Urban Consolidation

Definition It is a policy implemented to increase population densities by the construction of medium-to-high density housing in already built-up areas in inner and middle suburbia. It aims to slow the rate of urban sprawl and make greater use of existing infrastructure. By the 1980’s it was evident that Sydney could not continue its current rate of urban sprawl / suburbanisation for three main reasons: Poor transport infrastructure Cost of providing basic services of water, sewerage and electricity had become very expensive Good quality land for residential and commercial construction had become scarce and expensive.

In the late 1980’s, the state government released a new metropolitan strategy for urban consolidation aimed at: Increasing housing densities in existing suburbs Increased housing densities in new suburbs. Advantages of urban consolidation: The construction of smaller residences that are more appropriate for Sydney where there is an ageing population and fewer people occupying each residence. The reduction in the amount of land needed for urban development in new areas with the benefits of less expenditure on infrastructure. In the 21st century, 70% of homes constructed in Sydney were in new suburbs and 30% were in existing suburbs.

‘Urban consolidation aims at an increase in population in the mid to outer ring of suburbs, by attracting family households which would otherwise settle in new houses in new suburbs’ Ray Archer et al., 1993.

The Arguments For and Against Urban Consolidation The Sydney Experience Less greenhouse gases Curbs urban sprawl Less oil consumption More cost-efficient More efficient use of land Housing is more affordable Less reliance on cars, therefore less traffic congestion