Why Do Canberra Houses Not Have Front Fences?
Canberra, Australia, is known for its unique urban planning principles, one of which is the prohibition of front fences for freestanding houses. This restriction, established in 1924, has its roots deep within the city's early design philosophy. In this article, we will explore the history, reasons, and current status of this unusual housing rule.
A Brief History and Evolution
The ban on front fences is a product of a design debate that began in 1924. According to Professor Nicholas Brown from the Australian National University (ANU), the primary concern was that front fences would obscure privacy and prevent neighbors from observing one another. This perspective was influenced by the garden city design ideas popular at the time.
City Planning Under Sir John Sulman
In the early 1920s, Sir John Sulman was the driving force behind Canberra's city planning. Sulman was deeply committed to the concept of the garden city, wherein residents lived in individual cottages within lush, open spaces. The idea was that these gardens should face the street to encourage social interaction and a sense of community among neighbors.
Initially, the government planted and maintained hedges to serve as barrier elements, but over time, residents began to prefer more open garden spaces.
Current Status and Exceptions
Today, the rule prohibiting front fences still stands, but it only applies to freestanding houses, not to apartment blocks or townhouses. Exceptions include embassies, where security concerns necessitate such fences. The current rules can be found on the ACT Government website.
Despite the ban, the majority of Canberra residents support the concept behind the rule. They value the sense of openness and the promotion of social interaction, which aligns with the original garden city design philosophy.
It's worth noting that this rule also aligns with broader trends in city planning that prioritize green spaces and walkable communities. In recent years, there have been calls for change, with some residents advocating for the removal of this restriction. However, the historical and social significance of the rule continues to be a strong factor in its retention.
For those interested in learning more about the specifics and updates on this rule, the ACT Government website provides the most current information.