A Qualitative Investigation of Social Sustainability in New Bahraini Neighbourhoods

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 3 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.