US delegation trip report presented to Assembly


Released 25/07/2017

Minister for Planning and Land Management, Mick Gentleman today reported on February’s Urban Renewal delegation visit to United States and Canada to the Legislative Assembly.

“Following the nine day visit to America and Canada earlier this year, I am pleased to be able to present a full report back to the Legislative Assembly to illustrate the valuable learnings from this trip,” Minister Gentleman said.

The delegation visit to cities including Tucson, Portland, Seattle and Vancouver highlighted a number of synergies between Canberra in areas such as light rail, transit-oriented development, active travel and affordable housing.

“The investment in public space and amenity made Vancouver a really attractive city. With water and views to the mountains, there were many similarities to Canberra, but on a larger scale. Canberra has the potential to incorporate characteristics of the urban successes of Vancouver, just in an inland city way...in a Canberra way.” Said Zillah Gisz on Vancouver, a Delegate member representing the Australian Institute of Architects.

“The delegation toured a number of cities that showcased best practice urban design, transport planning and sustainable development. Of particular value for the ACT Government and associated delegation members, was seeing successful light rail outcomes firsthand in these cities,” Minister Gentleman said.

The most prominent link between our cities was light rail.  Expansion of light network in each and every city visited was being planned or implemented which further defined our major infrastructure project as a long term, prosperous plan that will certainly benefit the ACT community for the future.

“It is important that as we continue to grow as a city, we look at different ways of planning for growth.  Getting the transport needs right for a growing city is vital for investment and economic activity,” Minister Gentleman said.

“The ACT Government must continue to stimulate economic growth for Canberra through appropriate planning, and we must also continue to activate our existing precincts and encourage urban renewal,” Minister Gentleman said.

The planning and development delegation visit confirmed the direction set by this government for urban renewal and future transport planning. Direct associations made during the visit confirmed that many of our city’s plans are on the right track. These associations will continue to guide delegates’ professional contribution to the future of Canberra.

“I would like to thank the contribution of delegation members including representatives from the Master Builders Association (ACT), the Australian Institute of Architects (ACT) representatives from Cox Architecture and the University of Canberra, Canberra Business Chamber and Community Housing Canberra. It was invaluable to have a strong representation from Canberra for this important visit and I thank those delegates for their commitment to Canberra,” Minister Gentleman said.

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases


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