Bec McHenry advocates for impact-led development and long-term thinking in urban planning for sustainable, nature-integrated cities
On The Connector, host Belinda Coates sits down with global impact consultant Bec McHenry to explore how impact-led development is transforming the future of cities.
This approach is redefining success by balancing financial returns with long-term social, environmental, and community outcomes.
Rather than ending at project completion, the focus shifts to custodianship—ensuring developments continue to deliver value for generations to come.
A key challenge lies in balancing immediate needs with long-term vision. While Australia often operates on shorter development cycles, other regions like New Zealand are embracing far more expansive planning horizons.
The rise of “Nature-Based Cities” reflects this shift, integrating green spaces into urban environments from the outset rather than as an afterthought.
Research shows access to nature not only improves liveability but can also significantly boost property values.
McHenry highlights how sustainability is becoming central to business strategy, with B Corp certification reinforcing a commitment to purpose alongside profit.
The discussion also explores the growing role of “interim use” in urban planning—testing ideas in the short term to unlock immediate value while supporting long-term visions for cities designed to last a century or more.
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