In the world of urban development in Australia, local councils and land developers face a complex landscape, balancing the need for community engagement with stringent economic and regulatory demands. 

A pivotal issue in this balancing act is the perception that the community may not possess a comprehensive understanding of the constraints and pressures faced by developers and councils. This perception can lead to a cautious approach towards community engagement, influenced by concerns about the project’s financial viability and the ability to meet housing targets within tight economic and policy frameworks.

At the core of this dynamic is the perceived knowledge gap between the community and the professionals driving development projects. Urban development is characterised by its complexity, including detailed planning regulations, environmental assessments, and financial modelling. 

There’s a prevailing belief among developers and councils that the specialised knowledge required to navigate these challenges might be beyond the general public’s grasp. This belief can foster a reluctance to fully engage with communities, underpinned by the notion that fostering meaningful dialogue about project constraints and compromises is difficult.

The imperative to deliver a return on investment and to meet housing targets promptly further complicates the situation. Developers are usually constrained by rigid financial models with little room for deviation, while councils face the dual challenge of addressing housing shortages within stringent budgetary limits. These economic realities may encourage a streamlined development process that minimises community engagement.

However, it is important to recognise that community engagement is a crucial aspect of urban development. The community has a vested interest in the development of their neighbourhoods and should be given a voice in the process. By engaging with the community, developers and councils can gain valuable insights into the needs and concerns of the people who will be affected by the development. 

This can lead to more informed decision-making and ultimately result in better outcomes for everyone involved.

It is also pivotal that both developers and councils run the risk of losing trust if the engagement is seen as a greenwashing box-ticking exercise. 

Developers and councils should also be transparent about the constraints and challenges they face, and how they are working to address them. By doing so, they can build trust with the community and demonstrate their commitment to creating better outcomes for everyone involved.

Community engagement is a critical component of urban development, and developers and councils must take it seriously. By fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration, and avoiding greenwashing, they can build trust with the community and create better outcomes for everyone involved.

Lynne Strong