Low-carbon transit-oriented development precincts

Transit-oriented development (TOD) theory proposes that higher building densities and a diversity of land uses should be within walking distance of transit stops. Proponents of TODs suggest that increasing the density of the neighbourhood population around transit nodes will support improved public transit services, make transit a viable alternative to private vehicles, encourage active transport and reduce transport emissions. Moreover, the literature suggests the denser a city is, the lower the operational and embodied emissions associated with housing are.

Nonetheless, questions remain about what levels of density (and accompanying building types) are most effective in reducing transport, operational and embodied emissions. Furthermore, how might this vary between the inner, middle and outer suburban contexts?

This project will provide evidence to support better decision-making and assessment in planning and designing TODs in Perth, including METRONET station precincts. TOD precincts will be selected from across the metropolitan region and modelled to understand likely transport, operational and embodied emissions and future dwelling yields for infill development.

Participants

• Department of Transport (WA)
• University of Western Australia
  

Project background

The previous iMOVE project 6-020, Accounting for carbon in planning residential neighbourhoods, identified the emission avoidance opportunities associated with smaller dwellings and higher urban densities.

TOD, with higher population densities, accommodated in inviting, activated, compact, walkable urban precincts around transit nodes, is purported to make public transport a more viable alternative to private vehicles, encourage active transport and reduce transport emissions. The current State Government METRONET investment program offers great potential for yielding such increased urban density and reduced emissions.

Indeed, the METRONET vision is for a well-connected Perth with more transport, housing and employment choices. Nonetheless, questions remain about what levels of density (and accompanying building types) are most effective in reducing transport, operational and embodied emissions in TOD, including METRONET, precincts.

Project objectives

1. Establish an evidence base for the development of low-carbon TOD precincts, including METRONET station precincts, and
2. Project future dwelling yields in infill precincts across the metropolitan region based on changing supply/demand factors.

Please note …

This page will be a living record of this project. As it matures, hits milestones, etc., we’ll continue to add information, links, images, interviews and more. Watch this space!