Landscape Matters Issue 4 FINAL - Flipbook - Page 11
for the tired and less-able). Paris has shown how to do this
effectively.
(6) a Bridge Strategy, with a range of possible locations for new
Thames crossings following desire lines
(7) a Volunteer Strategy, to involve the local community in
the planning, design and maintenance of London’s riverside
landscape
(8) an effective Urban Greening Policy, with street tree planting
(models include Amsterdam and Paris or closer to home
inter-War Bermondsey) and a net biodiversity benefit planning
requirement for new development. What better way to reduce
street air temperatures in hot summers than street trees?
Net biodiversity benefit favours green roofs, green walls and
green on the ground. In January 2021 the GLA London Plan
introduced this for strategic development as an Urban Greening
Factor.This is modelled on the German Biotope Area Factor
(Biotopflächenfaktor) which Berlin introduced in 1993. However,
it will takes years for this to be effective at London borough level.
Nationally (in England), the National Planning Policy Framework
still does not specifically require this, yet such policies mitigate
long-term implications for flood risk, water supply, biodiversity
and landscapes, and the risk of overheating from rising
temperature.
Above all we need to care for our capital city, its river, its parks
and its public spaces. And that requires clear and effective urban
landscape planning.
Reference
The London Branch of the LI has hosted three evening events
dealing with skyline policy (in the last decade) and the lectures
are on the LAA website.
http://www.landscapearchitecture.org.uk/london-landscapearchitecture/london-skylines-high-buildings-landscapearchitecture-policy/
4
