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Introduction

This urban design case study examines the Addison housing development in Takanini, a suburb of Papakura, Auckland. Addison is part of a series of case studies that demonstrate the value of quality urban design for communities, the environment and the local economy.

Addison has been chosen because it is a good example of a medium density, greenfield residential development in New Zealand. The Addison development incorporates best practice urban design principles with a range of housing typologies aimed at creating a sense of place and community. Addison also demonstrates the practical application of urban design principles that use the New Zealand Urban Design Protocol’s ‘Seven Cs’: context, character, choice, connections, creativity, custodianship, and collaboration. The design process, issues, challenges and lessons learnt from creating this type of development are also detailed.

This case study discusses several challenges that were faced during the design process and development of Addison. These included changes to the masterplan to meet the requirements of the Papakura District Council Takanini Structure Plan.

Unique design elements of Addison include:

  • the use of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles in the masterplan
  • the creation of highly connected road networks that are both transport and pedestrian friendly
  • two-storeyed houses situated on compact sites that face the street or communal open spaces
  • low impact stormwater treatment.

This case study shows that the Addison development has been successful in establishing a strong sense of community, and is attracting an increased diversity of people to Takanini. Recent questionnaires conducted with the residents of Addison indicate they enjoy the strong sense of community that is present and the interaction with other residents. Economic studies on Addison show the property values of houses are much higher than that of similar houses in the Takanini area. Sales records show prices for complete house and land packages in Addison have exceeded expectations, and are well above the initial sales prices of $300,000.

This case study strongly suggests that the incorporation of quality urban design principles into the design and planning of subdivisions can result in:

  • significant economic returns
  • more cohesive communities
  • high levels of amenity and satisfaction amongst residents.

The case study also highlights the importance of having mutual consensus between developers and councils to ensure the smooth running of a project of this type and scale.

This case study was written by consultants who are external to the Ministry for the Environment, with input from those involved in the Addison development project. Therefore, the views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of the Ministry.

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