An evaluation of planning frameworks for sustainable community development in the context of the Peacocke project, Hamilton

Abstract

Numerous planning frameworks have emerged over the past decades to inform decisions about the design and development of sustainable communities, raising questions about which framework to use within which context. Different frameworks are informed by various definitions and perceptions of what makes a sustainable development and what a ‘sustainable community’ or development looks like. This thesis examines and evaluates two sustainability planning frameworks, the food-energy-water nexus (FEW) framework and the Green Star Communities framework, through a case study assessment of the Peacocke development in Hamilton, New Zealand. It asks, what are the diverse perspectives on creating sustainable urban communities in the context of the Peacocke development in Hamilton, and are the FEW nexus and the Green Star frameworks relevant and useful planning tools for sustainable community development in New Zealand? It analyses the potential of these frameworks to shape urban sustainable development and sustainable communities within the context of the Peacocke development. The case study involved in-depth interviews with planning officials and urban development-focussed community groups about the Peacocke development, and revealed diverse perspectives on meanings of sustainability related to new housing subdivisions. The analysis allowed a comparative assessment of the two sustainable development frameworks and their potential to inform sustainable community design. It highlights the importance of competing framings and values of society related to development and sustainability, imaginaries of sustainable community design, and the importance of strong government regulations.