How nature is underpinning transit-oriented developments in Norwest
The importance of a nature-led approach to transit-oriented developments is key to transforming our urban landscape. This shift addresses critical concerns as our cities expand, emphasising the importance of nature in enhancing urban accessibility and liveability.
Sydney, particularly the Sydney Hills District, is witnessing a surge in developments centred around transport hubs. This is in line with the NSW Government’s plans to increase density around train and Metro stations. The challenge lies in ensuring community wellbeing remains a priority as we increase urban densities in convenient locations.
Clever planning can provide great opportunities to incorporate nature-led solutions into new developments. These range from green roofs and walls, which are great for insulating buildings, reducing air temperatures, and providing habitat for wildlife. In addition, permeable pavements can help reduce stormwater runoff while providing both cooling and aesthetic benefits.
The Hills Environment Strategy is based around the following planning priorities:
- protecting areas of high environmental value and significance
- increasing urban tree canopy cover
- managing natural resources and waste responsibly, and
- preparing residents for environmental and urban risks.
Planting more trees
Measures, such as tree planting, can help increase shade around transport hubs, encourage public activity and provide habitat for wildlife.
The Norwest region is a prime example of how nature-led transit-oriented developments are reshaping our cities. The new Norwest Metro station, combined with the ‘Nature in Motion’ initiative, has seen the integration of green infrastructure into the program, resulting in an increased green cover across the area. This includes 700 trees planted alongside walkways, green walls, and a Living Street Garden that provides an attractive outdoor space for commuters.
The Norwest Metro station is also the first in Australia to feature a ‘Nature Playground’, which includes both natural play spaces and objects of interest for children to explore. This initiative encourages visitors to engage with their environment in a safe and stimulating manner while also promoting physical activity.
The ‘Nature in Motion’ initiative demonstrates how well-designed transit-oriented developments can provide great amenity, while also providing environmental benefits such as improved air quality and reduced energy consumption.
Ultimately, nature-led approaches to urban planning should be at the centre of any new development project. This way, we can ensure that our cities remain liveable while also creating attractive and accessible public spaces for all to enjoy.
Developers, Mulpha Norwest, are committed to creating a vibrant and sustainable community. By integrating these principles into their projects in the region, Mulpha are ensuring that their developments are attractive, accessible, and resilient for generations to come.
Mulpha’s strategy for Norwest revolves around three key pillars:
- Urban Heat Island Effect (UHIE): Initiatives include increasing the tree canopy in Norwest to help mitigate the UHIE by reducing temperatures in Norwest by 2 degrees, creating a more comfortable outdoor environment.
- Vertical Development: Prioritising upward development of residential and commercial towers instead of outward expansion maximises landscaped ground areas and fosters a stronger connection to nature.
- The First and Last Green Mile: Leveraging natural assets, such as green spaces and waterways, and dedicating substantial sites to public open spaces ensures residents and workers have a healthier start or end to their commutes.
Achieving this vision necessitates collaboration among state and local governments and the property industry. Striking the right balance between increased density and environmentally friendly, healthy cities is the collective goal.
Author: Kerrie Sheaves
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