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QUESTION 7 2020

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11 views

QUESTION 7 2020

Uploaded by

msm180185
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as TXT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Highlight the importance of urban design in achieving a sustainable urban form.

What
role urban design can plan in the livability of a city? Explain. (20 marks)

Urban design plays a crucial role in achieving a sustainable urban form by shaping
the physical layout, functionality, and aesthetics of cities in ways that promote
environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Here's how urban design
contributes to sustainable urban development and enhances the livability of cities:

1. **Compact and Mixed-Use Development**: Urban design principles emphasize


compact, mixed-use development patterns that optimize land use efficiency and
reduce sprawl. By promoting higher densities, diverse land uses, and pedestrian-
friendly environments, urban design fosters vibrant, walkable neighborhoods where
residents can live, work, and access amenities within close proximity. Compact
development reduces the need for long commutes, minimizes transportation-related
emissions, and preserves natural habitats and green spaces on the urban fringe.

2. **Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)**: Urban design integrates transit-oriented


development strategies that prioritize public transportation networks and encourage
transit ridership. By locating higher-density development around transit nodes,
urban design supports sustainable mobility options, reduces car dependency, and
alleviates traffic congestion. TOD promotes efficient land use, enhances
accessibility, and fosters social equity by providing affordable housing options
and improved access to jobs, services, and recreational opportunities.

3. **Green Infrastructure and Open Spaces**: Urban design incorporates green


infrastructure elements such as parks, greenways, and urban forests to enhance
environmental quality, mitigate urban heat island effects, and promote
biodiversity. Green spaces provide recreational amenities, improve air and water
quality, and reduce stormwater runoff, contributing to the overall health and well-
being of urban residents. Urban design prioritizes the integration of green spaces
into the urban fabric, creating interconnected networks of open spaces that enhance
ecological resilience and support urban biodiversity.

4. **Climate Resilience and Adaptation**: Urban design integrates climate-resilient


design principles to address the impacts of climate change and extreme weather
events. By incorporating passive design strategies, green building technologies,
and resilient infrastructure systems, urban design minimizes vulnerability to
heatwaves, floods, and storms, and enhances the resilience of urban communities.
Climate-responsive urban design fosters adaptive capacity, protects critical
infrastructure, and ensures the long-term sustainability of cities in the face of
climate uncertainty.

5. **Social Inclusion and Equity**: Urban design promotes social inclusion and
equity by creating inclusive public spaces, safe streetscapes, and accessible built
environments for all residents, regardless of age, gender, ability, or
socioeconomic status. By fostering social interaction, cultural exchange, and
community engagement, urban design enhances social cohesion, reduces social
isolation, and fosters a sense of belonging and identity among diverse urban
populations. Inclusive urban design prioritizes equitable access to amenities,
services, and opportunities, and addresses spatial inequities to create more just
and inclusive cities for everyone.

In conclusion, urban design plays a critical role in achieving a sustainable urban


form by integrating principles of compact development, transit-oriented design,
green infrastructure, climate resilience, and social inclusion. By prioritizing
environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic vitality, urban design
enhances the livability, resilience, and vibrancy of cities, creating healthier,
more equitable, and more sustainable urban environments for present and future
generations.

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