Despite adopting the goal of creating medium-density neighbourhoods to end urban sprawl, our cities have struggled to achieve it. Confused debates about ‘good density’ are part of the problem.
Pressure for more housing often runs up against a desire to preserve urban heritage areas. International best practice offers ways to navigate the impasse.
Timothy Welch, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
New Zealand’s Medium Density Residential Standards already didn’t go far enough. But by abandoning bipartisan support for them, National risks throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
Timothy Welch, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
New Zealand’s urban green space has dwindled over the past six decades. The Commissioner for the Environment has issued a warning and a challenge – get greener before climate change gets meaner.
Ageing brick apartment buildings of two to three storeys are being redeveloped in many suburbs. Typically, they are knocked down to be replaced by much bigger developments. But here’s an alternative.
Affordable housing has become a middle-class problem, and Ontario’s latest housing report reflects an approach that continues to marginalize those with the greatest need.