Evaluating land-use plan using conformance-based approach in Adama city, Ethiopia

Abstract

Urban land-use plan is regarded as a useful tool to achieve urban sustainable development. However, presently it is unclear that how well the Plan is being implemented and major factors contribute to the variation of its implementation in Adama city, Ethiopia. This research examines the extent to which Land-use plan of Adama city functioned from 2004 to 2014 has guided and controlled all spatial developments during planning period by measuring the degree to which actual land-use outcomes over a 10-year period conform to the Plan intention. Land-uses of the City as of 2004 and 2014 are mapped; conforming, nonconforming, and unfulfilled developments are identified through spatial overlay analysis in geographic information system environment; effectiveness of boundary containment and proposed land sufficiency are explored. The findings demonstrate that although the Plan proposed reasonable area, it has met difficulties to control and guide new spatial developments of housing land-uses followed by social services and total urban growth. The limitation is due to combined result of geographic variables, absence of regular monitoring and evaluation, lack of commitment, and political leadership influence. The study would support sustainable spatial policy and direction of spatial development with respect to sustainable urban environment.