Urban planning is a field that constantly evolves to meet the growing needs of cities and their residents. In this episode of ‘The Residential Developer Podcast,’ Eli Gescheit, Director at Navon Planning, shared his expert insights on current town planning trends, upcoming regulatory changes, and practical advice for developers.
Current Town Planning and Development Trends and Challenges
Eli Gescheit kicked off the discussion by noting that urban planners today must navigate a complex landscape that includes regulatory frameworks, community engagement and sustainability goals. One of the major trends is the integration of smart city technologies, which aim to improve urban living through enhanced connectivity and data-driven decision-making. However, these advancements come with challenges such as ensuring data security and managing the digital divide.
Low Rise Changes Coming in July 2024
A significant topic discussed in the podcast was the upcoming low-rise changes set to take effect in July 2024. Eli explained that these are designed to streamline the approval process for low-rise buildings. The new regulations will provide standardised building requirements across different councils, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and accelerating project timelines.
Practical Advice from Eli Gescheit
Eli shared the importance of understanding council approvals and the critical role of a competent town planner. According to Eli, having a ‘dream team’—a group of skilled professionals who can collaborate effectively—is essential for successful development projects. He also highlighted the importance of thorough due diligence before purchasing a site. This step can uncover potential issues early on, saving developers time and money in the long run.
Pre-Development Application Advice
Before lodging a DA, Eli recommends seeking pre-DA advice from a town planner. This proactive approach helps identify potential roadblocks and prepares developers for the approval process. Eli suggests conducting a detailed site analysis, considering factors like zoning laws, heritage restrictions, and environmental impacts.
Advice for Aspiring Developers
Eli talks about how understanding the regulatory environment is crucial. Aspiring developers should familiarise themselves with local planning laws and regulations to navigate the approval process effectively. Building strong relationships with stakeholders—including councils, community groups, and other developers—is also vital. Finally, Eli stressed the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, encouraging new developers to embrace the challenges and opportunities each project presents.
