# SLL 2.1 - Compact & walkable neighbourhoods - Proximity to services & amenities
Designing compact and walkable neighbourhoods ensures residents have easy access to essential services and amenities, reducing car dependency and supporting healthy, connected communities.
The Victorian Planning Provisions include the following objectives for proximity to services and amenities (at 56.03-1):
- To locate housing within walking distance of activity centres, schools, parks, and community facilities.
- To support neighbourhoods that encourage walking and cycling for daily needs.
- To integrate residential areas with employment and retail opportunities.
- To reduce reliance on private vehicles by providing convenient access to services.
BESS rewards subdivisions that consider proximity to services and amenities by:
- Locating lots within walking distance of local or neighbourhood activity centres.
- Providing access to primary and secondary schools within a walkable catchment.
- Ensuring residents are close to public parks and open spaces for recreation.
- Connecting neighbourhoods to community facilities such as libraries, health centres, and meeting spaces.
- Locating housing near employment hubs or providing direct links to them.
- Ensuring access to supermarkets or fresh food outlets within walking distance.