State introduces mandatory “walkable” regulations
A Mandatory Planning (Walkable Neighbourhoods) Amendment Regulation 2020 will commence on September 28. This inserts a new schedule into the Planning Act regulations.
The regulation will apply to new urban residential subdivision with road construction. More stringent local planning scheme requirements will override the new state provisions.
The Institute has been involved in consultation during the initial drafting of the provisions in 2019.
The new minimum benchmarks require:
- Grid-like street patterns connecting to surrounding and future roads and paths
- A maximum block length of 250 metres
- Street trees – a minimum of 1 tree per 15m each side of a new road
- Footpaths – if a new road provides direct lot access footpaths are to be provided on at least 1 side of the road
- Access to existing or new park/s within 400 metres of each part of a block.
Although noted as “mandatory”, some of the benchmarks such as grid like patterns, connections, and access to parks requirements, are required to the extent permitted by topography and other physical constraints.
The regulations are intended to ensure the reconfiguration supports convenient and comfortable walking for transport, recreation, leisure, and exercise in the locality of new lots.
Full detail of the regulation is available here.
Any feedback can be provided to Policy Manager, Martin Zaltron via email or on (07) 3229 1589.
Contact Martin