Integrating GreenInfrastructure

The Integrating Green Infrastructure (IGI) approach aims to deliver multiple benefits and efficiencies by aligning development requirements with Green Network provision. Within new development and regeneration areas multi-functional greenspace can deliver a range of benefits, for example:

• a linear wetland alongside a path can provide habitat connectivity, help absorb surface water, and improve water quality

• sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS) ponds integrated into a designed greenspace can provide opportunities for community activity and social interaction, as well as providing a robust flood management function

The 5 main considerations to successfully achieving Integrated Green Infrastructure are;

• water management

• habitat networks

• access networks

• green and open space, and

• sustaining quality

Our work to dateThe GCV Green Network Partnership has worked with a range of partners including Scottish Government, SEPA, Scottish Water and the Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Drainage Partnership to complete Design Studies based on the IGI approach for 6 urban areas across the city region. The Studies have been very well received and have been cited in Scottish Government guidance.

We are working to prepare design briefs to ensure the IGI approach is central to masterplanning for new developments.

The IGI approach can be applied across a range of urban contexts, including residential, retail, commercial and industrial developments.

IGI benefits include:

• cost effective surface water management o flood management and routing o pollution control

• resilience to the impacts of climate change

• better placemaking – improving quality of urban living

• integrated access and habitat networks

Our plans for the futureThe Partnership will work with partners to:

• promote the use of the IGI approach for the masterplanning of regeneration and ‘greenfield’ developments

• promote the delivery of our IGI Design Studies on the ground

A successful conclusion to the IGI work would be its routine application to the design of all urban developments.

Green infrastructure is critical to successful placemaking

GCV Green Network Partnership, 125 West Regent Street, Glasgow G2 2SA t: 0141 229 7746 e: enquiries@gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk @gcvgreennetwork www.gcvgreennetwork.gov.uk

helping to deliver the Central Scotland Green Network