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.
Structure / Master PlanningA structure/master plan provides a planning and design framework that guides the development of a site or region. It may be viewed as a 'road map' for future development and is often an important precursor to the creation of a range of successful 'place making' and Development Plan initiatives. Structure Plans are also an important tool used to help achieve the population, housing and employment targets set-out in the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.
Successful structure/master planning is the key to creating great places. A clear, considered plan developed by professionals with engaged private and public sector stakeholders can lead to the physical, social and economic revival/development of places. Successful plans must adopt an integrated and sustainable approach to transport, infrastructure, environmental and land use planning.
Some consider structure/master planning to be a true test of planning skill, noting that the best plans achieve an excellent balance of social, environmental and economic objectives. While providing a clear expression of the vision for a site/region, plans also need to be flexible and dynamic in order to respond to change, as well as guide it. URPS' strengths in terms of strong communication, flexibility and accessibility serve us well in our structure/master planning work.
Example Projects:
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.
Example Projects:
- City of West Torrens Housing Affordability Study
- Planning Mechanisms to Support the Supply of Affordable Housing Development
- The Alexandrina Council Rural Areas Strategy & Action Plan
- Bulky Goods
- Mintaro Policy and Strategic Directions Review
- Residential Character Studies
- Retail Studies
- Walkerville Residential Code
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.
Example Projects:
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.
Example Projects:
Development Plans are the key policy planning tool used for development assessment in South Australia. They contain the guidelines as to what can be developed on any piece of land and the detailed criteria against which development applications will be assessed. Each Plan is tailored to the unique circumstances of that Council area, while there are many similarities, no two Development Plans are the same.
The Development Plan can only be changed via a Development Plan Amendment (DPA). URPS specialises in the preparation of DPAs in relation to residential, industrial, retail centres, natural resources management and rural area land uses. We have also prepared numerous DPAs relating to specific issues such as flooding, heritage conservation, advertising, licensed premises, urban growth management and site specific rezonings.
At URPS, we ensure that the DPAs we prepare uphold some of the fundamental principles for success embedded in Development Plans including:
- Direct and clear links to state and local level strategic plans
- Containment of policy to development assessment matters
- Simple, easy to read language facilitating easy interpretation
- Balance between 'complying', 'merit-based' and 'non-complying' assessment.
Our constant development assessment/facilitation work, expert evidence in the ERD Court and policy development with the State Government also ensures that our DPAs contain contemporary and robust Development Plan policy.
Example Projects:
The sustainable management of our natural resources, such as soil, water, marine and biological systems underpins our ongoing social, economic and environmental wellbeing. Natural Resources Management (NRM) is about recognising and protecting the intrinsic values of natural resources and integrating these values with social and economic production systems.
At URPS we recognise the critical role planning can play in achieving better NRM outcomes. In particular, we understand the opportunities that exist to “bridge the gap” between NRM, planning and development where legislative frameworks that govern planning and NRM intersect.
URPS has worked with a range of NRM Boards, local governments and other agencies who have legislative responsibilities regarding NRM or planning. These projects reflect our depth of understanding of the issues relating to NRM and planning and the opportunities that exist to enhance the relationship between the two. The quality of URPS work has been regularly recognized by industry awards of excellence and peer commendations.
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
Evaluation involves making an assessment of the impact, effectiveness and outcomes of a project using performance indicators. Performance indicators are measurement tools which are distinguishable from raw data or statistics in that they are linked to policy concerns or outcomes and provide a legible snapshot of what is really occurring. Evaluation therefore identifies the extent to which desired goals are achieved, sheds lights on the key success stories and lessons learnt for the future, and provides a basis to focus resources and funding.
URPS has considerable expertise in project evaluation, focusing on:
- Preparing project objectives that can be measured
- 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 and is collected in a consistent manner (where successive evaluations are to be undertaken).
Too often, evaluation is undertaken once a project has been completed. The problem with this approach is that it is difficult to measure success or otherwise without a clearly defined reference point – that is, the nature of the situation as it existed prior to commencement of the project. URPS is often involved in market research and survey work, land use analysis and reviewing statistical data prior to the commencement of projects. This means that any ongoing evaluation of a project will have a clear benchmark, allowing meaningful comparison. It also means that the creation of any unintended adverse outcomes can be readily examined, together with the identification of better ways to achieve the project objectives as it continues.
Additionally, URPS has considerable experience in stakeholder engagement which means we are able to understand the effectiveness of project governance. Using this detail, we have prepared “Project Closure Reports” which build upon traditional evaluations to provide a more strategic assessment of a projects impact, effectiveness and outcomes.
Example Projects:
The provision of open space and recreation facilities is an important area of planning and management for both Local and State Governments. At URPS, we believe that four broad principles should underpin a strategic approach to the planning, design, development and management of open space and recreation facilities - quality and diversity of such facilities, equity of distribution and access, efficient and effective resource management, and flexibility to respond to changing needs.
There are two key elements to open space and recreation planning – undertaking an inventory of what exists (supply) and understanding what the community needs (demand). It is also desirable to firstly understand what the recreation needs of the community are at present and into the future through the examination of demographic change, participation patterns and recreation trends. Consideration of the supply of open space and recreation facilities can be broken into four main elements:
- The quantity of open space and recreation facilities (as a percentage of the study area and/or as 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 ("suitable" or "unsuitable" for its intended use)
For URPS, successful open space and recreation planning not only maximises opportunity for respite, relaxation and activity that enhances health and general well being, but it also creates numerous other benefits such as safeguarding the environment and preventing flood damage, boosting tourism and attracting/retaining business, stabilising property values and fostering cohesive communities.
Example Projects:
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.
Example Projects:
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.
Example Projects:
All forms of development, including land division, require Development Plan Consent, otherwise referred to as "Planning Approval". Development can range from a simple domestic structure such as a car port, to a more complex commercial proposal such as a shopping centre. Understanding the relationship between the provisions of the Development Plan for a particular council area, the motivation of an Applicant, and the opportunities and constraints inherent to each site/locality is the foundation of URPS’ skill in development facilitation.
URPS is recognised by Local and State Government for integrity and professionalism in interpreting the provisions of the Development Plan in a way that respects the desirable features of each and every locality. We have a strong working relationship with planners in Local Government in South Australia, having worked with many of them when providing locum development assessment services or in previous Local Government positions. We have equally strong working relationships with State Government agencies, including the Development Assessment Commission, having facilitated numerous s.49 Development Applications of State significance.
We also regularly act as expert witnesses in the ERD Court, both for and against various local councils depending upon the merits of the case and our professional view. Our existing private sector clients recognise the benefit of this robust planning approach to achieving timely and positive development outcomes.
Our range of 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).
Example Projects:
Successful tourism matches the interests and motivations of travellers with the products and experiences available in the region. It is derived from that which is authentic about a place and its people. A good example of this is the development of simple structures in natural settings along the Heysen Trail that provide serviced accommodation (hot meals and fire wood) for bushwalkers, to be known as the ‘Huts on Heysen’. Key actions stemming from the tourism strategies we have prepared recently include:
- strategies for marketing, positioning and branding to be undertaken by the SA Tourism Commission.
- changes to planning policy in Development Plans, capital works such as streetscape
- improvements and funding/support for visitor information services to be undertaken by local Councils.
- facilitating 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 government, tourism operators and community leaders. This, in turn, has lead to the successful development of marketing plans, tourism related Development Plan Amendments and product development opportunities.
Example Projects:
All urban and regional planning has a social dimension and people are a key focus for all of the work we do at URPS. What then comprises social planning?
Social planning aims to increase community well-being and quality of life by investigating and responding to the social needs and aspirations of people. 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 experience in delivering a range of social planning projects including ageing strategies, social impact assessments and plans for social programs. We deliver these social planning projects through applied demographic research, skilful and targeted consultation, and careful synthesis of a range of social indicators and trends. The community profiles we have prepared help develop a picture of who is living in the area, who is likely to move into the area and what services they need now and into the future.
Our social planning work underpins 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 with environmental and economic pressures. If many of the problems faced in cities and neighbourhoods are to be resolved, designing the built form and social infrastructure that supports people, families and communities is fundamental.
Example Projects:
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 almost all projects, helping to build trust and partnerships as a vehicle for delivery. As a starting point, we work closely with our clients to understand their objectives and structure flexible training and facilitation programs that enable us to achieve these. We also use a range of communication and consultation techniques to ensure the involvement of all participants and consideration of diverse opinions.
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 undertaking the project. This ensures the efficient and considered integration of all feedback as part of the project outcome.
Example Projects:
Community engagement is a planned process of working with identified groups of people that are connected by geographic location, special interest or affiliation. It includes a variety of approaches such as one-way communication/information delivery, consultation, collaboration in decision making and empowered action in informal groups or formal partnerships.
URPS is renowned for its expertise in designing and implementing community engagement strategies. Community engagement is an integral component of many of our projects, particularly with Councils, special interest groups, State government and non-government agencies, as well as the wider community. We are also experienced in designing and implementing 'stand alone' community engagement strategies/plans which relate to broader projects.
One of our core values is ensuring that any community engagement process genuinely informs the direction of projects. The URPS approach is underpinned by the establishment of mutual respect and trust, as well as being clear about what can and cannot be influenced - we understand the need to manage expectations in order to best facilitate mutually acceptable outcomes. This approach is particularly important where 'buy-in' to a project is required from key stakeholders and/or the wider community.
We use a range of engagement techniques, and match these to the target audience and objectives of the community engagement process. Some of these techniques include public meetings, workshops, 'speak outs', key informant interviews, briefing sessions, newspaper features, staffed public displays, surveys and information material.
Example Projects:
Over the last 40 years, increased affluence has led to increased car ownership, and mobility, the spread of suburbanisation, greater range of household appliances and increased overall retail expenditure, particularly on comparison goods, eating out and personal services. Socio-economic changes, such as longer retail trading hours, reduced average household size, increased labour force participation by women and the growth of e-commerce has led to fundamental changes in retailing including:
- its decentralisation
- the emergence of large footprint supermarkets, regional shopping malls, bulky goods, factory outlets and homemaker centres
- the decline of market share of department stores
- a reduction of trade by small convenience centres.
Given the dynamism of the industry and the uncertainty in predicting the future, the challenge has been how to best respond to the needs of an increasingly affluent and mobile population. While considering the social and environmental consequences of development, how should new forms of retailing that widen consumer choice and increase competition be accommodated, without compromising objectives related to equity, accessibility, the environment and value adding to public infrastructure (eg transport interchanges and government services)?
URPS is highly regarded for development assessment, land use policy and strategic policy development. This includes activity centre planning. Where required, URPS works in partnership with a range of highly specialized, retail-focused consultants (eg economic impact assessment, urban designers, marketers and engineers) to ensure credible and robust outcomes.
URPS has facilitated strategic planning sessions for projects and organisations as diverse as the Seniors Information Service, the State 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 resources management, recreation, sport and open space planning, community service provision, and housing and design.
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 tailored to organisational needs.
- Strategic planning, often as component of working with an organisation to develop their own strategic plan.
- The use of the Enneagram as a tool to improve team performance.
A Strategic Direction Report is intended to be a periodic review of Council’s planning controls and their consistency with both the Planning Strategy and the community’s vision for its local area. The report needs to consider a number of planning issues including:
- land use planning
- affordable housing
- physical and social infrastructure planning
- Planning Strategy objectives and targets
These reports are an important element of Council’s strategic planning activities. Strategic Direction Reports provide an opportunity to examine and prioritise the delivery of new ‘place making’ and/or Development Plan policy in a way that best suits that area and the priorities of that community.
A Strategic Direction Report enables a Council and its community to ask "where are we now, where do we want to be, and how will we get there?" This involves considering 'possible futures" and then striving to achieve desired, pre-defined outcomes. In this context, the strategic planning process is as important as achieving outcomes. Engaging the key stakeholders, as well as the wider community, in a meaningful way is central to this philosophy and an important cornerstone of any Strategic Direction Report.
At URPS, we pride ourselves on producing Strategic Direction Reports which are easy to read, that 'cut-to-the-chase', provide a clear process for amending the Development Plan and contain relevant maps, diagrams and photographs for clarity. Some Councils like to hand over the entire process to us. Others bring us 'in-house' to prepare their Strategic Direction Report, or call on us at key points in the process to provide strategic advice and facilitate the consultation processes, helping to blend local knowledge with fresh ideas and procedural experience.