ELECTIVE 1 HOME DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT Community centres
Community centres provide a venue for local classes, events and activities, e.g. art classes and parent-and-baby groups. They are funded by the Department of Housing, Planning Community and Local Government and by the community itself.
Importance: provide a place for individuals and families to meet and socialise. Community centres help develop a sense of community spirit, as people get to know each other.
Transport
Proximity to public transport links is often a selling point for housing developments. Planning will only be granted for housing developments when the local authority approves the layout of road infrastructure.
Importance: a well-planned road network in housing developments ensures the safety of the residents. Nearby public transport links enable people to travel easily to and from work, or to other amenities.
Shops
Proximity to shops is important to most individuals and families. The type and number of shops is generally based on demand. Importance: enables easy access to essential items without having to travel to urban areas.
Refuse collection
Refuse collection is a weekly or fortnightly service provided by either the local authority or private refuse companies.
Importance: keeps homes and housing developments clean and hygienic and prevents littering.
Street lighting
Street lighting is provided on public streets and in housing estates by the local authority and energy companies such as Airtricity. Street lighting operates by light-sensitive sensors.
Importance: makes people feel safer when driving or walking within a housing development or public area.
? Discuss the provision of amenities in new housing developments. (12) OL
Susan and Joe have two children, a boy aged eight and a girl aged ten. Identify four local amenities/services which you consider essential for this family and state one reason why you think each amenity/service is important. (16) OL
Evaluate the importance of local amenities and services in housing developments. (16) HL
