Perceptions and preferences on high density residential development in low-cost housing : a case study of Langa

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The provision of low-cost housing constitutes one of South Africa's biggest challenges. As aresult, high density residential development, amid an ever increasing urban population inSouth Africa, is seen as the answer to address the housing problems by the authorities. Theconcept of densification presupposes, upon its implementation, the advantages of promotingan integrated urban system, more economical use of land, a better quality of life for therecipients, containing urban sprawl and the protection of the agricultural and naturalresources.However, the application of the concept of high density development in low-cost housing hasbeen criticised for failing to fulfil its main objectives which are intended to better the lives ofthe people. The hypothesis is that the concept of densification may impact negatively on thequality of family living. As a result, the main objective of this study is to seek statistical datawhich is related to quality of family living and to uncover the views and experiences ofhousehold members.To achieve this objective, a questionnaire, interviews and literature-based research methodwas adopted in this study. In addition, built housing models complemented the questionnaire.Since part of the government's high density development strategy is to expand the existingtownships, the Langa township in the Western Province was chosen to conduct the study.The findings of this study revealed that the application of the concept of high densitydevelopment in Langa has resulted in situations of overcrowding and noise, a lack of privacy,smaller housing structures and erven, a lack of space for children to play and adults tosocialise and regular clashes between the residents and the authorities regarding these issues.Therefore, the hypothesis that although densification may have resulted in more housing unitsbeing built whilst at the same time impacting negatively on the quality of family living hasbeen proven to be true by this study. However, this study has revealed the fact that althoughthere is nothing inherently wrong with the concept of densification, the problem lies with themanner in which the concept is applied in South Africa.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University