The High Density Compact City is presented as a sustainable living model. Planners envisage smaller, higher-density cities that will reduce the spatial space of cities; Create places where people can live closer to work with less reliance on environmentally friendly modes of transport and reduce collective carbon footprints.
This latest model of planning emerged as a critique of the unnecessary approach to urban planning adopted by supporters of the Garden City Movement; Rapid development has resulted in the expansion of cities, leading to increased dependence on cars and irreparable damage to the environment. Proponents of compact cities like Jane Jacobs have long argued that compact and high-density configurations generate a critical mass of people capable of supporting businesses, better infrastructure and more vibrant communities.
The compact city model promises to solve many, if not all, of these problems, and even improve our quality of life in the city. This is a relatively realistic model of population expansion and is strongly linked to the agglomeration economy. This is due to the fact that the higher the density of the population confined to a small area, the lower the budget for transport infrastructure (public transport, parking, roads, etc.). Proximity also makes it easy to provide efficient waste, water and electricity infrastructure. In addition, proximity will allow both businesses and residents to reap the benefits of agglomeration while saving on transportation costs and time, as well as benefiting from the best services. This huge savings will then be used to improve facilities and improve the quality of life.
Compared to previous planning models, the compact urban model does not consciously limit the population of a given area, it is a high-density development as standard. It also does not insist on defining and separating areas of activity. The limited availability of land requires a mixed use approach with a mix of commercial, residential, institutional and recreational facilities. If zoning is still in place, it may no longer be planar.
However, given this reduction in land and the continued migration of people from rural to urban areas, the density of buildings and people in the city center is expected to more or less double in the next few decades. . How will our planners deal with this sudden flow? Are foreign cities ready for the Compact City model?
As concerned citizens, we have the right to doubt the above-mentioned promises unless this model is proven. Growing cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Jakarta and Brazil are currently struggling with the current influx of people suffering from overcrowding, lack of key facilities and infrastructure, and rising crime rates. relict administrative procedures, political and social upheavals and, above all, the inability to realistically predict their future. However, we must also take into account that these cities were not ready and now have difficulty adapting to this density.
Compact City presents itself as a solid model that can adapt to sudden economic and demographic fluctuations. However, realistic planning of growing cities is needed to prepare for such drastic changes. Being realistic in population forecasting is a key element of planning success. Lack of clear vision and the ability to anticipate and plan real growth has hampered the adaptability of these cities. Real figures are needed to help set priorities and prevent inadequate piecemeal development.