Urban design and revitalization — An Australian perspective

Recent publications have dealt with the subject of urban renewal in Western Europe. In this paper we attempt to extend this discussion by describing recent experiences in urban revitalization in Australian cities. To begin, a brief outline is made of the characteristic features of the urbanization process in Australia. Among the challenges facing Australian cities as a result of their particular pattern of urban development are the heavy demands for the use of private vehicles due to low-density suburban growth, and a relative decline in the commercial importance of central city areas. The paper canvasses a number of solutions proposed for these developments and their manifestations. In particular, three foci emerge: planning and design of residential streetscapes, pedestrianization in commercial and shopping areas, and the conflict between calls for redevelopment or preservation of old buildings.