Planning for walkable cities in South Africa : Marabastad, Kroonstad as a case study

Abstract

This dissertation aims to explore how spatial planning interventions can be used to enhance or create walkability of South African low-income cities. South African cities face unique challenges as they are fragmented due to the Apartheid era and related legislation Many South Africans live in low-income settlements that are separated from towns or cities where most of services, facilities and employment opportunities are. These residents are forced to travel far to access basic services and employment, often meaning that they spend more than 50% of their hard-earned salaries on transportation. As transportation is a clear problem for most South African, walkability seems like a natural solution. The research regarding walkability in developing countries such as South Africa is however lacking. This research is thus focused on creating walkable cities in South Africa, and Marabastad, Kroonstad was chosen as the case study. This qualitative study, that was led by a singular intrinsic case study research design utilised SDA and spatial survey (fieldwork), in the form of walk audit, to explore the walkability in Marabastad, Kroonstad. The theoretical aspect of this study covered the development of different urban models throughout the years and how walkability was influenced by different morphologies; the theoretical part regarding planning for walkability was also thoroughly discussed and several elements were identified to be associated with highly walkable neighbourhoods. The research methodology paired with the knowledge of the theoretical findings was then utilised to provide recommendations on how to improve the walkability of Marabastad, as well as make generic recommendations to improve walkability in South Africa