World Town Planning Day 2018

World Town Planning Day dates back to 1949, when Professor Carlos Maria della Paolera of Buenos Aires launched it in order to promote the value of planning all over the world. Since its inception, World Town Planning Day has grown and is now celebrated in over 30 countries across the globe.

What is town planning?

According to The National Geographic Society, town planning, also referred to as urban planning, is ‘the process of creating or improving the natural, built, economic, and social environments of urban areas.’

Why is town planning important?

Town planning is an integral part of creating and expanding our societies. Urban planning forms the foundation of our environments. Town planners use their skills and expertise to help businesses, governments and members of the public create communities. They ensure they successfully incorporate the necessary services and facilities which includes accounting for transportation services and facilities, health-care facilities, housing, open spaces and areas for both retail and industrial businesses.

Town Planning and Housebuilding

While town planning can involve a number of considerations within an area, including new transport links, energy facilities and urban spaces, it also has significant implications for the housebuilding sector. With the increased demand for new housing in the UK, it is unquestionable that town planning will grow as an linchpin to enable new developments to flourish. Town planning becomes particularly important when considering the increased presence of mixed-use developments. It is not uncommon to now hear about mixed-use schemes incorporating elements of new housing, social housing and certain infrastructure such as roads, bridges and major drainage systems. The UK’s evident drive for more places to live is clearly driving town planning back into the spotlight.