What You Need to Know About Town Planning
The challenging task of designing, planning, implementing and managing all facets of development and land use for towns, cities and larger metropolitan areas forms the basis of what town planning is all about. However, for the town planners at our award-winning consultancy, The Practice Group, in Pretoria, creating attractive, hygienic, equal and comfortable living environments for present and future generations alike makes the task exciting, inspiring and rewarding.
Town Planning is a Collaborative Effort
Building an entire town or city, whether from the initial or developmental stages, is a team effort. Government departments, private-public partnerships, economists, environmentalists and many other professionals collaborate with local citizens. Community involvement is essential as the results of town planning serve the interests of the population first and foremost.
Balancing Conflicting Objectives
Town planning involves having to control existing, proposed and future developments with the entire team and constantly meet the needs of communities by factoring in:
- The needs of a growing community
- Anticipated growth and urban population expansion
- Economic growth and resultant lifestyle changes
- Changes in population demographics
- Conservation considerations, including enhancements to the natural environment
- The prevention of pollution and health issues
Town planners, utilise innovative solutions for complex situations to act as mediators between the professionals and communities involved. They reconcile differing opinions by integrating strategies that meet the expectations of all parties. Successful town planning and intensive mediation can promote and facilitate regeneration, help to establish and sustain communities, create new living areas and champion environmental protection.
The Planning Phases
When planning and designing large areas like towns and cities, town planning services are essential. Town planners need to evaluate sourced data and plan or consult on a plan for the entire public space. Following consultations with the team and after evaluating the collated information, they need to consider where to best allocate zones.
The process of allocating appropriate land use for zoning begins with legislation. Town planners must comply with current and proposed rules and regulations, government statutes and policies for the appropriate distribution and usage of land space. They need to consider current, mid- and long-term special planning and land use for different purposes which include:
- Residential zoning – for the construction of free-standing homes, closed community living and multi-story apartment dwelling
- Municipal zoning – accommodating police, fire and traffic law enforcement and emergency services, as well as community, medical, legal and administrative facilities.
- Industrial and commercial zoning – space allocated for warehouses, manufacturing, offices and retail outlets
Harnessing our combined skills, specialised knowledge and ethical conduct while integrating fundamental town planning techniques has made us a leading consultancy in South Africa. Should your community, town or city require specialised advice, consult with The Practice Group.
Contact Us About Town Planning