Meeting the need for a rational basis for open space and recreation planning in new high density residential areas : the Recreational Activity Benchmark model

The development of new high-density residential precincts in Australian cities, notably in association with new public transport nodes (Transit-Oriented Developments" TODs), presents challenges for planners in creating living environments, including provision for open space and recreation. The traditional 'standards' method and other existing approaches to planning for open space and recreation have significant limitations in coping with the challenges presented by high-density developments. It is argued in this paper that a planning approach focused on recreation participation as the key performance criterion can provide a solution. The Recreational Activity Benchmark (RAB) model is presented and shown to be capable of providing for appropriate levels of recreational activity while making savings in land requirements.