With the emergence of the “new normal”, green is the new black. If there are silver linings to the dark cloud of Covid-19, a major one is the increased attention to some of our most precious resources. More people are out enjoying open spaces, bushlands and waterways to relax, exercise, walk, cycle and run.
This increased attention has also focused on the quality of local green and blue spaces and the multiple benefits they deliver. The green space network of a city provides space and place for people and nature. It’s these green spaces and places that are a city’s most valuable resource, delivering ecological, social, economic and health benefits. Keeping our cities cooler, our residents healthier and happier, connecting habitat and supporting multiple aspects of our local economies.
Otium Planning Group has been involved in open space planning, social infrastructure planning and master planning projects across Australia for many years. We have advocated strongly that integrating and protecting green infrastructure within urban environments is critical for a healthy city and that the importance of connecting people with open space through local walkability, should be a key priority for urban planning.
We are excited to see State Governments taking note and the increased attention leading to new policy and strategy. In particular, NSW has been taking a strong lead, creating the Greener Places Strategy, the newly released Design Guide and now a significant incentive for action through a funding program. A program that invests in this valuable resource and helps address some of the economic impacts of Covid-19.
NSW has launched a $250 million NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program which may make other states “green with envy.” Funding for the planning, design, construction or land acquisition costs for new and existing public and open space will be offered to 68 eligible councils across the state. This funding will help create jobs and leave a legacy of safe, quality public and open space. Giving more options for people to find their “special place” by creating environments that are green, clean and captivating.
This new funding program will help incentivise green space investment and no doubt will be competitive. If you require assistance in your public open space planning, including submissions under the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program, please contact us at nsw@otiumplanning.com.au.