Urban design methodologies as a tool to improve the prevailing planning regulatiom to enhance urban character in Sri Lankan context

Abstract

This dissertation intends to examine the existing planning regulations and to find solutions through urban design to enhance urban character in Sri Lankan context. It can be addressed to rapid development and increased pressure for growth, through the proper urban development without disturbing the urban character ofthe area as well as the financial capability to maintain it. Under the Dutch and the British rule, they were considered natural features such as beach, lagoon, elevation of the area, lakes and canals systematically. as opportunities and design their towns Due to the rapid urbanization, some buildings were constructed with little or no consideration for air space, lighting, ventilation, drainage and access to cleaning. Because of that, haphazard growth took place and some well planned areas ofthe cities became slums. Therefore, British people have been introduced Housing and Town Improvement (H&TI) Ordinance No. 19 of 1915 to assure the health condition ofthe people who were living in the main city centers. To overcome the issues created in the H&TI Ordinance, Town and Country Planning Ordinance was introduced in 1946. It’s 1st task to plan Colombo city along with its region and it was practiced until introduced Urban Development Authority (UDA) Law no. 41 of 1978. Since that all the UDA declared areas practiced UDA rules and regulations and rest ofthe areas covered by the above mentioned laws. In addition to the above mentioned Laws, the Urban Council Ordinance and the Municipal Council Ordinance are also implementing in the particular areas. All the above mentioned Laws have included the rules and regulations ofthe town planning to maintenance, preservation and improvement of the urban character. The following two regulations which can be used to enhance the urban character through development control and promotion.