The design of urban environments influences the health and wellbeing of individuals and the sustainability of communities. Good design can promote healthy behaviours, social connectedness, and an active lifestyle. A recent survey of planners undertaken for the Public Health Advisory Committee (PHAC) found that although planners were aware of the links between planning and health outcomes, only 45% said they "always" or "frequently" considered health and wellbeing-related issues in their daily work. 69% said that health and wellbeing considerations had no impact or a minor impact on final planning decisions.
Read the full issue summary for urban design and planning [PDF] - updated September 2016.