3D Modelling The Communications Key For Modern Urban Planning

The challenges of managing urban growth and designing better cities have intensified in recent years within communities, as property sector and government authorities are frequently clashing over what good planning looks like.

Planning Institute of Australia Queensland President Todd Rohl said poor communication and engagement were frequently to blame for conflict over city planning and that better tools were needed to help parties with different perspectives see eye to eye.

“It’s something we see time and again when planning issues boil over — conflict arises because one group simply doesn’t fully understand what the other is talking about,” Mr Rohl said.

“Incorporating the latest 3D modelling technology is a powerful way to show stakeholders what a planning outcome will actually look like.

“Often when people are confronted with planning changes their mind immediately races to the worst case scenario, which is perfectly understandable.

“Unfortunately our imaginations don’t always do a great job of rendering in three dimensions something we see on a two dimensional plan.

“3D modelling allows people to get a real sense of how something will look and feel.

“As with any public policy there will still be disagreement, but at least the discussion will be informed by all sides having an accurate understanding of what is proposed.”

The Queensland Division of the Planning Institute of Australia today released a conversation starter on the need for — and importance of — creating our cities in 3D.

“The paper explores the value of 3D city modelling in areas such as community participation, transparency and accountability,” Mr Rohl said.

“There is no doubt modern 3D modelling can and will reshape the planning profession and how we interact with our stakeholders.

“Already many Queensland Councils — and global cities like Singapore — are creating their cities in 3D for exactly these reasons.

“We need to be proactive about getting this technology to work. That’s why the PIA is calling on all political parties in Queensland to facilitate the introduction of 3D modelling into the planning process throughout Queensland," he said.

“We have some real challenges to address in our cities and regions, and good planning outcomes will only be achieved with the community, government and the property industry all working together.

“Having intuitive, easy-to-understand tools available — like 3D modelling — is essential for facilitating the dialogue that will lead to better planning.”