URPS's core areas of expertise and a summary of many of the key projects we have undertaken in each of these areas are provided below.
Master PlanningA master plan provides a planning and design framework which is used to guide the development of a site. The plan may be viewed as a 'road map' for the future of a site and is very often an important precursor to the creation of successful Development Plan policy.
Master planning involves careful site analysis; detailed consideration of opportunities and constraints; skilled market research; and thorough consultation with key stakeholders.
The fundamental premise of a site analysis is that every aspect of a site has characteristics that are either suitable or unsuitable -to varying degrees-for the land use activities being planned. The intent of the site analysis is therefore to take advantage of the landscape's attributes, while avoiding unsuitable locations where conflicts or incompatibilities are, or can reasonably be, expected.
Master planning is considered by many to be the truest test of planning skills. This is based on the notion that the best master plans achieve an excellent balance between social, environmental and economic objectives and are also sufficiently flexible to respond to and/or guide change.
URPS's strengths in terms of strong communication, flexibility and accessibility serve us well in our master planning work.
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URPS is highly regarded for its strategic policy development, which, at its core, addresses the following questions: 'Where are we now?', 'Where do we want to be in the future?' and 'How will we get there?'
In seeking to answer these questions it is necessary to:
- define the challenge
- form the team needed to address the challenge
- identify and involve key stakeholders
- analyse and synthesise the challenge and other influences
- deliver appropriately tailored outcomes
This work is far more analytical and far-reaching than traditional land use planning as it provides plans that explore issues in the most innovative way possible and can be used to channel resources to best effect. Strategic policy work is therefore often used to determine the provision of community services and associated funding; inform Development Plan Amendments; and trigger the creation of by-laws and policy guidelines.
URPS's success in strategic policy development arises from our extensive knowledge of all levels of legislation; our significant skills in policy analysis and stakeholder consultation; and our flexibility to respond to changing needs.
To date our experience in strategic policy development includes areas as diverse as residential growth and housing analysis; industrial needs assessment; character assessment and heritage conservation; expansion/adaptation of centres, including bulky goods retailing; and support for primary production in rural areas.
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In South Australia, local councils are required to write a Strategic Management Plan (SMP) every five years. Together with their 10-Year Financial Plan and their Infrastructure and Asset Management Plans, SMPs fulfil the requirements of Section 122 of the Local Government Act.
An SMP is Council's primary planning document as it focuses on how best to deliver services to its community, whether they be legislative, core or optional. The plan must represent the aspirations of the local community and be able to respond to the many global and national forces that help shape the community and its environment.
The SMP is also an important tool used by councils to inform their business plans.
Here at URPS, we enjoy working with councils to ensure their strategic planning process builds strong partnerships with their staff, elected members, the local community and community groups.
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A Strategic Directions Plan (Development Act, Section 30) Report is a periodic review of councils' planning controls and their consistency with both the State Government's Planning Strategy and the community's vision for its local area.
These reviews are an important part of all councils' strategic planning activities as they provide an opportunity to prioritise the delivery of new Development Plan policy in a way that best suits their area and their community. Engaging the key stakeholders, as well as the wider community, in a meaningful way is therefore central to a Development Plan Review.
At URPS, we pride ourselves on producing Development Plan Reviews which are easy to read, 'cut to the chase', provide a clear process for amending the Development Plan, and contain numerous maps, diagrams and photographs for clarity. Some councils even choose to hand over the entire process to us. Others bring us 'in-house' to prepare their review, while others call on us at key points in the process to provide strategic advice and facilitate the consultation processes. All these approaches help to blend local knowledge with fresh ideas and procedural experience to produce comprehensive and forward-looking Development Plan Reviews.
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Development Plans contain the guidelines and assessment criteria about what can and cannot be done on any piece of land in South Australia. Every local council area has its own Development Plan which is tailored to the unique circumstances of that council area and its community so that, while there are some similarities, no two Development Plans are the same.
Development Plans can be changed only through a Development Plan Amendment (DPA). URPS specialises in the preparation of DPAs in relation to residential, industrial, retail centre, natural resource management, and rural area land uses. We have also prepared numerous DPAs relating to more specific issues such as flooding, heritage conservation, signage, licensed premises, urban growth management, and site-specific rezonings.
At URPS, we ensure that the DPAs we prepare reflect the key components of successful Development Plans including:
- direct and clear links to state and local level strategic plans
- restriction of policy to planning matters, rather than land use management issues
- use of clear and concise language
- a rational and unambiguous mix of 'complying', 'merits-based' and 'non-complying' assessments
URPS's ongoing development assessment and facilitation work-which frequently involves providing expert evidence to the Environment, Resources and Development (ERD) Court-and policy development with the State Government, help to ensure that our DPAs contain progressive and robust Development Plan policy.
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The sustainable management of our natural resources underpins our social, economic and environmental wellbeing. Natural Resources Management (NRM) is about recognising and protecting the intrinsic values of our natural resources in all aspects of our lives.
At URPS we are genuinely committed to valuing and protecting our natural environment and clearly acknowledge the critical role that planning can play in achieving better NRM outcomes. In particular, we understand the opportunities that can 'bridge the gap' between NRM, planning, and development, where legislation for all three intersect. This is due largely to our comprehensive knowledge of the legislation that applies to NRM and planning, as well as our proven experience in assisting NRM Boards and other organisations such as local governments to meet their legislative responsibilities and balance their social, environmental and economic priorities.
Our key areas of expertise regarding NRM include:
- reviewing planning policy to identify opportunities to better achieve NRM objectives
- preparing community engagement strategies relating to NRM issues
- water allocation planning
- developing water affecting activities permit systems
- preparing NRM-related planning policy
- preparing information materials/guidelines to assist key audiences, such as local government planners, to understand NRM
- designing and implementing consultation/facilitation processes about NRM plans
- preparing community and economic profiles to inform the preparation of NRM plans
Example Projects:
- Bridging the Gap between Planning and NRM
- Coastal Planning Information Package
- Review of Council Development Plans and relevant strategies as input into the Eyre Peninsula Regional Plan
- Community Engagement Plan for the Implementation of the Regional Pest Management Strategy
- Water Affecting Activities Permit System
Every project should be evaluated to measure how well its desired goals have been achieved so it is then possible to determine any future required resources and funding, and to learn how to do things better in the future. Performance indicators are often used as measurement tools in this context as they are linked to policy concerns or outcomes (as opposed to raw data or statistics).
URPS has considerable expertise in project evaluation.
We focus on:
- developing performance indicators that measure what needs to be measured
- ensuring that data is available to inform the performance indicators
- ensuring that data is available over a long period of time (if successive evaluations are to be undertaken)
- ensuring that data is collected in a consistent manner (if successive evaluations are to be undertaken)
All too often, evaluation is undertaken once a project has been completed. The problem with this is that it is difficult to measure the project's success (or otherwise) without a clearly defined starting point, in other words, what the situation was before the project began. For this reason, URPS is often involved in market research and survey work, land use analysis, and the review of statistical data, before the commencement of projects. This ensures that any ongoing evaluation of a project will have a clear benchmark, allowing meaningful comparisons. This also means that the creation of any adverse outcomes can be readily examined, together with the identification of better ways to achieve the project's objectives.
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The strategic provision of high quality and accessible open space and recreation facilities is vital for both local and state governments. Successful open space and recreation planning maximises opportunity for respite, relaxation and activity that enhances health and general wellbeing. In addition it creates numerous other benefits such as safeguarding the environment and preventing flood damage, boosting tourism, attracting/retaining business, stabilising property values, and fostering cohesive communities.
At URPS, we believe that four broad objectives should underpin the planning, design, development and management of open space and recreation facilities -the provision of high quality and diverse areas and facilities; fairness in the distribution and access to such areas and facilities; efficient and effective management of recreation resources; and flexibility to respond to changing community needs.
There are two key elements to open space and recreation planning – understanding what the community needs (the demand) and undertaking an inventory of what exists (the supply).
The current and future community demand for open space and recreation can be determined through examining demographic changes, participation patterns and recreation trends.
The supply of open space and recreation facilities can be broken into four main elements:
- The quantity of the open space and recreation facilities (as a percentage of the study area and/or as a per capita rate)
- The hierarchy of the open space or recreation facility (whether it plays a local, district, regional, state, national or international role)
- The function of the recreation or open space facility (e.g. natural/conservation areas, outdoor sporting facilities, civic spaces/malls, stormwater management areas, formal gardens, active informal recreation, linkages)
- The quality of the recreation or open space facility (i.e. is it 'suitable' or 'unsuitable' for its intended use?)
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Delivering information in a legible and accessible way is fundamental to the successful operation of any organisation. Within planning and allied professions, there is often a need for information packages and instruction manuals/guidelines that decipher complex issues and procedures for both professionals and the wider community.
There is also a need to develop frameworks, systems and processes which ensure that agencies are meeting their organisational and legislative responsibilities.
Planners are commonly required to have extensive knowledge across a number of issues, ranging from bush fire management and tree preservation through to coastal protection and consultation. This is where information packages and instruction manuals have an important role to play, by providing accurate and readily accessible information on a diverse range of topics. They can also help to inform other stakeholders on the 'why and how' of planning matters.
At URPS, we are skilled in the development of easy-to-read instruction manuals, fact sheets, flow charts, checklists, standardised forms, template letters and associated systems that interpret complex legislation, issues and information. We use innovative presentation techniques including web-links within electronic documents to enable the user to click on a highlighted section and go to associated materials. We also have both the in-house and external graphic resources to ensure that such information is supported by images, photographs, flow-charts and diagrams in a way that maximises the impact of such documents.
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At URPS we understand the challenges of development assessment at the local government level. Further, our years of experience in assessing and facilitating development mean that we can focus on development outcomes that satisfy the objectives of all involved.
Many councils require 'in-house' development assessment services from time to time. During periods of peak demand (when employees move on for example) we can supply staff for this purpose. Speed and efficiency is thus improved, and we are often able to give council planning teams fresh ideas and a range of experience that can help to reenergise their work environment. Councils such as the Adelaide City Council and Kangaroo Island Council have relied on our in-house development assessment expertise over the years.
Our in-house development assessment work can also be nicely interwoven with the range of in-house strategic planning and project management services we provide to local government.
We also have an ongoing relationship with many local councils in providing development assessment services from our offices, particularly for larger, high- profile and more complex development applications that require high-level negotiation with applicants and various government departments. Our development assessment skills are often 'put to the test' by our acting as expert witnesses in the ERD Court.
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All forms of development, including land divisions, require Development Plan Consent, otherwise known as 'Planning Approval'. The definition of 'development' ranges from simple domestic structures such as carports, to much more complex commercial proposals such as shopping centres. A clear understanding of the provisions of the local Development Plan, the requirements of the applicant(s), and the opportunities and constraints of the relevant site/locality is the foundation of URPS's skill in development facilitation.
URPS is recognised by both local and state governments for our integrity and professionalism in interpreting the provisions of Development Plans in a way that respects the desirable features of every locality. We have a strong working relationship with planners in local government, having worked with many of them when providing locum development assessment services or in previous local government positions. We also have equally strong working relationships with state government agencies, including the Development Assessment Commission, having facilitated numerous development applications of state significance.
We also regularly act as expert witnesses in the ERD Court, both for and against various local councils, depending on the merits of the case and the professional view. Our private sector clients recognise the benefit of this robust planning approach to achieving timely and positive development outcomes.
Our services in the area of development facilitation include:
- statements of support for all types of development applications
- statements of effect for non-complying development applications
- responses to written and verbal representations
- written and verbal representations to category 2 and 3 applications
- ERD Court compulsory conferences
- expert evidence in ERD Court hearings (expert witness role)
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Successful tourism matches the interests and motivations of travellers with the authentic products and experiences available in the region. A good example of this is the development of simple structures in natural settings along the Heysen Trail, which provide accommodation for bushwalkers. Key actions stemming from the tourism strategies we have prepared recently include:
- marketing, positioning and branding to be undertaken by the SA Tourism Commission
- changes to planning policy in the relevant Development Plans, capital works such as streetscape improvements, and funding/support for visitor information services to be undertaken by local councils
- collaboration between tourism operators to promote integrated tourism experiences and products
In concert with experts in the fields of flora and fauna ecology, regional economic analysis, and tourism market research, URPS has played a leading role in developing regional tourism strategies throughout South Australia, including the Flinders Rangers and Outback SA, Kangaroo Island, Fleurieu Peninsula, Barossa Valley and Clare Valley.
Fundamental to the creation of successful regional tourism plans is the establishment of a strong sense of shared commitment between all levels of government, tourism operators and community leaders. This, in turn, has led to the successful development of marketing plans, tourism-related Development Plan Amendments, and product development opportunities.
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Social planning aims to increase a community's wellbeing and quality of life by investigating and responding to people's social needs and aspirations. Social planning is founded on the principles of social justice (equity, access, participation and rights). It plays a pivotal role in creating liveable communities, vibrant economies, sustainable places, diverse cultural expression, and social cohesion.
URPS has strong experience in delivering a number of social planning projects, including ageing strategies, social impact assessments, and plans for social programs. We deliver these projects through demographic research, skilful and targeted consultation, and careful synthesis of relevant social indicators and trends. The community profiles we prepare help develop a picture of who is living in an area, who is likely to move into the area, and what services they will need now and in the future.
Our social planning work is reinforced by our belief that while the needs of people and communities are at the heart of the urban planning process, an appropriate balance must be struck between these needs and environmental and economic pressures. If many of the problems faced in cities and neighbourhoods are to be resolved it is fundamental that the design of the built form and social infrastructure is done in a way that best and most fairly supports people, families and communities.
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URPS is a leader in facilitation and communication within the planning profession in South Australia. We understand that effective consultation is critical to the success of all projects, helping to build trust and partnerships as a vehicle for their delivery.
As a starting point, we work closely with our clients to understand their objectives and to structure flexible training and facilitation programs to meet these objectives. We also use a range of communication and consultation techniques to ensure that all participants' opinions are considered.
URPS has facilitated strategic planning sessions for projects and organisations such as the Seniors Information Service, the state's housing and ageing plans, regional tourism marketing committees, Uniting Care Wesley Port Adelaide, and the Local Government Association of SA. We have also facilitated numerous workshops in areas such as natural resource management, recreation, sport and open space planning, community service provision, and housing and design.
The 'in house' consultation expertise of the entire URPS team also means that our team members involved in the consultation will also be the people developing the project. This ensures the efficient and considered integration of all feedback as part of the project outcome.
As skilled professionals with expertise in a variety of specific areas, URPS team members also provide a broad range of training including:
- sessions for Development Assessment Panel members
- communication and consultation training for staff, which is tailored to their organisation's needs
- strategic planning, often as a component of working with an organisation to develop their own strategic plan
- the use of the Enneagram (Personality Test) as a tool to improve team performance