By Arun Pradhan
ADELAIDE — Ecopolis and Urban Ecology Australia have initiated a new and exciting plan for the suburb of Halifax. The design is based on concepts of ecological sustainability, social equity and the involvement of people.
The aims of the project include finding ways to halt urban sprawl and optimise energy performance. But the concerns also include the more human aspects of the city, such as encouraging the development of the community, respecting history and providing for the health and security of the residents.
Paul Downton, architect of the project and urban ecologist, identified this as a major distinction from other plans for sustainable development. "It is not enough to just sustain the city ... the difference with the Halifax Project is that it builds ideas of social justice and makes the role of the city one of ecological restoration."
The Ecopolis design provides the buildings and infrastructure needed to support 1000 people. The plan is site specific and attempts to consider Adelaide's particular cultural and climatic factors. It proposes such things as on-site solar electricity generation, use of purified rain water and recycling of waste water. Residents would be within walking distance of shops, schools, pubs and workplaces.
There will also be a market, meeting places and an ecological centre. This centre, nicknamed the "Education and Agitation Centre", would be a focus for raising awareness and providing people with information and advice when planning their dwellings.
The project has also explored alternative financial and management structures. Downton explained, "The exploitative relationships of the present system are what drives the way the city is made and have led us to the point of ecological crisis. So if we're really going to address these problems, we have to change the way things are done."
Thus changing the development process has been an essential part of the project. There has been an emphasis on finances from individuals, credit unions and ethical investment companies rather than banks. "This helps to ensure community ownership and control, and will also be reflected by the land being owned by the residents through a community Land Trust."
Although the project is based in Halifax, Downton sees much wider implications. "It has not been designed as an enclave, or an isolated village. The project is a first step to developing Adelaide as an eco city ... There will be 1000 residents and workers. That's 1000 people who will be directly exposed to ideas of urban ecology and who would have a clear understanding of all of these issues. This then represents a massive force for very positive social change driven by ecological concern."
The project is currently waiting for Adelaide City Council approval. Paul Downton was confident of their response. "We have had support from many groups including unions and conservation groups. Even internationally, the Greens in the European Parliament wrote to the councillors to encourage a positive decision."
Assuming council approval, the project is expected to be carried out in a series of "bite size chunks" beginning within 12 months. The entire project could be completed within five years.
People can be involved in the project in many ways. These include writing to the council, giving donations, joining Urban Ecology Australia Inc and of course becoming residents. For more information phone or fax: (08) 379 1984.