A ‘Neighbourhood’ is an extent of a geographical area within a city. It could be physically defined as a precinct. It usually includes the spaces and activities in the vicinities of our home. Spaces within a certain neighbourhood are usually walkable in their urban character.
The Context of a Neighbourhood
Source: Author
A neighbourhood contributes to the everyday needs of the residents. So, it needs to be accessible. Hence, some qualities that a neighbourhood should possess are –
1. Safe and connected network for pedestrians – This does not only encourage the pedestrians to walk more, but it would also be safer for children to transverse.
2. More neighbourhood open spaces – In the context of cities such as Mumbai, open spaces seem to be neglected, despite their obvious need. Hence, the above pedestrian networks could also include green open space, public plazas, market streets and accessible waterfronts – depending on the site context. It is all the more required at the neighbourhood level, as the residents would not need to travel to far off areas to access open spaces – eg: people crowding at Marine Drive (a waterfront development).
3. Accessible public transport – This would include more bus stops and such network connectivity to the nearest railway station (through buses or walkable/cyclable networks). Better access to public transport would encourage people to use it more often and this could lead to an increase in funding & investment towards this sector.
4. Mixed-Use Spaces – These spaces with a mix of commercial, residential and recreational activities will ensure active street fronts and ensures urban safety. It is important that Architects, Urban Designers, Urban Planners and Landscape Designers have a collaborative approach towards developing neighbourhood spaces. This coupled with participation and discussions of the communities residing there would ensure the development and provision of neighbourhood spaces.
An un-used, vacant plot due to its (hidden) accessibility
Source: Author
Each neighbourhood has its own urban character and hence the contextual intervention should be able to enhance its identity. Micro-level interventions provide a way to develop and renew the city sustainably by preserving the indigenous, historical and cultural elements of the urban space.
This can be achieved by identifying and understanding the needs and overall character of the neighbourhood. For instance,
Eg 1: Neighbourhoods with educational institutions should have accessible public transport, safe footpaths, recreation and commercial spaces.
Eg 2: Similarly, neighbourhoods that have important historical buildings (such as a historic core) should be able to enhance those spaces through safe pedestrian zones, commercial activities. It should also ensure strong visual connectivity to enhance the importance of such buildings.
An intervention at the neighbourhood level contributes to achieving an Integrated Urban Development - through street networks, open spaces and a strong public transport network.
Micro-level interventions ensure a deep sense of understanding, response to transformative processes, and provide conscious respect for local values and traditions when planning something new.
Approach towards interventions – include Adaptive Re-use of existing structures, Infill Development, Brownfield redevelopment projects and Greenfield projects. All these must ensure inclusivity and ensure the provision of the needs of the public. This should ensure and follow the ecological necessities instead of creating exclusive enclave developments.
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