Latest news with #greenspace
BBC News
2 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
Worthing £3m town centre renovation starts
Work has begun on the creation of a £3m new green space to link a West Sussex town centre to the Montague Place will be transformed into Montague Gardens in a joint venture between Worthing Borough Council (WBC) and West Sussex County for the site include a stand-out Worthing place sign, a green living wall and a sundeck area at the north end to welcome residents and Garner, WBC's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said the green space would "revitalise the town centre" and create a "welcoming and vibrant setting" for everyone. Local company Edburton Contractors was appointed to undertake the work, which is due to be done in phases over a 12 to 15-month changes include planting up to 30 new trees and drought-resistant planting, as well as more lighting to increase safety in the evening, said the local authorities are also creating a new play area that celebrates Worthing's seaside heritage and highlights kelp restoration. Funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Strategic Fund and business rates, the works will cost £3.1m in Gardens will become the third public realm regeneration project within the current Worthing Growth Deal, a partnership between the two Garry Wall, West Sussex County Council's cabinet member for economy and skills, said he was "looking forward" to the project."This initiative will support Worthing town centre and the seafront economy," he said."All agreements are now in place and we are excited to move forward."
BBC News
3 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
Public park opens as South Bank project continues in Leeds
A new public park has opened as work continues to redevelop the South Bank area of 1.5-acre (6,200 sq m) Central Park forms part of the Aire Park regeneration project, which aims to deliver more than 1,350 homes and eight acres (32,374 sq m) of green space, as well as commercial and retail complete, the development will feature play areas and woodland, as well as events spaces for markets and Pryor, Leeds City Council's deputy leader, said: "We want Leeds to be a city filled with places that are perfect for work, rest and play, and Aire Park's lawns and gardens will give people plenty of opportunity for doing all of that and more." The launch of Central Park follows the opening of a new green space in front of the Tetley are under way to extend the park behind the building - converting what is currently brownfield land into four acres of green space - as well as south of Crown Point Road. Developers hope to complete the Aire Park project by 2030, with plans to include 700 new trees and more than 100 varieties of design has seen collaboration between landscaping experts including Planit Leeds, Moortown and Palmers. Phillip Porter, Planit's principal landscape architect, said: "Aire Park is a unique project in the UK. "One that provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape a vast disused industrial part of a city and leave an unparalleled gift to current and future generations."Stephen Lindley, managing director of developer Vastint UK, said the project had already welcomed its first commercial said: "As the wider development and the park continues to grow, with the addition of its event space and play area, so too will its sense of community as Aire Park becomes a go-to destination within the city to work, meet and socialise, or simple relax and enjoy nature." Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Gulf Business
22-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Gulf Business
MAG Group's chairman on shaping sustainable, wellness-centric communities
Image: Supplied In a city known for mega-projects and high-profile real estate launches, Chairman Moafaq Ahmad Al Gaddah says it's a response to what today's buyers are actually looking for: green space, wellness, and integrated communities. Here, he discusses the long-term thinking behind the project, and how it ties into the UAE's evolving urban and investment priorities. Tell us about your long-term vision behind developing a private city in one of the fastest-growing areas of Dubai. Our vision is to create a next-generation city that redefines what urban living can and should be. We saw a rare opportunity to build a fully integrated private city that goes beyond traditional development. Keturah Ardh is designed to offer more than just homes or commercial space — it's a holistic environment that combines art, nature, and wellness to elevate the quality of life. The project also supports Dubai's ambition to be a global leader in innovative and sustainable urban development. How does the Keturah Ardh development align with Dubai's 2040 Urban Master Plan and the emirate's broader vision for sustainable urban growth? Keturah Ardh was designed in alignment with the key pillars of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, namely sustainability, enhanced quality of life, and smart land use. The development integrates green infrastructure, walkable spaces, and environmentally responsible design. With over 100,000 trees and a clear focus on sustainable urban growth, Keturah Ardh not only supports but also amplifies the emirate's broader vision for long-term, people-centric, and climate-resilient development. The concept of 'Life-Scaping' is central to the project's design philosophy. Can you elaborate on how this approach will transform the living experience for future residents? 'Life-Scaping' is a core philosophy of Keturah Ardh. It means designing spaces where nature is not an afterthought, but a foundational element of the built environment. By integrating mature trees, natural materials, and biophilic design throughout the project, we're creating a living ecosystem that enhances physical and emotional wellbeing. Residents will experience improved air quality, increased access to green space, and a stronger sense of connection to their surroundings. It's a complete shift from conventional development toward a lifestyle that prioritises wellness and community. What measures are being taken to ensure Keturah Ardh meets global sustainability standards, and how do certifications like LEED ND and WELL Building Standard factor into the project's long-term impact? Sustainability is embedded into every layer of Keturah Ardh. We are actively pursuing LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED ND) and WELL Building Standard certifications to ensure the project meets the highest international benchmarks. These certifications address both environmental impact and human health, covering everything from energy efficiency and water conservation to air quality and wellness features. Our goal is not just to meet the standards but to set new ones for sustainable luxury living in the region. With growing demand from both regional and international investors, how is the UAE positioning itself as a long-term destination for high-end real estate investment? Under the visionary leadership of the wise leadership, the UAE has made significant strides in positioning itself as a premier destination for high-end real estate investment. Forward-thinking policies, such as long-term golden visas, full foreign ownership rights, and robust regulatory framework, are the result of a leadership that prioritises economic diversification, innovation, and global competitiveness. Dubai, in particular, has emerged as a beacon for international investors, thanks to the continued guidance of Dubai's leadership. The emirate's stability, world-class infrastructure, and unmatched lifestyle offerings make it a natural choice for long-term, high-value investment. How are changing buyer preferences, particularly around wellness, sustainability, and integrated communities, shaping future development strategies in the UAE? Today's buyers are more discerning than ever. They are no longer just looking for property, they are seeking environments that support their health, reflect their values, and foster meaningful connections. Wellness, sustainability, and a strong sense of community have become essential, not optional. This shift is deeply aligned with the forward-looking vision of the UAE's leadership, where the country has made remarkable progress in prioritizing human-centric urban planning and sustainable growth. These national priorities are now being translated into real, measurable expectations from a new generation of homeowners and global investors. We view this evolution not as a trend, but as a defining force that shapes the future of real estate. Developments like Keturah Ardh are thoughtfully designed to meet these expectations, placing wellness, biophilic design, and social connectivity at the center of the living experience. It's about contributing to a larger national vision where people, nature, and long-term well-being are seamlessly integrated into every layer of urban life. In your view, what are the key economic or regulatory trends currently influencing the UAE's real estate sector, and how is MAG Group adapting to stay ahead? Several key factors are shaping the sector such as the UAE's evolving visa and ownership laws, and a strong push for sustainability. We are aligning with these trends by partnering with global leaders, like CITIC Limited, and by investing in smart, sustainable developments. We've secured all regulatory approvals for Keturah Ardh from bodies such as DDA, DEWA, and RTA, ensuring a smooth path forward. Our approach is proactive, future-focused, and grounded in creating long-term value for residents and investors alike. Read:
BBC News
18-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Housing plans lodged for safeguarded land in Wombwell
An outline planning application has been submitted for a housing development on safeguarded land in previously criticised the scheme proposed for land south of Pit Lane, saying it would mean losing valued green space and negatively affect wildlife and Crest Nicholson said the project would deliver "much-needed" family homes and high-quality accommodation for a range of councillors Brenda Eastwood, Robert Frost and James Higginbottom said in a joint statement that they felt safeguarded sites should not be brought forward during the current Local Plan period. The Local Plan examines how a town or city will develop over the next 15 years, with land allocated for housing, industry or green to Barnsley Metropolitan Council's Local Plan, 21,546 new homes need to be built by 2033, of which 1,370 are to be developed within the Wombwell the application, developers said: "The scheme would provide a number of economic, social and environmental benefits which all contribute towards achieving sustainable development, in accordance with local and national planning policies."The majority of the site off Pit Lane is designated to be protected from development until 2033, the Wombwell councillors a joint statement issued to the BBC, they said: "Developing safeguarded sites during the lifetime of the current Local Plan risks undermining the Local Plan as a whole."Residents in the consultation area will now have their opportunity to take part in the consultation exercise and we would strongly encourage everyone to have their say." The land, which is currently used for farming and is located opposite ancient woodland, frequently attracts living in nearby Windmill Road and Windmill Court previously told the BBC that they feared the scheme would devalue their homes, worsen traffic conditions and negatively affect local many acknowledged the need for more houses, they felt more suitable options were available in the documents submitted with the application, developers evidenced that the council was unable to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply. 'Thorough assessment' Councils are required to plan for enough new homes to meet housing needs over the Local Plan having a five-year housing land supply tilts the planning decision-making process in favour of approving developments, even if a proposal is in conflict with Local Plan local authority did not comment on this when it issued the following statement on behalf of Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and said: "We acknowledge receipt of the planning application for land off Pit Lane, which is currently undergoing public consultation."The council will undertake a thorough assessment of the material planning considerations, taking into account all consultation responses and representations submitted during the consultation period."A spokesperson for Crest Nicholson said: "The development aims to deliver much-needed family homes to the area, along with new public open space and sustainable pedestrian and cycle connections."Improvements to local infrastructure are being considered as part of the planning process."Feedback from local stakeholders and residents has also been sought prior to the application's submission." Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North
Forbes
15-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Domestic, Foreign Projects Display Smart Cities' Potential
The Ellinikon is a smart city being created in Greece on the former site of Athens Internation ... More Airport. Over the years, developers have displayed innovation when turning decommissioned airports and airfields into new mixed-use developments. Consider Stapleton International Airport's reincarnation as Denver's Central Park neighborhood, or suburban Chicago's Glenview Naval Air Station's rebirth as The Glen, a live-dine-play-shop community featuring 2,000 homes in eight distinct enclaves. But what's being built on land of a former commercial airport in Greece is nothing short of revolutionary. This and other developments both abroad and in the U.S. provide a preview of the potential of smart cities, which leverage information and communication technology and the Internet of Things to link and enhance urban systems. The goal of any smart city: Improving residents' quality of life and making the city more efficient and livable. Quarter hours Europe's biggest urban regeneration development, The Ellinikon will be developed on the site of the former Athens International Airport. The development spans a total area of 6.2 square miles, of which only 2.7 square miles is to be built. More than 70% of the total area will be devoted to common areas of green space. Given Athens' concrete-to-green ratio was 70:30 until recently, this represents a doubling of green areas. The Ellinikon is the first area of Greece to be developed as a smart city. Residents will be able to access their everyday needs in just a quarter hour within The Ellinikon's 15-minute neighborhoods, which should reduce need for motor vehicles. Neighborhoods will be made up of residences, as well as readily accessible offices, health care centers, hotels, shops, schools, amusement parks and playgrounds. Technology and innovative applications will guide day-to-day life. For instance, traffic-regulating traffic lights will illuminate only on the basis of the volume of cars waiting. Garbage trucks will arrive to pick up trash when bins reach fully loaded. The Ellinikon Park, the first 'smart park' in Greece, will feature systems that adjust lighting intensity based on the season of the year and time of day, systems for continuous monitoring of environmental and weather conditions, and efficiently optimized energy and water use. Interested buyers A total of 6,000 residences will be constructed in the Ellinikon, with phase one providing approximately one-quarter or about 1,500 homes. Little Athens, the neighborhood most recently announced for The Ellinikon, will feature 850 to 900 apartments within 200 to 250 residential buildings, with retail space. Another residential development, Riviera Tower, will soar 200 meters or about 60 stories, offering a bioclimatic design that should enable the high-rise to blend seamlessly with the Athens Riviera's natural environment. Benefitting from a truly international range of prospective buyers, The Ellinikon has seen approximately 12,000 interested purchasers from more than 110 countries. About 52% are from Greece and 48% foreign, with the U.S. the top international source market at 20%. 'The large-scale, ground-up nature of The Ellinikon presented a unique opportunity to deliver a true, smart city environment centrally located in a historic global capital, the Athens Riviera,' says Odisseas Athanasious, CEO of Lamda Development. 'Our goal is nothing less than to set a new standard for city life: A connected, people-centric place [adapting] to evolving needs of residents, visitors and the environment.' Purple pipe Greece doesn't have the market cornered on smart cities. Bridgeland, a Howard Hughes master-planned community in Houston, also offers a number of smart city features. In this case, the smart city is not being built on a former airport site, but on a one-time ranch devoted to raising cattle and rice. The 11,500-acre community when built out will offer approximately 23,000 homes, with 28% of the master plan preserved as parks, trail and open green space. Being among Houston's first communities to implement a purple pipe water reuse system will enable Bridgeland to use recycled water from its lakes to irrigate all common areas, conserving immense amounts of potable water and adding to the cost efficiency of the community over time. Purple pipe systems move reclaimed or recycled water toward non-potable applications like irrigation or industrial processes. In its growing commercial district of Bridgeland Central, the 49,000-square-foot Class A office building uses sustainable features like a 10,000-gallon rainwater and condensate cistern, native landscaping and high-efficiency water features to slash energy use by 25% and municipal water consumption by up to 80%. 'Bridgeland represents the future of thoughtful, sustainable development, where innovation, ecology and quality of life intersect,' Jim Carman, president of the Houston Region at Howard Hughes. 'As the fastest-growing master-planned community in Houston, we've proven large-scale growth can happen responsibly, with infrastructure that protects the environment and enhances everyday living.'
