026 Discussion: Problems and Solutions

After further group discussion and research it was discussed that Canberra has three main issues

• Transportation – lack of connection to other regions in Canberra – this is due to the segregated town plan which relies heavily on zoning different districts
• Education – a lack of education means that the younger generations aren’t making the right decisions, flexible courses would help in decision making for future needs
• Lack of identity at different scales – this is due to there being no presence apart from political presence

Canberra currently lacks no form of public transportation that works with the urban design. There is a lack of connection to the different ‘nodes’ throughout the city so it is hard to commute around. The Census data from 2006 further enhances this when compared to the use of public transport in the other states of Brisbane and Sydney. When Canberra was designed it was said that cars were to be the main form of transportation – within today’s society this does not work.

An issue in regards to national identity is that there is nothing that draws people to the site other than parliament house, Canberra is supposed to reflect Australia yet the density refers to a small county side. Sydney has more of an iconic presence due to iconic architecture and a city like atmosphere. Canberra currently isn’t on the map and has a lack of connection at all different scales.

Our designs should connect the education, recreational, work, cultural and the parliamentary aspects of Canberra to create a city that is on the map and successful from all aspects.