Urban infill is the adding of homes or buildings within the existing built-up area. It is the opposite of outward expansion, where new neighbourhoods are built in the open countryside.
How urban infill works
Infill can happen in several ways:
- Building on vacant plots within existing urban areas.
- Transformation of existing buildings, for example converting offices or shops into homes.
- Topping up: adding extra storeys on top of existing buildings.
- Densifying: replacing low-rise buildings with higher-density development.
Benefits and challenges
Urban infill plays a major role in the debate about densification and efficient use of land.
Benefits:
- The open landscape is preserved.
- Existing infrastructure and amenities are used to their full potential.
Challenges:
- Less light and space on and around the plot.
- Increased parking pressure in the area.
- Sometimes resistance from local residents to the changes.
Related terms
- Zoning plan
- Building density
- Building plot
- Building line
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