Integrating Green Infrastructure What is “green infrastructure”? ‘Green infrastructure’ are those
Green Infrastructure and Masterplans ‘A robust and imaginative spatial development framework or ‘masterplan’ is essential to creating somewhere that functions as an integrated place…[and] must
design elements that contribute
specify how infrastructure (streets, spaces, utilities, community facilities) and
to the delivery of the Green
components (blocks, plots, buildings) relate to each other and how together they
Network within developments, brought together in a place-making
will deliver a vision.’ (Delivering Better Places in Scotland, Scottish Government, 2010)
masterplan. Green infrastructure design elements help to create ‘a robust and imaginative’
Typically green infrastructure design
masterplan. Green infrastructure design elements can add value to both ‘infrastructure’
elements are
and ‘components’ in a masterplan.
• water management • access networks • habitat networks • green and open space • stewardship over time
Why is “integration” necessary? “The design of external spaces is as important a masterplan consideration as the
What are the benefits of IGI?
design of the buildings…Unfortunately, in some proposals it was evident that
For planners:
the landscape had been dealt with as an afterthought, and that open spaces were
Planning applications that deliver
residual – the parts left over once road and plot layouts had been determined” (Design Review Masterplans, Architecture & Design Scotland)
policy: easier assessment of planning applications
The Green Network, and the green infrastructure that helps to deliver the Green
For developers:
Network, must not be an afterthought if sustainable places where people want to
A clear design brief: provides
live and work are to be delivered. Too often the design process is dominated by road
confidence that proposals meet
transport considerations at the expense of green infrastructure design elements. Our approach seeks to provide the tools and structures necessary to allow green
planning requirements
infrastructure design elements to be weighed alongside other development
For residents:
considerations, based on defendable analysis of existing conditions and opportunities
Places where people are proud
that can be delivered through good design solutions.
to live; that encourage active lifestyles; and, provide havens for wildlife
www.gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk
enquiries@gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk