Next Generation Planning: A handbook for planners, designers and developers The recently released Next Generation Planning handbook, developed by the South East Queensland Council (SEQ) of Mayors, provides a planning toolkit for councils, planners, designers and developers to improve housing affordability whilst ensuring liveability for future generations. The handbook offers a consistent approach to delivering liveable regions, neighbourhoods and streets by providing criteria for SEQ councils to consider in managing residential development in their planning schemes. The criterion was developed by analysing and quantifying real life ‘best of the best’ urban environments in SEQ. By developing and promoting criteria for SEQ as a region, the handbook seeks to reduce unnecessary delays and associated costs incurred by inconsistent and sometimes negligible planning scheme requirements. Whilst the handbook is SEQ focused, the fundamental smart growth and urban design principles can be applied to many regions across Australia, particularly high growth regions such as Mackay. Sustained high population growth can compromise housing affordability and liveability if not appropriately managed. Mackay Regional Council is working towards achieving a more affordable and liveable region for future generations to enjoy. To view the Next Generation Planning Handbook please click here. For further information on Next Generation Planning please visit the Department of Local Government and Planning’s website www.dlgp.qld.gov.au/promoting-liveable-and-affordable-communities/next-generation-planning.html.