Sustainability is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s becoming a core requirement in how we plan, design, and deliver our cities. From environmental performance and emissions to social outcomes and governance frameworks, ESG is reshaping the way developments are assessed and approved. As urban planners, we sit right at the intersection of these priorities — translating policy into real, measurable outcomes on the ground. Whether it’s embedding climate resilience into masterplan

Placemaking in theory is a process through which planners work together with community stakeholders to shape our public spaces. A place-maker approach that includes the buildings, space, and life makeup the key essence of the place-making approach. In a simple context, place-making is a process through which planners can work with all stakeholders and partners of a community to shape its public spaces. When considering a concept such as the people-centred approach where build

We are often asked whether an office tenancy can be converted into a medical centre without planning approval. In NSW, this type of proposal is treated as a change of use to a “medical centre / health services facility” and will almost always require formal approval, along with building-code and health-related compliance. DA vs Exempt vs CDC NSW exempt change-of-use provisions generally apply only to low-impact changes within business or retail categories. A change from offic

We are often asked whether a warehouse can be used as a gym, Pilates studio, yoga studio or fitness facility without planning approval. In NSW, this type of proposal is generally treated as a change of use and, in most cases, formal approval is required. How the use is classified Warehouses are typically approved as warehouse or distribution centre uses, or as light industrial/storage uses under local environmental plans (LEPs). By contrast, a gym or studio is usually classif

Like many cities around the world, to plan for future growth of cities as well as incorporating United Nations sustainable development goals. Every city including Sydney drafted a master plan with a vision. Cities are organised so that many people can reach one another, and important destinations, in a short amount of time, whether on foot, or by bike, bus, train, ferry, or car. The most accessible cities maximise the destinations people can reach in a reasonable amount of ti

Urban planning is at a crossroads. As cities expand and populations grow, the need for sustainable practices in urban development has never been more critical. Sustainability in urban planning is not just a trend; it is a necessity for creating livable, resilient, and environmentally friendly cities. This blog post explores the importance of sustainability in urban planning, the challenges faced, and successful examples from around the world. Understanding Sustainability in U

In the realm of property development, success hinges not just on the physical structures erected but also on the relationships built along the way. Engaging stakeholders effectively can significantly enhance project outcomes, ensuring that developments meet community needs while also aligning with investor expectations. This blog post explores the importance of strategic stakeholder engagement in property development, offering practical insights and examples to illustrate its