Spatial dynamics and morphological relations in the emergence of urban forms in Dire Dawa
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Date
2024-09-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This dissertation delves into the morphogenesis of Ethiopian cities, focusing on Dire Dawa. Leveraging Conzen's morphological evolutionary technique, the study conducts a meticulous physical examination of Dire Dawa's morphology, augmented by maps and detailed interviews to reconstruct its early spatial organization. Exploring the sustainability of land-use transformations, the research scrutinizes consequences of formal and organic planning interventions. Analyzing land-use mix and open space ratio across six cases from three morphological periods, a declining trend in mixed-land use intensity is observed, particularly at the plot scale. Moreover, a shift from the historic core to the periphery correlates with reduced mixed-land use intensity at the neighborhood level, emphasizing challenges in maintaining sustainable urban form. To address this, integration of principles from organic development and formal planning is advocated, emphasizing the importance of balanced mix of uses. Furthermore, the study investigates spatial transformation events and emergent urban forms in Dire Dawa, examining interplay between formal planning intervention and spontaneous developments. Utilizing Spacematrix software, the research identifies dominance of point-type low-rise developments in organically developed areas, contrasting with prevalence of block-type low-rise and mid-rise forms in plan-driven developments. Rising trends in floor space index and spatial coverage patterns indicate growing concern for space efficiency and sustainable development, particularly in outlying areas. However, density of street network in organically developed portions surpasses formally planned areas, highlighting relevance of organic development concepts. Lastly, the dissertation examines correlation between street width and land use patterns, elucidating impact of street hierarchy on land use intensity across different developmental periods. Utilizing mixed-methods case study design, four land use categories are identified and their relationship with street width evaluated. Findings underscore variability of this connection based on morphological periods and urban planning interventions, advocating for well-designed land use policies accommodating both formal and informal developments.
Keywords: Morphological evolution, Urban morphology, Sustainability, Land-use transformation, Spatial dynamics, Street hierarchy, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia.