Socio-Spatial Analysis of Schools Based on Neighborhood Planning of the 15-min City

Abstract

Neighborhood planning models are crucial for ensuring a balanced distribution of urban services. Though the 15-min city model is the most updated neighborhood model, some gaps in the literature on schools and walkability exist. This paper addresses these gaps, especially in developing countries where servicing is challenging. This study focuses on evaluating school services through the lens of the 15-min city model to investigate the socio-spatial distribution of school locations. This research employs a multi-phase approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative methods to develop a methodological framework that was applied to the case study of Nablus. As a result, this study marks the gaps between implementing local schools and measures of the 15-min model in terms of physical, functional, and socioeconomic urban characteristics, including density, diversity, and proximity. It reveals the impact of local neighborhood planning on schools’ efficiency in social sustainability, urban design quality, spatial coherence of schools, and coordination among schools and other services. Potential reforms in planning are provided.

Keywords

• 15-min city
• neighborhood planning
• schools
• walkability
• spatial distribution
• urban planning