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An interdisciplinary debate on project perspectives

Table 1 The conceptual framework for social sustainability in urban neighborhoods and the assessment through the proposed ‘Integrated Measuring Tools Method’ (IMTM)

From: Assessing the effect of urban form on social sustainability: a proposed ‘Integrated Measuring Tools Method’ for urban neighborhoods in Dubai

 

Principles

Indicators

Assessment integrated Multi-Tools

1

Density

Population density (between 40 and 50 pph) and urban compactness (FAR)

Map analysis

UMI

2

Accessibility

Walkability

(Services and facilities are located within walkable and bikeable distances through well-defined pathways/cycling lanes)

UMI

Field observation

Bikeability

UMI

Field observation

Services and facilities are accessible for everyone

Field observation

3

Mobility

Walkability

(A safe, connected and well-designed pedestrian and cycling infrastructure)

Field observation

Map analysis

Bikeability

Field observation

Map analysis

Availability of accessible and cost-effective public transport

Secondary resources

Map analysis

DepthmapX

Restrained private car traffic (prioritization of non-privatized modes of movement)

Field observation

Map analysis

Decentralized provision of services

Map analysis

UMI

Transit oriented development (TOD)

Map analysis

DepthmapX

4

Integration

Spatial connectivity with adjacent neighborhoods

DepthmapX

Field observation

Spatial connectivity of the neighborhood’s street network

DepthmapX

Mutual supporting role among the neighborhood and its surrounding neighborhoods (in terms of provided amenities and services)

Map analysis

5

Choice and Diversity

Diverse range of high-quality services, housing types, non-car-based jobs, open spaces, and modes of mobility

Map analysis

Field observation

6

Mixed-use

Mixed land-use of the neighborhood plan

Map analysis

Availability of quality open spaces that can accommodate various social and commercial activities

Field observation

Map analysis

Ability to undertake multi-purpose trips

Map analysis

7

Environmental Quality

Physical, psychological, thermal, and visual comfort

Field observation

8

Safety

Avoiding urban sprawl

UMI

Map analysis

Calmed road traffic

Field observation

Inclusive safety measures for pedestrians and cyclists

Field observation

Map analysis

Safe and integrated network for pedestrians

Field observation

Map analysis

Safe and integrated network for cyclists

Field observation

Map analysis

Safe access to public transport nodes

Field observation

Map analysis

9

Security

Avoiding dead-end streets

Map analysis

Encouraged urban surveillance

Field observation

Dwelling units occupied mostly by owners

Secondary resources

Rent/property price (social stratum)

Secondary resources

10

Social capital

Available social gathering nodes (regular occurrence of social interactions leading to social networks)

Field observation

Map analysis

Encouraged people encountering (through walking)

UMI

Map analysis

Field observation

Distinctive urban design and high-quality services and facilities (increase sense of belonging)

Field observation

Map analysis

Community participation (increases trust)

Secondary resources