2016
WINNERS ANNOUNCED
2016 Awards for Planning Excellence in Northern Territory winners:
Category: Public Engagement and Community Planning
Commendation
City of Darwin and People Place and Partnership
Safer Vibrant Darwin Plan 2016 - 2019
The Safer Vibrant Darwin Plan has developed over two years of working with community groups, business groups and government agencies to develop an evidence based response to alcohol harm and public intoxication. The project has built the capacity of local agencies, informed by the Foundation for Alcohol Research, the Australian Medical Association, Police and the National Drug Institute.
In addition to working with key stakeholders the City of Darwin sought feedback from the community on their perceptions and concerns, drawing on this wisdom to contribute to achieving a Safer Darwin.
The Plan is in its first year of implementation. Initiatives are underway to clean up and activate public spaces and provide a secure taxi rank in the City.
Category: Best Planning Ideas - Large Project
Award for Planning Excellence
Tourism NT, TRC Tourism Pty Ltd, Earthcheck and Ediacara Consulting
Master Plan for Mountain Biking (MTB) in the Northern Territory
Mountain Bike riding in Alice Springs was being undertaken on informal trails across a range of landholdings with associated risk to riders, landholders and with potential to cause environmental and cultural impacts. In preparing the Master Plan the project team has gained the support and involvement of traditional owners and custodians, leaseholders, MTB riders, local government, representatives of the tourism industry and the local community.
The Master Plan represents a comprehensive approach to Mountain Bike (MTB) recreation and tourism that has grown from a need to address a complex local issue and evolved into a visionary Territory wide strategy.
The submission demonstrated that from informal beginnings the Master Plan has positioned Mountain Bike riding to be a sustainable, environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive activity. As Mountain Bike riding is an increasingly popular form of recreation it is contributing to community health and well being. It is also well placed to make an important contribution to the local economy.
Category: The Great Place Award
Award for Excellence
City of Palmerston
The Boulevard Stage 1 and Goyder Square (Palmerston City Centre Upgrade Program)
The City of Palmerston recognised that the City Centre lacked amenity and a positive identity. A central place was needed for celebration and gathering that was pedestrian friendly, accessible and of a suitable size.
A complete transformation of this space has been achieved. From a traffic-dominated precinct with poor amenity the project has created a ‘green heart’, merging 3 disparate public spaces, to achieve a connected versatile and activated civic space.
Goyder Square is a flexible, safe, integrated and responsive Place.
People can walk and cycle to Goyder Square. As the landscape matures it will provide a shady and comfortable environment. Importantly, the adjacent street network is legible and direct.
The judges considered that the popularity of the redeveloped Goyder Square and quality of design make it a worthy recipient of the Great Place Award.
ABOUT THE AWARDS
The annual PIA Awards for Planning Excellence demonstrate leading practice, leadership and achievement in planning and the planning profession. The Awards recognise excellence and showcase leading practice across a range of planning disciplines and sectors. Leadership in planning, particularly in the face of adversity, is acknowledged and applauded. In all, the Awards are a chance to celebrate, recognise and reward outstanding planning and planners.
As a national program the Awards commenced at the state and territory level seeking out the best of planning in each jurisdiction. Following judgement and recognition at a local awards ceremony, the winners of the appropriate categories in the state and territory Awards are elevated to the national