WSLHD_CPH_Healthy High Density Living for Families with Chil

1.1 Building Configuration

Why it’s important To provide suitable housing choice for families with children in higher density neighbourhoods, special attention should be paid to accommodating their needs within apartment buildings. This includes the affordability of apartments, the height (preference for 3 to 6 storeys) and location of buildings (for example, not on major arterial roads). 8 This will ensure families with children can remain living in apartments throughout various life cycles, creating more diverse and sustainable compact neighbourhoods.

How it can be done Affordable, well designed and located apartment buildings, can enhance the health and wellbeing of families with children by providing secure housing, opportunities for outdoor play, social interactions between residents and improved lifestyle. 4 Considering the everyday needs of families such as easy building access, direct outdoor space for play, storage and shared communal facilities will contribute to the healthy development of children and provide more inclusive and welcoming environments for all residents. Planning and consent authorities play a crucial role in maximising opportunities to increase housing affordability through bonuses and incentives. Currently, 25% of families with children are living in high density housing across the Greater Sydney region. This provides a baseline for the region and is used in determining the minimum percentage specified in Key Design Guideline 1 on the next page. The context of the local government area, surrounding suburbs and projected population growth are essential considerations for ensuring the amount of family-friendly apartments within an apartment building are sufficient to meet the needs of the community. 22

Image 8: Balconies and windows/external walkways should face play areas for passive supervision.

Image 9: Integrate childcare facilities within an apartment complex to enhance liveability for families with small children.

Image 10: Direct access from private yards to communal play space enables easy use and passive supervision.

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Healthy Higher Density Living for Families with Children: An Advocacy, Planning and Design Guide