On 20 November 2024, the Build4People Work Package “Sustainable Neighbourhoods” team convened for an internal meeting to review the overall structure of the newly developed so-called Integrated Urban Design Guidelines. These guidelines are integral part of the so-called Phnom Penh Capital Hall (PPCH) Transformation Toolbox, Build4People’s most important tangible product of the current RD phase. The discussion also focused on ensuring their alignment with Cambodia’s current legal framework governing urban planning and construction.
To foster collaboration and facilitate co-development with local partners, the Build4People Work Package “Sustainable Neighbourhoods” team member Mr. Oliver Lambrecht, Director of the Urban Planning Department of Eble Messerschmidt Partner (EMP), supported by his colleague Ms. Nuria Roig, presented an overview of the prepared materials. This included the logical structure, sequence, and relevance of topics outlined in the draft guidelines. The primary aim was to identify and address any potential contradictions between the proposed elements and local legal requirements.
During the meeting, EMP’s research partner Prof. Dr. Tep Makathy, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning at Paññāsāstra University of Cambodia, highlighted two critical legal documents for consideration: Anukret 42 (Sub-Decree on Urbanization of the Capital City, Towns, and Urban Areas) and Anukret 86 (Sub-Decree on Construction Permits).
Based on his valuable input, the team collaboratively developed a comprehensive table cross-referencing the concepts proposed in the guidelines with the relevant articles from these key legislative documents.
This effort underscores the importance of localized research results that are contextually grounded and legally compliant, ensuring practical and effective implementation. Such scientific exchanges and collaborative reviews with local stakeholders are instrumental in achieving sustainable urban development outcomes tailored to the Cambodian context.
The whole Build4People team would like to express its deep gratitude to Prof. Tep Makathy for his constructive and meaningful feedback.