Developers need to be clear and open about their objectives when involving the community and about where the boundaries of community influence lie.

Background

Sustainable development is not just about curbing pollution or designing the most energy efficient building using the greenest materials. It should also involve local people in making decisions about their homes, workplaces and local environment. The cohesiveness of communities is often greatly strengthened through collective action.

All local authorities now have to consider sustainable development when they undertake reviews of their services or respond to development proposals. They also have powers to promote the social, economic and environmental well being of their areas and are obliged to prepare a Community Strategy in partnership with different agencies and voluntary and community groups.

These strategies tend to highlight health, crime, environment and transport as priority issues, which in turn can often be addressed through the building design and development control processes.

The majority of developments have an impact upon their neighbours and on the facilities of the wider neighbourhood. In this respect, it is the role of the planning system to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the community. It should make sure that appraisals for larger development proposals incorporate adequate improvements to local facilities (such as transport, schools, parks and health care). It is also possible for communities to initiate developments themselves. For example, to provide or improve a specific local facility, perhaps through self build projects or Community Development Trusts.

Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community. (Antony J Angelo)

Forces for change

• Increasing pressure on public services.
• Greater expectation upon local authorities to engage with their communities.
• UK Sustainable Communities Strategy and Action Plan (2003) -sets out policies, partnerships & resources for assisting communities to thrive.
• The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (esp. section 17) - places a responsibility on local authorities to audit crime and publish strategies to reduce it.
• Requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act (1995 - Part 3)
• New information and communication technologies -likely to facilitate more flexible working practices.
• The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act (2004) - requires statements of community involvement.
• Increased flexibility of new accommodation designed to cater for changing circumstances, especially in household and business sizes.
• Public funding is increasingly being channelled through programmes which tap local people’s views and skills.