“In a well-ordered city, the streets should be laid out with regard to safety, convenience and beauty, so that all the needs of the citizens are met and their lives enriched.”
Hippodamus of Miletus, ancient Greek urban planner, known as ‘The father of urban planning.’ 5th century BC.
Planning in a Nutshell
Not sure what Town Planning entails?
Here’s Uplift Planning’s 2 minute read to ‘Planning in a Nutshell.’
Town planning might seem like a complex rules and regulations’ maze. However, at its core it’s simply about shaping the places we work, live and play.
Though you may think people used to build wherever they wanted, town planning isn’t new. In fact, you only need to look at ancient Rome’s grid layout, or Paris and London’s grand designs to see how far back it dates.
Even humbler societies need strategic planning as they become more complex over time. A great example is Douglas Quay. What started life as a modest fishing and trading harbour soon needed better dock facilities and enhanced transport links. By the early 19th century, multiple pubs and inns had therefore sprung up along the waterfront, necessary to accommodate weary sailors.
However, following the war, the Island shifted into a holiday, then a commercial destination. This meant planners needed to develop the area to balance historical context with contemporary, multi-use need. The result is what we see today – smart pedestrian walkways, a picturesque marina and modern properties designed to coexist with the old.
What this story tells us is that planning is essential, creating the structured growth and development framework communities need. From this point of view, though a city without well-considered planning might sound quaint, perhaps a little like Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, it would more likely be chaotic, congested and lacking essential services.
Instead, good planning makes sure homes, businesses and recreational spaces are well-placed and efficiently connected. It’s about creating harmony between the built environment and the natural world so communities can thrive. It’s also where planning enforcement policy comes in…
Planning enforcement – what it is and why it matters…
Contrary to what people might believe, planning enforcement isn’t designed to impose burdensome restrictions; regulation is a fair and sustainable necessity. Enforcement ensures that policies and laws are followed, which protects both the environment and public welfare.
And of course, expert planners are the artists and architects of this process. We help join the dots by understanding local needs and translating them into practical solutions, considering everything from environmental impact to aesthetic appeal. Our job is to navigate the best course and find the best solution – so you don’t have to.
Working with a professional planner is therefore a brilliant place to begin any building project. A skilled planner can remove the overwhelm and bring in clarity and confidence, aligning your project with both your vision and regulatory requirements.
Ultimately, good planning is all about the uplift – and whether that’s an uplifting experience, an uplift in your property value or both, it’s what Uplift Planning loves to do.
My name’s Ste Stanley, Uplift Planning’s CEO, built environment expert and a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, solution orientated partner to your planning query, click below.
