At a masterplan level sustainable development means developing a design that maximises the inherent benefits of a site, whilst minimising any adverse impacts. This should be achieved at all levels—social, economic & environmental. In this respect, sustainability should not be viewed as an 'add-on', but as an integrated part of the process.

To ensure that sustainable development principles are incorporated from the start, a holistic approach should be taken to ensure a good masterplan is achieved.In order to achieve a Sustainable Masterplan we believe in finding integrated solutions to maximise the efficient use of resources. For example:

• Waste streams become sources of energy or building products
• Increased density and a mix of uses enable viable alternative sources for water and energy; and
• Landscape, ecology and water management are integrated to promote biodiversity, control surface runoff and provide amenity

In addition, we are developing our own Sustainability Audit Mechanism (SAM) to ensure that social, economic and environmental issues are addressed in a balanced way and to monitor and review progress of developments.

The main issues covered include:
Energy, water, waste, materials, landscape, ecology, microclimate, transportation, social issues and infrastructure.

Site layout & planning

• Sustainable development frameworks
• Building massing shape and form, climatic response, external comfort planning, environmental
• Site wide energy management systems including; CHP, borehole and heat pump, bio-energy, renewables & geothermal
• Water management systems including rainwater systems, on-site treatment & recycling
• Surface water management
• Landscape & ecology
• Sustainable transportation strategies
• Carbon management
• Materials management
• Environmental impact assessments

Environmental Analysis

• Solar access
• Pedestrian level wind environment
• Energy profiling
• Integration of renewable energy strategies
• Evaluation of site wide energy strategies

Sustainability Auditing

• BRE Environmental Assessment Methods
• Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH)
• SMART Waste
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)