Place approach

The City is committed to creating great, liveable places that people feel proud of, connected to and happy to spend time in. We have been listening to our community, and you’ve told us what matters most. You want places that feel unique, reflect the history and character of your local neighbourhood, and strengthen your sense of belonging. Places that feel welcoming, familiar and reflecting local identity.

Our Place Approach

The City's Place Approach is a City-wide way of working that helps create vibrant, distinctive places and strong, connected neighbourhoods. It responds to local needs and guides how we plan, design and improve public spaces. 

Empowered by the City's Place Strategy, we’re working to create neighbourhoods where people want to stay longer, hang out locally, and feel safe, comfortable and at home.

View Place Strategy 2023-2027
Vision image

Vision for great places

Great places are: 

  • Welcoming and safe, for people of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Reflective of local stories, culture and history. 
  • Designed for everyday life, not just passing through. 
  • Lively and well-loved, with reasons to visit, gather and return. 
  • Where people feel a sense of identity and pride. 
  • Places where everyday spaces invite connection, activity and rest. 
  • Where the community sees themselves reflected in how a place looks and feels.

This is why we’re working together to create GREAT places!

Successful place image

Successful places

Great public spaces share four key qualities: 

  1. Accessible: They are accessible and people are engaged in activities.
  2. Comfort and image: The place is comfortable and has a good image.
  3. Sociability: It is a sociable place, one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit.
  4. Access and linkages: Is easy to get to and get through.

Learn more