Geospatial method for mapping urban decay: Structural components in the Thohoyandou Central Business District, South Africa

Abstract

Evidence of urban decay in small towns across South Africa has become increasingly visible. Typically linked to neglect and ageing, urban decay encompasses social, economic, environmental, and physical decline. This article investigates the dynamics of urban decay in the Central Business District (CBD) of Thohoyandou, a rural town in Limpopo province, where the built environment continues to deteriorate despite the Thulamela Urban Development and Revitalisation Strategy. The study aims to characterise urban decay in Thohoyandou CBD through mapping, with emphasis on its implications for structural elements of the built environment. A mixed-methods design was employed, using observations and questionnaires as primary data sources. Convenience sampling selected 374 CBD users. Observation data were systematically recorded and categorised to identify decay features, while questionnaire responses were analysed using mean scores and ranked by affected areas and causes. Fifty-one features of urban decay were identified. Spatial analysis revealed clustering along everyday movement networks and key activity nodes. The three main contributing factors are poor urban management, infrastructure deterioration, and building-related issues, reflecting weaknesses in institutional capacity and policy implementation. Integrating geospatial data with structural analysis offers municipalities a diagnostic tool for monitoring progress. Findings suggest resource-constrained towns require targeted, spatially prioritised, phased regeneration strategies to effectively address urban decay.