What is a neighborhood plan?

In an environmentally friendly neighborhood, a vibrant, energetic community flourishes. People of all ages live there—families with children, couples, individuals, and retirees—because of the diverse housing and living arrangement options. The area boasts nearby shopping and services, bustling daily life, entertainment, and sports activities. In an environmentally friendly neighborhood, the residents have actively participated in shaping their immediate environment.

An environmentally friendly neighborhood respects its architectural history, cityscape, and street view. The area has one or more city streets and neighborhood centers with diverse commerce and services. The main streets of the neighborhood have been redesigned to accommodate all modes of travel, with greenery, good lighting, and benches. Public spaces, such as play and outdoor recreation areas, are in the neighborhood, and walking paths are sheltered thanks to trees and structures. In an environmentally friendly, residents have opportunities for urban farming, growing vegetables on both plots and municipal land.

Transportation in an environmentally friendly neighborhood prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation. Public transport stops are within reasonable walking distance for all residents in the area. Public transport is frequent, and a dense network of bike and walking paths connects the city. Busy roads are safe, speed limits are in force, and parking spaces are arranged to make efficient use of valuable land. Residents of an environmentally friendly neighborhood use eco-friendly forms of transportation, reducing suspended particulates, air pollution, and noise as a result.

In an environmentally friendly neighborhood, ecosystems and natural areas are cared for. Biodiversity and balance are maintained. Interesting geological formations and vegetation are protected and measures are taken to prevent pollution from reaching sensitive areas. Waterfront neighborhoods—see, rivers, or lakes—allow native nature to thrive. Rainwater is managed with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and directed through the neighborhood in streams and ponds. Archaeological and cultural heritage as well as interesting houses and street views are protected.

In an environmentally friendly neighborhood, residents use energy and resources sustainably. Greenhouse gas emissions are minimized, and urban vegetation sequesters carbon from the atmosphere. Eco-friendly energy sources are used efficiently, and waste is sorted and recycled. Residents have walking access to nearby recycling drop-off points where they can trade useful items. The area has charging stations for electric cars and easy access to shared vehicles. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a crucial part of the City's strategy, which aims to be carbon-neutral by 2040.

When building new structures in an environmentally friendly neighborhood, eco-friendly solutions and materials are used. Older structures are allowed to change and evolve with additions, maintenance, and new eco-friendly solutions. Part of this is adapting the insulation of older structures to improve energy efficiency. This approach reduces the negative impact of construction on the environment and nature while making the urban environment more human-friendly and healthy.

An environmentally friendly neighborhood is planned with potential natural disasters in mind—earth movements, floods, and storms due to climate change. New buildings are located outside known fault areas and away from avalanche and landslide risk zones. Rising sea levels are taken into account, and measures are taken to reduce the risk of flooding. Trees are planted to hold soil and temper wind, and the cityscape is shaped to provide shelter and reduce the hazard to people and property.