A study tour by Town Planner David Turnbull from Victoria’s City of Whittlesea has resulted in the publication of a book titled ‘International Planning Theory vs Practice’.
David’s tour took him to Britain, Europe and Canada where he observed the effects of planning decisions. Whittlesea is situated in a growth corridor of Melbourne.
Just 12 months ago the new Council offices were surrounded by paddocks, now Melbourne’s residential development has swept past to the North. Over 120 new homes are being built each month with an anticipated population growth of 30,000 in the next 10 years.
Mayor John Fry said that Whittlesea is not just in the business of building new suburbs for Melbourne but is primarily there to build communities.
“These are not just neighbourhoods with homes, roads and a corner shop,” he said. “They are places where you can live, study, work, shop, access transport and government services, and enjoy sport recreation, the arts and entertainment all just a short walk or drive from home.
“This Council and its professional officers recognise that the care and expertise we put into planning today has an enormous effect on whether this is a nice place to live, 10, 20 or 50 years from now.
He said David Turnbull’s tour and documentation of his experience has brought international practice to bear on Whittlesea’s planning. “Study tours like this one are an integral component of the development of our senior staff,” the Mayor said. He said the book is an up to date resource for anyone in the business of planning a new neighbourhood, suburb or city.
Launching the book, Victorian Minister for Planning and Local Government, Robert Maclellan, said that David Turnbull has given a good coverage of best practice from overseas but best practice is also right here where he started in Whittlesea.
For further information contact David Turnbull, telephone (03) 9217 2369.
