'Precinct Planning and Design Standards (PPDS) in a coastal area': The development, planning and design process of a medium-sized coastal precinct incorporating community facilities and infrastructure

Abstract

This paper reviews a pilot study report on the planning and design process for a medium-sized mixed use coastal precinct. The development known as the Noosa North Shore Eco Tourism Portal is located in Queensland Australia. It was chosen to consider how a precinct planning and design standard might be employed to meet a need for a tool that gives consideration to a perception, that where sustainability principles are being applied there needs to be a means by which the outcomes of such drivers can be benchmarked and certified as industry best practice for ecological performances. Also considered is the role of a planning and design standard and what are its goals, aims and objectives and how do they translate into those of development? How will the standard reflect the needs of developer and stakeholders involved in the provision of these types of precinct? It also comments on the process of benchmarking and certification of a development and how this will impact on the planning and design inputs required in satisfying third party criteria? The conclusion is a consideration of some of the major lessons to be taken from the pilot study regarding key focus areas in the development of a Precinct Planning and Design Standard (PPDS). © 2007 WIT Press.