Thinking Economics when Planning for Community Hubs

Transcription

1 Thinking Economics when Planning for Community Hubs Andrea Skraba BUPD (Hons) Consultant, SGS Economics and Planning

2 Presentation outline Defining community hub What makes a good community hub? The (economic) benefits of community hubs Creating community hubs

3 Defining community hub Defining community hub : The complex system of physical facilities, programs, and social networks that aim to improve people s quality of life. These services, networks and physical assets work together to form the foundation of a strong neighbourhood. Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission (VCEC) (2009) Single or group of co-located community facilities providing a range of community services Can be focussed around themes (eg learning, health) Can include/ be in close proximity to retail, sporting and education facilities

4 Defining community hub Community Facilities Hierarchy Regional Arts and culture District Library Local MCHC, Kindergarten Some facilities can be provided at all scales (eg library)

5 What makes a good community hub? Characteristics of a good community hub: Located in an activity centre or node Provide a focal point for the community Contain a number of (related) services and facilities Intergenerational focus Be owned by the community Be flexible and adaptable Consider final program delivery in its spatial design of community areas Co-located near public open space

6 The (economic) benefits of community hubs Social benefits Local human capital development Building social capital Economic benefits Local employment multipliers Local self-sufficiency Greater efficiency in council service delivery Environmental benefits Reduced transport emissions All leads to broader community wide economic, social and environmental outcomes

7 The (economic) benefits of community hubs Case study Beaconsfield Community Centre Improved social capital and engagements Improved mental and physical wellbeing through yoga and hobby classes Benefits exceed construction and operating costs by $17.1mil (PV) Benefit to cost ratio is 3.17 (benefits > costs by a multiple of 3.17)

8 Creating community hubs Delivery considerations: Existing land use and community requirements Future community requirements (forecasting, demographics, consultation) Anchor use Risk Control

9 Creating community hubs Delivery Community hubs generally have limited revenue streams Many benefits are broader than municipal level Government obligation to provide for communities Funding Opportunities Grants (eg Community Facilities Grant DPCD) Sharing with other providers (eg DEECD) Developer contribution plans Special rate schemes Betterment capture

10 Creating community hubs Potential financial benefits for councils Higher property values and development More efficient land use outcomes Increased service delivery efficiency through council provision and cross-referrals Economies of scale in operation of community infrastructure Potential to attract new users (additional residents / members / customers) Potential to leverage funding from other partners

11 Thank you Contact details: Andrea Skraba, Consultant SGS Economics and Planning