Recognise urban design

United Nations Habitat has been following professionalism closely since one of its four themes is Urban Design. Lessons can be learned from Netherlands, UK, Sweden, and New Zealand.

The 2010 report to the UN General Assembly articulates conclusions. UNH Country Evaluations make special mention of city design techniques, effectiveness, accelerated learning for better practices, and internationally recognised professionalism. This is fundamental to the Habitat Professionals Forum.

For more information see www.unhabitat.org/content.as p?typeid=19&catid=594&cid=6886

Much of the benefit of professional approaches lies in consultation with trans-disciplinary practitioners concerned with sustainable urban development. I understand that AILA has had limited or no consultation within Australia with the various bodies actively involved in urban design practice and teaching.

My doctorate study ‘Sustainable Cities and Surrounds: Creating Responsive Institutions’ is concerned with accelerated learning. I have profiled many systems, institutions and countries, and this proposal by AILA appears on ‘face value’ to be heading in the wrong direction. I seek the opportunity to facilitate some discussion, workshop and possible ways forward so that Australia can be an urban professional leader, not a laggard.