Low Impact Urban Design & Development is an approach which recognises that ecosystems have limitations and that we must work within those limitations if our development is to be sustainable.

This applies not only to the environment of Ngārara, but the environment where building materials are sourced. Whole of life costs need to be considered for imported materials, including transport costs and environmental costs at the point of manufacture.

One of the primary objectives is ‘hydrological neutrality’, meaning we design water management systems that will have minimal or nil effect on the levels and processes of water within the development.

These principles embrace local features, employing treatment practices that harness natural processes to manage flooding and stormwater – enhancing natural values rather than degrading them.

Typically, this involves the infiltration of stormwater into swales, rain gardens and tree pits – contributing aesthetic value while protecting water quality and reducing flooding and runoff. This requires a different approach to earthworks, with a focus on retaining natural drainage as opposed to compaction to a high level.

LIUDD principles and treatment techniques are at the heart of the subdivision planning phase of the development.

Low Impact Settlement