Part I: Urban Design Guidelines for All Subdivision and Development in the District

8 Neighbourhood Design

8.1 Access to Community Services and Facilities

Residents require access to community facilities and services to meet their daily needs and to participate in community activities. These activities would normally be clustered in areas that are well connected and easily accessible to the surrounding residential neighbourhoods. Where community services and facilities (such as shops, schools, libraries, and health facilities) already exist, new subdivisions should be well connected to them with a focus on providing convenient access.

Facilities within walking distance of residents can encourage walking and reduce the use of motor vehicles. This also allows those who are non-drivers (children, the elderly, and those with disabilities) opportunities to independently access community facilities.

Developers should consider the following design elements:

• Take advantage of strategic locations adjacent to collector roads and intersections to develop local centres containing retail, service, employment, education, and community facilities
• Where local facilities do not already exist, stimulate them by providing central areas that are easily accessible