In the context of urban planning, what is the purpose of planning gain?

Planning gain refers to the benefits that a community can receive due to new development or changes in land use. The correct answer highlights that the primary purpose of planning gain is to provide additional infrastructure or projects that benefit the community. When new developments are proposed, planners often negotiate with developers to ensure that as part of their project, improvements are made that address the needs of the local population. These may include the development of parks, schools, transportation links, or affordable housing, which serve to enhance the overall quality of life in the area.

This concept is grounded in the idea that it is fair for developers to contribute to the needs of the community that supports their projects. For example, if a developer builds a large housing complex, planning gain might include the construction of a new road or the expansion of public transport to accommodate the increased number of residents. This helps create a more balanced and sustainable community by ensuring that the necessary infrastructure keeps pace with development.