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What are the consequences of small towns ignoring the theme? |
Without setting out long-term goals, and the means by which to achieve them, expansion in small towns is very likely to be ‘unsustainable’. Development decisions taken without consideration for the future are irreversible. Some of the other consequences of failing to plan for the long-term can include:
- Application of development which is out of character with the existing town, leading to a loss of identity and sense of belonging
- Fragmented or piecemeal projects, resulting in
- Increased pressure on transport infrastructure with residents experiencing mobility difficulties;
- A fragmented society with an ‘us’ ‘them’ mentality;
- Public dissatisfaction with projects and/or new development proposals
- Development or activities taking place on areas of natural heritage, leading to:
- Irreversible damage to the environment and amenity of the area
- Damage to or difficulties in preserving, enhancing and increasing areas of green open space
- Loss of the sense of the natural and historic location of the town and hence its reason for being there
- Over-development of (usually) residential areas without adequate provision for employment or infrastructure, resulting in:
- Severe pressure and loss of amenity in the town centre
- Community facilities and infrastructure being unable to cope with increase in population and/or business activity
- Population decline due to lack of variety or opportunity for younger members of the community
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