A new non-statutory, expert panel will advise on urban planning in Queensland, chaired by state government architect Philip Follent.

The Broad for Urban Places will be made up of 23 new members who will work across the state with their various skills being deployed where best needed.

“These highly skilled architects, planners and project managers will provide general and project-specific advice so future urban areas are better designed,” state minister for infrastructure and planning, Stirling Hinchliffe, said.

There were a total of 178 board nominations for the positions, which will hold a two-year term. The board can work at the state, local or private sector level.

The advisory board will provide “much-needed” expert advice in urban design, planning, architecture, sustainability and sub-tropical design, Hinchliffe said.

It will focus on the design and development stages of major urban infrastructure, planning projects and policies.

The board will advice on projects near public space, a major river or places of heritage significance, projects that link with public transport, health, educational, cultural or entertainment facilities, developments to community facilities and any project that proposes to create new streets or revitalise existing streets.

The expertise will result in “better outcomes” for businesses and residents, reduced environmental costs and healthier Queenslanders, Hinchliffe said.

“In the South East the new regional plan reveals densities will increase so the focus has to be on good design to maintain our lifestyle … Good design can be as simple as making streets and neighbourhoods safer, better connected and more attractive, to create more walkable cities.”

The board is expected to meet at least several times a year and the first meeting is likely to be held by mid-October, once members have undergone induction.

The Board for Urban Places members are: Brit Andresen, Emma Appleton, Stewart Armstrong, Stephen Ashton, Gordon Beath, James Birell, Neil Cagney, Penelope Coombes, Julie Edwards, Juris Greste, Ed Haysom, Peter Hyland, Richard Kirk, John Mainwaring, Michael Rayner, Peter Richards, Robert Riddel, Noel Robinson, Malcolm Snow, Caroline Stalker, Shane Thompson, John Wardle and Elizabeth Watson—Brown.

Gemma Battenbough

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