NUR-SULTAN – The capital Department of Architecture, City Planning and Land Relations has presented a unified design code for the city, according to its website. The new system will be gradually implemented within the city upgrade programme.
Photo credit: tengrinews.kz.
In October, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev requested city authorities create the code, as the capital lacked a common urban planning policy and its overall look lagged behind certain other Central Asia cities.
“You have obviously heard the tourists’ feedbacks who came to Kazakhstan, especially to see the capital. They are mostly positive, but people note the city is eclectic and most importantly, it is not cosy. The tiles are broken, the asphalt is cracking, there is a lack of greenery. It seems the city is ownerless. Thereby, I urge creating a unified design code for city streets and buildings. It is my strictest assignment,” he said.
The capital maslikhat (local representative body) has already approved the design code, according to the release. It is now in its final stages and the capital akimat (city administration) showed the scheme that will be launched next year.
A design code is a set of rules and recommendations to create a unified, comfortable and safe city environment. The document regulates urban space decoration and development features and the unified architectural style standards are outlined in the Law “On architectural, urban planning and construction activities.”
“Long-term development of the city goes together with environmentally friendly technologies and harmonious arrangement of public spaces based on the recommendations of Danish architect and landscape specialist Jan Gehl,” reported the press service.
The code establishes a uniform style for city building façades and rooftops, roadways, outdoor advertising signs, street signs and lighting, trash bins, small architectural forms, outdoor furniture and greenery placement. In the future, entrepreneurs will take into account the common colour and style decoration, as well as approved building supplies.
City streets will be divided into functional zones by purpose and design, sidewalks, traffic and pedestrians transit areas, dividing strips and architectural and artistic appearance.
One of the main disadvantages of the current city planning, noted the department, is the narrow sidewalks that prevent pedestrians from comfortably walking along the streets. Next year, city officials plan to widen them, make them adjustable to accommodate those with mobility challenges, increase the number of bicycle lanes and install rest spots.
