The 82-page proposal, released to The Canberra Times yesterday, recommends the construction of an extra 7800 homes, which could bring 14,000 new residents to the town centre.

Environment and Sustainable Development Minister Simon Corbell said it was hoped the planned population growth would boost local businesses and make the area a more vibrant place to live.

''This plan sets out a direction that will create the opportunity for a more sustainable urban lifestyle close to some of Canberra's best natural landscapes,'' Mr Corbell said.

''The plan works with the town centre's street grid to establish views to the mountains, residential redevelopment that can take advantage of good solar orientation, walking and cycling links to Lake Tuggeranong; and sunny, sheltered spaces for outdoor dining and relaxation.''

Plans for the proposed housing outlined that the majority would be apartments, terraces or ''shop top'' style housing, while one proposed development could potentially house up to 1450 people within the next five years.

The planned housing would also help curb the area's dwindling population.

Recorded at 89,650 people last year, the plan stated that the figure was expected to drop to 85,150 by 2012. The transformation of areas such as Soward Way and Anketell Street was also a key element of the plan, which Mr Corbell said would create ''people friendly'' boulevards with strong connections to the lake and retail areas.

Increased street parking and dedicated cycle lanes were recommended for Soward Way, to ensure convenient transport and parking options, and both thoroughfares would incorporate shops, cafes and community facilities to create a more pedestrian friendly environment.

The plan also outlined improved pedestrian links from the town centre to the lake foreshore, as well as the relocation of the current bus station to Reed Street.

Options for local food production were proposed as part of the master plan, including the use of community and balcony gardens.

While rooftop and communal gardens would be part of private developments, the plan proposes the construction of community gardens of up to 5000 square metres in size located either near the Murrumbidgee River or on the eastern side of the centre. A precinct code will now be developed, outlining land uses, heights and design details.