What makes a liveable community?

Melbourne has often been dubbed one of the world’s most ‘liveable’ cities, and that’s no accident – the inner suburbs in particular boast many of the features that contribute to creating connected, inclusive neighbourhoods. But what exactly is it that makes an area ‘liveable’ and lends it a sense of community?

Not all neighbourhoods promote a sense of togetherness. But how you feel about where you live can make a big impact on your overall sense of wellbeing. These are some of the major factors that contribute to engaged and healthy communities – does your suburb fit the bill?

Access and walkability

A community should be easy to get around via a range of transport options – that includes not only cars, but public transport, bikes and, most importantly of all – walking. In fact, the more ‘walkable’ a neighbourhood is (measured by how easily and quickly residents can reach necessary amenities on foot), the more satisfied those who live in the vicinity are likely to be. As well as being easy to get around, a community should also be well connected to surrounding areas. A community that promotes activities like walking and cycling also provides more opportunities for residents to be physically active, and therefore healthier and happier.

Events and activities

What can you do in the area? A well-planned community has a range of uses, and doesn’t merely close for the night when shops and business shut at 6pm. There are things to do and see, and places to go at all hours, and public areas can be enjoyed at most times of the day or night. There are also a range of services that residents need, from schools and shops to gyms and dentists. Studies have shown that main streets act as community hubs, helping to create a sense of social inclusiveness.

Comfort and cleanliness

Well-maintained communities have a big impact on the wellbeing of residents. Streets should be largely clean and free of litter, and residents should feel safe outside after dark. Alongside that, the character of the area should be maintained, with public art and historical buildings that make the area attractive and interesting. Thriving communities retain a sense of uniqueness that can’t be easily replicated elsewhere.

Parks and greenery

Multi-purpose areas that allow residents to enjoy the outdoors and partake in physical exercise are vital. This includes playgrounds, barbecue and picnic areas, sports ovals, landscaped gardens, tennis or basketball courts, fountains, walking trails and lakes. It goes without saying that these spaces need to be clean and well maintained – local residents can often play a part in this by joining local action groups that plant trees, pick up litter and care for local ecosystems like wetlands. It’s crucial that the spaces are designed to meet local needs – for example, a playground in an area where there a few children provides little benefit.

Communities that promote these qualities create a sense of social cohesion – they make it routine for residents to spend time outside their homes, interacting with people and places in the local area. In such neighbourhoods, people are far more likely to feel a sense of belonging.

Here are some simple ways to increase or build a sense of community:

• Ditch the gym and use public paths and parks to exercise
• Support local shops and services
• Find a ‘local’ – a bar, cafe, even a hairdresser –  and become a regular
• Say hello to the neighbours
• Join local community groups like choirs, book clubs or action groups that care for the local environment.

Complied using information from Healthy Active by Design and the High Density Liveability Guide.