Urban Planning
The concept of dense urban planning, from Soria y Mata’s Linear City in 1882, through to today and The Line in Saudi Arabia, are useful inspiration for assessing how we can address housing affordability but also promote environmental sustainability and enhances convenience for residents. This article discusses some of the benefits of high-rise living in urban centres, from reducing pollution to increasing security.
Housing Affordability and Accessibility
For many individuals, particularly those stepping onto the property ladder for the first time, affording a conventional single-family house is a significant challenge. High-rise apartment blocks present a more affordable alternative, enabling more people to secure their own homes without overstretching financially. This model alleviates housing crises characterised by shortages of family-oriented homes, as it offers a viable option for both first-time buyers and downsizers.
Environmental and Economic Efficiency
Building upwards inherently reduces the need for extensive travel over land. This model minimises reliance on cars, decreasing pollution and traffic congestion on the roads. Fewer cars commuting into cities for work and returning to suburban homes means a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, high-rise living reduces the need for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to transport as much produce to suburban areas, further diminishing the carbon footprint associated with logistics and transportation. Our commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of building aligns with our broader ESG and sustainability framework.
Optimising Land Use
High-rise developments optimise land use by reducing the sprawl of suburban estates, which require extensive infrastructure to connect homes to towns and cities. This efficient use of land not only conserves green spaces but also frees up more land for domestic food production. Consequently, the reliance on imported food decreases, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.
Convenience
One of the benefits of high-rise living is unparalleled geographical convenience. Residents have access to a range of amenities right on their doorstep, from gyms and cinemas, to shops and workplaces. This proximity enables residents to accomplish daily tasks within a walkable distance and eliminates the need for lengthy commutes. The integration of housing, jobs, goods, and services in a single location fosters walkable mixed-use communities that reduce urban sprawl and transportation emissions.
Security
High-rise buildings typically feature enhanced security measures, such as surveillance and controlled entry/exit points. This increased security reduces the incidence of property crime, providing residents with a safer living environment compared to more vulnerable suburban areas.
Social and Community Benefits
Living in high-rise apartment blocks can also foster a sense of community through shared amenities like gyms and communal spaces encourage interaction among residents, promoting a sociability that is more often lacking in suburban settings. This social integration is vital for building stronger, more connected communities.
Summary
The high-rise low impact model of urban living offers a comprehensive solution to some of the most pressing issues faced by modern cities. By integrating accommodation above city amenities, this approach enhances housing affordability, reduces environmental impact, optimises land use, and improves convenience and security for residents. Embracing high-rise living could be a key strategy in creating sustainable, efficient, and vibrant urban environments for the future.
Cassidy Group Ltd’s current portfolio consists of eight schemes delivering 3,000 PBSA beds and 1,000 PRS apartments across six cities in England over the next three years. We hope to contribute to the aforementioned provision of affordable housing, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance convenience and security for residents.
The current portfolio is valued at £500m GDV, with individual developments ranging from £30m to £120m, and we welcome contact from sector professionals to discuss investment through a variety of funding structures.
Telephone: +44 (0)1926 431313
Email: info@cassidygroupltd.com
Website: www.cassidygroupltd.com
Article image: Architects impression of Cassidy Group Ltd planned development on London Road in Nottingham.