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Research Article
Informal Settlements and Poverty Dynamics: Conceptual Insights for Sustainable Urban Planning
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-11
Received:
2 December 2025
Accepted:
26 December 2025
Published:
23 January 2026
Abstract: Poverty remains a defining feature of informal settlements, demanding continuous scholarly evaluation and policy attention. This paper interrogates the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of informal settlement characterization and its intersection with poverty, situating the discussion within the broader context of urban informality. Through a systematic review and content analysis of existing literature, the study frames informality as a knowledge-based phenomenon that links the emergence of informal settlements to survival strategies adopted by urban dwellers. The findings reveal that informal settlements are characterized by precarious habitability, inadequate housing, unemployment, overcrowding, and unsustainable consumption of energy and natural resources. These conditions not only intensify poverty and poor health outcomes but also exert severe pressure on ecosystems, undermining environmental services and accelerating climate change impacts. The paper further identifies a fragmented discourse in prior scholarship, which often treats informal settlements as isolated urban processes rather than as integral to the dynamics of poverty, particularly in the Global South. By reconceptualizing informal settlements as both a product and driver of poverty, the study underscores the need for integrated approaches to urban management. It argues that sustainable responses must prioritize strategic urban planning, investment in health infrastructure, and inclusive policy frameworks that recognize the role of migrants and provide equitable access to education, household services, and urban opportunities. Ultimately, the paper proposes that continuous updating of urban development plans, coupled with inclusive governance, is essential for addressing the dual challenges of poverty and environmental vulnerability in informal settlements. Such measures are critical to advancing resilient, healthy, and sustainable urban futures, where informal settlements are not marginalized but incorporated into broader strategies of equitable urban development.
Abstract: Poverty remains a defining feature of informal settlements, demanding continuous scholarly evaluation and policy attention. This paper interrogates the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of informal settlement characterization and its intersection with poverty, situating the discussion within the broader context of urban informality. Through ...
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Research Article
Spatial Assessment of Petrol Stations in Ibadan Metropolis Nigeria
Siji Ayodeji Joseph*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
12-20
Received:
18 November 2025
Accepted:
30 December 2025
Published:
29 January 2026
Abstract: The number of petrol stations in Nigerian cities like Ibadan is growing rapidly without adhering to spatial planning regulations, particularly minimum distance requirements that raise safety concerns, such as petrol station fire risk, and emphasizes the need for spatial analysis to support sustainable urban growth. This study uses Geographic Information System techniques, government location criteria, and supporting literature to evaluate the spatial distribution of petrol stations in Ibadan Metropolis. A handheld Global Positioning System was used to obtain the coordinates of petrol stations, and the Nearest Neighbour Analysis was used to evaluate spatial patterns. GIS analysis reveals widespread overlapping buffers of petrol stations, implying areas of high cumulative risk following disregard for the required 400m buffer between petrol stations. Nearest Neighbour Analysis reveals clustering of petrol stations because the expected mean distance between petrol stations was 473.9 meters, whereas the observed mean distance was 346.1 meters. A statistically significant deviation from randomness was established by a Nearest Neighbour Ratio of 0.730542 and a Z-score of –6.164390. These findings demonstrate the inadequacies of current planning frameworks and the inadequate application of spatial planning regulations. The report suggests enforcing petrol station siting requirements and bolstering urban regulatory organizations to improve emergency readiness to lessen the effects of associated risks. Equally, further studies utilizing sophisticated spatial analytics and routine environmental evaluations are required.
Abstract: The number of petrol stations in Nigerian cities like Ibadan is growing rapidly without adhering to spatial planning regulations, particularly minimum distance requirements that raise safety concerns, such as petrol station fire risk, and emphasizes the need for spatial analysis to support sustainable urban growth. This study uses Geographic Inform...
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Research Article
Brussels Unveiled: Culture, Community, and Governance - A Building Program
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
21-62
Received:
14 August 2025
Accepted:
20 October 2025
Published:
30 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.urp.20261101.13
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Abstract: This research examines the transformation of Brussels as the political capital of the European Union, analyzing the intricate interplay between spatial production, strategic planning, and governance. The primary aim is to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates theoretical dimensions of urban transformation to provide a holistic understanding of how political authority is inscribed into urban space. The study poses key research questions including: What challenges does Brussels face in its transformation into the definitive capital of Europe? How does community engagement shape urban planning processes and cultural vibrancy? What role do sustainable architectural innovations play in enhancing the city's identity and livability? The findings underscore that Brussels' urban development embodies a complex negotiation of local and supranational interests, where strategic initiatives have fostered both socio-cultural integration and ecological sustainability. Notably, the research reveals that key projects serve not just functional purposes but also act as instruments of symbolic representation, reinforcing Brussels' identity as a global political hub. Overall, the study concludes that addressing sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural vibrancy is crucial for solidifying Brussels' role as a dynamic center of European governance. Furthermore, it highlights the need for an integrated analytical framework that combines spatial, governance, and symbolic dimensions, thus providing actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners not only in Brussels but also in similarly positioned cities worldwide. The recommendations provided are intended to guide policymakers and urban planners in creating a more inclusive, dynamic urban environment that reflects both local identity and global significance.
Abstract: This research examines the transformation of Brussels as the political capital of the European Union, analyzing the intricate interplay between spatial production, strategic planning, and governance. The primary aim is to develop a comprehensive framework that integrates theoretical dimensions of urban transformation to provide a holistic understan...
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Research Article
Revitalizing Historic Trade Hub: Urban Renewal Strategies for Khatunganj Market, Bangladesh
Md. Sadman Chowdhury Apurba*,
Ayasha Siddiqua
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
63-81
Received:
3 February 2026
Accepted:
24 February 2026
Published:
10 March 2026
Abstract: Khatunganj, a historic commercial hub in Chattogram, Bangladesh, dated back to the 2nd century, serves as one of the largest wholesale markets in the region. Strategically located along the Karnaphuli River and adjacent to the Chaktai Canal, it facilitates vital local, national, and international trade networks. Despite its historical and economic significance, Khatunganj market faces challenges such as deteriorating infrastructure, traffic congestion, waterlogging, and the deterioration of heritage buildings, all of which threaten its sustainability as a trading center. The study evaluates Khatunganj's historical evolution, trading environment, market typologies, and infrastructure to identify its strengths and weaknesses. This study employs a mixed-methods approach—consisting of field surveys, interviews, mapping, and data analysis—to assess Khatunganj’s current condition. A total of 150 respondents were surveyed, with over 130 stakeholders interviewed, including traders, architects, planners, and local officials. Quantitative analysis used percentages and scoring matrices, while qualitative insights and validation were obtained through thematic coding and feedback from experts and users. The key strengths identified includes 24-hour trade activity, pedestrian-friendly verandas, historical facades, and robust connectivity by land and water. However, significant weakness observed in infrastructure, mobility, and environmental resilience, with narrow roads, insufficient drainage, and the deterioration of heritage buildings being critical concerns. The Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis highlighted Khatunganj's strong commercial culture and strategic location but pointed out threats like poor governance, seasonal flooding, and the encroachment of modern commercial areas. The study’s evaluation matrix revealed moderate performance by scoring 88-point, surpassing the 84-point threshold, highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and waste management. This paper proposes evidence-based urban renewal strategies (scoring 66 points, below the threshold of 76) focusing on enhancing mobility, preserving heritage, and upgrading infrastructure, providing a framework for revitalizing historic trade hubs. The SWOT analysis informed the proposed interventions, ensuring Khatunganj’s economic viability, enhance its cultural preservation, and mitigate its environmental risks for future generations.
Abstract: Khatunganj, a historic commercial hub in Chattogram, Bangladesh, dated back to the 2nd century, serves as one of the largest wholesale markets in the region. Strategically located along the Karnaphuli River and adjacent to the Chaktai Canal, it facilitates vital local, national, and international trade networks. Despite its historical and economic ...
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Research Article
Developing a Framework for Integrating Urban Aquaculture into County Spatial Planning in Kenya: Lessons from Global Practice and Local Stakeholder Evidence
Anne Mokoro*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
82-95
Received:
19 January 2026
Accepted:
30 January 2026
Published:
17 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.urp.20261101.15
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Urban aquaculture is emerging as an increasingly important component of food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and sustainable city food systems in rapidly urbanising low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya, however, aquaculture development has largely been approached through sectoral production programmes rather than through urban governance and spatial planning systems. This has resulted in limited recognition of aquaculture as an urban land use, fragmented institutional mandates, weak public health and environmental safeguards, and an absence of structured investment guidance for urban and peri-urban aquaculture enterprises. This paper develops an evidence-based framework for integrating urban aquaculture into county spatial planning in Kenya, drawing on lessons from international practice and local stakeholder evidence. The study applies a qualitative design combining document review and key informant interviews with personnel drawn from county fisheries departments, physical and land-use planning, environment and NEMA-related functions, public health, water and sanitation utilities, and aquaculture enterprises. Evidence synthesis was organised around core planning domains: land-use recognition and zoning, water supply and effluent governance, food safety and biosecurity, infrastructure and value chain planning, and enterprise enabling systems. Findings indicate that while national and regional blue economy strategies increasingly acknowledge aquaculture as an economic priority, county planning instruments (including CIDPs and spatial plans) rarely provide explicit provisions to guide safe and investable urban aquaculture development. Stakeholders consistently identified planning deficits in zoning, licensing pathways, wastewater management protocols, and enforcement coordination as primary barriers to sustainable scaling. Based on these findings and global planning experiences, the paper proposes a six-pillar Urban Aquaculture Spatial Planning Framework for Kenya and outlines an early implementation roadmap that can be adopted by counties such as Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret, and the Kiambu urban corridor. The framework supports policy coherence, risk-sensitive siting, and structured growth of climate-smart urban aquaculture aligned to county development priorities.
Abstract: Urban aquaculture is emerging as an increasingly important component of food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and sustainable city food systems in rapidly urbanising low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya, however, aquaculture development has largely been approached through sectoral production programmes rather than through urban governance...
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