When choosing a place to live, the main things most people would look for in a new community are good schools, close to shops and transport for example. But what about the aesthetic appeal of your new town, what about activities and entertainment?

You may think of this as secondary to the ‘essentials’ in your lifestyle, but the look and feel of your place to live is usually what gives you that ‘gut feeling’ about it. Arriving in a community with many public spaces filled with art and community centers can give you a better idea of what it will be like to live there than just bricks and mortar. Community development projects such as the arts are now at the forefront of urban planning and designing residential estates.

Development of the arts makes sense in a new community because art transcends demographics and economy. People of all ages and walks of life can cross paths and boundaries to appreciate and participate in arts based culture. New communities or even established ones looking to increase the level of resident participation can easily foster an arts program. Making use of multi-purpose council buildings and open spaces can lead to performing arts programs and entertainment, public art competitions and displays to name a few.

Partnering with innovative local businesses and groups can help develop the important cultural bindings of a cohesive community. When you think of a sustainable development, it isn’t always about your carbon footprint; it is also about a happy environment to live in, possibly for life, which you can be proud of.