The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) is encouraging government officials, urban planners and developers to ‘push the boundaries of what is possible’ during a series of workshops on the Hudayriat Island Master Plan.

The UPC held the second of five stakeholder workshops on August 16 to help shape the concept masterplan for the project, set to be submitted by the end of the year, said a statement.

In line with the Abu Dhabi Plan, the huge island lying to the south and southwest of Abu Dhabi Island will be transformed into a mixed-use development over the next 20 years with an accessible 30-km waterfront. The 3,000-hectare island project will offer housing for the next generation of UAE nationals.

At the workshop, key opportunities were discussed on topics including: sustainability, transportation, related amenities and community facilities, water-based recreational uses such as beaches and water sports, and providing a range of housing types.

Stakeholders also engaged in constructive discussions on proposed key performance indicators (KPIs) setting goals for everything from energy reduction and habitat creation measures to alternative transit provisions, urban design principles, as well as educational and social inclusivity initiatives. The KPIs will allow the project team to develop the masterplan with measurable targets for success in mind.

At the heart of the project will be the Emirati housing programme, offering a unique opportunity to create low density and tranquil communities themed around culture, coastline living, pearl diving and nature. It will also include commercial and leisure facilities.

Abdullah Al Sahi, executive director, of the UPC’s planning and infrastructure sector, said: “Given the extraordinary site and lifespan of the project, which is expected to be developed over the next two decades, it is important to think beyond business as usual.

“The UPC is encouraging stakeholders to push the boundaries of creative possibilities that go beyond the established norms, while keeping the future generations in mind.”

The first stakeholder workshop was held on May 22, introducing the project’s impressive scope, schedule and goals.

With over 30 km of diverse, exquisite coastline, Hudayriat Island will be an attraction for local and regional residents as well as tourists. It will also offer many unique opportunities to promote Emirati culture and history, encourage healthy lifestyles and preserve local ecologies, the statement said. - TradeArabia News Service