Property Density Layers

We're always looking for ways to implement technology or data for the benefit of public sector. One theme that came up was the lack of information local councils had to help them carry out evidence-based research into how housing should be allocated in their local area.

One of the key areas of interest was visualising how villages can be made denser to revitalise high streets and town centres. The default is to build on green-field sites as it's easier for developers. Plus, the developers don't always think about the long-term effects of the new dwellings on local infrastructure or community assets.

So, we created a new dataset called the Property Density Map which took residential housing data and displayed it in a way to show how dense urban areas are. This can then be used to analyse density against other areas.

The end result can be more informed decision making in the planning process, revitalised urban centres, and the protection of the countryside.

Social Value Contribution

This project gives social value in the form of power to the local councils wanting to have their say in local housing debates. This, in turn, has a trickle-down effect onto the quality of life for residents, and ensuring people have access to community assets without needing to drive.

We have invested over £10,000 in development time so far to bring this new dataset to life. And we intent on maintaining the data and providing more analysis and insight in the years to come.