Thursday, November 5 – The Territory will join its global counterparts in observing the 60th anniversary of World Town Planning Day on November 8, the theme for which is Planning for Climate Change from Global Knowledge to Local Action.
Explaining the relevance of the theme, Acting Chief Planner Mrs. Marva Titley-Smith told the Department of Information and Public Relations, “It really means we have to take a holistic approach to addressing the issue of climate change. It is not simply an issue that has attracted the attention of the global community. For efforts to have any meaningful result there must be action at the Territory level, at the community level; it is in the interest of everyone to be part of planning for climate change.”
Mrs. Titley-Smith further stated, “Some may wonder about the correlation between climate change and town planning. It is important that town planners consider the potential impact of climate change in the execution of their duties and discourage practices that would accelerate climate change.”
The Acting Chief Planner also reiterated Government’s vision saying, “The planning process must facilitate a proper balance between the economic, infrastructural, environmental and social needs of the Territory while providing structures that are culturally and architecturally pleasing.”
She added, “Well-planned physical development is an essential element of sustainable development and we must therefore engage in sensible physical planning.”
The observation of World Town Planning Day is designed to create greater awareness among planners, other industry professionals and the general public about the role of planning in the creation of liveable and sustainable communities.
Here in the BVI, as part of the observance, the Town and Country Planning Department and other related Government agencies will mount poster displays in the west and east atria of the Central Administration Building next Wednesday, November 11 - Friday, November 13. The posters will depict various aspects of planning and climate change initiatives.
World Town Planning Day was first observed in 1949. Its objectives are to bring attention to the progress of urban planning; highlight the impact of sound planning on the quality of human settlements and the environment as well as publicise the ideals of planning within the profession and among members of the public. World Town Planning Day is observed in more than 30 countries.
British Virgin Islands News