The importance of an authentic sense of place

Excellent article in the Guardian about the need for planners and architects to incorporate a sense of place in their planner - derived from solid research and understanding of the history and role of a area?

Tristran Hunt says:

Other examples of sensitive developments include Chatham fishing village and Ingress Park at Greenhithe, Kent. Rather than denying the river and its history - which most large housing developments seem intent on doing - both celebrate the authentic sense of place they bring.

This isn't an issue of branding or logos - of selling growth areas as part of Dickens's Thamesworld. It requires decent research about the history of the site and an attempt to translate that into civic design. On the one hand, that could mean a commitment to vernacular styles; on the other, civic landmarks, street and pub names, even local signage.

Tristram Hunt on the Thames Gateway | Art, Architecture & Design | Guardian Unlimited Arts