Planning - Economic
The planning system is a mechanism for linking national and local goals within a sustainable development context. Many government and regional strategies also have an impact. For example the Regional Economic Strategies prepared by the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) have a role in prioritising areas for investment. Funding for regeneration and the various assessment criteria of schemes will also direct investment to some extent. Urban Regeneration Companies increasingly play a role in setting and achieving objectives locally. The introduction to this section gives information on central government guidance, plans, development control and building control.
For large scale housing, mixed use and civil projects, report on relevant factors in regional or local economic strategy, and how development will promote viability.
Quality developments can kick-start or add value to regeneration projects. To boost an area and encourage private investment RDAs and local authorities often use leisure and cultural developments, pieces of infrastructure and community developments.
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge (demonstration number 162) is an opening bridge spanning 130 metres across the River Tyne at quay level linking commercial and leisure developments on either side of the river.
Two decks carry a footway and a mixed use path supported from a vertical arch rising to 45 metres above river level. When open, the bridge allows vessels of up to 25 metres air draught to pass. Local plans for the economic regeneration of the area drove the project. New buildings and refurbishments in the area, such as The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, would be less viable without it.
Quality in design and construction was a requirement of the project from inception. This was particularly relevant as the bridge set the standard for redevelopment proposals in the Gateshead Quays regeneration area. Economically it is often the case that the local vision must be delivered by both public and private sectors, as neither sector is able independently to plan and deliver sustainable development. Ensuring that combined public and private developments deliver on sustainable objectives is a current challenge.