Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, UPC, is encouraging government officials, urban planners and developers to ‘push the boundaries of what is possible’ during a series of workshops on the Hudayriat Island Master Plan.

The UPC held its second of five stakeholder workshops on Wednesday, which helped shape the concept master plan set to be submitted by the end of the year.

Key opportunities on topics including, sustainability, transportation, related amenities and community facilities, water-based recreational uses such as beaches and water sports, and providing a range of housing types, were discussed.

Stakeholders were also engaged in constructive discussions on proposed Key Performance Indicators, KPIs, and setting goals for everything from energy reduction and habitat creation measures to alternative transit provisions, urban design principles, as well as educational and social inclusivity initiatives. The KPIs will allow the project team to develop the master plan with measurable targets for success in mind.

In line with the Abu Dhabi Plan, the huge island lying to the south and southwest of Abu Dhabi Island will be transformed into a mixed-use development over the next 20 years with an accessible 30km water-front.

At the heart of the project will be Emirati housing offering a unique opportunity to create low density and tranquil communities themed around culture, coastline living, pearl diving and nature.

Abdullah Al Sahi, Executive Director, of the UPC’s Planning and Infrastructure Sector, said, "Given the extraordinary size and lifespan of the project, which is expected to be developed over the next two decades, it is important to think beyond business as usual.

"The UPC is encouraging stakeholders to push the boundaries of creative possibilities that go beyond the established norms while keeping the future generations in mind."

Source: Wam