English Abstract
Abstract :
The well-being of a community's residents depends extensively on social
sustainability of their neighborhood, which may be effectively attained by
the careful deployment of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and cultivation
of distinct urban characteristics. In the mid-1950s, Bahrain's government
implemented multiple urban expansion plans to accommodate its growing
population and manage their geographic dispersion across the country by
creating new neighbourhoods and dense network of highway
infrastructure. However, most of the dredging and urbanisation has been
done in the northern part of the main island, particularly in Muharraq
Governorate. The dramatic urban revolution was argued to have disturbed
pedestrianisation and the urban characteristics which enable daily
activities, and other attractions which stimulate social interaction within
the neighbourhood.
Few studies have examined pedestrianisation in cities, however further
study is imperative to focus on neighbourhoods. This study aims to
examine the relationship between social sustainability and
pedestrianisation in newly developed neighbourhoods in Bahrain. The
research will specifically focus on the relationship between urban design
elements and the social dynamics within the study area. The research
employed a qualitative methodology, based on adapting case studies
strategy as the primary approach. Data collection was conducted via
interviews and observations. A total of four case studies were carefully
chosen and observed throughout the Muharraq governorate. Additionally,
a comprehensive set of 40 interviews was done to get deeper insights into
the intricate dynamics between the neighbourhood and its people.
The findings of the study demonstrate that pedestrianisation has a
significant role in influencing social sustainability within the study area.
The outcomes indicate that the implementation of pedestrianisation in the
areas of study was insufficient. The existing street design prioritizes
vehicular traffic above pedestrian movement, hence underscoring the
significance of enhancing the liveability of streets. The results also indicate
that the absence of social infrastructure has a negative impact on the
walkability of the community. Additionally, closeness and accessibility of
social infrastructure have a significant role in promoting pedestrianisation
and fostering social interactions. The studied areas revealed a noticeable
absence of urban green spaces, which had a discernible effect on both the
quality of life and the vibrancy of the streets. The results indicate that the
implementation of a linear master planning concept in the design of
neighbourhoods has led to a perceived sense of isolation and hindered
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pedestrian mobility when it comes to performing everyday activities on
foot.
The study recommends conducting a correlational investigation between
the pre-existing and recently developed residential areas to elaborate
shortcomings in their design. The research proposes the integration of
social factors as a fundamental aspect of urban character to foster socially
sustainable communities. The primary recommendation of this research is
to prioritise the public's rights to accessibility in shared public spaces
within communities and to acknowledge urban green spaces as viable
solutions to a range of urban challenges, including enhancing the quality
of life, promoting walkability, and improving the liveability and vitality of
streets.
