Review and Critical Analysis of International UHI Studies

Design of cities) this model will be used to understand the physical processes involved in
creating London’s UHI and will be used to develop strategies to mitigate the effects. These types
of activities have been undertaken all over the world for example the US, Mexico, Singapore and
Japan [005, 052, 097, 091].
Strategic planning frameworks are generally set at Federal level and are filtered down to State
then to the Local Government through the state’s General Plan. The General Plans are wide
reaching and visionary for Local Governments to take direction. Design Guidelines provide the
link between higher level policy and implementation regulations on a local level. Measures are
then implemented through Zoning Codes [076].
Barriers
In general terms barriers to planning are faced if significant changes are proposed to:
� protected areas which include conservation areas, sites of special scientific interest and listed
buildings; and/or
� the character of a street or building so it is not in keeping with its surroundings
Barriers to planning schemes are also encountered when:
� There is public objection; and/or
� There are spatial or infrastructural restraints
Legislative barriers include the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990
(UK), National Historic Reservation Act (USA); and Land Planning Policies such as Green Belts
and Urban Growth Boundaries. Other potential barriers include funding and public objection
which is why wide and thorough public consultation is a seminal part of any planning process.
Generally when constructing or making a major change to a building or the local environment,
planning permission must be sought from the local government or state. Building Regulations
also exist to set standards for the design and construction of buildings and to ensure they adhere
to health & safety codes, fuel & power conservation and disability provision. Building regulations
vary from state to state which if a national program was launched could cause overlap and
complications relating to approvals and enforcement.
5.6.1 Cool/Green Roof Planning Issues
Cool and Green roofs means either light colored and therefore reflective and vegetative cover.
Not all roofs are appropriate for such measures, roofs must be load bearing, have a suitable
gradient and mounting surface.
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