A comparative analysis of community preferences in township layouts

Abstract

Empirical research in environmental planning and design falls short of what is needed. Earlier research seems often to be ignored and too much planning practice is based on facile and super­ficial assumptions and reflects two influences: namely stereotyping and ethnocentrism. This together with a dearth of empirical data means that planning may well not be based on sufficient knowledge and understanding of the real needs of urban communities for whom it is intended. Notwithstanding the range of highly sophisticated procedures and tech­niques, including a greater degree of consultation and public participation in the planning process, plans ulti­mately result in the building of roads, houses and all the other urban para­phernalia that forms the physical milieu in which people conduct their lives: it is at this level that people experience at first hand the end pro­duct of the planning process. On the basis of a comparative analysis of the preferences of three population groups (whites, blacks and Coloureds - as classified under the old dispensation during which time the surveys were conducted) with respect to a variety street layout configurations, the study shows that there are fundamental differences between the groups. Because of the dissimilarities in the preferences of these communities it is clear that no one approach will suit all and that there is a need for research regarding three main areas: firstly, towards gaining a closer understand­ing of the needs and preferences of established communities, to ascertain how environments are experienced; secondly, towards the study of the needs and preferences of those groups for whom one is currently planning; and thirdly, on follow-up studies of recently completed projects, to serve as feedback for future projects of a similar nature.While criticism is levelled at the plan­ning profession, the creation of living environments is not solely theirs. Other design professionals and social scien­tists also have a vital role to play in broadening our knowledge and under­standing of man and his built environ­ment.