Why GOD? The Benefits of Greenspace-Oriented Development

In this chapter, we set out a strategy for urban densification, which we name Greenspace-Oriented Development (GOD). While Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) co-locates urban densification with public transport hubs, GOD co-locates urban densification with significant, upgraded public green spaces (such as parks) that are relatively well served by public transport. The upgraded parks, and their connecting streetscapes, operate as a multifunctional, communal “backyard” for residents living in a surrounding higher-density urban precinct. Through GOD, we propose to weave together the positive aspects of suburbia (i.e. access to open space and nature) with those of good quality medium-density urban infill (i.e. access to public transport, facilities and good urban design). In this chapter, we describe GOD, its key principles, benefits and the settings to which it is most suited.