Smart urban planning could save lives

A new report by the Public Health Advisory Committee (PHAC) calling for an urgent need to consider health in urban planning was welcomed by the Green Party today.

The PHAC, which provides independent public health advice to the Minister of Health, released a report Friday that highlights the urgency of designing urban areas in ways that promote - not impede - good health.

The report, Healthy Places, Healthy Lives: Urban environments and wellbeing, provides detailed evidence about the strong link between poor urban design and poor health, and the large burden that puts on our communities and health services.

“This report is right in line with Green Party Urban and Transport policies, which recognise the linkages between urban design, transport and good health,” said Green Party Health and Active Transport spokesperson Kevin Hague, who formerly chaired the PHAC.

“Better urban planning and transport policy can reverse the alarming trend of increasing obesity and chronic diseases by providing everyday opportunities to be active.”

The report also states that increasing sustainable transport, i.e., walking, cycling and public transport, reduces road accidents, which in 2008 were estimated to cost New Zealand $3.8 billion.

“What this report tells us is that we have an enormous opportunity to improve health outcomes and cut down the road toll through smarter urban planning,” said Mr Hague. “Further, it will reduce pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and transport costs for New Zealanders.

“Unfortunately, John Key’s Government is doing the exact opposite at the moment, by cutting funds for active transport and spending up large on motorways, which will reduce sustainable transport choices for Kiwis, and result in more urban sprawl.

“Better urban and transport planning is a no-brainer. It is a cost-effective way of tackling the health challenges we face, and will result in a higher quality of life for New Zealanders,” said Mr. Hague

ENDS

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