'Sustainable communities' are places where people want to live and work, now and in the future. They meet the diverse needs of the existing and future residents, are sensitive to their environment, and contribute to a high quality of life. They are safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, offer equality of opportunity and good services for all'.
Bristol Accord 2005
Sustainable communities are inclusive, providing homes for people of all ages, abilities and socio-economic backgrounds, throughout their lives. They have thriving local economies, are well connected and served by public transport, have a range of services, a wealth of opportunities, are well-governed with forums for resident consultation, have a defined sense of place and, finally, are environmentally sound.
The creation of sustainable communities is supported by a number of policy documents including: