Public engagement materials

When it comes to managing space, less isn’t always more.

“Kelowna has lots of lots with just one aging home and empty space that could be used differently – like a swimming pool, restaurant or stadium that is far under capacity, these large lots could accommodate more people than they do now.”

As part of its Infill Housing initiatives, the City of Kelowna produced a number of visual resources to capture how existing single family zonings were leading to significant inefficiencies that were undermining the wellbeing of the broader community.

These resources, available to view on their dedicated homepage to infill development, are a simple but effective example of public engagement materials that can help local planners in their efforts to win support for gentle density housing initiatives.

The Association of Bay Area Governments, based out of San Francisco, California, has developed a series of useful resources to support local planners in their communication efforts in advocating for the adoption and delivery of Gentle Density Housing. These include videos, presentations, and simple “fast fact” style messaging guidelines.

Key resources include:

Please note: While the resources listed here are free to download, some of the resources contained within the website’s library are behind member/pay walls.

Explore the comprehensive “Missing Middle Housing Study” in Sacramento, a data-driven citywide effort addressing housing choices, walkable living, and attainable housing needs at all income levels.

Key insights:

The report puts suggested steps need to be taken to help deliver more attainable housing.

  • A critical step is to increase the delivery of housing at all income levels, but in a manner that is sustainable and feasible, and does not adversely impact existing infrastructure capacities (of roads, utilities, etc.) and the quality of life of existing residents.
  • A critical strategy is to streamline and encourage the production of smaller, simpler, less complicated and less expensive housing projects in areas that have existing infrastructure and amenities. Missing Middle Housing can fulfill this requirement, and provide an efficient way to meet this pent up demand.

This vital report informs Sacramento’s long-term planning and housing policies, prioritizing affordability, equity, and access while addressing displacement risks and proposing measures to preserve the unique character of established neighborhoods.

Further to the report, you can stay up to date with all of Sacramento’s Missing Middle Housing developments by checking out their dedicated website.

Embracing the evolving needs of NSW’s growing population, the low-rise housing diversity code brings about a shift in housing choices. As households change and preferences diversify, this code facilitates the construction of well-designed dual occupancies, manor houses, and two-storey terraces through a streamlined approval process.

Following three years of extensive consultation, the code responds to the demand for homes that suit various lifestyles and budgets, contributing to the creation of vibrant, desirable communities. Explore firsthand accounts in our video series showcasing how gentle density homes have become the sought-after choice for families across diverse backgrounds.

These series of videos, developed by the New South Wales Government, highlight that gentle density homes are a form of homes that people want, need & deserve. The videos are an effective example of the power of videos in compelling storytelling, and ought to be a key component of any public engagement toolkit.

The Auckland Unitary Plan is a comprehensive and city-wide rulebook that guides how land can be used and developed in the Auckland region. It essentially sets the blueprint for the city’s growth and development over the coming years. The plan covers a wide range of topics, including where different types of buildings can be located, what activities can take place in specific areas, and the rules for preserving the environment and heritage. It’s a crucial document for city planning, ensuring that Auckland develops in a coordinated and sustainable way while considering the needs and interests of its residents.

In this video, Auckland Council explains some of the key changes to housing policy being brought about by the AUP, including the role that missing middle housing can play in:

  • Offering more diverse housing choices
  • Addressing gaps between single-family homes and high-rise apartments
  • Enhancing community character, affordability, and walkability.

Aerial shot of Auckland, NZ

The Auckland Unitary Plan is a comprehensive and city-wide rulebook that guides how land can be used and developed in the Auckland region.

The Plan essentially sets the blueprint for the city’s growth and development over the coming years. The plan covers a wide range of topics, including where different types of buildings can be located, what activities can take place in specific areas, and the rules for preserving the environment and heritage. It’s a crucial document for city planning, ensuring that Auckland develops in a coordinated and sustainable way while considering the needs and interests of its residents.

You can read a summary of the report on the Auckland City Council website, or alternatively for the full legislative breakdown, click here.