care, replacement, and experimentation. She also laid the foundation for exchange of plant material and research among the campuses and major botanical gardens and research institutions in the United States and abroad.

By comparing the current conditions and maintenance practices of the Princeton, Yale, and University of Chicago campuses to Farrand’s respective design vision for each, it is possible to determine which elements of her vision were easy to sustain, which have been forgotten or rejected, and why. Given today’s impetus for sustainable campus planning, this investigation can help us evaluate the long-term potential of contemporary campus planning and maintenance efforts.

Ms Susannah Drake

Principal

dlandstudio, llc

NY United States of America

Abstract Title: The Brooklyn Queens Expressway Trench Reconnection Study

Abstract: The Brooklyn Queens Expressway (BQE) was proposed by the New York Regional Plan Association in the mid 1930’s to mitigate traffic congestion, facilitate industrial development and strengthen connections between the boroughs of New York City. The BQE was completed as a Federal Highway in the 1960’s. In Brooklyn, the highway construction divided the existing brownstone neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens and Red Hook with a 25‘ deep, six lane wide sunken traffic moat known as the BQE Trench.

The BQE Trench Reconnection Study proposes new layers of program for a site where one use – vehicular transportation – has taken precedent and impeded the vitality of community and environmental needs. Approaching the site as an urban ecological system, the design proposes constructed landscape systems to absorb and process the flow of storm water, air pollutants, and carbon dioxide, while creating accessible, programmable open space and reconnecting the neighborhoods divided by the Trench.

The design utilizes a phased system where existing structure becomes the armature for landscape elements. The ultimate realization of the project will be a new park constructed over the Trench to reconnect the neighborhoods on either side. Vacant lots and derelict buildings provide increased residential and commercial opportunities contributing to increased neighborhood vitality. The study quantifies the value of the proposed increase in open and/or green space through cost benefit analysis in terms of reduction of urban heat island effect, storm water retention, projected rise in real estate values, and market returns from carbon sequestration.

Ms Susannah Drake

Principal

dlandstudio, llc

NY United States of America

Abstract Title: Urban Productive Infrastructure: Rehabilitating the Gowanus Watershed

Abstract: The presentation will discuss the following urban water management strategies envisioned for a master plan of the Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn, New York: 1. Cohesive Infrastructure: Integration of public program and strategies for urban water management, 2. Rehabilitating Infrastructure: Complementing the existing urban systems, re-use and retrofitting in the contemporary context, 3. Productive Infrastructure: scale and implementation, 4. Interactive and Responsive Process: Transparent public and private design and development process.

The Gowanus Canal Sponge Park is a public open space system that slows, absorbs and filters surface water runoff with the goal of remediating contaminated water, activating the private canal waterfront, and revitalizing the neighborhood. The Sponge Park communicates a larger vision for stewardship of the environment to a broad urban community through proposed productive landscape strategies and an interactive urban design process involving collaboration among public and private constituencies.

Combined Sewer Outfalls overflow into the Gowanus Canal contaminating the canal water. The Sponge Park manages storm water at its source, its flow and at collection points, decreasing input into the outfalls and minimizing future contamination.

The strengths of the design lie in the potential for universal implementation of the Sponge Park system for urban water management in other cities. Water management within the Sponge Park design is based on modification of sewer systems that exist in current cities, to reduce reliance on expensive engineered solutions that do not include remediative vegetal and biological structures integrated with flexible public programs.

Mr Ben Ellickson

Urban Landscape Planner

City of Tea Tree Gully

SA Australia

Abstract Title: Getting into the outside of cities

Abstract: Getting into the outside of Cities

Ben aims to provide an insight into determining what the future holds as the benchmark for park design in a Climate Change acceptance society and the changing values of large linked suburban open spaces.

Ben’s presentation will focus on the complexities of managing open space and promoting parks as systems of open spaces rather than being simply green corridors. Densification and land supply constraints are not unique to inner and mid city areas and outer areas of open space form a bond between the regions and the un-altered environment.

As a background between 1990 and 2005 the Councils population (and open space) doubled from 50,000 people to 100,000, mostly located in its northern areas. In this timeframe over half a million new trees and shrubs were planted in the Council’s newly created suburbs in formalised corridors and parks. A majority of these plants and linear parks are now at the end of there lifecycle and increasing State water restrictions (targeted at protecting Sportfields and high use turf) provide Tea Tree Gully with the challenge of maintaining base level water to meet horticultural requirements of traditional landscape plantings.

Ben has guided extensive rectification and landscape re-design projects as well as assisting with the state sponsored Waterproofing budget has been invested recommissioning areas with improved watering systems, new ASR systems and ensuring parks are designed and installed to meet any challenge facing them in the future.

Getting into the outside of cities will focus on the role and design of linear parks and new large urban spaces in the outer areas of cities. In the same manner that drought in has challenged the traditional focus for simple green spaces to useful functional based spaces, Ben will challenge deisigners to view open space as the primary focus of city design and as dynamic core community assett.

Prof Siamak G. Shahneshin

Director

SHAGAL | iodaa, Interdisciplinary Office for Design, Architecture & Arts

ZH Switzerland

Abstract Title: A menifesto for a green-sustainable future

Abstract: A MANIFESTO for a green-sustainable future

key words: Culture, Environ, Expansionism, Global Health & Wealth, Shrinkage.

With this contribution-presentation, I would want to raise the urgent question: How can our world best avoid committing ecological suicide?

Believe it or not, we have crafted a culture bubble, and built an environ bubble, where mindsets are the extra-, the mega-, XL cultures. The challenge today is to deflate the bubble before it bursts. The most vulnerable sector may be the environ-ment in the extended sense of the word. A bee without honey is a simple illustrative example of the very nature of nowadays’ most design culture trend, believe it or not.

In each epoch, expansionist thinking has been both creative and destructive, but today it is the very existence of humanity, and the planet which is at stake. And expansionism is, all about satisfying individual wants, while the society requires sublimating one’s desires [and even compromising].

Conversely, the basic point of shrinkage is that sooner or later our principle premises concerning growth and expansion must be urgently re-vised and re-assessed. Shrinkage weaves an all-encompassing global from nature well-being to the finance, families to cities, and so-forth, and yet shrinkage is still in its embryonic stage. Needless to say, time is running out. We need to act at wartime-speed.

As a result, one of the best places to seek understanding of shrinkage is the study of sprawl and post-sprawl and the devastating implementation of those modern, and post-modern theories, as well as the nowadays hyper-thinking trends which share their eudaemonist concerns. Given the systematically disappointing results of these approaches, it is time to look seriously at our alternatives.

Mr Jim Gall

Director

Gall & Medek Architects

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: The Boonah 2 Ideas

Abstract: In 2007 Gall & Medek Architects and Team DES presented ideas and concepts for a sustainable and sustaining city of 50 000 people in the catchment around Boonah in south-east Queensland.

The design work revolved around a scenario based on the impacts of climate change, reductions in resource availability, economic fragmentation and large population movements globally.

This paper reviews the competition presentation and discusses its ideas and concepts. The presentation has a broad perspective: looking at biophysical, social, economic, cultural and image ecologies: proposing ways of understanding these and working with them as an integrated set -the "metabolic city".

We cannot design a sustainable city now by just designing things and trying to sustain the inherently unsustainable. A process must be in place to link our technological responses to our developing understanding of changed circumstances: a managed evolution. To design cities as functioning parts of the broader environment we must design this design process, learn more about the ecological systems that support us and question basic assumptions.

Besides these abstract ideas the issues of sustainable cities are set out, a way of approaching them framed and examples of the types of simple technologies and ways of living that will be important in the future described.

Dr Mary Ganis

RHD Scholar

University of Queensland

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Responding to Urban Change: planning for people in a dynamic urban context

Abstract: ABSTRACT

This research proposes an urban design paradigm of adaptability and self-organisation: firstly, adaptability enables people to adjust their expectations to a changing urban scenario; and secondly, self-organisation is a change process which designers’ need to acknowledge and work with.

Many masterplanning processes are fraught with conflict: participants and professionals often believe they are in agreement and yet ultimately, that consensus may seem illusory. This paper proposes that current masterplanning is flawed: they are static products for a dynamic context.

Masterplanning seems necessary when places no longer fit people’s social and cultural expectations. Understanding how to make places adaptable may enable urban change strategies that contribute meaningfully to a community.

This paper presents a fusion of the ideas of self-organising criticality (Portugali, 1996; Bak, 1997; Haken and Protugali, 2003) and the perceptual cycle (Neisser, 1976) as a way of understanding how we may plan for urban change.

Adaptable masterplans may be a more appropriate paradigm for urban change than a blueprint approach. Understanding people’s expectations for a place may enable a process for an adaptable urban change process.

. The intent of the research is to elicit the similarities and differences in the perception of place by those key groups who influence the urban change process. A semantic differential task and Cncept Mpping is used to reveal the expectations between influential groups in the urban change process. The initial results reveal that the underlying structure of the groups’ perception of place is Cluster and Connectivity.

Key words: place perception, adaptability, self-organisation, urban quality.

Ms Eli Giannini

Director

McGauran Giannini Soon Architects

Vic Australia

Abstract Title: Another model of housing - Affordable Housing Projects in Melbourne

Abstract: MGS architects has designed a number of affordable housing projects which have served as a model for in socially sustainable residential developments. I will use examples from MGS portfolio to demonstrate the design features of the housing and illustrate how these projects are delivered in Victoria.

Against falling general housing affordability trends the delivery of the these projects is a success story requiring the championing of community housing by councils, housing agencies and the professions. Many of the sites we developed were/are occupied by a public use carpark associated with trading in shopping strips and railway station precincts.

Having identified that the potential existed for the development of the land and for partnerships between Local and State Government agency to provide housing and also for railway land and infrastructure to be redeveloped in order to provide much greater level of responsiveness to local needs and accessibility to public transport our clientts set about making these projects a reality.

Now the community benefits from greated social diversity, retention of locals in their traditional communities and the provision of affordable housing.

Eli Giannini

Director McGauran Giannini Soon architects

Mr Craig Gillette

Senior Urban Designer

Department of Planning and Community Development

Vic Australia

Abstract Title: RESTITCHING URBAN FABRIC: TRANSFORMING FREEWAY INFRASTRUCTURE

Abstract: The freeway is a global model for vehicular movement. It is designed to enable efficiency and alleviate congestion. The freeway is a dominant urban form within almost every major city throughout the world. This paper identifies design strategies and implementation processes that can increase pedestrian accessibility and improve urban amenity within the context of existing freeway structures.

The application of this infrastructure within established urban environments necessitates the removal of large areas of existing urban fabric to accommodate an elevated structure. This process typically results in spaces under freeways, or undercrofts, which are ‘negative’ spaces in the fullest sense of the term. They are often empty, liminal spaces; void of a clearly a defined programme, lacking any meaningful connection the formal language or social conditions of the previously contiguous urban fabric.

This paper addresses the emerging need for freeway undercroft spaces to connect with, and contribute to, their adjacent environments and examines the critical role of the pedestrian experience in delivering such transformations.

This paper will examine a current undercroft conversion project in the Southbank neighbourhood of central Melbourne, Australia. Formerly an industrial area, the neighbourhood has been the subject of dramatic transformation into a high residential environment, bisected by an elevated freeway infrastructure. This paper will also compare and discuss other recent global examples of undercroft transformations. Common to the projects explored is an aspiration to reclaim undercroft spaces for public benefit in the process of ‘restitching’ severed or ‘disconnected’ urban fabric through pedestrian oriented activity.

Dr Douglas Goudie

Adjunct Lecturer

James Cook University

QLD. Australia

Abstract Title: Joining the planning dots.

Paths, landuse, activity centres and sustainable urban travel

Abstract: This paper roadmaps the transition from sustainability intent to sustainability implementation, somewhat blocked by fear of the new and complex rather than lack of guiding information. The inseparable nature of landuse and consequent urban travel provides an example of implementation methodology, drawing on north Queensland urban travel research and one-day Paths to sustainability workshop at James Cook University in 2008.

The 90-person workshop was convened to help guide university decision-makers on how to make the campus and proposed $B1.3 expansion into a vibrant urban hub, a ‘living laboratory’ and a ‘sustainability exemplar’. The urgency of issues like food-kilometres, global warming and peak oil, along with all planning law and policy demands we proceed with sustainable urban travel options, from Transit Oriented Development to the development of safe, smooth, direct, continuous and broad paths to and through urban activity centres.

This paper details developing theoretical frames which informed and grew from the workshop, comparing that with current urban sustainability literature and ways to quantify alternative development scenarios to support Sustainability Implementation Planning being embraced by clients as an actual goal, rather than a possible goal.

The complexity of multi dimension issues and stakeholders, current and future, in implementing urban sustainability means decision-makers need guidance in breaking with the ‘old way’ and implementing the far more challenging planning ‘new way’ of inclusive and cohesive planning. People access with minimised fossil fuel footprint to and through activity centres is a good example of how to achieve Sustainability Implementation Planning.

Dr Douglas Goudie

Adjunct Lecturer

James Cook UNiversity

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Joining the planning dots.

Paths, landuse, activity centres and sustainable urban travel

Ms Fatemeh Haghverdian

MA student

Isfahan University of Art

Guilan Iran

Abstract Title: Transportation Demand Management Strategies for CHAHARBAGH ABBASI Street: Isfahan-Iran

Abstract: Traffic congestion is one of the main problems in the urban transportation of "Chaharbq Abbasi" District (A historical street of Isfahan). Many trials have been made in so many cities in Iran, but they have got limited successes because people feel some kinds of barriers, systemic and psychological. The TDM services are analyzed, and the solutions are proposed to improve understandings and motivations of potential TDM users: design of services to be actively used, and explanations to help the users understand the services. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) describes the use of one or more strategies designed to encourage more efficient use of transportation systems, most notably to reduce the use of private vehicles, especially at peak periods. TDMs are numerous and address everything from transportation modes to the time at which trips take place. However, the most influential strategies involve adjusting the cost and/or supply of specific transportation-related factors. A combined approach of reimbursing the cost of transit and reducing free off-street parking may result in more people switching from private vehicle trips to transit or other non-motorized mode trips. These programs reduce the level of drive-alone travel by promoting walking, bicycling, carpooling, vanpooling, public transportation, and other sustainable modes.

Ms Robyn Harding

Associate Director

Urbis

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Legacies, Future Visions and Stewardship: Creating a knowledge town at JCU Douglas

Abstract: Discovery Rise is the name given to a project which will reconceive and reshape the built, the landscape and the social and cultural environment of JCU’s Douglas Campus from one that is isolated and monastic, to an integrated and sustainable university town supporting a vibrant community of living and learning.

JCU Discovery Rise is founded on the idea of a campus in which knowledge, business, and life itself can thrive. The university has elected to frame its aspirations within an urban landscape paradigm, in keeping with both its tropical savannah place setting (highly valued by the JCU community), and the increasing urbanisation of society.

Urban campuses are nothing new, with many universities seamlessly interwoven in the fabric of towns and cities around the world: Oxford, RMIT, and the University of NY come readily to mind. University towns offer another typology: typically regional towns that owe a great deal of their character, liveliness and business activity mix to the presence of a ‘moated’ university and its largely temporal community.

The idea exciting JCU however is somewhat different. It foresees the total integration of core university activity (teaching, learning and research), and a liveable knowledge town – a place of vision and enterprise , firmly grounded in place-based community building, new pedagogic modalities, advancing information and communication technologies, and moves addressing local to global environmental and social imperatives.

This paper explores global issues and trends, and their applicability to the urbanisation of Discovery Rise, regarding density, development, urban form and community creation.

Miss Jinghuan He

PhD student

Technology University of Delft

Delft Netherlands

Abstract Title: Sustainable development of suburbs in China

——by regenerating and integrating the peripheral neighbourhood

Abstract: Urban fringe becomes the most vibrant area with economic opportunities and social contradictions interweaved. Peripheral areas re-emerge as strategic location in regional planning by alleviating the housing pressure in central city which supposes to stimulate the development of more lively residential areas of social cohesion.

Urban management for the deprived neighborhoods in the urban periphery has not been well considered as the rapid development, although the physical problems are not as serious as their counterparts of inner-city.

This paper emphasizes the role of spatial planning within the process of urban sprawl in restructuring the periphery areas and try to link the implementation of sectoral strategies’ in the metropolitan scale with local communities redevelopment. The methodology includes cross national comparative study on spatial planning systems and the best practices of new housing development between China and European countries, specifically considering different approaches on social housing provision and PPP (public private partnership) development models. Moreover, through data analysis of at least 10 types of peripheral neighborhoods and “SWOT” analysis, the paper explores the potentials of the periphery neighborhoods, draws new scenarios for them and proposes necessary changes in spatial planning system, for instance, the rationale multi-level intervention as setting of explanatory mechanisms in planning procedures.

This potential-discovering rather than a problem-solving paper are trying to make full use of the advantages of the peripheral areas and treat them as engines for sustainable urban growth, creating integrated dual-motivation of urban development by reinforcing suburban motility, as the complement to central urban areas.

Ms Emma Healy

Graduate Architect

Queensland University Queensland

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Urban Space and Subcultural Practices

Abstract: Urban Space and Subcultural Practices

Authors: Emma Healy, Louise Noble (co-author)

Topics: Effective governance, leadership, and partnering

Socially and culturally responsive cities

Well connected, equitable public spaces

Abstract

This paper compares the practices of urban dwelling subcultures in Brisbane and Paris, in an attempt to extend the current architectural discourse in relation to place and identity in urban space. Subcultures offer alternative ways of understanding and confronting phenomena perceived by dominant culture as ‘problematic’. The subcultures discussed occupy different spatio-temporal contexts, however, they display at least two common characteristics.

Each of the subcultures discussed use space in unexpected ways and in so doing highlight the dormant potential of existing spaces as well as suggest new spatial types. As such, an understanding of urban, subcultural practices may assist designers working in the public realm to more creatively harness unforseen opportunities embedded in ‘challenging’ and ‘contested’ urban spaces.

Foucault coined the term ‘heterotopia’ to refer to places that accommodate “juxtaposing, even contradictory cultural and historical arrangements; challenging, adapting, and instilling them with new relevances.” (Foucault, 1985) Subcultures also demonstrate the ‘heterotopic’ potential of urban spaces. Subcultural practices often operate successfully within the constructs of, or adjacent to, dominant cultural practices, demonstrating that seemingly competing identities and place-value systems can coexist in urban spaces. An acknowledgement of this concept may begin to influence the parameters set by authorities in determining the legislation that controls public space. This is in keeping with observations made by the anthropologist Michel Maffesoli in the 1980s. Maffesoli argued that, rather than referring to any universal or prevailing moral barometer, contemporary society is increasingly tribal, distinguishing right from wrong by questioning “appropriateness and ‘fit’ within situations.” (Maffesoli, 1988, p. xi)

By reassessing the value of subcultural practices it may become apparent that a more flexible approach to the design and policing of urban spaces is required, given the constantly changing nature of public spaces and the disparate social groups that inhabit it.

Works Cited

Foucault, M. (1985). Of Other Spaces: Utopias and Heterotopias. In N. Leach (Ed.), Rethinking Architecture: A Reader in Cultural Theory (pp. 350-356). London: Routledge.

Maffesoli, M. (1988). The Time of the Tribes. London: Sage Publications.

Mr Murray Henman

Planner

Transport and Main Roads

Q Australia

Abstract Title: Get on Your Bike: Factors Effecting Active Transport in the Inner City

Abstract: Brisbane and South East Queensland has an ideal climate for walking and cycling, yet despite this and an awareness of the many benefits of active transport, the vast majority of us choose to move from place to place in cars.

This paper examines the many barriers in modern cities that discourage walking and cycling, relegating them to second-class citizens behind the car. These include physical barriers such as fences, wide freeways, intimidating overpasses and cluttered footpaths as well as psychological barriers such as ugly subways, fast traffic and perceptions of safety.

It examines the design and policy factors used by cities such as Bogota, Copenhagen, London and Melbourne which have all taken significant steps to welcome people back into the streets. These examples of leading practice, as well as the literature and ideas about why and how to promote active transport, are studied and combined to create a framework of the various ways that active transport can be encouraged and promoted.

Using Brisbane and its acclaimed City Centre Master Plan as a basis, this paper examines the walkability and cycle friendliness of the city, reviews proposed measures including a bicycle-hire scheme, and proposes modifications to ensure a city centre welcoming to an active population.

The paper concludes that the benefits of increased cycling and walking are unlikely to be seen until politicians with vision and commitment are willing to provide the necessary funds for the necessary infrastructure and discourages car use which is a major barrier to pedestrians and cyclists,

Prof Gordon Holden

Dean

Victoria university of Wellington, NZ

New Zealand New Zealand

Abstract Title: SUSTAINABLE HIGHER DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT: THE POTENTIAL OF ROOF-TOP ADDITIONS

Abstract: This paper discusses the potential of improving the sustainability of existing cities and towns through residential use of roof-top additions to buildings.

The phenomenon of extending existing buildings by adding floors is not especially novel, there being many examples throughout history. However judging by the limited number of recent cases in most cities, this design typology appears to not have received much attention. Building on top can be shown to provide good ecological performance of individual buildings but also improved functioning of the wider built environment.

The aim of the paper is through scholarly argument and international case studies to show to city authorities and the development industry the key benefits of building on top of suitable existing building stock.

A hypothetical case study is presented wherein building on top is compared with demolishing the existing building and building anew. Attention is given to sustainability in terms of life-cycle assessment; embodied energy; energy in use; CO2 emissions; building materials and technologies, reduction/avoidance of demolition waste; and, footings/foundations. Wider implications of building-on-top are explored in terms of city infrastructure; city services - water, waste, power, transport; city regulations; and, city expansion. Social, cultural and economic enhancement of the city is discussed in terms of cultural heritage and activity; social behaviour, economic performance; and, public health.

Case studies scope across a range of approaches and scales from single residences to medium and high density developments. Together they provide transferable ideas for sustainable higher density residential development.

Mrs Kirralie Houghton

Research Assistant

Queensland University of Technology

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Community Engagement in Third Places: Enhancing the Social Experience of Outdoor Spaces through Urban Design and Ubiquitous Technology

Abstract: This paper presents an exploration of a range of innovative and sometimes unconventional uses of outdoor public places. It reviews and critiques an international array of examples of areas or places such as parks, gardens, squares and streets that have attempted to engage or connect with the public through innovative urban design or ubiquitous technology. The approaches used to employ these connections in order to strengthen social experience and enhance local community identity are explored.

Installations of various kinds are commonly used in parks around the world: from the humble swing to the elaborate adventure playground, from the simple interpretive plaque to the three meter urban screen, from art to artistic performances. The paper examines how these installations engage the public in their space both formally and informally.

The design and usage of outdoor spaces may change in response to the increasing ubiquity of technology that allows for social networking and interactions as well as smart information management. This paper discusses the use of mobile phones, locative media, public screens and ubicomp technology with a view to analyse the challenges and opportunities to enhance and reinterpret public open spaces. Examples from around the world are showcased and discussed to identify potential ideas and inspirations that are being considered for a heritage listed community development site in Cooroy on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland.

Mr Nathan Islip

Project Manager

Frankston City Council

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) Design Guides – Urban Design and Building Design

Abstract: Frankston City Council is dedicated to best-practice sustainable development, and has prepared the ESD Urban Design Guide and ESD Buildings Guide, in conjunction with consultants SJB Urban.

The ESD Urban Design Guide incorporates comprehensive guidance for projects of all types and scales, and forms an unprecedented initiative for local government in Australia.

It includes innovative place-based concepts which demonstrate application of the Guidelines to a range of Frankston contexts – city, park, suburban and industrial.

The Guides are designed to play an educational/promotional role in the community, as well as guiding planning policy and development decisions.

The content was developed, tested, refined and applied to the Frankston context through a rigorous, collaborative process between Council and consultants. The outcome is a detailed, accessible and innovative suite of documents to guide sustainable development in Frankston and beyond.

This presentation will describe the successful relationships and process, content and function of the Guides.

Mr Campbell Jensen

Senior Operator - Urban and Infrastructure

Ministry for the Environment

n/a New Zealand

Abstract Title: Second Order Urban Design Tactics - Parallels between Vancouver and New Zealand

Abstract: While awareness of urban design has increased in New Zealand over recent years, there has been arguably limited success in producing quality urban environments. Urban design challenges in New Zealand include, developing and implementing master plans for green field and brown field development, achieving quality urban intensification and public spaces, and engaging with NIMBYism.

The City of Vancouver has had similar challenges, and has developed urban design as public policy with successful physical results. The urban design processes and methods, their evolution and successes have been recorded and published by John Punter in “The Vancouver Achievement”.

This paper seeks to provide some insights into the parallels and methods of Vancouver, described and evaluated within “The Vancouver Achievement”, with the statutory and non-statutory instruments and mechanisms directing the urban design of New Zealand’s built environment. The concept of Second Order Urban Design will be used as a framework for undertaking this comparison.

Second Order Urban Design is based on the concept that: “Urban design is a second order design endeavour; that is, designers are only indirectly responsible for producing built forms and the spaces in between them; they design for the decision making environment within which others make decisions to add or to alter the built environment.” (Varrki, 1997, pg 143)

It will be argued that the decision environment formed by Second Order Urban Design is more important that First Order Urban Designs, because it is able to capture, implement, review, guide, and possibly deny those designs that are not excellent.

Mr Junfeng Jiao

PhD Student

Uni of Washington

WA United States of America

Abstract Title: How built environment is related to pedestrian collisions, case study of Seattle city street system, Washington.

Abstract: A growing body of literature has investigated the relationship between built environment and walking behavior over the last two decades. Different variables such as residential population density, land use mix, street network, and streetscape features had been identified as key variables that affected the number and types of walking trips within the study area. However, traffic safety issue has always been a big concern when people choose to walk rather than using other modes. In order to improve pedestrian traffic safety and find possible counter measures for pedestrian collisions, this research focused on the road and built environments along city streets in Seattle, Washington and examined how they were correlated with the risk of collisions occurring between pedestrians and motor vehicles. The collision data was developed from the original police officer records. Based on the records, 1622 collisions had been successfully geo-coded in GIS dataset and included as case points in the statistic model. For the control points, in order to increase the statistical power, all potential control points were grouped into 4 clusters: local, primary, minor and collector based on their locations on road networks. Then Hawths tools (GIS extension) were used to random select control points within each cluster with a case/control ratio (1/2), which generated 3244 control points in total. Finally, statistic models were used to estimate the odds of a collision occurring accounting for road design and the presence of pedestrian activity generators, and adjusting for exposure.

Mr Seunghyun Jung

Ph.D. Candidate

Hanyang University

Seoul Korea (South)

Abstract Title: The Carrying Capacity Assessment Framework for Ubiquitous-Ecological Cities in Korea

Abstract: U-Eco City (Ubiquitous-Ecological City) projects are being promoted by the Korean government. U-Eco City projects are national projects that involve not only research methods of managing environmental information through ubiquitous sensing technology, but also actual implementation of construction in real sites. In U-Eco City projects, environmental information will be collected by a ubiquitous sensor network in real time, and in turn provided to citizens anywhere, anytime, and by any connected devices. Among environmental information provided by a U-Eco City, Carrying Capacity is an essential element for various urban activities.

With this regard, the purpose of this study is to establish the Carrying Capacity Assessment Framework. The process of this study consists of the following: First, air quality is selected as objective criteria to elevate the quality of the urban environment. Second, air quality level to maintain a sustainable urban environment was defined in air pollution materials that are measured in a U-Eco City. Third, human activity and the green areas that effect air quality were included in the carrying capacity assessment framework through analysis of the relationship of the two. Finally, the planning method for urban management and planning were developed based on the carrying capacity assessment framework.

If the carrying capacity assessment framework is applied to U-Eco Cities, a norm can be established to manage urban planning and design, and contribute to a higher quality of life.

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by a grant (07High Tech A01) from the High tech Urban Development Program funded by the Ministry of Land, Transportation and Maritime Affairs of the Korean Government.

Mr Derek Kemp

Director

Prosperous Places

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Building Economic Resilience Into Urban Areas in The Face of 'The Global Recession'

Abstract: This paper examines the economic and employment changes affecting Australian Cities and how planning and urban design can create more resilient urban areas, better able to grow and support local jobs during the ‘Global Recession’.

It details four key interrelated ways to building ‘resilient urban areas’ with a ‘sustainable economic future’.

It provides examples of ways to successfully:

i) Harvest Local Wealth to generate ‘greater local employment’

ii) Create a ‘Movement Economy’ to increase ‘custom attraction’

iii) Build ‘Social Capital’ to support local business growth, and

iv) Provide ‘Superior Business Settings’ to grow local business.

The presentation provides a simple way to assess how well local places provide these key benefits and how they could be ‘cost effectively’ transformed to generate significant ‘place based’ benefits to better support existing and new business.

Dr Guler Koca

Assist. Prof.

Anadolu University

Gultepe Turkey

Abstract Title: Cultural Changes and Planning Problems in Turkey due to Migrations

Abstract: After the Second World War, the new political and economic restructuring brought major social changes to Turkey like other developing countries. One of the most important changes was the intense migration from rural areas to the cities, which started socio-cultural problems depending on planning.

In Turkey, urbanization and migration movements were accelerated especially in 1950’s. Major reason of this population flow was the increasing employment opportunities in the cities in parallel to industrialization. Limited housing stock and infrastructure in the cities receiving migration were far from meeting with the requirements of this social transition from the society of agriculture to the society of industry. As a result of this gap between the demand and supply, the cities started growing without proper planning and their physical appearances had some changes. In addition to these changes, since the people who came to the cities brought their culture, they formed a new social and cultural structure which much different from the original residents of the cities.

Economic level of these new residents were usually under the minimum income level, therefore, they preferred to solve their housing need by building unauthorized houses known as squatters. These houses are usually built in the outer rim of the cities, which is close to the industrial zones. Squatters are lack of any kind of utilities and apt to be extended according to the families’ needs. They look like the houses in rural areas in terms of their physical appearance and function. Their residents, just like in rural areas, plant vegetables and feed chicken, sheep and etc. in their gardens.

These squatter areas are physically and culturally distinct from the cities and their integration to the city seems very difficult. There are huge barriers between the old and new residents not only in exchange of services and information but also in thoughts, beliefs, judgments, traditions, dialects and in short, cultures.

Incorrect attitudes in government policies have resulted in an increase in squatters which led to an unplanned urban development. Especially before elections, the promises regarding giving a legal status to these unauthorized buildings made them surround the cities.

This proposal criticize urbanization problems in unplanned zones, these incorrect policies and

their results .

Key words: urban planning, government policy, squatter area, housing policy

Mr Sangheon Lee

Graduate Student

Hanyang University

Seoul Korea (South)

Abstract Title: The Environmental Carrying Capacity Monitoring System for Ubiquitous-Ecological Cities

Abstract: Recently, there have been many efforts to create an U-Eco City (Ubiquitous-Ecological City), which is an eco city that applies ubiquitous technology in Korea. Thus, the methods are studied to be applied to an U-Eco City to manage the urban environment and consequently applied to urban planning.

The Environmental Carrying Capacity Monitoring System (ECCMS) that monitors environmental data sensed by ubiquitous techniques is being developed, and the monitored data is being used to analyze the level of the environment in this system.

The ECCMS has 3 main functions, including monitoring, modeling, and scenario. First, monitoring involves visually mapping the data that is sensed in real time. The environmental data consists of air, weather condition, and noise data that are sensed by ubiquitous techniques, and the information of vegetation, soil, and the use of urban space are added. Modeling is used to conduct analysis of the environmental carrying capacity, thermal comfort, and the influential area of noise with the monitored data. Scenario is used to predict the change of environmental level that results from a new development or change of environmental standard.

This system can be used in urban management to cope with environmental problems as soon as they occur, by the real time monitoring of the environmental data. Moreover, this system can be used as a basic tool to restrict the level of development when building a new town or when redevelopment occurs in a city.

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by a grant (07High Tech A01) from High tech Urban Development Program funded by Ministry of Land, Transportation and Maritime Affairs of Korean government.

Mr Dongwoo Lee

graduate student

Hanyang university

Seoul Korea (South)

Abstract Title: Establishing a mapping method for CO2 Emissions

Abstract: Reduction of CO2 emissions has become an important global issue. As a result, cities that are known to be high in energy consumption while also high in CO2 emissions are gaining more attention. To resolve this issue, a consensus on efficient management of energy, the environment, and climate is needed.

CO2 emission management involves the total emission amount of CO2. However, even sources of minute emissions require a management system, particularly if the emission trading or greenhouse gas policies take effect. Moreover, spatially, a rational emission-source management system should be created in urban spaces because they have a relatively high dependence on energy supply.

The objective of this study is to establish a mapping method for CO2 emissions to promote an effective management of urban climate and environment. Each urban energy consumption resource was investigated and an energy consumption map was constructed using GIS. The investigation was conducted at major urban energy consumption areas (total amount of electric power, region heating, and urban gas of each building). Next, each resource amount was changed to TOE (tonnage of oil equivalent) to calculate the total energy consumption. A sum was then totaled. A final CO2 map was constructed based on the changed of CO2 amount from TOE.

The result of this study can be applied as a basic reference for urban planning and management for realization of low CO2 emissions. It can also be applied to the rational operation of emission trade

Key words: CO2 emission map, energy consumption, energy consumption resource

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by a grant (07High Tech A01) from High tech Urban Development Program funded by Ministry of Land, Transportation and Maritime Affairs of Korean government.

Mr George Lekakis

Chairperson

Victorian Multicultural Commission

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Revitalising Cultural Precincts in Victoria - enriching our urban and cultural fabrics

Abstract: Cultural precincts make an immeasurable contribution to maintaining the rich fabric of Melbourne’s diverse multicultural communities. They create a focal point for community histories to be recorded, traditions preserved and celebration of language and culture.

Using the example of the Cultural Precincts Enhancement Fund, Mr Lekakis will explore the approach Victoria has taken in the enhancement of three of Melbourne’s most significant precincts - the Italian Lygon Street, the Greek Lonsdale Street and the Chinese Little Bourke Street precincts.

This presentation will explore the strategies developed to ensure these three cultural precincts are developed to retain their significance in the community and maintain their financial viability.

A ‘whole-of-life’ approach has been adopted in planning for the precincts’ redevelopment that recognises their history, culture, service to the community and their environmental characteristics so as to strengthen their sustainability and attractiveness for investment, cultural and become appealing tourist centres.

Mr Lekakis will discuss the governance framework established to operate the Fund and the critical role community engagement and local government partnerships have has played since the inception of the Fund.

Mr Toby Lodge

Senior Associate

HASSELL

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: SMARTER COMMUNITIES? Economic vitality, the people that drive it, the role of placemaking and fostering innovation.

Abstract: In the modern global economy, cities and regions compete for investment and talent. Businesses choose to situate in talent-rich locations, particularly businesses in knowledge-intensive industry sectors. In this environment, the workforce is no longer merely a factor of production; it is a factor of innovation.

Historically, competition has focused upon narrowly defined features such as the provision of quality band width, research grants, tax incentives and support given to new and evolving research centres.

We are finding now that true competitiveness extends beyond these traditional issues to encompass quality of life and the quality of places where people work. Always acknowledged as a critical factor, these qualities have been difficult to measure and deliver. Nonetheless, they will become critical in differentiating attractive places for knowledge workers to live. This will help to underpin the future of a city and regions economic strength.

The proposition for Smart Communities is to create urban environments that deliver the fundamental economic preconditions for a strong knowledge economy, and also provide a physical environment that actively supports knowledge activities and interaction between them.

This paper will focus on the changing face of economic development, the new competitive playing field for attracting and retaining knowledge workers, the role of placemaking in fostering innovation, and a new strategic vision for making our communities smarter and more competitive in today’s global economy.

Mr John Loneragan

Architect

Studio Tekton

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: Social Encounters at the micro scale – a reaction to the Big Project approach to City building.

Abstract: Gentrification and urban intensification of inner city suburbs significantly alters the surrounding property affordability, community diversity, and ultimately urban richness (in terms of both residents and structures). Even though the population of these suburbs increases through increased urban density, there appears to be less connection with the place or fellow residents and an increasing sense of isolation.

This paper uses design as a tool of enquiry to investigate nuturing connections at the micro or neigbourhood scale. Three different underutilized inner city sites are used to explore a number of options (sowing, selling and inhabiting) to engage neighbourhoods by offering opportunities to counter increasing individual isolation in a highly connected world.

Mr Anthony Long

Director

Placemakers Communications & Marketing P/L

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Increasing Residential Density - It's a Marketing Challenge.

Abstract: The Conundrum

The 21st century is here. Population in SEQ is increasing fast and the pressure is on.

The planners have won round one. Higher densities have been mandated- with fixed minimums.

TOD philosophy is being embedded into schemes- as well the SEQ RP.

They are right - we urgently need less land consumptive urban strategies. Activity centres are logical.

But,

Is the market ready?

Australia has 22 million people in 3 million sq. miles so what’s the fuss? The consumer is resisting increasing densities and “smart” housing because of concerns that are basic but real

• Value

• Saleability

• Lifestyle

• Long established habits

• Territoriality- home is castle

Force feeding higher density living? Not surprisingly private sector developers will resist delivering product that the market isn’t ready to buy. Sub optimal solutions are inevitable.

So,

Higher density living can be popular- it’s proven

If it’s :On the water: Downtown: On the golf course

… where the benefits are clear.

There are 2 factors required for success.

1. Widespread acceptance of medium density living requires the precedent delivery of a trade off package i.e. activity centres, appealing places, access and travel advantages, attractive design and entertaining experiences.

2. Market the offer. We need to lead the consumer to the higher density waterhole- and convince him it’s a good idea to drink. We need to promote the “deal”- sell benefits, not philosophy.

A public/ private collaborative “sales track” is required. A new partnership to “turn the Queen Mary around".

Placemakers, destination and residential marketplace specialists, will explore the challenge and prescribe a practical way forward.

Mr James Lunday

Director

Common Ground Studio

NZ New Zealand

Abstract Title: Who wants a corridor when you can have a hallway?

Abstract: New Zealand’s State Highway One runs north of capital city Wellington along a stretch of highly settled coastline known as the Kapiti Coast. Plans for an alternative transport route specifically for the local population, date back to 1954 and it is only since May 2009 that the project – known as the Western Link - has gone “fully public”.

In this presentation urban designer James Lunday unbundles the points at which it was realised that the ‘game breaker’ for the project to proceed off the drawing board was to turn to the application of urban design principles.

James will address the special attention given to strengthening community and environmental values, He will also speak about the more general issues raised when an urban design ethos is fully directed to what had previously been narrowly defined as an infrastructure project.

As well as being a prime example of what can be achieved through effective partnering with local government, the developed design illustrates how a ribbon or corridor that had borne little relation to surrounding community needs or interests was transformed.

The Kapiti coastline has a particularly rich cultural history related to its historical land use by the indigenous Maori peoples. It is associated with figures such as Te Rauparaha (1760s-1849), a Maori rangatira (chief) who used the nearby Kapiti Island as a base. Ensuring that the Western Link has respected the cultural integrity of the area has therefore been another key aspect of this project.

Mr James Lunday

Director

Common Ground Studio

NZ New Zealand

Abstract Title: Beyond the Burbs

Abstract: Australia and New Zealand are both highly urbanised, yet are also strongly founded on their rural roots and extensive rural locations.

Enhancing this rurality at a holistic level, rather than abandoning it to the haphazard pressures of sprawling developments, is increasingly raising new challenges for urban designers.

This presentation sets out a response to this challenge in the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, Western Australia, where leading New Zealand urban design studio Common Ground has worked with the Shire to create a ‘Rural Hamlet Design Handbook’.

Published in March 2009 for community consultation, the Handbook has tested the boundary between what can be imagined and what can be achieved to take the potential of new settlements in the Shire to a new level.

In ways that could be seen as a distant reverberation of Ebenezer Howard’s Garden City Movement, the approach taken by Common Ground resourcefully pulls together detailed parameters, rather than prescriptions, to help put in place a new tradition for viable and sustainable ruralism.

Expert practitioner James Lunday will outline the benefits of breaking away from the outdated models of cookie-cutter lifestyle subdivisions in favour of moving towards developing small, spatially sensitive townscapes which can provide a truer model of living “with the land”.

Through his experience in both Australia and New Zealand James will articulate the common values and common denominators needed for this “shift in thinking”, drawing connections to the scaleable lessons to be learnt and applied for tomorrow’s villages (rural and urban).

Dr Alan March

Senior Lecturer

University of Melbourne

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Design and Regulation of Private Open Space for Families in High Density Living

Abstract:

Victoria’s current metropolitan planning champions higher density urban forms as the future for Melbourne’s housing. Yet this Australian city possesses a brief and difficult history of high-rise dwelling. Such housing types are celebrated for achieving socially, environmentally and economically sustainable imperatives, but are stigmatised locally for constituting an “anathema to the Australian way of living”. The literature advises that any consideration of the issue of housing density must concurrently address matters of open space. Accordingly, this research seeks to address one aspect of the urban future proposed by a compact city agenda, residential open space and, with an emphasis on communal provisions, consider its supply and significance in the context of families residing in high-density housing in Melbourne. On the basis of analysis of case study examples and assessment of families' stated desires and actual observed usage , it is argued that the provision of quality open space in high density suited to a wide range of potential users, particularly families, is lacking. Further, it is argued that Victorian planning regulation needs to address this as increasing amounts of high rise dwellings are constructed.

Mr Paul Martin-Vanzer

PhD candidate

The University of Auckland

NZ New Zealand

Abstract Title: “Transformation of Housing in the ecology of desert climate:

A Bioclimatic - Passive Solar Design vision of the Building integration with a dry environment”

Abstract: Keywords: Energy Efficient Building Design, Bioclimatic Architecture, Solar Passive Architecture, Sustainable infrastructure

ABSTRACT

The research propose to investigate the main features and techniques necessary to build in an arid environment with high levels of sunlight and very few rain days. Identifying the historic processes of the vernacular architecture, in which we recognize evolved coherent forms, defining the strategies to recreate architecture responsive to the ecology of the desert dry- climate.

The thesis’ First stage will describe the main concepts of thermal comfort and technical premises useful in the subsequent stages of the research project.

In the second stage , it will analyse the relation of the architecture and the environment, establishing an interaction constant and referred to the thermal and light aspects of the architectural space, expressed as models of sustainability.

The third(last) stage will analyze the process of transformation and environmental conditioning of buildings realised by his inhabitants through specic/valuable case studies in Arequipa(Peru) .   

The research will show the basic concepts of a new constructive mentality and to ilustrate through examples and analysis of application, that to construct in accordance with the climate does not suppose to limit the freedom of design and the creativity.

The urban vernacular architecture should develop a new form, sensible to the local microclimate ,adapting the building to the environment .In these cases the building stops being a device, to be observed like connected architectonic fact to its ecological system, in an intimate relation between a building and surroundings.

Mr Gavin McConnell

Snr Planning and Development Advisor

North Sydney Council

NSW Australia

Abstract Title: Is It Good Planning?

Abstract: Is it Good Planning?

In order to plan effectively we must have the best tools available. And we must know how to use them. We must also know what works for our community.

We are regularly presented with plans; transport plans, social plans, urban area release plans, brownfield redevelopment plans, economic plans, infrastructure plans…..

Such plans are announced with great fanfare and just as often are quickly forgotten in the glare of the next press release. Details are often sketchy and funding is loaded with caveats. When a plan proceeds it is usually years before any meaningful analysis can be carried out. There has to be a better way to assess the benefits of a plan; and to reassess the way the planning process is undertaken.

This paper presents findings of research carried out as part of a Masters Degree in Urban Management (Univ of Western Sydney, 2008) looking at the broad issues of measuring the quality of plans and, more importantly, what constitutes good planning. These are broad issues which affect planning at every level.

This research addresses the following questions:

What methods have been employed to assess the quality of plans/ planning ?

What characterises successful (good) planning?

What improvements can be made to the current planning model?

What is the role of education in planning outcomes.

Can an understanding of the characteristics of good planning be useful in evaluating plans and planning outcomes?

The research involved interviews with eminent planning practitioners with extensive and varied experience in Australia over the past 40 years. The views and experiences of these planners helps identify what works and what doesn’t. The findings of this research will be presented along with practical suggestions as to how the planning process can be made more responsive to the growing challenges ahead.

Mr Robert McGauran

Director

MGS Architects

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Urban Strategies for an inclusive city- case studies in placemaking.

Abstract: The work of MGS has for many years concerned itself with how architects can play a more pro-active role in determining the programme and configuration of places and how we might use our design skills to invest these places with both a design focus and collective ambition.

This has crossed a range of building typologies and projects and roles on behalf of both private and government organistations. The paper brings together an analysis of the work of the practice and the methodologies amnd stratgies that have directed our investigations and interests. Using case studies I hope to articulate why we need to make cities differently, how new typologies and programmes can underpin both sociallly economiocally and environmentally more properous outcomes, and how the role of designer, government agency and developer can be made more effiective in this process. The projects used to investigate these themes will be the firm's award winning affordable and private sector housing projects at Balaclava and Portsea, our new community hub in Glenroy, our retail complex in Gisborne, our new mixed use headquarters for the TAC in regional Victoria and our new propositions for urban renewal at Coburg and Stonnington.

Mr Adrian McGregor RLA AAILA MAIH MPIA

Managing Director

mcgregor+partners

NSW Australia

Abstract Title: The biocity model | an antidote to fossil fuel planning

Abstract: “The so called global economy was not a permanent institution, but a set of transient circumstances peculiar to a time, the Indian Summer of the fossil fuel era” 1

Never before have so many people been exposed to such a hyper scale of impending environmental and resources dilemmas. The capacity for catastrophic geo-political systems failure under peak oil and climate change are the subjects of growing international debate. Australian planning dogma and infrastructure practices are riddled with outmoded post industrial ideologies dependent on cheap oil.

Amid mounting scientific evidence there is a growing awareness that the forms of our contemporary cities are not sustainable. On the back of cheap fossil fuels the industrial revolution has spawned mega cities with sprawling low density forms. Suburbia and its peri-urban paraphernalia are the material realisations of fossil fuel planning dreams. Isolation and social dysfunction2 are attributed to these failed urban forms. Postulations for the imminent end of surburbia3 are gaining momentum, spear headed by authors, film makers and planners.

The biocity is a theoretical model that proposes a new collaborative paradigm for city making, an antidote to fossil fuel planning. It is defined by a purpose to plan cities in a far more holistic and collaborative way than traditional silo based practices allow. This paper will explore the theoretical territory of the biocity concept and examine the twelve urban processes that can be used to determine the relative health of modern cities.

1 Kunstler, James - ‘the long emergency’ Atlantic Monthly Press April 2005

2 Dr. Richard Joseph Jackson – Urban Sprawl and Public Health, Island press 2004

3 2004 The Electric Wallpaper Co. - THE END OF SUBURBIA: Oil Depletion and the Collapse of The American Dream

Hosted by Barrie Zwicker. Featuring James Howard Kunstler, Peter Calthorpe, Michael Klare, Richard Heinberg, Matthew Simmons, Michael C. Ruppert, Julian Darley, Colin Campbell, Kenneth Deffeyes, Ali Samsam Bakhtiari and Steve Andrews. Directed by Gregory Greene. Produced by Barry Silverthorn.

Mr XIANGWANG MENG

PhD candidate

Hokkaido university

Hokkaido Japan

Abstract Title: Climate responsive urban design strategies for living downtown in winter cities

--- Evaluation of building typology through wind tunnel simulation in Shenyang, China.

Abstract: Public space design concepts in most of Chinese cities are similar from North to South without considering regional climate variation. In most of winter cities, outdoor public spaces are turned into useless spaces and public life disappears for about five to six months in winter season, which is not only because of low temperature, but also mainly due to design strategies in these spaces. Urban redevelopment creates distinctive wind environment due to: building form and arrangement of buildings. Understanding the relationship between building typology and prevalent wind condition in winter season provides one key means to reduce the wind speed in open space and, thereby to improve the quality of outdoor activities in winter season in winter cities. During sunny winter days, spaces with low wind velocity are a good place for outdoor activities.

Wind tunnel simulation is used for evaluating the quality of wind environment. Taken Taiyuan Pedestrian Street in Shenyang China as a case study, a series of potential city redevelopment plans are tested in wind tunnel. In the first stage, different building shapes with the same FAR (Floor Area Ratio), such as high-rise wall buildings type, high-rise tower buildings type and medium-rise buildings type are proposed for experiment. In the following stages, detail design of these building types is proposed such as the design of podium and buildings' setback. Finally, this paper presents a system of regional climate responsive urban design strategies for building living downtown in winter cities.

Mr David Mepham

Coordinator Transport Futures

Gold Coast City Council

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: David Mepham, Coordinator Transport Futures, Gold Coast City Council.

Abstract:

Many cities around the world are in the process of planning and constructing new transit systems. In the planning phase there is often lively debate about route and station location - should the transit run down the main street or away from the centre and the pedestrians. In the planning of the Gold Coast Light Rail project there have been similar debates especially in the built up centres of Southport and Surfers Paradise. In these two centres on the Gold Coast the light rail is proposed to run through the centre mixing with traffic and pedestrians.

This presentation looks at transit systems on the edge and in the centre of built up areas and considers the way in which these options do and do not work. The presentation examines several Australian Bus Rapid Transit and Light Rail Transit examples and the proposed Gold Coast system. It considers the way in which the transit does, or does not integrate with the urban environment and importantly the impact that it has on pedestrian movement in these places. Key themes in this presentation are transit and pedestrians, placemaking, transit oriented development and the Gold Coast Light Rail and City Building opportunities.

Ms Sarah Merat

Urban Designer

The City of Melbourne

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: The Australian Suburban Dream

Abstract: In 1963 Betty Friedan accused a post World War II American Culture of enforcing suburban housewifery as a dream/goal/lifestyle to which all women should (read must) aspire. In doing so she not only kick started a modern women’s movement, but also set in motion the long term scrutiny of suburbia as a gendered and gendering construct. In Australia developers, aided by an increasingly influential media, and a spate of governmental policy, began developing sprawling expanses of suburban tracts based on the American model. This form of development remained unchecked until the 1990’s forced a re-imagining of Australian cities, and led to a repopulation of our inner-urban areas. This swing in focus allowed for a new, more inclusive, housing model to dominate the Australian market.

However with the new millennium came a new Australian conservativism, and with it a return to the suburban housing model and the nuclear family ideal. Considering factors including the Federal Governmental Baby Bonus and First Home Owners Grant, the return to power of the Labor Government, and the War on Terror, this presentation will consider what this shift means for Australian Working Families. By looking at the specific case study of the ‘new’ suburb of Caroline Springs in Melbourne’s outer west, we will ask why, despite the threat of climate change, the oil crisis, overcrowding and spatial logic, the Australian Suburban Dream is perpetuated and protected, and women’s place in the home in the suburbs is dictated, and often financially rewarded.

Mr Ashley Mitchell

Urban Designer

Planisphere

Vic Australia

Abstract Title: Crafting the ‘New Suburbanism’: Case Studies from Melbourne

Abstract: Much debate and discussion regarding sustainable urban design has surrounded ‘New Urbanism’ ideals - focusing on new development in greenfield areas. Meanwhile, planners and designers have unintentionally distanced themselves from the huge potential that exists to retro-fit existing suburbs. Melbourne’s latest metro strategy update – Melbourne @ 5 million – anticipates an extra 316,000 dwellings within established suburban areas over the next 20 years, providing an exciting opportunity to craft a ‘New Suburbanism’ for established suburban areas.

What can urban designers do to create increased densities in existing suburban locations? This presentation will examine a number of projects in suburban Melbourne that have delved deeper than the level of visions and objectives, to the actual ‘how’ of creating ‘New Suburbanism’. This work often raises more questions than it answers. For example: What can realistically be done to facilitate consolidation of lots? Where should higher density developments be located? Which aspects of neighbourhood character and heritage need to be sacrificed? What kinds of built form are appropriate? What tools are available to encourage good quality redevelopment?

Melbourne has lots of up to date examples of good planning and design to answer these and other fundamental questions. Our talk will use images from recent studies and actual developments to illustrate practical solutions to the challenge of effectively crafting and implementing the ‘New Suburbanism’.

Mr Mohammad Mohazzab Tollab

M.Arch. Student

Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Campus, Iran

Khorasan Razavi Province Iran

Abstract Title: REVITALIZING HIDDEN URBAN SPACES (1-WAITING SPACES)

Abstract: Urban spaces provide field of social interactions among citizens, in spite of that often forgotten and when remembered, it is very difficult to cover. One of the best solutions is to revitalize hidden spaces which are being unused without consider their potentials. Most of urban plans to decrease traffic problems decide to widen narrow streets. However this action damages street image, but the spaces waiting for their opposite street to be widened prepare opportunity to create urban spaces for several years or decades.

The purpose of this research is to show the value of these spaces and then study, analysis and finally offer short-time and long-time solutions.

The method using in this research is a different levels discipline in urban design, includes: strategic area (Mashhad); local area (Abkooh St.); design area (waiting spaces), kind of systematic methods. These spaces can be found around the world, especially in developing countries and it's only a practical case study. Most of information has obtained from observation and interview, and also review town maps and photographs.

After being more familiar with these spaces, interesting results acquire, such as: suitable position because they are usually located in central part of cities that most of citizens passing them every day; temporary and not permanent that enforce to use portable furniture; dynamic, various and changing role in different times. On the other hand they create places to stop for pedestrians walking with no care.

Mr John Mongard

Principal

John Mongard Landscape Architects

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Feeding/Greening/Caring

Abstract: In the sustainable future, communities and their public realms will once again be meaningfully connected. Urban designers will actively facilitate this, so that people are passionately involved in the dreaming, designing, building and care of the public realm. Global climatic and economic patterns will have forced us to deal with the notion of feeding communities locally. People will need and demand for small and large, public and private places to grow food near home and work.

There are many Australian communities moving their neighbourhoods toward something like a feeding/greening/caring nexus. West End in inner city Brisbane is one such place. West End is a model of sustainability for the rest of Queensland and Australia. There are probably only a handful of other places which have the diversity of people, housing, work, culture and city landscape that characterises West End. The population will conservatively increase by 300% in the next five to ten years, yet there is no plan which tells the community how the impending buildings, traffic and people will be properly accommodated; nor how water, energy or heat gain will be sustainably dealt with. There is no plan to show how a dense city neighbourhood is to provide for new and more sustainable green spaces and active public realms.

A collaborative process led by three local landscape architectural practices is being enacted to help the local community invent its own sustainable public realm. This is being done with local people involved at each step. A community strategy emerges which stitches together big new bold ideas, such as a kilometre long community designed and built park corridor built into an existing road, through to small actions such as school children becoming minders of main street planters. It includes planning visionary landscapes such as roof orchards which use onsite wastewater on new seventeen story towers and, the use of solar arrays to power community realms. A community trust is being set up to enable sponsorship and donations to build community interventions in the public realm.

Mr Stephen Moore

Principal

Roberts Day

NSW Australia

Abstract Title: Collapse of Suburbia:

Liveability and the Post-Suburban Dream

Abstract: Australia has been experiencing a shift in the planning and urban development industry without precedent. The suburban dream is failing on all fronts. The single-use, vehicle orientated pattern of housing estates, shopping centres and business parks has not delivered the promise of improving our people’s quality of life. Rising petrol prices are making fresh food increasingly unobtainable, obesity is reaching epidemic proportions and genuine housing affordability is a pressing issue. Underpinning these themes is the fact that the convergence of climate change, the end of cheap oil and decline of global agriculture will mean that the conventional suburban development of the last 65 years will not survive the collapse of the ‘fossil-fuel’ age. In our challenge to address land use inefficiencies and dysfunctional suburban patterns, new tools and processes will be required by regulators, developers and the general community to shape a self-sufficient, liveable future.

Focusing on a range of approved projects in SE Queensland and elsewhere by Roberts Day, this paper will explain how the principles of traditional neighbourhood design and transect planning, which have underpinned policy in SE Queensland for the last 10 years, have been synthesised into an operating framework focusing on liveability. Through this framework and a unique design forum approach which is collaborative and induces transformational moments for participants, the projects demonstrate how the conventional suburban pattern is being absorbed across the rural to urban transect and implemented through innovative design codes to demonstrate visions of the post-suburban dream.

Mr Ronan Moss

Senior Architect

Riddel Architecture

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: towards a new Architecture

Abstract: Sustainable development is moving us towards a fundamental shift in our collective design consciousness. While architects and designers are becoming more engaged with environmentally responsive design and materials, this needs to be accompanied by a shift in attitude towards the way we approach the adaptive re-use of our 200 years of built heritage.

It is widely recognised that one of the biggest challenges in 'greening' the industry is working out how to make our existing buildings more sustainable. With existing buildings substantially outnumbering new buildings they are the greatest contributors to green house gas emissions, clean water wastage, energy wastage and poor indoor air quality.

Compared to other countries Australia is moving very slowly in this area. While the concept of green retro-fits is paid lip service, there are few examples that demonstrate to the industry how successful these buildings can be in terms of their significant life cycle cost savings, their energy reduction and increased level of habitability.

There is an inevitable amount of new work which will become available to architects when decisive action is taken to retro-fit our cities. While this will provide many exciting design opportunities consideration of the unique challenges posed by this new work will need to be carefully assessed. The responsibility to meet important sustainable objectives needs to include a thorough understanding of the buildings being upgraded and the best way to adapt them so as not to reduce the building’s life and its significance.

Dr Mike Mouritz

Head of Sustainable Urbansim

HASSELL

WA Australia

Abstract Title: Designing integrating processes for sustainable cities: Appling alliance practice and transition management in real urban regeneration projects

Abstract: This story begins with a set of arguments: between planners and traffic engineers; arguments between urban designers and shopping mall owners; between community representatives and local authorities - nothing new here. The story that unfolded over the next couple of years illustrates what can be achieved in developing integrated solutions to complex or ‘wicked’ problems that confront us as we explore the urban regeneration of our cities in the face of peak oil and a carbon constrained world.

In this paper we outline the learning that has been achieve thus far in a project referred to as the Stirling Alliance: a project that is seeking to transform a part of Perth, variously described as one worst examples of urban Australia into an exemplar sustainable city centre accommodating around 30,000 residents and a similar number of jobs.

The paper will outline the thinking, concepts and processes that have been used to bring (often waring) representatives of state agencies from planning, roads, public transport, and local government and the community together into an ‘alliance’ framework. As far as we know the application alliance contracting approaches has rarely, if ever been used in the planning phase of complex urban regeneration projects. In this case the alliance approach has been further informed by the application of resilience thinking, transition management and complexity leadership theory. These have been brought together with good old fashioned urban design and engineering to help create a ‘holding environment’ or ‘niche’ – in this case called an ‘alliance’ to explore innovation in both planning and delivery of urban regeneration in a location which has most of the urban complexities imaginable; free ways, proposed regional roads, contaminated landfill, expanding shopping centres and the desire to create a city centre with heart and a sole where none presently exists.

This paper has been prepaired with the assitance and on behalf of the Stirling Alliance Leadership Team

Miss Kamilia Nahchyry

Full member of scientific board of Azad University

Azad University of Ashtian

Esfahan Iran

Abstract Title: How to Design Socially Sustainable Urban Neighborhoods

Case Study: Mardavij Urban Division, Esfahan, Iran

Abstract: One of the most important urban topics in mainstream urban design that its roots can be traced till the first decades of last century is “how to design sociable or socially sustainable urban neighborhoods”. In other word one of the main objectives of urban design has been to enhance the quality of urban life through establishment a network of public and green spaces, quality sidewalks and pedestrian ways in hope to increase the urban social networks. However, nowadays the unfavorable neighborhoods without any sort of urban features that enhance social networks are widespread. Consequently, we are faced with urban divisions which lack of any spatial initiatives to develop and maintain social interactions.

Mardavij area with a population more than 40000 people is one of the urban divisions of Esfahan city, which lacks of most indicators of a socially sustainable neighborhood. In this urban division as a product of implementing land development plan, all of the main streets are car-oriented and except a public park at its center, no urban space or subdivisions in shape of neighborhood units can be observed. At the same time, this area still has some unique opportunities in order to be turned to a socially sustainable neighborhood. The present essay investigates whether and to what degree we can turn a socially unsustainable established neighborhood to a social one with respect to its unique natural and man-made environment.

Key words: Sociable urban space, Neighborhood, Sustainability, Social sustainability, Social interaction, Urban space, Urban subdivision

Mr Roger Nelson

Principal

NHArchitecture

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: WORKING CAPITAL - Liquid capital assets as distinguished from fixed capital assets

Abstract: Urban design oscillates between two primary scales – between the broad and the focussed. Australian practice and projects too often isolate these scales into separate camps. One needn’t be a sub-category of the other. NHArchitecture embrace them as a seamless continuum of the possible bounded by fluid realities of politics, commerce and regulation. We look for the architecture in urban design and the urban in the architecture.

Our practice has a commitment to public architecture and urban design, provided by public or private agencies, and the locating of these designs within assorted contexts – the physical, historic, social, climatic and the economic – that define parameters within which possibilities emerge. Urban design analyses, assesses and gives a projection of these conditions into the future to create lively cities that cultivate the urban as sites of exchange – of information, goods, work and play.

Coupled with this, every commission is becoming increasingly complex and governed by diminishing timelines. As a result, new design methodologies are emerging that are borderless, didactic and splintered requiring ready responses.

In increasingly non-linear scenarios, NHArchitecture explore alternate working methods within the formative and rebounding ideas inherent in a project’s delivery, all directed toward coherency. NHArchitecture is an evolving practice with a body of projects aimed at a greater understanding of public architecture and its position within contemporary society. This scale of work requires the urban designer to be generator, editor and curator.

Principals of NHArchitecture will present variable urban design lessons from their portfolio of work.

Mr Michael Neustein

Director

Neustein Urban

NSW Australia

Abstract Title: Overspecifying urban design controls - the dead hand of local government?

Abstract: Local government in metropolitan Sydney has long expressed dissatisfaction with the design of buildings. Architects (and some urban designers) have been criticized for lack of contextual thinking and a generally inappropriate approach to the urban design of their buildings. Council planning department frequently accuse architects of failure to properly assess context and failure to document the basis for their designs.

The bureaucratic response to this situation has been to specify, overspecify, the external design of buildings, especially in suburban centres. What is the history of this situation and is overspecification justified? Are the current urban design controls too controlling? What has been the response to this bureaucratic control? Are there other ways to achieve design excellence and how successful are they?

This paper will survey the current Sydney and NSW urban design scene, considering the success of the policies from the perspectives of applicant architects and local government planners. Successes will be examined in terms of their responsiveness or otherwise to the controls applied. Comparison will be made with other jurisdictions which do not rely on overspecification.

Reassessment of design controls is especially pertinent at a time when state governments are freeing up planning and urban design controls in an attempt to stimulate construction and development as part of the response to the global financial crisis.

Mr clem newton-brown

Barrister

Victorian Bar

vic Australia

Abstract Title: Climate change and sea level rises...are "sunset over the water" clauses a solution?

Abstract: Governments and Tribunals around Australia are now starting to implement predicted sea level rises in planning decisions. As a result there will be many thousands of coastal property owners who will be told that they cannot develop their land due to predicted inundation in the next 100 or so years.

This paper examines how the rights of property owners are being impacted and whether it would be possible to grant planning permission for dwellings for a finite period, using "sunset" clauses.

This would enable people to build coastal dwellings for thier immediate enjoyment, in the knowledge that sometime in the future they may need to demolish or relocate.

Legal liability for Governments, finance and insurance impacts will be examined in exploring whether the merits of this concept.

Ms Louise Noble

ARAIA MPIA

Louise Noble Design

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: On TODS and Trees: Table Rase in the Subtropics

Abstract: Christopher Alexander in his seminal essay “A City is Not a Tree” (1965) argued that “tree-thinking”, or linear thinking, was responsible for the sterility of the modern city. He postulated that cities are made of complex relationships similar to mathematical lattice structures and not tree structures. A reappraisal of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is relevant in this light. While the intentions of compact city development may be laudable, the very name used to implement such strategies (TOD) is representative of tree-thinking.

In response to the South East Queensland Regional Plan (OUM: 2005) and following extensive (and expensive) public engagement by the Brisbane City Council through “Neighbourhood Planning” Fairs (BCC: 2006-2007), a strategy of a multi-centred city model was selected as the most appropriate and palatable form for the future densification of the city. Corridor development along major traffic arteries figures largely in this approach due to the radio-centric form of the city. Much of the land bounding these corridors is currently zoned as higher density mixed-use/retail/industrial land, a zoning which facilitates implementation strategies by avoiding potential conflict with existing low-density residential precincts. Transit and retail nodes along these corridors have been identified and development densities are programmed to increase dramatically in these areas with the (in)famous 400m “Ped-Shed” walkability radius having been systematically applied to these nodes.

This paper will endeavour to critique this approach by arguing that TOD-logic should form part of the equation and not its totality. The paper will explore issues of “imageability” (Lynch et al: 1960, 1964 and Houben: 2000) and its repercussions with regard to the branding and visual identity of urban form (Klingmann: 2007). The cultural, built form and visual heritage of the city will be given particular focus in light of notions of an Architecture of the Landscape (Noble: 2003).

KEY THEMES:

- Cities with integrated transport systems that are well connected for pedestrians and cyclists

- Socially and culturally responsive cities

- Sustainable higher density development

Mr Dom Nozzi

Executive Director

Walkable Streets

VA United States of America

Abstract Title: Transportation is Destiny: The Road to Ruin

Abstract: Learn how to better evaluate congestion, sprawl, and quality of life. Hear about tactics that can be used to promote quality of life, economic health and sustainability. And about the ruinous futility of road widening.

One hundred years ago, the imperative for developers consisted of designing to make people happy. This tradition tended to be pedestrian-oriented and human-scaled.

Since then, the focus has changed. Development is now oriented toward making cars, not people, happy. Because car-based design creates barriers for travel by transit, bicycling, or walking, car-happy design is a growing, self-perpetuating vicious cycle. After several decades of using this car-oriented model, we now find that it is nearly impossible to travel anywhere without a car. Understandably, then, nearly all of us urge developers and local government to continue to facilitate car travel.

The tragedy: Cars and people have vastly different needs. Cars prefer wide, high-speed highways, and enormous parking lots. People are repelled by such design. Yet because we have created a world where it is difficult to travel without a car, we are compelled to become our own worst enemies by calling for development to make car travel easier.

Unintentionally, then, our quality of life is in a downward spiral of our own making, as the car-oriented world we’ve advocated has created an increasingly unpleasant community – a community that is dying due to “gigantism.”

The key is to return to the timeless tradition of designing for people, not cars.

Prof Geoffrey Nwaka

University Professor

Abia State Universityu

Abia Statge Nigeria

Abstract Title: Planning Sustainable Cities in Africa

Abstract:

Poverty and rapid urbanization are two of the greatest challenges facing Africa today. UN-Habitat estimates that Sub-Saharan African cities have over 166 million slum dwellers, most of whom work in the informal sector where they simply do not earn enough to afford decent shelter and services. What does sustainability mean for such cities and such townspeople? Agenda 21 of the Rio Earth Summit emphasized that sustainable development has to be socially just and ecologically stable, and that the creation of sustainable human settlements is integral to the achievement of sustainable development. The main policy challenge for urban design Africa is how to plan and manage rapid urban growth in a way that promotes employment, income and shelter for the poor, and at the same time ensures a safe, healthy and socially acceptable environment; how to forestall the growth and spread of slums, and ensure that the existing ones are upgraded and progressively integrated into the urban mainstream.

Government officials and planners face a difficult dilemma of how to uphold the rule of law, and contain the adverse health and environmental effects of slums and irregular settlements without disrupting the livelihood of the poor. Some governments have adopted the misguided policy that blames the victims, and tries in vain to outlaw and repress the informal sector by forcibly evicting hundreds of thousands of so called ‘squatters’. This was the case in the so called ‘War Against Environmental Indiscipline” in Nigeria under the Military, which, like the more recent “Operation Restore Order’ in Zimbabwe, destroyed the homes and businesses of millions of poor townspeople, and by so doing worsened the problem of social exclusion and marginalization of poor groups. . Current research suggests that the path to urban peace and sustainability in Africa lies in building more inclusive and socially equitable cities in which all townspeople are full citizens, and everybody’s interest is taken into account in decision making and urban planning

The central argument of the paper is that human development and welfare ought to be at the centre of the concern for sustainable urbanization in Africa. While acknowledging the importance of the ‘green agenda’ for protecting natural resources and ecosystems in order to ensure long term global sustainability, the paper maintains that the proper starting point in the quest for urban sustainability in Africa is to improve the living and working environment of townspeople, especially the urban poor who face a more immediate environmental threat to their health and well being. The human development approach calls for rethinking the traditional engineering approach, and broadening the narrow technical focus of conventional town planning and urban management in order to incorporate the principles of urban health and sustainability embodied in the Habitat Agenda, ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, WHO’s Healthy Cities programme, and other recent global initiatives which provide guidance on how to make cities everywhere more inclusive and socially sustainable. . It involves reviewing housing and planning codes, standards and regulations which were inherited from the discriminatory policies and segregationist practices of the colonial period and which have continued to inhibit the access of the poor to affordable land and housing security. How can these laws and regulations for planning and development be make more realistic and compatible with local conditions The aim is to identify the lessons that could help to promote a more positive view and policy regarding the poor and the informal city.

The paper concludes with some general reflections on the future of the African city, what form it will take, and how to bring about the changes needed to make these cities healthier, more productive, inclusive and equitable, and better able to meet people’s needs.

Keywords—Africa, environmental health, poverty and inequality, sustainable and inclusive cities

Mr William Owen

National Partner

Conics

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: The Economic Report Card for New Main Street Centres and the implications for Urban Design

Abstract: The desire to establish new Main Street centres in preference to ‘big box’ shopping centres has been gathering momentum for several years. The first of the new generation of main streets have been operational for some time and they should be reviewed. This review will consider the following issues:

-The need and desire to activate the ground floor plane in the new centres and the impact of this feature on the success.

-The role of cars and parking (and related local authority standards) as an inhibitor of oper4ational outcomes and good -design and what this means as a driver of the business.

-The role of fringe business and incubator space to activate the centre (not everything is on the corner of Main and Main).

-The need for density in around the centre (and what happens if you do not get it).

-How to activate a non-anchored centre (what if there are no supermarkets).

-The role of local (walkable) and non-local catchments.

-The need for multiple sources of market demand and demographic diversity.

-The business case for owners, developers and business.

The new centres that form the basis of the case studies will also be compared to longer standing successful centres to compare success criteria. The outcome of this presentation will be an assessment from an economic/financial perspective of what components of the new centres are successful and what components fail. The implications for designers, planners and developers will be highlighted.

Mr Matthew Paetz

Urban Planner

Paetz Planning

Auckland New Zealand

Abstract Title: The Newzonian House – Affordable, Sustainable “smaller housing” for first home buyers and empty nesters

Matthew Paetz / David Wright

Abstract: Aim of the Presentation:

To outline our concept of the “Newzonian House” as an affordable, sustainable and flexible housing option for the 21st Century readily applicable to the existing suburban fabric of Australasia.

The presentation will be of interest to a broad audience including: Planners, Urban designers, Architects, sociologists, developers and other housing industry parties.

Contents and Conclusions of the Presentation:

We will outline the genesis of the idea, which arose out of concern that the market was not delivering a housing form which was affordable, sustainable and highly liveable for the growing section of the population at the beginning of their house buying experience (first home buyers) and towards the end of their house buying experience (“empty nesters”). Both of these groups generally have a need for smaller, more affordable housing options.

We will present data relating to housing affordability and demographics that indicates the fundamental need that exists for The Newzonian House.

We will also place the concept in the context of the global environmental challenges humanity faces.

We present images of The Newzonian House – plans and elevations – and describe how the house responds to the demographic, economic, social and environmental aspects. We will argue that this form of development will become the “quarter acre section of the 21st century” – development that is compact with a small carbon footprint but still satisfies the overriding desire of many Australasians to have their own piece of land and the ability to grow a small vegetable garden.

Mr Michael Papageorgiou

Divisional Manager

Brisbane City Council

Qld Australia

Abstract Title: Vibrant Laneways and Small Spaces: Implementing Brisbane's City Centre Master Plan with Urban Acupuncture

Abstract: The City Centre Master Plan finalised and adopted in 2006 sets out a twenty year vision for the future of Brisbane City – a city centre which will see population increase by approximately 70% by 2026.

One key component of the City Centre Master Plan delivery is the intervention in the urban fabric to create interest and activity and to raise the quality of the urban environment. This approach is informed by the 'urban acupuncture' methodology, famously applied in Barcelona, Curitiba and other world cities.

Brisbane City Council has driven the implementation of ‘Vibrant Laneways and Small Spaces’ as a program aimed at revitalising key sites, street and forgotten spaces within the city centre. Community engagement and a comprehensive planning approach has been aligned with the 'guerrilla' tactic of infecting the city with good urban design in unexpected places.

Through the Vibrant Laneways and Small Spaces initiative, Brisbane City Council has created a platform and catalyst for future revitalisation; has inspired individuals regarding the future of the city centre; and most importantly has established a framework for the delivery of major demonstration projects. This will ensure the successful transformation of the city centre as a vibrant, prosperous and inclusive city.

Like the exemplar cities quoted above, Brisbane is utlising its vibrant laneways and small spaces work to build momentum and to leverage even greater interventions into urban space and infrastructure. Thus the more ambitious catalyst projects identified in the City Centre Master Plan are more likely to be realised.

This abstract highlights the vision and guiding principles of the Brisbane City Centre Master Plan, the 'urban acupuncture' methodology, major demonstration projects, the scope of the Vibrant Laneways and Small Spaces, and the opportunities and outcomes of the Vibrant Laneways and Small Spaces program.

KEYWORDS: City Centre Master Plan, vibrant laneways, small scale spaces, urban acupuncture, catalyst urban design projects, urban revitalisation, people, places, subtropical design, ecologically sustainable, economic prosperity, community wellbeing.

Miss JIHYE PARK

STUDENT

HANYANG UNIVERSITY

SEOUL Korea (South)

Abstract Title: Assessing Landscape Ecological Values of Green Belt Areas in the Seoul Metropolitan Area

Abstract: The development restriction area (greenbelt) of Korea was introduced in 1970 to control urban sprawl, conserve the natural environment around cities, and maintain a quality of life for citizens. However, some property restrictions have been considered somewhat unreasonable for some residents and cities. Thus, improvement of certain policies has been promoted resulting in gradual development of restricted areas.

Therefore, proper application of this gradual development is needed in relation to preserving the landscape ecology, which is related to the value of ecological space and connectivity, in order to effectively manage the greenbelt.

In this regard, this study was conducted to suggest efficient methods to manage the greenbelt by assessing ecological value based on Landscape Ecology.

The study area is the greenbelt of the Seoul Metropolitan Area (SMA), and its ecological value was assessed based on patch size, connectivity, and the edge effect. Evaluation consists of the following steps: First, the patches were derived by analyzing the remote sensing data. Second, the characteristics of the patches were quantified by analyzing the shape index. Lastly, the gravity model was applied to evaluate the connectivity among the green areas.

The result of this study can be used as the basis on which to manage the greenbelt effectively. Moreover, ecological naturalness and stability can be achieved based on this study.

Mr MOHAMMAD PAYDAR

PHD STUDENT OF UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA

UTM(UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA)

JOHOR Malaysia

Abstract Title: ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF VISUAL COMPLEXITY AND SENSE OF PROGRESSION ON COMMUTER’S TENDENCY TO WALK IN URBAN CONTEXT

Abstract: In the last decade, a growing number of empirical studies from transportation and public health standpoints have been contributed to the debate about the relationship between the built environment and walking behavior. Recently several researches have surveyed the abovementioned relationship respecting the purpose of the walking which consists of walking for its own sake (walking for recreation or exercise) and walking to reach the destination. By looking at the results of later literature, aesthetic factors specially the high rate of aesthetic show the positive effect on walking for recreation or exercise whereas it has no significant effect on walking to reach the destination; this is while some researchers found the positive effects of medium rates of aesthetic factors on the walking to reach the destination. By considering the components of aesthetic factors surveyed in urban design literature, several factors such as complexity, coherence and sense of enclosure come up. In effort to choose between these aesthetic factors to focus more, since in the base of the results of abovementioned literature perceived time and distance have the most positive effects on walking to reach the destination and the effects of visual complexity on perceived time and distance of the trip have been indicated by several researches, it seems that from the other visual factors, “visual complexity” is one of the most relevant factors for walking to reach the destination. “Sense of progression” is the another factor which in the base of its definition has a relationship with perceived attributes of destination, thus can play the critical role for walking to reach the destination .this paper by choosing the commuters to signalize the perceived time and distance aims to survey the effects of visual complexity and sense of progression related to perceived time and distance of the trip on commuter’s tendency to walk in urban context.

Keywords: walking behavior, commuter, visual complexity, sense of progression, perceived distance, perceived time

Mrs Jenny Pemberton-Webb

Place Manager

City of Greater Dandenong

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Urban Renewal and Retaining Cultural Identity – Cultural Precincts and Revitalising Central Dandenong

Abstract: Dandenong is the heart of Melbourne’s growing south east corridor. The State Government’s $290 million Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative is rejuvenating the city centre and creating a fresh new future for central Dandenong.

The distinctive cultural make up of Dandenong (Victoria’s most culturally diverse city) provides a unique retail offer that stands to benefit greatly from the redevelopment.

Within Central Dandenong two vibrant cultural precincts have emerged over the last decade; Little India and the Afghan Bazaar. The project partners (VicUrban and City of Greater Dandenong) are committed to ensuring these unique precincts are retained and enhanced in the revitalised city.

Place making initiatives are underway including vibrant precinct branding and popular fortnightly cultural tours to sample what’s on offer. Mainstream TV coverage has attracted state wide awareness of, and visitation to, Dandenong.

Future challenges for retaining the Cultural Precincts being explored;

Traders as viable businesses in the proposed rental range necessary for the redevelopment to progress,

Retention of cultural precincts is more than a business proposition; it requires retaining and enhancing the amenity of these vibrant cultural experiences,

Identifying developers who value these cultural precincts with their established brand and activities and who can work within a cross cultural context to incorporate the precincts’ identities into their development,

Retaining and developing the economic, cultural and social capital of the community.

Mr Mojtaba Pourbakht

PhD. Candidate

University of Tokyo

Tokyo Australia

Abstract Title: Sustainable urbanity via optimal employment of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Abstract: From among all the major tiers of sustainability, namely environmental, economic and socio-political area, a sustainable debate is required particularly in case of social sustainability. For, it’s not only dominated by environmental issues, but can also undertake economic concerns.

Global warming, ozone depletion, climate change and the intensifying costs of fossil fuels over the last few decades, are now reaching a terrifying point to more challenge and harden life than ever. Governments are forced to re-examine the whole approach to the design and control the construction process of buildings. Simultaneously the ecological quality and quantity of green volume and connectivity of our cities linked to the land use structure, the land use density, the green volume and its spatial distribution is a key factor for the micro climatic situation.

Urban planning and design for sustainable development is the process of shaping the physical setting for life to deal with the three-dimensional spaces in cities, towns and villages which concerns the environmental, social and economical factors. To improve the quality and sustainability of a development, carefully designing the street layouts and parking is one of the important criteria.

By EIA method a parametric modeling and environmental simulation is made for early engagement with the public when plans are still fluid to assist developers for making adjustments, which will help to secure a smoother passage for the proposed development and result in an improved environmental consequent.

The Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) will here serve as a controlling and beneficial factor.

Dr B N Prasad

Retired Planner and sociologist

NIT Patna

Bihar India

Abstract Title: Well Connected Equitable Public Space- A Case Study: Patna, India

Abstract: Abstract

Patna, The Bihar State Capital has enjoyed the privilege of being capital since 325 BC, when Chandra Gupta Maurya was the emperor of Magadh Empire, variously graduated through ages from Patligram to Patliputra, Pushpapur, Kusumpur, Patna, Azimabad and then again back to Patna , is situated and virtually sandwiched between two rivers- the Ganga to the north and Punpun to the South. And, quiet flow these rivers debarring its expansion towards North or South. Owing o, and as a result of, these natural barriers, Patna has developed into a linear city (like Soria y Mata or Stalingrad) whose width on the eastmost extremely varies between 2 and 2 ½ while on the Western part it is between 3 ½ and 5 km.However,its length from east happen to be about 30 Km.

And during 1921-31 Patna was the capital of Bihar and Orissa States (now a separate State)

Associated with this linearity or ribbon development Patna has some 6 open spaces including one in Patliputra Housing Colony(Out Growth),invariably used as public open spaces for holding cultural events(music conference,book fair),national events(celebrations on 15th Aug and January)development expositions (agricultural exhibition,industrial exhibitions,exposition for women’s household enterprises)and the political rally organised by different political hues.The distribution of these public spaces is in the following order:

1.Bankipore Maidan(now Gandhi Maidan),Patna west.

2.Hardinge Park(now Babu Kunwar Singh Park),Patna south-west…..

3.Sanjay Zoological Park,Patna west

4.Kumbhrar,Patna middle

Mangles Talab,Patna east

Besides out of Patna City’s 8 outgrowth (OG),Patliputra Housing Colony (OG) has also one public space.

This distribution,as is obvious,however is quite lopsided,and is not equitable by any stretch of imagination,particularly on the eastern portion where high concentration of population,density of population and economic activities(first and second floors humming with business and trade activities and third floor for residential use),is concerned.

As per the 2001 census,the city of Patna has had a population of 14.32 lac and as census year is closing in ,by 2011 it may have a population of nearly 20 lac.

“From Bankipore Maidan the main throughfare”(now Ashok Raj Path)”extending for rather over 7 miles”through Patna Bazar” was well connected then with Mangles Talab.Other arteries or subarteries connecting Hardinge Park, Sanjay Gandhi Park,Kumbhrar (excavated area,ASI)and the Patliputra Housing Colony (OG) are of relatively recent development and are not as old as the Bankipore Maidan throughfare connecting Mangles Talab(Census India, 1921, Vol-7,Bihar and Orissa,by P.C. Tallents,I.C.S)

Still owing to small population (1,19,976-1921)and a few motorised vehicles personalized and public all these public spaces,particularly lying along the Ashok Raj Path and alongn with some others,well were connected.

But as on today,due to escalation of urban population,rise in vehicular traffic,construction of gandhi setu connecting almost all major cities and towns of North Bihar with State Capital,Patna and rest of South Bihar ,the public spaces are not at all equitable.

Thus,for equitable distribution of Public Spaces between he eastern and the western extremities,including Patna middle some NORMATIVE THINKING is a must,and proposed to be attempted in full paper……………..

Mr Justin Ray

Director of Projects

VIllage Well

VIC Australia

Abstract Title: Placemaking in a changing World

Abstract: Objective: Discuss how Place Making process’s and re-localisation of community resources can bring about a revolution in the ‘why, what and how’ of human consumption, city building & urban regeneration.

1. We’re hearing a passionate cry from communities who want to reshape and reconnect meaningfully with the places where they live, work and play.

2. In much of our work as developers, government authorities, consultants we advocate timeless principles that could if implemented ‘lock in’ a long term future for the places we want to create, but find that the outcomes often fall short of the promise due to a raft of reasons. Discuss where we think we are on the place-making spectrum and where we could be if the model were to shift.

3. Through a series of exemplar project case studies, explore models of place-making & place-management, urban transformation, land development and regeneration that ‘point the way’.

4. We propose a new model for making places that draws on our connection with nature and is underpinned by “the right of humanity and nature to co-exist in a healthy, supportive, diverse and sustainable condition”. We invite the audience to contribute to the new model on the spot.

Conclude with a short Q&A.

KEYWORDS: Place Making, Re-localisation, Place Management, Greenfield New Towns, Cities, Urban Regeneration, Education,Governance

Mr Peter Richards

Director

Deicke Richards

QLD Australia

Abstract Title: INVESTIGATING MEDIUM TO HIGH DENSITY HOUSING SOLUTIONS FOR SUBTROPICAL AND TROPICAL ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract: South East Queensland, the fastest growing metropolitan region of Australia, is undergoing significant change. The state government is responding to these challenges with regional planning policies requiring more efficient land use, via urban consolidation. Regional planning policy recognises that a range and mix of dwelling types will be necessary to achieve liveable, sustainable, compact urbanisation. This presentation will investigate a range of typologies for medium and high density developments for subtropical and tropical climates. These typologies have been developed through collaborative research projects by the Centre for Subtropical Design, a partnership between Brisbane City Council, Queensland University of Technology and the Department of Infrastructure and Planning.

Design exemplars have the potential to deliver significant benefits in terms of affordability, sustainable living and market appeal. The aim of the Subtropical Rowhouse Charrette and the Subtropical Urban Communities projects was to develop design principles and prototypes for medium and high density developments. Via a workshop process, design-led multi-disciplinary teams focused on the problem intensively over a short period, supported by technical advisors representing key consultants and stakeholders. Prototypes were assessed against the Green Building Council of Australia Green Star -Multi Unit Residential PILOT rating tool, providing design teams with a methodical basis for decision making on ecologically sustainable development (ESD) issues. This presentation will analyse the outputs of the workshops and the challenges of increasing residential density in a traditionally low density metropolitan region.

Mr Alvaro Rojas Vio

Adviser-Urban Designer

Ministry of Interior-Chile

Chile Chile

Abstract Title: Preventive Urban Design in Chile- An integral approach in vulnerable neighborhoods

Abstract:

Abstract

The real and perceived safety of people can be determined by the use of social space. Today, we need to start thinking about integrating the new functions of social space and how it relates to crime prevention. This includes the effect in the social and economic development of people in a determined context.

A three-year study in the Division of Public Safety of the Ministry of Interior of Chile has produced an evidence-based methodology with clear innovations in the diagnosis, design and evaluation process of what we call “Preventive Urban Design”

Specific objectives include implementing a model in vulnerable neighbourhoods of Chile with the community participation in all its phases, a strong institutional coordination, a focus on gender, diversity, equity and the eventual use of tools for measuring these parameters that relate to the reduction of fear perception and social cohesion in the urban space.

The method of investigation relies on four interdependent processes that are used to make a coherent link between the context, the physical projects and the possible social impacts related to them. The presentation of some case studies facilitates the understanding of the theme.

This proposal will address the continuous demand of better evidence and tools in order to assess policy implications, local governments and community empowerment. Furthermore, this process contributes to the field of urban planning and urban design by providing opportunities to undergraduate students to understand analytical, research and technical skills relevant to architects and social workers.

Mrs Juliana Rotmeyer

PhD student

The University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong Hong Kong

Abstract Title: Publicness of non-places: can elevated pedestrian walkways be sustainable within high-density urban environments?

Abstract: The transformation of Hong Kong Island into a high-density urban environment has resulted in layered networks of movement and infrastructure, where transient spaces accommodating movement among the masses have transformed the city into a series of places linked by non-places. This paper looks at the publicness of elevated pedestrian walkway systems in Asia Pacific cities and specifically in Central, Hong Kong, based on the notion of non-place. The challenge among high-density Asian Pacific cities is to provide sufficient public spaces as cities grow and develop. Public space in Asia differs from the Western interpretation of public space in that these spaces maintain mixed uses that alternate around the clock to fit the needs of the public inviting multiple uses to overlap as private and public merge. Where population densities are greater, there is a higher reliance on public space and public infrastructure. As connectors facilitating pedestrian movement, elevated pedestrian walkway systems are elevated public spaces within cites that provide safety and comfort for pedestrians. This paper examines how several Asian Pacific cities utilize elevated pedestrian walkways that function as non-places connecting destinations together, while others perform as networks that facilitate multiple mixed uses. It concludes by demonstrating how public infrastructure can often perform as non-places, yet has the potential to perform as sustainable urban design.

Keywords: publicness, elevated pedestrian walkways, sustainability, non-place

Mr Vafa Samadi

Graduated

khorasan Iran

Abstract Title: visual elements effect on imageability of the urban environment

Abstract: Abstract

This article is about the imagability of urban environment which is going to be held in holy city of Mashhad in Iran. There are lots of pilgrims who are travelling to Mashhad because of holly shrine whereas the quantity reaches 14,000,000 pilgrims in first two weeks of new years holidays . By this introduction, the goal in this article is to have a research on those factors and elements which affect urban environment imagability . This important goal is going to be achieved by analyzing visual-perceptual elements of urban environment on citizens. with due attention to form and texture and their characteristics , urban environments reveal different effects over citizens .These effects accompanied by the amount of achieved perception of environment lead to imagability of the city . By this imagability citizens are going to have the sense of affiliation, adaptation and others strengthened . In this article an adaptive archival method is used and also tried to research about effective environmental elements with attention to intellectual’s thoughts about landscape definition . Findings of this article prove this matter that visual perceptual elements - more than five Lynch’s elements – are concerning as visual syntaxes in city . So, in this article it is tried to introduce perceptual visual elements from urban design intellectual point of view according to different scale they studied about. The result of this article reveal that in built environment design we need to pay attention to visual perceptual precedence.

Mr Amir Shakibamanesh

teacher

Architecture College, University of Science and technology

Tehran Iran

Abstract Title: Key Urban Design Principles for Promoting City Center Quality

Abstract: Abstract:

After decades of distress and uncertainty, city centers are reclaiming their prominence as the focus of business, culture, and entertainment. The abundance of life, color, variety, and surprise makes cities the place to go to seek and discover, to entertain and be entertained, to see and be seen, to meet, learn, and enjoy. As a home to millions of people and an attraction for numerous visitors, the city center facilitates a wonderful human chemistry. Cities centers create special settings for entertainment and tourism and have the potential to stimulate local and regional economies.

But great city centers have not evolved by an accident, nor do they conform to a single planning template. This article, by using different applied and theoretical resources about city centers, and compilation, gathering and presenting strategies which can lead to creating a vibrant and dynamic city center, prepares more complete applied principle package in city centers design. Also introduces 15 main key principals for changing city centers to a successful public space, which can be used in different cities irrespective of their scale.

These principals can guide decisions that shape city center characteristic, as a high quality place for people, and use as a basis for evaluating each city center existing assets.

Key words: Urban design, City centers, Principals, Quality

Miss Aisha Sheikh

Environmental Graphic Designer

Ontario College of Art and Design

ON Canada

Abstract Title: Urban Design and the Future of Sustainable City in Kenya

Abstract: Aisha Sheikh

Department of Design, Ontario College of Art and Design

aisha@aishasheikh.com

Abstract

This paper discusses the importance of urban infrastructure in any city, using the lack of road safety in Kenya as a model for explanation. In Kenya, road accidents are the third leading cause of death, after AIDS and Malaria (Odero 1). What are the implications of an effective wayfinding and signage system with educated citizens and drivers? Studies in and about Kenya have proven that an effective