Urban Planning
In the ACT we are privileged to enjoy a rich natural landscape and vibrant city simultaneously. However, we are challenged by the increasing pressures of a growing population, and the associated demands for housing and services.
Urban Planning
Canberra is Australia’s second least dense city. As we respond to increased population pressure, strengthening our commitment to urban infill will reduce pressure on natural ecosystems.
High quality urban development must be accompanied by a commitment to diversifying medium density housing options to provide better choices for the community.
Urban greenspace will help to build resilience against the impacts of climate change, enhance connectivity across the urban landscape, and deliver quality-of-life benefits to the community. Green space, trees and shrubs provide vital refuge for wildlife and pollinators across the urban landscape, cool the urban environment, and slow urban water flows.

Latest News
Moving Canberra – Integrated Transport Strategy
The Government’s Integrated Transport Strategy had lots of great ideas, but lacked the objectives and targets it needed to set out a clear pathway to improve public and active transport.
Concerns over Molonglo Valley development
The Conservation Council has engaged actively in the planning processes concerning the urban development of the Molonglo Valley (viz East Molonglo and Central Molonglo) over a number of years. However, we are […]
16 storey hotel proposal for Garema Place needs change
The Conservation Council has called on the Government not to approve a development proposal for a sixteen storey hotel comprising of a commercial hotel development containing 233 hotel suites on […]
Solar rebates for low income homes welcomed
Media release from ACT Energy Consumer Policy Consortium: ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS), Care Financial Counselling Service, Conservation Council ACT Region, SEE-Change, and Small Business Taskforce of the Canberra […]
Election transport policies from the incumbents
Light rail has been successful in lifting the profile of transport, even public transport, in the 2016 ACT election campaign. In terms of the Conservation Council’s policies light rail gets a […]
Riverview: Mechanisms and principles to protect environment and heritage values
The Riverview urban development proposal is a complex large project straddling the boundary of the ACT and NSW. The Conservation Council has been involved in various informal and formal processes […]