Urban Planning Process Research Articles

Beyond the backyard: Unraveling the geographies of citizens’ engagement in digital participatory planning

Despite the emergence of virtual spaces as arenas for public participation, the geographies of digital participation have gained relatively little attention. Besides considering who participates and why, there is an evident gap in research considering the spatial relationships between the participants of digital urban planning processes and the spaces that are the subject of their participation. This paper proposes a working concept of the spatiality of participation that distinguishes between the spaces in which participation occurs, the spatial realities of the participants, and the spaces as objects of participatory planning. Relationships between these dimensions are investigated empirically with a Public Participation GIS study set in Espoo, Finland, involving 1,731 citizens and over 6,800 future planning and development ideas mapped across the city. The results of the study support prior research observing that e-participation has the potential to spatially expand participation processes both in terms of the involved public and the spatial knowledge they produce. However, our results also show that online participation may capture spatial ties between people and places that differ from those of traditional participation modes, ranging from place-protective behaviors close to the residential location to more casual spatial attachments.

The Role of Police Perception in Shaping Public Meeting Attendance and Implications for Planners

This is the first study to assess how resident perception of the police is associated with public meeting attendance. Using 689 exit poll surveys in Oklahoma City, we conducted regression models to understand factors associated with meeting attendance. Our findings reveal that police perception is related to meeting attendance, especially for younger, college-educated residents who live in non-white precincts. The study also helps to differentiate resident perceptions of police compared to other public services. The findings are important given that typical public meeting attendees are older and white and the role of police powers in urban planning processes.

AI-Driven Urban Planning: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability in Smart Cities

Urban planning in smart cities is increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and sustainability. This article explores the integration of AI-driven technologies to optimize various aspects of urban development and management. Smart cities are characterized by their use of advanced technologies to improve quality of life, resource management, and infrastructure efficiency. Traditional urban planning methods often face challenges in adapting to rapid urbanization and dynamic environmental changes. AI presents opportunities to address these challenges by providing data-driven insights and predictive capabilities. This research employs a case study approach, analyzing the implementation of AI in urban planning processes across several smart cities globally. Key methodologies include data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and predictive modeling techniques applied to diverse urban datasets. The study evaluates how AI-driven decision support systems aid in infrastructure planning, traffic management, energy consumption optimization, and environmental sustainability. The findings demonstrate that AI-enabled urban planning significantly enhances efficiency and sustainability in smart cities. AI algorithms optimize traffic flow, reduce energy consumption through predictive maintenance of infrastructure, and facilitate adaptive urban design based on real-time data analytics. Moreover, AI-driven approaches improve decision-making processes by providing stakeholders with actionable insights for informed policy formulation and resource allocation. This article contributes to the evolving field of smart city technologies by showcasing the transformative potential of AI in urban planning. By harnessing AI capabilities, cities can effectively address complex urban challenges and pave the way for more resilient and sustainable urban environments.

Planning and reconstruction of the old city in the future

With the acceleration of urbanization, the renovation planning and renovation of old urban areas have become an important issue. This article conducts an in-depth analysis of a case study on the renovation and planning of an old urban area in China, exploring how to achieve modernisation and sustainable development of the old urban area while preserving its historical and cultural heritage This article adopts a case study method, selects typical cities as research objects, deeply analyses the practical process, effectiveness, and challenges of urban renovation planning and old house reconstruction, and proposes corresponding strategic suggestions. Through detailed analysis and comparison of the case, the aim is to provide useful reference and guidance for other cities in terms of renovation planning and old house reconstruction.

Dwelling architecture in the context of socio-economic and technological conditions of modern Kazakhstan (on the example of Almaty city)

The relevance of this research is highlighted by Almaty’s continuing status as a historical and cultural centre and a financially independent city, despite no longer serving as the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Currently, an important issue is the formation of the “Smart City” plan in the context of modern concepts of resource conservation and environmental policy. The research aims to substantiate changes in the formation of housing architecture under the influence of socio-economic, political, and technological processes in the context of gradual historical changes in the example of Almaty, as well as to determine the priority directions of development of urban planning processes, in particular on the territory of the residential zone. The following methods of scientific research were used: abstract-logical method; comparative method; historical method; method of system analysis and synthesis. To achieve the research aims, the elements of the socio-economic development of Almaty in the context of historical, cultural, and educational centres were defined. The peculiarities of dwelling architecture from the 1920s to the present day are analysed. This research proposes priority directions for urban planning in Almaty’s residential area by analysing historical architecture influenced by socio-economic and technological factors.

Quantifying and spatializing the island landsenses ecological condition using a two-dimensional model

Achieving the harmonious development of the “social-ecological” system is a crucial aspect of the global sustainable development goals. Landsenses ecology is an emerging concept that emphasizes sustainable land use planning and comprehensive management. Islands serve as ideal study areas setting for studying the landsenses ecology due to their vulnerability as ecosystems exposed to significant human activities. To assess the condition and spatial distribution of landsenses ecology, we established a quantitative evaluation framework that encompassed eight factors across two perceptions - physical and psychological. Our study focused on two islands situated in southeast China, which, despite their proximity, demonstrate remarkable differences in terms of natural and economic characteristics. The results revealed a significant spatial heterogeneity in the landsenses ecological condition on both islands. Nan'ao island (NAI) exhibited higher values for physical (0.5) and psychological (0.243) perceptions compared to Dongshan island (DSI), which was primarily attributed to varying natural environments and topographic factors. Notably, elevation and slope demonstrated strong correlations with landsenses ecological condition, acting as critical determinants of island development. Finally, using beaches as an example, we examined the impact of landsenses ecological conditions about the tourist resources of the islands. This study contributes to the development of scientifically informed urban and tourism planning processes by providing decision-makers with valuable insights.

Review Paper on Comprehensive Evaluation and Analysis of India's Urban Planning and Development Process for Managing Architectural Controls and Infrastructure Development in Towns

Review Paper on Comprehensive Evaluation and Analysis of India's Urban Planning and Development Process for Managing Architectural Controls and Infrastructure Development in Towns

Evaluating and Comparing Human Perceptions of Streets in Two Megacities by Integrating Street-View Images, Deep Learning, and Space Syntax

Street quality plays a crucial role in promoting urban development. There is still no consensus on how to quantify human street quality perception on a large scale or explore the relationship between street quality and street composition elements. This study investigates a new approach for evaluating and comparing street quality perception and accessibility in Shanghai and Chengdu, two megacities with distinct geographic characteristics, using street-view images, deep learning, and space syntax. The result indicates significant differences in street quality perception between Shanghai and Chengdu. In Chengdu, there is a curvilinear distribution of the highest positive perceptions along the riverfront space and a radioactive spatial distribution of the highest negative perceptions along the ring road and main roads. Shanghai displays a fragmented cross-aggregation and polycentric distribution of the streets with the highest positive and negative perceptions. Thus, it is reasonable to hypothesize that street quality perception closely correlates with the urban planning and construction process of streets. Moreover, we used multiple linear regression to explain the relationship between street quality perception and street elements. The results show that buildings in Shanghai and trees, pavement, and grass in Chengdu were positively associated with positive perceptions. Walls in both Shanghai and Chengdu show a consistent positive correlation with negative perceptions and a consistent negative correlation with other positive perceptions, and are most likely to contribute to the perception of low street quality. Ceilings were positively associated with negative perceptions in Shanghai but are not the major street elements in Chengdu, while the grass is the opposite of the above results. Our research can provide a cost-effective and rapid solution for large-scale, highly detailed urban street quality perception assessments to inform human-scale urban planning.

Environmental Risks Associated With Urban Development Projects in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine environmental risks associated with urban development projects in Kenya Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed that urban development projects in Kenya present significant environmental risks that require careful consideration and proactive mitigation measures. The rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion in Kenya's cities have been associated with various environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, habitat loss, soil degradation, urban heat island effects, and adverse impacts on human health. These environmental risks stem from factors such as increased vehicular emissions, industrial activities, improper waste management practices, deforestation, and inadequate urban planning and infrastructure. The concentration of population and economic activities in urban centers exacerbates these environmental pressures, further highlighting the urgent need for sustainable urban development strategies in Kenya. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: urban political ecology theory, environmental justice theory & sustainable development theory may be used to anchor future studies on environmental risks associated with urban development projects in Kenya. Prioritize the implementation of green infrastructure initiatives, such as green roofs, urban parks, and sustainable drainage systems, to mitigate environmental risks associated with urban development. Integrate nature-based solutions into urban planning and design processes to enhance ecosystem services, improve air and water quality, and reduce urban heat island effects. Advocate for legislative reforms and policy interventions that prioritize environmental sustainability in urban development planning and regulation. Implement stringent environmental impact assessment (EIA) processes for all urban development projects to ensure compliance with environmental standards and regulations.

Qualitative futuring methods in communicative (inter)action: Exploring the development and deployment of the Future Synthesizer method

This contribution presents initial efforts to respond to the question: How do qualitative futuring methods enhance the design of participatory processes for regional and urban planning? This work makes use of futuring approaches and methods to help build individual and collective futures literacy. Doing so enables communities and their administrations to design, plan, construct, and develop the built environments for which they strive. We present efforts to develop and refine a qualitative (interactive) form of a futuring method called Future Synthesizer in community and classroom contexts. Future Synthesizer is premised on the communicative and collaborative potential generated when many sources of knowledge are represented and articulated by diverse stakeholders. The method facilitates the communicative structuring of interactive and strategic discussions between stakeholders through temporally ordered exchanges that link diverse forms of knowledge at participatory events. By integrating interactive and haptic components, our method helps participants articulate, illustrate, and negotiate the (inter)actions required to solve the complex problems brought to light through regional and urban planning processes. The efforts behind Future Synthesizer show potential to enhance future-oriented learning in a range of settings. However, since our experiences are in progress, there is much potential to develop the research in this contribution.

Spatial heterogeneity of the effects of river network patterns on water quality in highly urbanized city

River water quality deterioration is a serious problem in urban water environments. River network patterns affect water quality by influencing the flow, mixing, and other processes of water bodies. However, the effects of urban river network patterns on water quality remain poorly understood, thereby hindering the urban planning and management decision-making process. In this study, the geographically weighted regression (GWR) model was used to explore the spatial heterogeneity of the relationship between river network pattern and water quality. The results showed that the river network has a complex structure, high connectivity, and relatively even distribution and morphology. Important river structure indicators affecting water quality included the water surface ratio (Wp) and multifractal features (∆α, ∆f) while important river connectivity indicators included circuitry (α) and network connectivity (γ). River structure has a more complex effect on water quality than connectivity. This study recommends that the Wp should be increased in agricultural areas and appropriately reduced in urban built-up areas, and the number of river segments and nodes should be controlled within a rational configuration. Our study provides key insights for evaluating and optimizing the river network patterns to improve water quality of urban rivers. In the future, the land use intensity, hydrological processes, and human activities should be coupled with the river network pattern to deepen our understanding of urban river environment.

Development of planning support systems: A systematic review of the Chinese language literature

Due to the increasing complexity of cities and the involvement of multiple stakeholders in urban planning, the field encompasses vast amounts of information, expertise, planning tools, and communication skills. Planning support systems (PSS) are geo-information-technology-based instruments that offer a suite of supportive tools to aid the urban planning process. Over the past three decades, PSS has seen widespread exploration and implementation globally, including within the rapidly evolving context of China. Nonetheless, language barriers have posed challenges in reviewing and synthesizing PSS advancements documented in Chinese publications. To provide a thorough and objective perspective of the achievements in Chinese literature for international scholars, this study adopts a systematic review methodology. It screens 68 relevant high-quality articles from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure and conducts statistical analyses on them, focusing on publication time, geographic distribution, fields of study, etc. Then it mainly summarizes the development of foundational elements and the applications of the systems. It is found that in terms of system elements, China has developed some unique theories and corresponding planning models, alongside exploring various technological aspects. In applications, PSS serves various functions across different subfields, reflecting the division of labor in China’s planning process and the orientation of its policies. Future research avenues could encompass the creation of policy-driven comprehensive management functions, the development of systems tailored to specific contexts, and the exploration of new technologies like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and generative Artificial Intelligence to boost PSS functionality and efficiency.

Generative Urban Design in the Field of Infrastructure: An Optimizing Solution for Connecting Fier and Vlora County by a 600 m Bridge over Selenica River, Albania

The way we think about infrastructure is being completely changed by parametric and generative design. Meanwhile the contemporary urban planning process is often viewed as a complicated and fragmented workflow. The main goal is to optimize solutions with tens of thousands of variations while concurrently taking into consideration various limits. This Paper will discuss and demonstrate the use of a generative urban design framework at the local scale. Although relevant to infrastructure, generative design is not limited to architecture. And on the other hand, the construction sector is becoming more specialized and complex. The close cooperation between structural engineers, architects, urban planners and other stakeholders is a major driving force behind modern projects. The building site is cut off from architects and engineers, particularly in the digital age. To ensure a three-dimensional scope of work, digital models are therefore necessary. The difficulty is that the structural model and architectural model do not match up exactly. A generative design is therefore explained in the case of a bridge design. Bridges are effective structures that provide a variety of topologies, materials, and geometries. This paper examines how the geometry and topology of a 600 meters long bridge can bring an optimal solution for connecting two nearby counties, Fieri and Vlora. The performance of the bridge can be examined by altering the geometrical parameters in addition to the topology. By adding more design factors and offering a fresh method for bridge optimization, the study aims in further developing the initial parametric model. Since the process of changing the design is quite quick and the analysis is displayed instantly, using parametric design to study alternative options for bridges could be highly helpful to designers. Keywords: generative design, bridge, geometry, typology, optimization, deflection.

НАРИСИ ІСТОРІЇ МІСТОБУДУВАННЯ В УКРАЇНІ І СВІТІ

Introduction. The article examines the nutritional dynamics and peculiarities of the development of the environment in Ukraine, which requires an integrated approach to address the challenges and problems of this problem. The foldability and rich profile of this galus poses system requirements that require support and legislative security at the edge. Also, we are talking about developing a strategy for the development of local development, which is based on the idea of ensuring harmony between the economic, social and environmental development of the place. The main essence lies in the creation of such a local environment that would satisfy the needs of the current generation, without reducing the ability of future generations to take control of their lives. It is important that the main aspects of the development of strategies for the development of local development include, first of all, economic stability, so that they are aimed directly at creating minds for economic growth and development, ensuring the stability of financial, economic and investment processes in localities. Social inclusion plays an important role, and development strategies are aimed at ensuring accessibility and equal access to infrastructure, housing, lighting, health care and other social services for all levels of the population. Problem statement. Urban planning is a complex, multi-level and multi-disciplinary process that has a systemic nature. The main task of urban planning is to create such a material environment in which human needs should be satisfied as best as possible. In contrast to previous years, the urban planning process has been streamlined and has become more integrated into public production. The specificity of this type involves a whole series of competencies affecting many fields of knowledge. Urban planning activity involves planning, development of territories, careful development and implementation of urban planning documentation regarding both the expansion of cities and the construction of new ones. At the same time, many questions arise regarding architectural solutions, harmonious placement of buildings in the surrounding landscape. The process of urban planning always heralds socio-economic development: infrastructure and architectural projects implemented within the framework of urban planning can contribute to economic growth, attracting investment and creating jobs, while the process of social integration is underway, creating conditions for communication and interaction between different social and cultural groups .

Sydney’s residential relocation landscape: Machine learning and feature selection methods unpack the whys and whens

This study investigates household residential relocation timing, an aspect vital for transport and urban planning. Analyzing a high-dimensional dataset from 1,024 relocations in Sydney, Australia, the research contrasts ten machine learning survival techniques with three classical survival models. Results indicate that when classical models are paired with tree-based automated feature selectors, they align closely with machine learning outcomes. Notably, the GBM, XGBoost, and Random Forest models emerge as standout performers. The study provides a comprehensive comparison between automatic and manual feature selection, shedding light on variables influencing households’ duration of stay. While stacked ensemble modeling, which leverages predictions from various models, is used to enhance accuracy, the improvements are marginal, underscoring inherent modeling challenges, particularly the recurring issue of misclassifying specific pairs of households in the concordance index measure. A thorough feature analysis highlights homeownership as the foremost predictor, underscoring the importance of recent life events and accessibility features in relocation decisions. The research emphasizes the importance of considering the accessibility of both current and future homes in relocation models, with 20% feature significance in model outcomes. Building on these foundational insights, the study paves the way for a deeper understanding of individual decision-making processes in sustainable urban planning.

Use of the Sociogram in Participatory Planning in Contexts of Social Exclusion: A Comparative Case Study in Cordoba Neighbourhoods, Spain

Urban regeneration and spatial planning have adopted a new participatory approach in recent decades, highlighting the importance of integrating the community in urban decision-making processes, especially in disadvantaged and socially excluded areas. In this context, the sociogram emerges as an essential tool for collaborative governance, allowing the visualization and analysis of the dynamics between the different actors involved. This study employs a comparative case study approach in three disadvantaged neighbourhoods in Córdoba, Spain, to examine how the sociogram can facilitate more effective and democratic participation in urban planning. Using heat maps, scatter plots and average analysis, relationships between actors are identified and characterized, providing a solid basis for more inclusive and equitable planning decisions. This analysis not only reveals the practical utility of the sociogram in participatory research but also underscores its theoretical relevance in building resilient and cohesive communities. Findings confirm the sociogram’s effectiveness in mapping stakeholder dynamics and enhancing participatory governance, ultimately fostering more informed and inclusive urban planning processes.

The Content of Urban Planning, Design and its Relationship with Urban and Rural Planning

With the acceleration of urbanization, the impact of urban planning anddesign on urban development is becoming more and more important. A reasonable urbanplanning design not only helps to improve the quality of living environment. butalso can promote the sustainable development of urban economy. In the process ofurban planning and design in reality, there are some problems and challenges which are influenced by various factors. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to discuss the content, key points and the relationship between urban planning and urban-rural planning, in order to achieve a deeper level of thinking and learning about rational urban planning and design.

Reflections on the Application of Digital Design in Future Urban Construction

As globalization deepens, it brings new opportunities for urban construction. With the acceleration of urban planning processes and the pressures of population growth, higher demands are placed on urban construction. At the same time, rapid developments in science and technology provide new ideas and directions for urban construction. Digital design, as an emerging design concept and technical method, is becoming an important support for future urban construction. By utilizing advanced technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, digital design can achieve comprehensive optimization of urban planning, architectural design and construction, and urban management and services, bringing revolutionary changes to urban construction. Therefore, this paper explains the technological basis of digital design in current urban construction to provide a background for understanding its application. It then delves into the specific application advantages of digital design in three aspects: urban planning, architectural design and construction, and urban management and services. However, digital design still faces multiple challenges in application, such as technology, security, and privacy issues, which need to be addressed through corresponding strategies. Through in-depth research and practice, it is believed that digital design will bring more sustainable solutions to future urban construction.

Green architecture: Conceptualizing vertical greenery in urban design

This executive summary introduces the concept paper on Green Architecture, focusing specifically on the integration of vertical greenery in urban design. Green architecture, characterized by sustainable design principles and environmental consciousness, aims to enhance urban environments by incorporating vegetation into built structures. Vertical greenery, a key component of green architecture, involves the strategic placement of vegetation on vertical surfaces such as walls, facades, and rooftops. This concept paper explores the potential of vertical greenery to mitigate environmental issues in urban areas, improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance biodiversity. The paper proposes a conceptual framework for conceptualizing vertical greenery in urban design, emphasizing the importance of integrating natural elements into the built environment. It discusses various strategies for implementing vertical greenery, including the selection of suitable plant species, design considerations for irrigation and structural stability, and the incorporation of greenery into urban planning processes. Moreover, the concept paper highlights the social and economic benefits of vertical greenery, such as improved health and well-being for residents, increased property values, and enhanced aesthetics of urban spaces. It also emphasizes the role of stakeholder engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation in the successful implementation of vertical greenery projects. In conclusion, this executive summary outlines the significance of incorporating vertical greenery into urban design practices as a means to promote sustainability, resilience, and livability in cities. By embracing the principles of green architecture and integrating vertical greenery into urban landscapes, cities can create healthier, more vibrant, and environmentally sustainable communities for current and future generations. Keywords: Urban, Design, Green, Architecture, Vertical.

Urban trees' potential for regulatory services in the urban environment: an exploration of carbon sequestration.

Urbanisation has emerged as a formidable challenge for urban policymakers, reaching unparalleled heights and unsettling the ecological equilibrium of the cities. Urban areas now grapple with many issues encompassing climate change, resource depletion, population surges and increased pollution levels. Many planned cities have planted trees and other vegetation within the urban sectors to enhance air quality, mitigate climate effects and provide valuable ecosystem services. This study assessed tree species diversity and their potential for carbon sequestration in Panjab University Campus, Chandigarh. We established 188 plots, each comprising randomly selected quadrats measuring 10 m × 10 m, encompassing areas with varying levels of vegetation, ranging from low to moderate and high density. We used four different allometric equations to estimate tree biomass and carbon stock. Our findings revealed that 92 tree species belong to 72 genera and 35 families, with a total tree density of 975 ha-1. The total CO2 sequestration in form of carbon stock was 18,769.46 Mg C ha-1, with Manilkara hexandra (1239.20 Mg C ha-1), Ficus benghalensis (1072.24 Mg C ha-1), Kigelia pinnata (989.89 Mg C ha-1) and Lagerstroemia floribunda (716.88 Mg C ha-1) being the top contributors. Specifically, the equation of Chave et al. (2005) without tree height yielded the highest biomass and carbon stock estimates than other equations. The present study underscores the vital role of trees on the campus as potent carbon reservoirs meet to maintain an aesthetic sense for biotic components and alleviate rising levels of CO2 in the atmospheric environment. By emphasising the role of urban trees as potent carbon reservoirs, the study underscores the importance of integrating green infrastructure into urban planning strategies. Furthermore, it offers valuable guidance for urban planners. It suggests that strategic tree planting and maintenance can enhance green spaces, regulate temperatures and ultimately support regional and global climate change mitigation goals. Incorporating these findings into urban planning processes can aid policymakers in developing resilient, ecologically sustainable cities worldwide.