Overcoming the "fear of density": vegetational diversity in residential developments in the densifying city.
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| Title: | Overcoming the "fear of density": vegetational diversity in residential developments in the densifying city. |
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| Authors: | Te Tana, M.1 (AUTHOR), Freeman, C.2 (AUTHOR) claire.freeman@vuw.ac.nz, van Heezik, Y.3 (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Journal of Environmental Planning & Management. Mar2026, Vol. 69 Issue 3, p748-768. 21p. |
| Subjects: | Housing development, Urban density, Population density, Open spaces, Environmental degradation, Green infrastructure, Soil permeability, Plant diversity |
| Geographic Terms: | New Zealand |
| Abstract: | The pressure for more affordable housing has resulted in intensification of residential development and biodiversity loss. Using seven medium-density housing developments in three New Zealand cities, we explore the relationship between medium-density and greenspace quality. We also compare the sites pre- and post-development to determine the extent of loss of permeable space. In six developments for which we had pre and post-data, percentage loss ranged from 12% to 67%. The development with the highest housing density (82 units/ha) had very poor vegetation quality. However, there was no correlation between density and vegetation quality for those with less than 60 units/ha, indicating potential for improving the ecological value of permeable areas. Medium-density developments prioritising communal space had the highest provision of permeable space. We offer some recommendations on the application of biodiverse-sensitive design and planning principles to support biodiverse human living environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Engineering Source |
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| Abstract: | The pressure for more affordable housing has resulted in intensification of residential development and biodiversity loss. Using seven medium-density housing developments in three New Zealand cities, we explore the relationship between medium-density and greenspace quality. We also compare the sites pre- and post-development to determine the extent of loss of permeable space. In six developments for which we had pre and post-data, percentage loss ranged from 12% to 67%. The development with the highest housing density (82 units/ha) had very poor vegetation quality. However, there was no correlation between density and vegetation quality for those with less than 60 units/ha, indicating potential for improving the ecological value of permeable areas. Medium-density developments prioritising communal space had the highest provision of permeable space. We offer some recommendations on the application of biodiverse-sensitive design and planning principles to support biodiverse human living environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 09640568 |
| DOI: | 10.1080/09640568.2024.2403136 |
