Victoria: The Place To Be

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What is Urban Design

		Urban Design is the practice of shaping the physical features of settlements to create places for people and to make high-quality connections between places and buildings for safe movement of people. While creating places for people, urban design must respect and enhance the natural environment and use resources efficiently. Improving the way public spaces work not only makes them more enjoyable; it has economic benefit. Better-designed public spaces make more efficient use of resources and attract more businesses. Successful urban places are: Walkable Walking is the social glue that holds public environments together. Safe Safe environments encourage community interaction and reduce the incidence of crime. Active and varied Human activity is the reason cities exist and activities in and overlooking public spaces contribute to safety and well being. Inclusive Our society embraces all people. Design of public spaces must integrate and balance the needs of all users allowing fair and free access. Delightful People seek out places that interest and engage them. Ecologically Sustainable The natural environment is the basis of all human activity. Sustainable urban design safeguards natural systems and uses resources efficiently. Adaptable Cities are constantly evolving. Successful public places accommodate and encourage a variety of uses, at different times of day and evening. Distinctive Urban design uses the climate and topography of natural and built assets to create distinctive places that reflect and contribute to local character and identity.