Beacon

The Observational Tool assesses the buildings and structures of the neighbourhood through a combination of observed and measured data.

It can be used for either planned developments, or already built neighbourhoods

How does it work? 

The six important elements of the Neighbourhood Sustainability Framework guide an expert assessment of the neighbourhood.  Assessors look at:

a)      Walking to basic every-day facilities (schools, reserves, shops)

b)      Access to and adequacy of public transport

c)      Efficient use of space and viability of local centres (enough density to make it viable)

d)      Protection of the local environment (stormwater,  riparian, coastal wetland)

e)      Dwelling sustainability (condition, resource efficiency, healthy housing)

f)       Quality of space (streetscape, community spaces)

g)      Diversity (mixed use, public spaces, diverse housing in terms of cost, size and typology)

h)      Street network

i)        Eco-alternatives

A calculator weights the data into sustainability bands for each section (Low,  Medium, High).  The report also highlights areas which assessors have noticed strengths and weaknesses.