RDA Sydney launches innovative 3D planning model
Published: 5th July 2012
RDA Sydney (New South Wales) has launched an interactive 3D planning model that allows users to journey over the CBD to help visualise centres of activity and plan growth.
Virtual Sydney is an interactive planning tool for assessment of major developments and analysis of environmental impacts. It was commissioned by RDA Sydney and captures the entire Sydney Metropolitan area. The project was funded by the Australian Government.
The concept model was launched the tool at CEBIT Australia at the Sydney Convention Centre on Tuesday 22 May 2012.
RDA Sydney worked with geospatial specialists AAM, in collaboration with the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure, and the Land and Property Information division within the NSW Department of Finance and Services to create a proof of concept 3D model for all of Sydney.
RDA Sydney Chair Alan Pendleton said the project provided a practical 3D model that could be used to demonstrate and communicate the potential uses and benefits of ‘whole of city’ concept planning to key staff across federal, state and local government.
“This is the first 3D model in Australia that encompasses the whole of Sydney region as opposed to just the CBD,” Mr Pendleton said.
“Virtual Sydney is an exciting project as it will allow government to envisage the future and prepare future scenarios for Sydney with an integrated, whole of government approach.”
The 3D modelling software allows for the development of ‘what-if’ scenarios and demonstrates how this capability can be used to enhance strategic planning with respect to infrastructure, assets, public transport, roads, rail, waterways, freight, communication, land use, development, utilities and emergency events such as floods, fires or terrorism.
The software also enables numerous spatial data layers to be simultaneously viewed, delivering a comprehensive picture with respect to the various plans that apply to the Sydney Metropolitan area.
To view the Virtual Sydney demonstration clip, visit the RDA Sydney website.
Virtual Sydney 3D Spatial Model