Purpose

This Knowledge Builder sets out the background to density as a tool of planning. It describes how a superficially simple concept – the ratio of people to area – is actually fraught with difficulty in application and how, as a result, a more locally sensitive approach is now emerging in central and regional planning guidance and local development frameworks.

Benefits

Residential density has been a concern of planning for over 100 years. In that time attention has shifted from using density as a tool to achieve lower densities to trying to achieve higher densities. Increasing housing development and protecting undeveloped land are key government policy objectives. This paradox is partly resolved through the emphasis upon the use of previously developed (brownfield) land and upon increasing housing development densities.

Related Solutions

Audience

Urban and regional planners and all those wishing to build and assess their knowledge of the topic.

Learning method

A topical issue dealt with in depth. It provides a thorough understanding of the issues involved with the density of housing. Additionally an extensive list of associated web references is provided for those who wish to become expert in the subject. Includes voluntary self assessment for recording continuous professional development (CPD).

Time to Complete

2 hours

Length

7 pages

Participants

1

Price

£10 Pounds Sterling
(inc. VAT)