2 The Urban Context in the Matamata-Piako District
2.1 The Desired Future Pattern of Growth
With the increasing pressure for growth in our towns, Council wishes to promote the concept of ‘smart growth’ with respect to development of the urban areas. Smart growth considers:
- Growth management
- Future planning strategies
- Prevention of urban sprawl
- Walkable neighbourhoods
- Transparent, predictable, fair and cost-effective rules for development
- Heritage preservation
These concepts work to ensure that development is well integrated, energy and resource efficient, and retains flexibility for future growth.