GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD DESIGN

THE APPLICATION OF GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD

DESIGN IN HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

CASE STUDY: THE BREEZEWAY, DESA PARKCITY, SENTUL-MANJALARA

ATHIRAH NAJIHAH BINTI ZAINAL

CENTRE OF STUDIES FOR TOWN AND REGIONAL PLANNING

FACULTY OF ARCHITECHTURE, PLANNING AND SURVEYING

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA PUNCAK ALAM

JULY 2016

CENTRE OF STUDIES FOR TOWN AND REGIONAL PLANNING FACULTY OF ARCHITECHTURE, PLANNING AND SURVEYING

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA PUNCAK ALAM

JULY 2016

Hereby recommended Thesis submitted

By

ATHIRAH NAJIHAH BINTI ZAINAL

Title

THE APPLICATION OF GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD DESIGN IN HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

CASE STUDY: THE BREEEWAY DESA PARKCITY, SENTUL-MANJALARA

Thesis Submitted in Partial of the Requirement for the Degree of Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning (Hons.)

Supervisor : Prof Dr Dasimah bt Omar …………………… Coordinator : Mr. Mohd Zamreen Mohd Amin …………………... Head Centre of Studies : Dr. Siti Mazwin bt Kamaruddin ……………………

THE APPLICATION OF GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD

DESIGN IN HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

CASE STUDY: THE BREEZEWAY, DESA PARKCITY, SENTUL-MANJALARA

By

ATHIRAH NAJIHAH BT ZAINAL

CENTRE OF STUDIES FOR TOWN AND REGIONAL PLANNING

FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE, PLANNING AND SURVEYING

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA PUNCAK ALAM

JULY 2016

i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

“In The Name of Allah S.W.T, The Most Gracious and The Most Merciful”

Alhamdulillah, Praise be to Allah S.W.T for the blessed, this study is successfully

completed within the time. Sincere appreciation and gratitude is dedicated to my

beloved parents, Encik Zainal bin Arifin and Puan Zaidah binti Ishak and also to other

family members who always support and pray for my success the years. Next, a

million thankful dedicated to my supervisor, Prof Dr Dasimah bt Omar who has been

very kind, helpful and being so supportive during the period of this study. Millions of

thanks for sharing the knowledge and supervision throughout the session and may

Allah SWT only able to reply and reward it. Special thank and sincere appreciation

also goes to Head for Center of Town and Regional Planning Studies, Dr. Siti

Mazwin binti Kamaruddin and Thesis Coordinator, En Mohd Zamreen Mohd Amin

and to all lecturers of Town and Regional Planning Department, Faculty of

Architecture, Planning and Surveying UiTM Puncak Alam who have given me

guidance and support. High appreciation and millions of thanks goes to all my

beloved friends who have been supporting and helping me to successfully complete

this final study. Finally, thank you to all of you involved in assisting until the

completion of this final year study either directly or indirectly. May Allah SWT needed

or reply to all those good deeds.

ii

ABSTRACT

Environmental issues are serious challenge of the 21st century. Climate change and

rising energy prices bring the need to seriously consider the way cities designed. In

fact, cities now find themselves at the very centre of the “Green Revolution” as one of

the main components for achieving sustainability. As a result, several urban

initiatives are being put forward to make cities greener, healthier and more eco-

friendly. One of these is the concept of “Green neighbourhoods”, which is probably

the very first attempt to connect urban sustainability principles with micro-level

community planning. Green neighbourhoods are designated as such by using

various indicators well beyond traditional variables such as vegetation cover and the

size of parks. Green neighbourhoods are broadly defined as being moderately

dense, mixed-use, designed at a human scale, active and public transportation

oriented and literally “green”. The main emphasis is placed on sustainable

transportation and proximity to a diversity of services and amenities, in short, those

elements which make neighbourhoods liveable places to live, work and play. In green

neighbourhoods, the urban fabric allows for people to rely primarily on active and

public transportation. The first benefits of green neighbourhoods is the

environmental. As environmental awareness grows and people are seeking healthier

lifestyle, the creation of green neighbourhoods becomes a promising solution for the

city of the 21st century.

iii

LIST OF CONTENTS

Pages

Acknowledgement i

Abstract ii

List of Contents iii

List of Tables vi

List of Figures vii

List of Photos viii

List of Abbreviations x

List of Appendices xi

CHAPTER 1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction 1

1.2 Problem Statements 2

1.3 Aim of Study 3

1.4 Objectives 3

1.5 Scopes of Study 4

1.6 Methodology 5

1.7 Significance of the Study 7

1.8 Study Background 8

1.9 Work Schedule 9

1.10 Conclusion 10

CHAPTER 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction 11

2.2 Neighbourhood 11

2.2.1 Definition of Neighbour 11

2.2.2 Definition of Neighbourhood 11

2.2.3 Types of Neighbourhood 14

2.3 Definition of Green 18

2.4 Green Neighbourhood 18

2.4.1 Definition of Green Neighbourhood 18

2.4.2 Basic Concept of Green Neighbourhood 21

iv

2.4.3 General Guidelines of Green Neighbourhood

Design

25

2.4.4 Importance of Green Neighbourhood Concept 34

2.5 Conclusion 35

CHAPTER 3.0 STUDY AREA

3.1 Introduction 36

3.2 Background of Sentul-Manjalara 37

3.3 Administration 38

3.4 Background of Study Area 40

3.4.2 Accessibility 44

3.4.2 Socio-economic on Sites and Surroundings 44

3.4.3 Facilities and Infrastructures 44

3.4.4 Landscape 45

3.4.5 Development Concept 46

3.4.6 Surrounding Landuse 46

3.5 Conclusion 47

CHAPTER 4.0 ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS

4.1 Introduction 48

4.2 Data Collection 49

4.2.1 Questionnaires 49

4.2.2 Observation Technique 50

4.2.2.1 Observation Analysis 50

4.3 Respondents’ Profile 64

4.4 Walkability and Connectivity 66

4.5 Safe Neighbourhood 69

4.6 Public Open Space 71

4.7 Green Network 73

4.8 Green Infrastructure 75

4.9 Mean Analysis 77

4.9.1 Overall Mean Analysis 78

4.9.2 Findings of Mean Analysis 81

4.10 Issues and Problems 87

4.11 Findings 87

4.12 Conclusion 90

v

CHAPTER 5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Introduction 91

5.2 General Proposal 92

5.2.1 Walkability and Connectivity 92

5.2.2 Safe Neighbourhood 96

5.3 Local Authorities 98

5.4 Conclusion 99

vi

LIST OF TABLES

Pages

Table 1. 1 : Work schedule 9

Table 3. 1 : Kuala Lumpur administrative area 39

Table 4. 1 : Respondents gender and age 64

Table 4. 2 : Occupation of respondents 65

Table 4. 3 : Period of living of respondents at the study area 65

Table 4. 4 : Walkability and connectivity 66

Table 4. 5 : Safe neighbourhood 69

Table 4. 6 : Public open space 71

Table 4. 7 : Green network 73

Table 4. 8 : Types of Green Infrastructure available at study area 75

Table 4. 9 : Green infrastructure 77

Table 4. 10 : Likert items 77

Table 4. 11 : Overall mean score analysis 78

Table 4. 12 : Scales of likert items 81

Table 4. 13 : Walkability and connectivity average mean score 81

Table 4. 14 : Safe neighbourhood average mean score 83

Table 4. 15 : Public open space average mean score 83

Table 4. 16 : Green network dimension average mean score 85

Table 4. 17 : Green infrastructure dimension mean score 86

Table 5. 1 : Example of checklist for local authorities and developers 99

vii

LIST OF FIGURES

Pages

Figure 1.1 : Methodology 5

Figure 3. 1 : Key Plan of Study Area 41

Figure 3. 2 : Kuala Lumpur Administrative Area 42

Figure 3. 3 : Study Area 43

Figure 4. 1 : Walkability Plan 52

Figure 4. 2 : Connectivity Plan 53

Figure 4. 3 : Safe environment plan 58

Figure 4. 4 : Public open space plan 60

Figure 4. 5 : Green network plan 62

Figure 4. 6 : Location of public open space 72

Figure 4. 7 : Location of public open space 80

viii

LIST OF PHOTOS

Pages

Photo 2. 1 : Example of rain water harvesting 29

Photo 2. 2 : Example of rain garden 30

Photo 2. 3 : Example of planter boxes 30

Photo 2. 4 : Example of permeable pavement 31

Photo 2. 5 : Example of green streets and alleys 31

Photo 2. 6 : Example of green parking 32

Photo 2. 7 : Example of green roof 32

Photo 2. 8 : Example tree canopy 33

Photo 3.1 : DBKL boundaries 39

Photo 4. 1 : Connected walkways 50

Photo 4. 2 : Pedestrian walkways in Desa Parkcity 51

Photo 4. 3 : Guardhouse The Breezeway, Desa Parkcity 54

Photo 4. 4 : See-through gate around The Breezeway, Desa

Parkcity

55

Photo 4. 5 : Transparent fencing at the park 55

Photo 4. 6 : CCTV located at the edge of gate 55

Photo 4. 7 : Fences design has visibility 56

Photo 4. 8 : Fences design has visibility 56

Photo 4. 9 : Example of signage 57

Photo 4. 10 : Public open space at study area 59

Photo 4. 11 : Green network at study area 61

Photo 4. 12 : Footpaths are well-maintained 65

Photo 4. 13: Pedestrian connected to commercial area 67

Photo 4. 14 : Pedestrian connected to housing area 68

Photo 4. 15 : Walkers and bikers can be seen through see-through

gate

70

Photo 4.16 : See through fences 70

Photo 4. 17: Residential is accessible by pedestrian walkways 74

Photo 4. 18: School is accessible by pedestrian walkways 74

Photo 4. 19 : Trees planted give safety and social benefit as well as

shading

75

Photo 4.20: Planter or tree boxes at the study area 76

Photo 4.21: Permeable pavement at car park lot 76

ix

Photo 4.22 : Connectivity of footpaths and walkways 82

Photo 4.23 : Pubic open space that is located within walking

distance

84

Photo 4.24 : Green network gives shade to the walkers 85

Photo 4.25 : Green network act as landscape and give image to the

study area

86

Photo 4.26 : Well-maintained green infrastructure on building wall

86

x

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

DBKL : Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur

CPTED : Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

xi

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A : Observation Form

Appendix B : Survey Form

1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

Environmental issues are the main challenge of 21st century. Climate change and

rising energy prices bring the need to completely reconsider how cities are designed.

One of the main components to achieve sustainability is the implementation of

„Green Revolution‟ concept in the development of cities. To overcome the challenge,

several urban initiatives are being put forward to make cities greener, healthier and

more eco-friendly. One of the steps is the concept of „Green Neighbourhood‟ which is

probably the very first attempt to connect urban sustainability principles with micro-

level community planning (Jonathon, 2011).

Green neighbourhoods are designated as such by using various indicators well

beyond traditional variables such as vegetation shelter and the size of parks. Green

neighbourhoods are mostly defined as being moderately dense, mixed-use, designed

at a human scale, active and public transportation oriented and exactly “green”. The

main emphasis is placed on sustainable transportation and closeness to a diversity of

services and amenities, in short, those elements which make neighbourhoods

liveable places to live, work and play (Jonathon, 2011).

2

1.2 Problem Statements

The challenges that Malaysia facing in the new millennium is not only in providing

affordable housing for everyone, but also in providing good and quality housing and

facilities in order to sustain the environment where people can live and work in

harmony.

i. Environmental issues in housing context

From the perspective of housing development, environmental

concerns are focused on the provision on the provision of healthy,

safe, supportive living environment that is sustainable within the

natural environment. There is an emphasis on resource conservation

and pollution prevention, both in providing the built environment of

home and supporting the way people live within environment

(Jonathan, 2011).

ii. Urban sprawl and health

Urban sprawl causes decreasing of liveability, due to lack of

walkability or bike ability and increased traffic. Some housing

developments are not public facilities friendly as place located far from

the public transport location, and there are no complete streets where

sidewalks and bicycle accommodations are ample. People should

obtain their exercise naturally, walking and biking everywhere and

playing actively in the outdoors. Since in the edges of the most cities,

the abundant open space is fenced into back yards, people don‟t have

much of an opportunity to interact with nature‟s streams (Jonathan,

2011).

iii. Climate change and pollution

Cities will be strongly affected by changing weather patterns and are

not well protected against extreme weather events such as flooding.

Urban areas are responsible for the majority of all greenhouse gas

emissions, primarily from transportation, building heating or cooling

and industry. There has been a marked increase in fuel consumed for

urban transportation, leading to greater impact on the environment

and human health. Gains from the efficient engine technology and

3

emission controls have been offset by the increasing number of

vehicles, greater distances travelled and increasing vehicle size

(Jonathan, 2011).

iv. Lack of safety in neighbourhood area

Many of housing developments nowadays do not emphasize on the

safety issues of the neighbourhood area. Real safety should belong

everywhere. There are lack of programs that support families and

connect neighbours by building and protecting spaces and

opportunities where children can thrive and neighbours can promote

fellowship, solve problems, build trust and heal (Jonathan, 2011).

1.3 Aim of Study

The aim is to study the application of Green Neighbourhood design in housing

development.

1.4 Objectives

The objectives are:

i. To study the walkability and connectivity in neighbourhood area.

ii. To study the application of safe neighbourhood concept in

neighbourhood area.

iii. To identify the provision of public open space in neighbourhood

area.

iv. To identify the availability of green network in neighbourhood area.

v. To identify the provision of green infrastructure in neighbourhood

area.

4

1.5 Scopes of Study

i. Walkability and connectivity

This study will identify the provision of pedestrian walkways that

interconnected and accessible to all amenities and services, the walking

distance to the destination and amenities and the provision of public

transportation.

ii. Safe neighbourhood

Identify the application of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

(CPTED) in designing a green neighbourhood.

iii. Public open space

This study will identify the provision of public open space according to the

guideline and the location of the public open space.

iv. Green network

This study will identify the availability of planting strips and street trees and

the neighbourhood farming plot and home „green plots‟.

v. Green infrastructure

This study will identify the provision of green infrastructure through using

natural method such as permeable paver, roof top garden and others.

5

1.6 Methodology

The method of the study is categorised into theoretical and empirical aspects. Each

aspect contains several steps involved in the study process. The flow is:

Figure 1. 1 : Methodology

Define Problem Statement and

Issues

Formation of

aim, objectives and scopes of

study

Theoretical study

Data collection

Primary Data

Observation

Field study

Questionnaire

Secondary Data

Related journal or

article

From technical

department

Department report

Data analysis

Formation of proposal

Conclusion

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

6

First Stage: Identify the Problem Statement and Objectives

The first stage mainly concentrates on identifying the problem statement, the

objectives, significance, scope and limitations of the study. The idea for the problem

statement was taken from observations, recent media coverage.

Second Stage: Theoretical Research

The second stage is the theoretical review. In this stage, the study emphasizes on

gathering theories that are relevant to the study. The focus for this stage is to

understand the key issues mentioned in this study.

The relevant materials for the literature review are academic publications, books,

dissertations, journals, government agencies reports and publications. These

materials will assist in understanding the background of the study from various

perspectives.

Third Stage: Data Collection

There are two types of data which have been gathered to gain a better understanding

for this study. In order to achieve the first objective, the primary data will be collected

from respondents; meanwhile, the census and other data are gathered from the

relevant government agencies, including DBKL and others.

Primary Data

The primary data for the studies have been collected through field surveys, through

questionnaires given to the residents of study area. In order to achieve the

objectives, the list of questionnaires used for this interview is attached in Appendix.

The feedback of the questionnaires will provide a clearer picture of Green

Neighbourhood concept.

Secondary data

Secondary data for the studies are collected from related agencies such as Kuala

Lumpur City Hall and Perdana Park City. The secondary data is needed to support

the research.

Fourth Stage: Analysis and Findings

At this stage, the data and information collected from the third stage will be analyse

and selected to gather the relevant data for the study. In order to achieve the first

objectives of the study, three types of analysis will be performed: the Frequency

Analysis, Cross-Tabulation Analysis and Mean Analysis. On the other hand, in order

to achieve the objectives of the study, the data derived from the structured interviews

and open-ended questionnaires, the study utilized the quantifying method.

7

Fifth Stage: Suggestions, Recommendations and Conclusion

The outcome of the analysis will be used for a final discussion regarding to the

concept of Green Neighbourhood. Suggestions and recommendations from would

also be stated at this stage. The suggestions and recommendations are related to

the concept and the conclusion is to tie up the relationship between the problem

statement and objectives of the study.

1.7 Significance of the Study

The significance of this study is particularly important in the provision of housing that

emphasizes the environmental issues. The study outcome indirectly will be able to

give and clear understanding of the Green Neighbourhood concept in developing

housing neighbourhood. This is study is also important because it will provide

exposure and early predictions about ways to reduce the environmental issues that

arise.

8

1.8 Study Background

The Breezeway, Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur, covering 7.3 acres of prime freehold

land, is one of the fastest growing and best-selling master planned communities in

the nation. Located in the affluent north-western district of Kuala Lumpur, The

Breezway Desa Park City is a place where people live, work and play. Major

highways, such as the Damansara-Puchong Highway, the Middle Ring Road 2 and

the Penchala Link provide quick and convenient access to important destinations in

Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings.

According to the Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020, the study area is located in Sentul-

Manjalara. Sentul –Manjalara located near to Selangor boundaries. Menjalara will be

created as a new district center is located in the north of the proposed site and the

existing residential tenants Traditional Village is located in the eastern part. Existing

residential area is in Menjalara and Sentul developed around neighborhood centers

and mixed with large-scale industrial area (Perdana Park City, 2010).

The Breezeway, a landmark project of The Desa ParkCity TownCenter, offers a

secure, gated neighborhood in the midst of a hub. Imprinted with tranquil courtyards,

linear parks and recreational facilities. The site area is 7.3 acres and the main

development is a terraced housing 3 and 3 ½ storey and 25-storey condominium

developed for stratified. There are a total of 215 residential units consisting of 32

units was 3 ½ floors, 44 units and 139 units of 3-storey 25-storey apartment. In

addition, other components are covered parking, parking podium that houses the car

park and facilities for residents and open spaces (Perdana Park City, 2010).

9

1.9 Work Schedule

Table 1. 1 : Work schedule

MONTH MAY 2015 SEPTEMBER 2015 – JANUARY

2016 MARCH – JULY 2016

ITEMS WEEK

Synopsis of research Introduction Research Background Aim Objectives Scopes Methodology Significance of Study

TOPIC PRESENTATION

LITERATURE REVIEW Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Chapter 4 Chapter 5

FINAL

PRESENTATION

10

1.10 Conclusion

The environmental issues the world is facing require innovative solutions beyond

mere technological progress. Designing more sustainable cities, where walking,

cycling, skateboarding and public transportation become the main means of transport

in daily life is one of them. Green neighbourhoods are a step to take to achieve this

goal. Furthermore, as environmental awareness grows and people are seeking

healthier lifestyle, the creation of green neighbourhoods becomes a promising

solution for the city of the 21st century.

11

CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This chapter will review theories from articles, journal from websites and books. All

the relevant and related information are being reviewed and detailed as many as

possible in order to generate ideas of the study. The articles and books had been

reviewed could help in producing the questionnaire for survey to achieve the study

objectives. All the materials are related to the topic application of Green

Neighbourhood design in housing development. The first section of this chapter will

define the keywords of green, neighbour, neighbourhood unit, and green

neighbourhood. Next section will briefly explain about the guidelines to create a

green neighbourhood unit.

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2.2 Neighbourhood

2.2.1 Definition of Neighbour

According to Oxford Dictionary, neighbours are referred to a person living near or

next door to the speaker or person. Neighbour also a person or place in relation to

the others near or next to it. Oxford Dictionary also defines a neighbour as any

person in need of one‟s help or kindness. In terms of language or etymology, came

from neighbouring Arab language, meaning people who live next door or neighbours

(Mustafa Haji Daud, 2010). In terms of terminology neighbours are the people who

live next to the house, next to the village, district and even greater than that of the

adjacent neighbouring countries. Neighbours also mean that members of the 40

houses that surround every corner of individual houses.

2.2.2 Definition of Neighbourhood

According to (The Young Neighbourhood, 2007), neighbourhood is defined as a

ultra-local communities of place. Most people naturally understand the meaning of

the neighbourhood by the shape of neighbourly interactions, mutual support,

gathering places and friendly and interactive environment. Meanwhile, “bad

neighbourhood” is defined in opposite way such as danger, anti-social interaction,

exclusiveness, separation and neglect. The Young Neighbourhood highlighted that

there are no consensus answer to the meaning of “neighbourhood” because it rich of

descriptions of combining a variety of physical and social characteristics. The policy

makers are dealing with the challenges to empower the local communities by

describing the meaning of neighbourhood, which they have to deal with a street of

100 people or a ward of 10,000 people. The article also emphasised that it is

necessary to understand the scales, characteristics, and the dynamics of the

neighbourhood to set a framework for targeted and effective action. Otherwise, policy

makers will run the public disappointment and policy failure. In some areas, even the

quasi-“natural” boundaries of geography or community already exist, the best policy

definition of neighbourhood still indefinable.

12

(Schwirian, 2012) has pointed out that the definitions of neighbourhood involve to

general component, which are physical and social. To be specifically, the basic

elements of a neighbourhood are people, place, interaction system, shared

identification and public symbols. After putting the elements together, Schiwirian

defined a neighbourhood as a population living in an identifiable section of a city

whose members are organised into general interaction network of formal and

informal bonds and express their common identification with the area in public

symbols. Differ from neighbourhood, a residential area has few or no patterned

relations among residents. Somehow, residential areas may become

neighbourhoods and neighbourhoods may become residential areas depends on the

viability and extent of the network of social relationships among residents.

Meanwhile, (Wilson, 2010) defined neighbourhood as a place where the daily

practice of live happens. Neighbourhoods are geographical units that are important to

people‟s lives, where people connect these living environments to their identity and

thus neighbourhoods become personally meaningful. Basically, neighbourhoods

create and form communities and the residents share the same experiences. Wilson

added neighbourhoods play such a big role in forming community and social

networks as it creates the background for people‟s life stories. They leave lasting

impressions on residents about what life is like and what social problems exist in a

living community. The sociological perspective of the concept of neighbourhood is

used to understand the crime in some places. The geography of the neighbourhood

provides framework within which to observe and analyse the problems that occur.

With a geographic framework, the neighbourhood becomes the focal point for

residents, business, visitors, and the government to take action and resolve problem

using immediate and practical solutions.

The United States Green Council‟s LEED (2010) defines a neighbourhood as an area

of houses, employment, retail and public places and their close environment that

residents and employees identify with in terms of social and economic attitudes,

lifestyles and institutions. Meanwhile, Jenks (2008) described a neighbourhood as

comprising both the physical and social elements representing themselves, who live

in particular area.

13

Clarence A. Perry’s Conception of the Neighbourhood Unit

Perry described the neighbourhood unit as that populated area which would require

and support an elementary school with an enrolment of between 1,000 and 1,200

pupils. This would mean a population of between 5,000 and 6,000 people. Developed

as a low density dwelling district with a population of 10 families per acre, the

neighbourhood unit would occupy about 160 acres and have a shape which would

render it unnecessary for any child to walk a distance of more than one-quarter mile

to school. About 10 per cent of the area would be allocated to recreation, and

through traffic arteries would be confined to the surrounding streets, internal streets

being limited to service access for residents of the neighbourhood. The unit would be

served by shopping facilities, churches, and a library, and a community centre, the

latter being located in conjunction with the school (Gallion, 2011).

Perry outlined six basic principles of good neighbourhood design. As may be

understood, these core principles were organised around several institutional, social

and physical design ideals (Gallion, 2011).

i- Major arterials and through traffic routes should not pass through residential

neighbourhoods. Instead these streets should provide boundaries of the

neighbourhood

ii- Interior street patterns should be designed and constructed through use of

cul-de-sacs, curved layout and light duty surfacing so as to encourage a

quiet, safe and low volume traffic movement and preservation of the

residential atmosphere

iii- The population of the neighbourhood should be that which is required to

support its elementary school.

iv- The neighbourhood focal point should be the elementary school centrally

located on a common or green, along with other institutions that have service

areas coincident with the neighbourhood boundaries.

v- The radius of the neighbourhood should be a maximum of one quarter mile

thus precluding a walk of more than that distance for any elementary school

child.

vi- Shopping districts should be sited at the edge of neighbourhoods preferably

at major street intersections.

14

2.2.3 Types of Neighbourhood

i. Traditional neighbourhood design

Traditional Neighbourhood Design (TND) is one of the concept of residential

neighbourhoods that is designed in small, early 20th century villages and

neighbourhoods. TND‟s design were considered by one or two family homes on

small lots, narrow front yards with front porches and gardens, detached garages

in backyard, walk able to the own greens or village squares. TND is said to

provide an alternative to weak subdivisions and suburban sprawl. This

neighbourhood concept also apply compact, pedestrian-oriented neighbourhoods

with mix of commercial and residential uses, variety types of housing and public

places where people have opportunities to socialize and involve in community

life. In contrast, most contemporary development is considered by coordination to

the automobile, separation of land uses and low concentrations. In TND design,

the automobile is still accommodated, with sufficient parking and well-organized

circulation, but it not damaging the landscape (Preiss & Shapiro, 2012).

In Malaysia, a village is called „Kampong‟. A „Kampong‟ located outside

constructed up areas and generally have around 100 houses. In some cases, a

„kampong‟ can have as few as 10 houses. Those houses usually made of hard

timber and wooden beams, and sit on timber or concrete stilts, are located close

to each other. Some „kampong‟ houses however are scattered and combined

with paddy fields, rubber smallholdings or palm oil plantations. In terms of

planning and development control, these houses are generally located on

agricultural land and therefore do not require planning permission (Suharto, n.d).

ii. Piecemeal development

According to Oxford Dictionary, development that occurs in a piecemeal way

normally exists in parts which add to the bigger development. In residential

development planning, this refers to houses which are developed in a piecemeal

way and adds to the existing clusters of neighbourhood development. In the

Canadian experience, such piecemeal development fits the description of small

scale residential construction on a vacant lot or a series of lots adjacent to

existing residential development (IBI Group, 2011). Such development can take

form of duplex, triplex or quadruplet on a single lot or single family houses or

townhouses on a number of lots. These provide potential buyers with a variety of

15

options, vitality, viability and access to existing facilities such as schools, parks

and emergency services.

With regard to the Malaysian circumstance, piecemeal residential developments

take the form of blocks or clusters of houses that are developed in stages on a

vacant land or a series of vacant lots, by different developers at different times.

Each stage of development takes place with proper planning approval and

conditions set by the local planning authority. In terms of location, piecemeal

developments take place within the city fringe or suburbs. The main reasons are

the ready market for the developments and the opportunity to utilize existing

facilities and amenities available within the existing adjacent or nearby

neighbourhood.

A significant amount of vacant land exists within urban residential zones in

Malaysia. Under the country‟s National Land Code (Government of Malaysia,

2010) local authorities cannot force landowners to develop such land, unless the

landowner wishes to do so. The majority of the land is owned either individually

or by developer companies. Such land is retained for various reasons including

for business speculation, as land banks for future development when the time

comes, or to be the land be developed as whole (Zulkarnain, 2011). When all the

majority of the land has been fully developed for residential use, the local

authority is required to allocate spaces for the provision of amenities.

The different between piecemeal developments with the general concept of infill

development is that it does not have the formal objectives of infill development,

which give attention to create a complete, well-functioning neighbourhood, and

with attention to the essential design element that fits the existing context, in

order to gain neighbourhood acceptance (Listokin, 2010). Piecemeal

development is not see as a desirable because it is considered as lacking the

overall planning of the neighbourhood. For example, by developing in a

piecemeal way, the entire neighbourhood is devoid of optimum provision of

amenities. However, it is argued that with a proper planning, piecemeal

development can still become a well-functioning residential development and

provide opportunities for residents to live close to existing amenities and

workplace as well as providing better support for local commercial establishment

(IBI Group, 2011).

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iii. Subdivision development

Most local ordinances define subdivision as the division of land into two or more

parcels, whether for immediate or future use (Shellharbour City Council, 2012). In

the case of residential subdivisions, it refers to the division of two or more

residential lots, permitting the construction of buildings as stipulated in the

building codes. Residential subdivision take a number of different forms, ranging

from large lot subdivisions (more than 4.0 ha), standard minimum sub division

(0.27 ha) (Austin, 2014), or small lot subdivisions (smaller than 450 sqm)

(Shellharbour City Council, 2014). People may be purchase the residential lots

from developers who sub-divide unimproved parcels of land into building lots, and

provide within-subdivision infrastructure (Thorsnes, 2010), including streets,

sewers and water lines (McDermott,2010).

Typical lot sizes for subdivision developments, however, vary between countries;

they range between minimum one-eighth of an acre for standard subdivision in

Malaysia to half acre lots in Australia. In terms of layout, standards subdivisions

usually involve sub-dividing a site with the primary goal of maximising the number

of lots of the minimum size according to local regulations (Pelchar, 2010).

However, it is often argued that such arrangements often disregard of the site‟s

original nature features.

In the case of Malaysia, subdivision developments are generally located within

suburban areas. In contrast to the western definition of subdivision generally

refers to lot parcels with buildings, residential subdivision in Malaysia typically

consists of vacant lot parcels with basic infrastructure such as road, sewerage,

drainage, water and electricity supply. Individual parcel owners or buyers are

responsible to build their dream houses according to their own designs. They are

also responsible to get all necessary documentations and approvals prior to

building the houses. A standard form of subdivision is represented by small of

measuring 20 meters by 30 meters or slightly smaller in areas of high

development pressures or of higher land prices. The major providers of

subdivision lots are the local authorities and individual landowners who subdivide

their land into small residential parcels and sell them individually (Pelchar, 2010).

The appeal of subdivision developments belongs to its low-density arrangements

that offer attractive, rural-style living and added privacy. In terms of general

building regulations, subdivision developments have a standard on the

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developable area that ensures adequate spacing between neighbouring structure

and access. A number of general regulations are regarded as similar between

countries, such flexible house designs and compliance with the standard building

and safety regulations. This form of developments must also comply with other

general regulations including lot size and layout, open space and infrastructure

and utility provision (Pelchar, 2010).

iv. Master-planned development

Master-planned development (MPDs) are defined as large scale integrated

housing developments on large tracts of undeveloped, suburban greenfield land,

with mixed housing types, landscape and recreational, commercial and service

facilities (ULI, 2010). It is developed based on „a mechanism of planning control

over an entire project site, underpinned by a particular vision for the completed

development‟ (Gwyther, 2010). Located on the growth frontier of city fringe, they

sometimes occur on renewal or infill sites, whose essential features include a

definable boundary and fairly uniform character, and with the provision of

physical and social infrastructure (Goodman & Doughlas, 2012).

In Malaysia, the development of master-planned developments did not begin until

the late 1990s, following rapid urbanization and a surge in demand for housing.

Such development is also called a new township development. It is usually built

by master developer on greenfield areas, including on ex-oil palm plantations.

The master developer advances the MPD in stages, based on pre-drawn master

plans of the respective local authorities. The overall size MPDs in Malaysia,

between 100 hectares and 500 hectares, is smaller in comparison to those in

Australia or the USA but the components are generally similar (Gwyther, 2010).

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2.3 Definition of Green

In science context, green is the term for any application of science, knowledge or

technology towards improving the relationship between human technology

involvement and the effect on environment and natural resources. Widely, it can

cover many different ranges of technology and human development (Andy Soos,

2011).In terms of living and working environment, green is simple approach of trying

to live harmony with nature (Fressco, 2013). To achieve that statement, Fressco said

it is necessary to start affecting change in renovating or building new neighbourhood

area or building. Lots of developers and organisations have laid the basic of green

approach to make the development greener. Resources on this earth is limited,

therefore managing their use is a must in order to preserve our quality life. Home,

car, manufactures are changing to “green”. Eco-friendly has becoming a trend.

Developments are now driving force for many consumers to buy “greener” and save

money (Guffey, 2011).

2.4 Green Neighbourhood

2.4.1 Definition of Green Neighbourhood

According to Town and Country Planning (2012), Green Neighbourhood is define as

a neighbourhood that is integrated planned with priority given to the protection and

use of natural resources, application of green technology, green and recycling

practices, which aim to preserve the environment, improving public health, safety and

general welfare of the inhabitants of the city. It is a neighbourhood unit that has a

variety of green consumption and has medium density, including variety range of

use, designed for men and prioritise pedestrian walk which covers sidewalks and

congested roads. The buildings are designed on the human scale and road design is

oriented to the need of pedestrians.

This neighbourhood has elements of „green‟, including the network of corridors and

green space planted with greenery along the way, including the planting of landscape

on lot or private space, including green roofs. The buildings are typically „green

building‟ in which construction is environmentally friendly. Infrastructure available in

this neighbourhood is as usual, for example of low-impact storm water management

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to the district energy system (Town and Country Planning, 2012).Green

Neighbourhoods are designated as such by using various indicators well beyond

traditional variables such as vegetation cover and the size of parks. Green

Neighbourhoods are broadly defined as being moderately dense, mixed-use,

designed at a human scale, active and public transportation oriented and literally

“green”. The main emphasis is placed on sustainable transportation and proximity to

a diversity of services and amenities, in short, those elements which make

neighbourhoods liveable places to live, work and play (Town and Country Planning,

2012).

Meanwhile, according to Jonathon (2011), green neighbourhoods are designated by

various indicators better that traditional variables such as vegetation cover and the

size parks. Jonathon defines Green Neighbourhoods as being moderate dense,

mixed-used, designed at human scale, active and public transportation oriented and

exactly “green”. Jonathon (2011) added, Green Neighbourhoods allow people to rely

primarily on active and public transportation in urban area. Variety of housing types

are offer and population is socially and economically mixed. Green Neighbourhoods

also include green infrastructure such as rain water recycling, green energy

production systems and green buildings. The most important indicator is sustainable

transportation and proximity to a diversity of services and amenities. These elements

make the neighbourhoods liveable places to work, live and play for the residents.

Green Neighbourhood concept gives benefit to the environmental. Research shown

that Green Neighbourhoods could reduce greenhouse emissions averagely by 30%

per person due to the clean means of transportation (Jonathon, 2011). Green

Neighbourhoods also improve health issues because the residents tend to be more

active by walking, cycling and less driving. However, green neighbourhood concept is

hard to be implemented in urban area. Location plays a big role in implementing this

concept. Area that far from commercial streets, employment centres and most

facilities and amenities is most likely to become green neighbourhood. But still,

actions can be taken to make place greener regardless of the location (Jonathan,

2011).

A first step taken to implement Green Neighbourhood is to build a hands-on process

to find creative ways to promote efficient transportation. Improvement of the public

realm, residential densification, introduction of new proximity services and the

organisation of local events and activities should be emphasised. Active and healthy

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neighbourhood such as Green Neighbourhood has proven in identifying safety issues

and fences to active transportation in the public realm an proposes design

improvement strategies.

Meanwhile, Jonathon (2011) highlighted that designing more sustainable cities,

where walking, cycling and public transportation become the main means of transport

in daily life is innovative solutions to face the environmental issues. He added, as the

environmental awareness grows, people are seeking healthier lifestyle green

neighbourhoods are promising solution for the problems. The aim of implementation

of Green Neighbourhood concept is to create low carbon society through application

of green technology, change of lifestyle and recycle in daily life.

According to Scottish Government (2010), a low carbon society will reduce the

amount of energy people need to use in homes, public buildings and others. It helps

to reduce levels of fuel poverty. Low carbon uses will improve public spaces and

improve public health by reducing traffic pollution, increasing active travel and

increasing forest cover, especially in and around urban areas. Tree planting, peat

land restoration and increasingly sustainable land use will also benefit the

biodiversity. Green Neighbourhood concept makes the development able to be

labelled as environmental friendly development. This aim can be implement in

developing green building. Karlenzig (2011) defines green building as process which

creates buildings and supporting infrastructure that minimizes the use of resources,

reduces harmful effects on environment and provides healthier environments for

people. Green building has become an increasingly popular method since modern

green building movement began early 1990s. It can be used as a method of

development for market rate and affordable developments as it includes variety of

factors, including increase the energy price, resource limitations, health concerns for

low income people and increase awareness of the integrated nature of the built and

natural environments. For residents, green housing can provide long-term cost

savings and offer a healthier and calmer indoor environment for residents. Somehow,

providing green building could be challenging to the housing developers as it has

higher initial investment costs, contractor capacity and access, added complexity,

local regulations and lack of understanding and awareness with green products,

systems and the development process (Bradshaw, 2010).

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Moreover, green neighbourhood concept is aimed to generate demand for the

concept of sustainable development in the property market. Robert (2010) defines

sustainable development as ability to ensure development meets the needs of the

present without compromising the ability of upcoming generations to meet their own

needs. In the environmental context, sustainable environment maintain a stable

resource base, avoiding over-exploitation of renewable resource system or

environmental sick functions, and reducing non-renewable resources only to the

extent that investment is made in sufficient replacements. This includes preservation

of biodiversity, atmospheric stability and other ecosystem functions According to

Javid (2010), the Smart Location and Linkage criteria characterises green

neighbourhood advancement as urban infill, brownfield redevelopment, or to a great

extent urban situated advancement. An intelligent and legitimate push to battle

unsustainable sprawl and Greenfield advancement, its pre-imperative could be risky

for a few activities that may not be genuinely urban but rather may not add to sprawl

either. He added, in different parts of neighbourhood development identified with

urban configuration, particular outline ideas that have picked up prevalence recently

have been distinguished as being supportable or green.

2.4.2 Basic Concept of Green Neighbourhood

According to Green Neighbourhood Guideline (2012) basic concepts of green

neighbourhood are:

i. Passive design of a neighbourhood unit

Passive design of a neighbourhood unit emphasise the balance of

development also surrounding that is can lead to high quality of life and safety

Passive design also can be implemented by creating green corridors and

continuous green network that allocate more green area in the

neighbourhood. Green network is greening up the neighbourhood and

improving, connecting, merging and spreading natural area (Park & Open

Space Information, n.d).

The green network offers an interconnected system of green space areas.

This includes provision for recreation and walkways or cycle ways.

Biodiversity and ecological value of waterways will be enhanced by providing

adjacent to waterways. Access to the green network might be at the front gate

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or at the back yard. The hedge or garden may connect with other neighbours

and the trees down the street might lead to a park which borders a stream.A

quality life can be enhanced through creating a continuous accessibility

through the provision of walking and cycling paths and implementation of

„walkability‟ concept. „Walkability‟ describes the environment as walking-

friendly. Factors that are related to the network include multiple routes,

shortest distance, slope, presence sidewalks, bike lanes and bike paths, the

amount of motorized vehicle traffic, pavement and sidewalk quality.

Most sustainable and active forms of transport can be attained from walking

ad cycling. Many of our daily trips are short and can be walked or cycled. A

walk able environment is significant to support good public transport because

all public transport users are pedestrians at the beginning and end of their

trips. The potential catchment of public transport services can be increased

by creating neighbourhoods that are easy and safe to walk in. Therefore, the

walking and cycling network should be primary to the design of

neighbourhoods (NSW Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, 2011).

In developing a green neighbourhood unit, mixed-use development is seek to

create pedestrian friendly environments with a variety of uses that enable the

residents to live, work, play and shop in one place. Mixed-use development

and multi-use building include several different uses that work together and

share infrastructure, utilities and public amenities. Compared to single use

development, mixed-use development has higher in density. There are three

types of mixed use buildings which are:

a) Vertical mixed use buildings

Vertical mixed use buildings are combination of different uses

within the same building. Generally, the lower floor of the building

utilize by commercial meanwhile residential located above part of

the building.

b) Horizontal mixed-use site

Horizontal mixed use site is defined as single-use buildings on

area parcels in a range of land uses within one planned

development project.

c) Mixed-use walk able areas

Mixed-use walk able areas combine vertical and horizontal mix

uses in an area within an approximately 10 minute walking

distance to central activities.

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Generally, using mixed-use development and multi-use buildings is more

efficient of land use and infrastructure. In this concept, retail use and

residential uses share parking facilities because peak hour parking do not

overlap significantly. Residents living in apartments above retail

establishments help reduce potential for vandalism because for all intents and

purposes there are no off-hours. Encourage the integration of natural

elements with traditional technologies such as rainwater harvesting system at

home that only involve low costs and many benefits is also one of the concept

of creating passive design of a neighbourhood unit.

Rainwater harvesting is a technology used to collect and store rainwater from

rooftops, land surfaces or rock catchments. It usually use techniques like jars

and pots as well as engineered techniques. This technology is significant for

the application of rainwater as water resources and has few negative

environmental impacts compared to other technologies for water resources

development. Rainwater can be used for many purposes because it relatively

clean and quality is acceptable.

Next is, encourage passive building design through the use of natural

elements such as solar lighting and wind direction. Passive design is a design

used in building architecture to minimise energy consumption and thermal

performance of building elements. The aim of using passive design is to fully

eliminate fossil fuel-based energy consumption and to maintain resident

comfort at all times. Even though the aim may not be achieved, using passive

design approach to the fullest degree possible will lower building energy use

(Passive Design Toolkit,2010). For example, a home‟s orientation, elevation,

room layout, materials and surrounding outdoor landscaping are all contribute

to the passive solar design. It incorporates the use of windows, walls and floor

to collect, store and distribute solar energy in the form of heat. (US

Department of Energy, 2011).

ii. Implementing the concept practices Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3R)

In a green neighbourhood, it not only refers to methods of managing waste,

but also refers to how a resource or element that can be recycled or reused

so that the life cycle of the resource or element can be fully utilised. Reduce,

reuse and recycle is a concept that people starting to apply in everyday life.

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This concept is use to maintain sustainable life. The concept of reduce is use

to remain productive by reducing the intake of energy and materials.

Meanwhile the concept of reuse is applied reinventing items after using it and

avoiding additional waste by all means necessary. In other words, one item

can be used more than once. Recycling is the process of turning items that

has been used into a valuable resource.

Even though the process includes many steps, but it begins with taking items

such as cans, glass, newspapers or plastics to a recycle bin. If people often

take part in this practice, the easier the entire process will be to conserve the

world. This affluence will create a higher demand for recycled products and

will be more incentive for large companies and corporations to use and buy

recycled products, making the entire process more successful and free. The

idea of reduce, reuse, recycle are just the beginning in preserving the

environment, but extremely essential in ensuring the success of conservation.

iii. Implementation of green technology

Green technology is defined as a product or equipment systems that are less

polluting conserve energy and natural resources and is able to promote the

resources that can be renewed. Somehow the technology is costly to run and

do not enough to meet the needs of 2015 consumption. JPBD has been

encouraging the use of green technologies to support the development of

green neighbourhood.

According to Brill, A. (2012), in simple word, green technology means the

technology which is environmentally friendly, developed and used in such a

way and does not disturb the environment and conserves natural resources.

Green technology also referred as environmental technology and clean

technology. The purpose of this technology is to reduce global warming and

greenhouse effect. In general, it also states less harm to human, animal, and

plant health, as well as damage to the world.

Example of green technology includes solar energy, wind energy, ocean

energy, energy conservation and others. With the help of technology,

pollution can be reduced and improve the cleanliness as well as helping the

environment immediate recoup from pollution.

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2.4.3 General Guidelines of Green Neighbourhood Design

Department of Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia (2012) have come

out with general guidelines of green neighbourhood that includes elements of a green

neighbourhood unit. The elements include:

i. Walkability and connectivity

Network walkway comprehensive and sustainable should be made available

from residential to public facilities, the focal point of community and service,

transit facilities and recreational areas. Connectivity on the neighbourhood

scale is about connectivity within neighbourhoods. It is about the paths and

connections from building to building, from lot to lot, and from block to block

Ease walkways need to be supported with green rope and security elements,

as well as comply with barrier-free design for use by persons with disabilities

(PWDs). The walkway is necessary to ensure that a sustainable system with

the existing road network and which is being planned in the future. In addition,

the layout of facilities and public services in a green neighbourhood to be

within walking distance of 400 meters (Town and Country Planning

Peninsular Malaysia, 2012).

ii. Creating a transit facility in the near distance

The provision of transit systems is one of the essential requirements in

encouraging people to use public transport, thus can reduce the use of

private vehicles. Facilities near the transit system and close to the

neighbourhood, it would be easy for the public to use. It must be planned as a

whole, easily accessible to the population and supported by facilities such as

the itinerary, the waiting area comfortable and practical for all groups, and is

designed to limit the maximum time to wait for 15 minutes to connect the

neighbourhood with the internal destination to another neighbourhood (Town

and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, 2012)

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iii. Green network

Green network system starting at the front of the housing so that the planting

of trees along the roadside and extensive network of green spaces such as

parks and public spaces. The green networks must be connected from the

green infrastructure and open space that together form an integrated and

multi-functional network. Other than that, the neighbourhood can be created

as an alternative to food safety as well as other social benefits (Town and

Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, 2012).

According to Inverclyde Local Development Plan (2014), green network must

include the green and blue element of the natural and build environments.

The connection should provide benefits without being connected. Green

elements include parks, woodlands, trees, play spaces, allotments,

community growing space playing fields, gardens and others. Meanwhile blue

elements include rivers, wetlands, ponds, lakes and others.

iv. Mixed-use development

Green neighbourhood offers a variety of homes for all groups, institutions,

shops, offices, business, community and recreational facilities to the people to

carry out daily activities (Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia,

2012).

According to Jacobs (2009), uses can be mixed horizontally in adjacent

buildings or vertically in the same building, as long as the uses are well

integrated. An example of vertical mixed-use would be apartments occupying

the upper floors of a building that has retail on the ground floor. An office

building adjacent to restaurants and shops sharing a parking lot with

interconnected entrances is an example of a horizontally combined mixed-use

project.

Jacobs added that the mixed use of development could give benefit to the

public and environment. To the public, it can increase housing, employment,

business and investment choice, bringing together and integrating different

land uses and activities, making them readily accessible in one location, the

creation of interesting and vibrant streets through the diversification of

activities and more efficient use of public infrastructure.

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Meanwhile for the environment, mixed use development is more efficient use

of land and reduced car dependency and opportunity to incorporate new

environmentally sensitive „green‟ technologies.

v. High density

Medium and high density are strongly encouraged in a green neighbourhood,

to exploit land resources, save room for the provision of infrastructure and

utilities as it can be shared with other neighbourhoods, in addition to support

facilities and public transport transit system in order to ensure development

the feasible. Thus, the low density is not suitable for implementation in a

green neighbourhood as it was not feasible for the provision of public

transport, services, etc. The proposed gross density in a neighbourhood

green is between 30 to 500 people per hectare (12 to 202 persons per acre)

(Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, 2012).

vi. Neighbourhoods safe environment

Use 'crime prevention through environmental design' during the planning and

designing of green neighbourhood to reduce crime. Diane Zahm (2007)

explained that the basis of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

(CPTED) is that proper design and effective use of the built environment can

decrease the incidence and fear of crime. This in turn leads to increases in

the quality of life. Neighbourhood safe environment is one in which the

residents has the freedom to pursue daily activities without feeling fear. In

Green Neighbourhood, neighbourhood safe environment achieved through

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

In contrast to the approach of addressing crime concerns by implementing

visually affronting security or target hardening measures such as locks, hard

barriers, security gates, security patrols and others, CPTED promotes high

quality and visually pleasing solutions as first responses that aim to enhance

the legitimate use of space. CPTED can be applied without interfering with

the normal use of the space. It is easy to apply and can be economical to

implement, especially if it is done early at the planning and design stages of a

project. There are four principles of CPTED which are natural surveillance

natural access control, territorial reinforcement, maintenance and

management (Diane Zahm, 2007).

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Legibility is a design that allow people easily know where they are and how to

get to where there are going. At the study area, the built environment are

designed, detailed and managed to make them legible for residents,

especially the pedestrians. Territoriality is a design strategy that realises that

physical design can create or extend a sphere of influence so that users

develop a sense of proprietorship or territoriality. Territorial means showing

that the community “owns” the neighbourhood. In success of CPTED, the

sense of “ownership” of the public realm and other parts of the built

environment must be achieved. Therefore it is important for the individual of

the community to care about the place, how they are and what happens in

them. Thus, management of the public and private space is important to

create the sense of “ownership”.

vii. Application of green technology in building construction and infrastructure

facilities preparation

All buildings constructed to meet the requirements and are encouraged to

seek certification Green Building Index (GBI) or other building rating system.

The application of green technology in the construction of buildings and

infrastructure facilities could reduce environmental pollution through carbon

reduction. In addition, energy can also be used more efficiently by using

green technology (Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, 2012).

Green infrastructure is cost effective, strong approach in managing weather

impacts in the same time could provide community benefits. In urban areas,

storm water runoff is major cause of water pollution. When the rain falls on

roofs, streets or parking lots in cities, the water cannot soak into the ground.

The storm water normally carries trash, bacteria, heavy metals and other

pollutants from urban landscape. This scenario can cause erosion and

flooding in urban streams, damaging habitat, property and infrastructure.

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Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils and other elements to restore

some of the natural processes required to manage water and healthier urban

environments. There are few examples of green infrastructures that can be

installed such as rain water harvesting, rain garden, planter boxes, permeable

pavements, green streets and alleys, green parking, green roofs, urban tree

canopy and others.

a. Rain water harvesting

Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainfall for later usage.

When designed appropriately, they slow and decrease runoff and

provide a source of water. This practice could be particularly valuable

in dry regions, where it could reduce demands on increasingly limited

water supplies.

Photo 2. 1 : Example of rain water harvesting Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

b. Rain garden

Rain gardens are adaptable features that can be installed in almost

any unpaved space. Also known as bio retention, or bio infiltration,

cells, they are thin, vegetated basins that collect and absorb runoff

from rooftops, sidewalks, and streets.

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Photo 2. 2 : Example of rain garden Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

c. Planter boxes

Planter boxes are urban rain gardens with vertical walls and either

open or closed bottoms. They collect and absorb runoff from

sidewalks, parking lots, and streets and are ideal for space-limited

sites in dense urban areas and as a streetscaping element.

Photo 2. 3 : Example of planter boxes Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

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d. Permeable pavements

Permeable pavements infiltrate, treat, or store rainwater where it

falls. They can be made of pervious concrete, permeable tar, or

permeable interlocking pavers. This practice could be particularly cost

effective where land values are high and flooding is a problem.

Photo 2. 4 : Example of permeable pavement Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

e. Green streets and alleys

Green streets and alleys are created by mixing green infrastructure

elements into their design to store, permeate, and evapotranspire

storm water. Permeable pavement, bio swales, planter boxes, and

trees are among the elements that can be knit into street or alley

design.

Photo 2. 5 : Example of green streets and alleys Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

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f. Green parking

Many green infrastructure elements can be effortlessly integrated into

parking lot designs. Permeable pavements can be installed in sections

of a lot and rain gardens and bio swales can be included in medians

and along the parking lot perimeter. Benefits include modifying the

urban heat island and a more walk able built environment.

Photo 2. 6 : Example of green parking Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

g. Green roofs

Green roofs are covered with growing plants and vegetation that

enable rainfall infiltration and evapotranspiration of stored water. They

are particularly cost-effective in dense urban areas where land values

are high and on large industrial or office buildings where storm water

management costs are likely to be high.

Photo 2. 7 : Example of green roof

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h. Urban tree canopy

Trees decrease and slow storm water by intercepting precipitation in

their leaves and branches. Many cities have set tree canopy goals to

restore some of the benefits of trees that were lost when the areas

were developed. Homeowners, businesses, and community groups

can participate in planting and maintaining trees throughout the urban

environment.

Photo 2. 8 : Example tree canopy Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

viii. Selection and site planning neighbourhoods green

Site selection and planning of the best green neighbourhood is extremely

important, especially during the assessment made green neighbourhood.

Step-by-step selection and site planning green neighbourhood (Town and

Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, 2012).

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ix. Green community network

Encourage the establishment of networks of community involvement and

interaction in the process of design and planning through community and

social media discourse (Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia,

2012).

According to Green Communities Canada (2008), green community is

community-based and totally non-profit environmental organizations that

achieve environmental results by organizing community partnerships and

giving practical services and advice. The communities work to create

ecologically sustainable world by helping to conserve resources, prevent

pollution, and protect and enhancing natural ecological processes. The

community develops its own mix of programs and services, based on local

needs, priorities, opportunities, inspiration and initiative.

2.4.4 Importance of Green Neighbourhood Concept

In Green Neighbourhoods, the urban fabric allows for people to rely primarily on

active and public transportation. The housing stock offers a variety of house types

and population is socially and economically mixed. Green neighbourhoods can also

include green infrastructure such as green buildings, rainwater recycling and green

energy production systems (Jonathan, 2011).

The first benefits of Green Neighbourhoods are environmental. Research has shown

that Green Neighbourhoods reduce greenhouse emissions by 20 to 40% per person

primarily because of the use of clean means of transportation. Green

Neighbourhoods also contribute to the enhancement of public health issues, such as

obesity, because their residents tend to be more active and drive less. Green

Neighbourhood initiatives are by the way often used to develop a culture of active

transportation, especially among children, in communities (Jonathan, 2011).

Green neighbourhoods, however, are rarely built from scratch. In fact, location plays

a central role. Inner city neighbourhoods, which are a short distance away from

commercial streets, employment centres and most amenities, are much more likely

to become green neighbourhoods than those in low-density car-reliant suburbs. But

still, actions can be taken to make a place genuinely “greener” regardless of the

location (Jonathan, 2011).

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2.5 Conclusion

According to the article, books, report and others document has briefly mention

meaning of neighbourhood, green, and green neighbourhood. All the element will be

guide and review to do a research and data collection at the site area. The article will

be reviewed and compared with the local situation to make sure the sustainability of

the article. This research will study about the application of Green Neighbourhood

design in housing development in The Breezeway, Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur.

This research contains five chapters that will analyse the topic and will define the

problem statement and follow the main objective.

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CHAPTER 3

STUDY AREA

3.1 Introduction

Case study is a research methodology that focuses on understanding the dynamics

present in a management situation. There are many definitions of case research and

these definitions encompass a wide range of definitional components. A case study,

however, is compatible with many data sources, and therefore hard to posit in a

system of strategies. In case studies several data sources are used.

In this chapter, a study area is chosen. The selection of the study area is determined

based on the criteria and potential areas to carry out the studies that have been

identified. All research needs to be analysed in the study area to obtain the

necessary data and information. The study area for this chapter is The Breezeway,

Desa Park City. The Breezeway is one of the developments of Desa Park City.

Details about the study area such as the background, accessibility, facilities and

amenities, landscape, administration and others will be included in this chapter.

Further discussion will explain more details on that area and this study will assist in

providing an initial overview to the users as well as the information required to

perform the analysis and recommendations.

37

3.2 Background of Sentul-Manjalara

The zone is defined in the north by the boundary of Kuala Lumpur which separates

the City from the town of Batu Caves, Selangor. The Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway

forms the eastern boundary of the zone while the New Klang Valley Expressway

demarcates the southern boundary. The population in 2000 was 297,595 and is

projected to be 445,000 by 2020. The employment in 2000 was 83,829 and is

projected to grow to 211,717 over the next 20 years (Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020,

2015).

To the north the terrain is generally level and crossed by Sungai Kemunsing and

Sungai Jinjang. This area comprises established residential areas at Menjalara and

Sentul which are developed around the neighbourhood centres of Kepong, Taman

Mastiara and Segambut and are intermixed with large industrial areas and estates.

The industrial areas are mainly located in the north of the zone at Kepong, Jinjang

and Segambut and are contiguous with the industrial estates in Batu Caves (Kuala

Lumpur City Plan 2020, 2015).

The Malay Reservation Areas of Selayang and Gombak and the traditional village of

Segambut, Sri Delima, Batu Muda and Kampong Melayu FRI shall be improved to

include the upgrading of infrastructure, community facilities and utilities. The

development plans for the new villages at Jinjang North and Jinjang South shall

include measures to redevelop the dilapidated industrial areas and upgrade the

infrastructure, community facilities and utilities in the residential areas (Kuala Lumpur

City Plan 2020, 2015).

38

3.3 Administration

The administration for The Breezeway, Desa Park City is known as ‘Majlis

Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur’ (DBKL). During British Colonial times and early

independence, Kuala Lumpur had been the capital of the country as well as the state

of Selangor. On April 1961, the name changed into Kuala Lumpur Suruhanjaya Ibu

Kota. Kuala Lumpur later achieved city status in 1 February 1972, Kuala Lumpur

became a Federal Territory. Kuala Lumpur ceased to be capital of Selangor in 1978

after the city of Shah Alam was declared as the new state capital. (Kuala Lumpur City

Plan 2020, 2015)

Kuala Lumpur was administered by a corporation sole called the Persuruhjaya Ibu

Kota from April 1961 until it was awarded city status in 1 February 1972, after which

executive power was transferred to the Datuk Bandar. Executive power lies with the

mayor in the city hall, who is appointed for three years by the Federal Territories

Minister. This system of appointing the mayor has been in place ever since the local

government elections were suspended in 1970. On May 1990, Kuala Lumpur

celebrated 100 years of local council. The new Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur flag

and anthem were introduced. (Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020, 2015)

The City of Kuala Lumpur shares boundaries with several local authorities in

Selangor. The local authorities’ areas include Petaling Jaya (Under Petaling Jaya

City Council), Subang Jaya (under Subang Jaya Municipal Council), Ampang (under

Ampang Jaya Municipal Council), Selayang (under Selayang Municipal Council) and

Kajang (under Kajang Municipal Council).

39

The administration area of Kuala Lumpur is divided into six areas which are:

Table 3. 1 : Kuala Lumpur Administrative Area

Division Areas

Damansara-Penchala

Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Bangsar, Bukit

Damansara, Bukit Kiara, Damansara

Town Centre, Kerinchi, Bangsar South,

Mont Kiara, Sri Hartamas

Bukit Jail-Seputeh Pantai Baharu, Kuchai Lama, Taman

OUG, Taman Desa

Sentul-Manjalara Bandar Manjalara, Kepong, Jinjang,

Segambut, Sentul

City Center Brickfields, Bukit Bintang, Chow Kit,

Kampong Baru, Kuala Lumpur, Pudu

Wangsa Maju-Maluri Ampang, Kampong Datuk Keramat,

Setiawangsa, Wangsa Maju, Kampong

Photo 3. 1 : DBKL Boundaries

40

Pandan, Maluri

Bandar Tun Razak-Sg Besi

Miharja, Cheras, Bandar Tun Razak,

Bandar Sri Permaisuri, Bandar Tasik

Selatan, Sri Petaling, Bukit Jalil, Sungai

Besi

Sources: Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020

3.4 Background of Study Area

Desa Park City located in Mukim Batu, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.

Development of Desa Park City has begun since year 2001. Total area for

development of Desa Park City is 440 acre. Since the area of the development is too

big, Desa Park City is divided into 19 sub area of development, such as Nadia, Safa,

Adiva, Zenia, Southlake, Adora, The Westside One, The Westside Two, Levenue,

Casaman, Amelia, The Mansions, The Ridgewood, Davinia , and The Breezeway.

The Breezeway is chosen for the study area as it has few characteristics of The

Green Neighbourhood (Perdana Park City, 2010).

According to the Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020, the study area is located in Sentul-

Manjalara. Sentul –Manjalara located near to Selangor boundaries. Menjalara will be

created as a new district center is located in the north of the proposed site and the

existing residential tenants Traditional Village is located in the eastern part. Existing

residential area is in Menjalara and Sentul developed around neighbourhood centres

and mixed with large-scale industrial area (Perdana Park City, 2010).

The Breezeway, a landmark project of The Desa ParkCity TownCenter, offers a

secure, gated neighborhood in the midst of a hub. Imprinted with tranquil courtyards,

linear parks and recreational facilities. The site area is 7.3 acres and the main

development is a terraced housing 3 and 3 ½ storey and 25-storey condominium

developed for stratified. There are a total of 215 residential units consisting of 32

units was 3 ½ floors, 44 units and 139 units of 3-storey 25-storey apartment. In

addition, other components are covered parking, parking podium that houses the car

park and facilities for residents and open spaces (Perdana Park City, 2010).

The apartment building is located at the north of the site so that the height of

apartment buildings can look harmonious with the height of buildings to be developed

on the site of commercial plots in the northern part of the site. 3 ½ terraced

residential buildings and 3 floors in place in the south to balance the school building

will be erected on a site adjacent to the proposed site (Perdana Park City, 2010).

41

Figure 3. 1 : Key Plan of Study Area

42

Figure 3. 2 : Kuala Lumpur Administrative Area

43

Figure 3. 3 : Study Area

44

3.4.1 Accessibility

Accessibility of the study area is good because it is located close to the Damansara -

Puchong in the west, the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR 2) in the north. Both road or

highway leading to the site is connected via Persiaran Residen, The Resident

Commissioner (Desa ParkCity), Jalan Burung Hantu, Persiaran Dato Shamsuddin

Naim and Jalan Taman Bukit Maluri, Kepong (Perdana Park City,2010).

The study area is in the area of rapid development in a planned and developed

residential and quite far from the congestion of development. The accessibility of the

proposed site with major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Kepong and

Sungai Buloh around is easy because it is located in a strategic area.

The study area is located not far from public facilities and utilities available as the

distance from the facility near Taman Bukit Maluri and commercial centre of Desa

Park City is approximately 1 to 3 kilometres (Perdana Park City,2010).

3.4.2 Socio-economic On Sites and Surroundings

Most of the Desa Park City is a settlement and commercial area which serves to

accommodate the needs of the population. Most of the residents of the Desa Park

City work or conduct business activities in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and nearby

(Perdana Park City,2010).

3.4.3 Facilities and Infrastructures

Provision of basic facilities is for use by residents only stratified terrace and

apartments only. Among the facilities available at the convenience of the building is

the clubhouse, management offices, locker rooms, multipurpose hall, swimming pool

and children's playground. Estimated total floor area of building this facility is

approximately 33,000 square feet (Perdana Park City, 2010).

In total, the provision of open space or green was 34.57%, consisting of a central

open space, recreational areas around residential buildings stratified, soft

landscaped areas and green belts 2 meter area along the border of the study area

(Perdana Park City, 2010).

There are reserves for Syabas to put a water tank at the location proposed is higher

than other regions located at the southern base to supply water to the entire

development Desa Park City. Based on the number of residential units, an estimated

total water demand is 71,000 gallons (322.772 liters) a day. Water supply is obtained

45

from existing Syabas tank in the south east of the study area (Perdana Park City,

2010).

Other facilities are includes:

i. Vehicle entrance with guardhouse, separate in / out lanes for residents and

visitors, and boom gates monitored by CCTV cameras

ii. Residents' vehicle access control system with transponders

iii. Visitor access / exit control management system at guardhouse

iv. Perimeter security with quality welded mesh fencing monitored by CCTV

camera, video motion detection and perimeter intruder detection system

linked to a computerized alarm handling system

v. Gen-set power supply to security systems

vi. Multi-storey car park levels and staircases monitored by CCTV camera

vii. Intercom system from residential units to guardhouse

viii. Individual home alarm system provided to all units

ix. Round-the-clock manned guardhouse, security control room and patrolling

x. Condominium lift lobbies at multi-storey car park levels and facility deck

secured with card access system and CCTV camera

xi. Condominium ground floor entrance lobby with visitor access / exit control

management system

xii. Condominium drop-off area monitored by CCTV cameras

3.4.4 Landscape

The concept is based on the concept of landscape 'Breezeway' which is based on

sound and visual experience that is unique and illustrated with autumn leaves and

trees that waved classified as:

i. 'Green finger' refers to nature and inspired by the 'grass mound and

undulating terrain with trees fragrance.

ii. Area routes are designed with contrasting elements and flexible. The route is

designed with a combination of semi-hard and semi-soft to facilitate the

movement of users and residents who will occupy the proposed site. Several

types are available along the route pavilion to provide shade from the hot and

wet. The Pavilion is designed to use the element iron, stone, wood and water.

These elements reflect modern features combined with the natural elements

of the design concept of 'Breezeways' (Perdana Park City, 2010).

46

3.4.5 Development Concept

Concept development and design is based on the concept of security and privacy for

each residential unit and create a residential development that has its own identity, a

harmonious environment for quality living. Only one entry and exit is provided to

minimize traffic and safety. This concept can increase the level of security, privacy

level and creating a sense of belonging among residents in the area. Target group of

the population is made up of young people who want a residence close to the city

centre or commercial (Perdana Park City, 2010).

3.4.6 Surrounding Land use

i. North

Is a commercial district and part of the residential plots are still vacant. The

two plots are separated by roads and irrigation systems that connect both

lakes in the area of Desa ParkCity `development '. Generally, the northern

part of study area is the main commercial area of `DesaParkcity 'which has

yet to be developed (Perdana Park City, 2010).

ii. South

The school site is in an area of about 10.0 acres and a kindergarten site

bordering the study area. Schools and kindergartens site is part of the

services provided by the developer or owner for the use of residents in Desa

Park City (Perdana Park City, 2010).

iii. West

The area is still vacant and undeveloped. It was the site for the construction of

commercial plots as well as lake areas that have been prepared and used for

recreational activities by the residents of Desa Park City (Perdana Park City,

2010).

iv. East

Is a residential area known as `Parkcity HillSide '. It is a low density

residential area which generally represents areas detached and semi-

detached homes. It is also known by the housing sector B, Sector C Sector

Sector D and E (Perdana Park City, 2010).

47

3.5 Conclusion

This chapter is important to expand and explain more detail about the research. A

case study also gives an overview about the research. This chapter explain the

background of the study area and some details such as the administration,

landscape, surroundings area and others. A survey will be conducted at this study

area for the Chapter 4.

48

CHAPTER 4

ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS

4.1 Introduction

After the data has been collected, the next stage is analysis. Data analysis is the

most important stage in this study. It is a process of developing answers to the

objectives through examination and interpretation of data. Data analysis is essential

for understanding results from primary data and secondary data (Statistics Canada,

2008). The characteristics of data may be described and explored by illustration

graphs and charts, doing cross tabulations and calculating means and standard

deviations. More analysis would build on these initial findings, looking for patterns

and relationships in the data by performing multiple regressions, or an analysis of

variance (Lacey, 2009). For this study, primary data are obtained through survey

conducted in the study area. The primary data are obtained through observation and

questionnaires survey. The data obtained then is presented in tabular form to make

the information and data are easy to understand. In addition, this chapter will also

discuss the result of the analysis of tabular data. It is very important to produce a

result that can shape the proposals more effective and relevant. Furthermore,

through the data collection and analysis, problems and issues of the study area can

be identified. Overall, this analysis can basis for developing the proposals and

improvements of green neighbourhoods design in housing development.

49

4.2 Data Collection

4.2.1 Questionnaires

A questionnaire is simply a method or a toll for collecting information for the study.

Questionnaire must have definite purpose that is related to the objectives of the

research, and it needs to be cleared from the outset how the findings will be used.

The questionnaires for this study consist of two sections of parts. Part A of the

questionnaire required the respondents to provide broad information about them.

Part B was related to the main scope of the study which is walkability and

connectivity, public open space, green network and green infrastructure. A copy of

questionnaire is shown in Appendix A.

The questionnaire contained close-ended questions and were constructed using

Likert scale. For the purpose of statistical analysis, numbers were assigned to each

anchor. The anchors used in Part B : Very unsatisfied (=1), Unsatisfied (=2), Neutral

(=3), Satisfied (=4) and Very Satisfied (=5).

For this study, the number of respondents is specified by the population in The

Breezeway, Desa Parkcity sampling formula. The sample is calculated by the formula

and normally the basic number of samples is 90% and 10% confidence interval is the

standard error.

Total population= Number of houses x Household number

= 246 x 3.5 = 861

861

1 + (860)(0.1)² 𝑛 =

𝑁

1 + (𝑁)(𝑒)²

=

n = Number of samples

N = Total population

e = Sample decision 10% which 0.1 (with

level confidence of 90%)

= 90 respondents

50

4.2.2 Observations Technique

Observation method is carried out to see, appreciate and experience the real

atmosphere of the study area and its surroundings. The main reason is to get the

latest information, detailed and clear about the study area. To support this

observation method, some pictures were taken in the study area as supporting

evidence.

4.2.2.1 Observation analysis

i- Walkability and connectivity

The observation on walkability and connectivity covered the connection and

accessibility of the pedestrian network to the amenities, services, bus stop

and transit system. Overall, pedestrian network is interconnected and

accessible to all amenities and services such as central park, commercial

area, waterfront area, school and others. The walkways are supported with

green rope and security elements as well as comply with barrier-free design

for disable person.

Photo 4. 1 : Connected walkways

51

Photo 4. 2 : Pedestrian walkways in Desa Parkcity

Destination of amenities such as central park and commercial area are within

400 meter walking distance. Somehow other amenities such as private school

and medical centre are located 600 meter (6 minute walking) from the study

area. The nearest transit station at the study area is 9.9 kilometres which is

Sungai Buloh KTM Station. There is no bus stop provided at the study area,

only school bus available to pick up students at Desa Parkcity International

School.

52

MAP WALKABILITY

Figure 4. 1: Walkability Plan

Figure 4. 2 : Connectivity Plan

53

MAP CONNECTIVITY

54

ii- Neighbourhood Safe Environment

Neighbourhood safe environment observation covered the natural access

control, natural surveillance, territorial reinforcement and maintenance and

management. Natural access control doors, fences, shrubs and other

physical elements that control access and minimize entry into the

neighbourhood area. At the study area, the entrance is monitor with

guardhouse, with separate lanes for residents and visitors. The gates are

monitored by CCTV. The condominium lobby also monitored by CCTV. The

neighbourhood area is protected with see-through gate and monitored by

CCTV at each edge. Natural access control also has been applied by

providing personal residence with front and back doors that clearly visible and

well lit. Other than housing, the park also designed with transparent fencing

around the perimeter, and one large opening in the gate for entry.

Photo 4. 3 : Guardhouse The Breezeway, Desa Parkcity

55

`

Photo 4. 4 : See-through gate around The Breezeway, Desa Parkcity

Photo 4. 5 : Transparent fencing at the park

Photo 4. 6 : CCTV located at the edge of gate

56

Natural surveillance is provision opportunities to see and to be seen. Overall,

at the study area, the landscaping generally uniformly shaped and tree

canopies also starting 8 feet and above. The fencing also allow people to see

in. although the fences are built for privacy, the design is not tall and has

some visibility. Other than that, the windows of the houses are not blocked

and can look out on streets and alleys. It provides good surveillance for the

neighbourhood during the day. Moreover, the street lights are well spaced

and in working order. Street lights are placed at the alleys, along the

walkways, parking areas and park.

Photo 4. 8 : Fences design has visibility

Photo 4. 7 : Fences design has visibility

57

Last but not least, the territorial reinforcement or defensible space. Territorial

means showing that the community “owns” the neighbourhood. At the study

area, this element is implemented by creating flower gardens, maintained

plants in traffic circles and the architecture itself. In the study area, the

institutional architecture respects the neighbourhood identity, since the study

area has its own private school. The signage also well maintained and has

the value of arts as well as the landscaping which ways to express.

Photo 4. 9 : Example of signage

58

SAFE ENVIRONMENT MAP

Figure 4. 3 : Safe environment plan

59

iii- Public Open Space

Perdana Park City Sdn. Bhd. provided about 34% of open space. Around the

study area, there are central park, The Waterfront, private garden and

children‟s playground provided. The central park located at the edge of

neighbourhood and shared with adjacent neighbourhood. The open spaces

are well maintained and attractive. It is also located within walking distance

and equipped with enough facilities.

Photo 4. 10 :Public open space at study area

60

Map public openspace

Figure 4. 4: Public open space map

61

iv- Green Network

Overall, green network started at the front of the housing and along the

roadside and extensive network of green spaces such as parks and public

spaces. At the study area, the green network creates connections and path

for people to access the neighbourhood. There are planting strips and street

trees along the walkways. The green network connected the natural habitat

and waterway with landscape or garden. Other than that, all buildings in the

neighbourhood area is connected and accessible by pedestrians. Along the

pedestrian, trees planted could give safety, social benefits, good landscape,

image as well as shade to the walkers.

Photo 4. 11 : Green network at study area

62

GREEN NETWORK PLAN

Figure 4. 5 : Green network plan

63

v- Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure could give benefits to the environmental and social.

Component elements of green infrastructure include parks, private gardens,

agricultural fields, hedges, trees, woodland, green roofs, green walls, rivers

and ponds. The term covers all land containing these features, regardless of its

ownership, condition or size. At the study area, there are several types of green

infrastructure that has been installed. First is a green roof. Growing media and

vegetation are covered the roof top of condominium at the study area. The

green roofs enable rainfall infiltration and evapotranspiration of stored water.

Second green infrastructure is green streets and alleys. Green streets and alleys

are implemented by the provision of planter boxes and trees along the street.

Planter boxes also have been installed on the condominium building that can

give benefits on green infrastructure as well as the image. Third, permeable

pavements. Permeable pavements are installed along the walkways which act

as a storage rainwater where it falls. Last but not least is urban tree canopy.

Urban tree canopy are created along the roadside of the neighbourhood area.

Trees reduce and slow storm water by intercepting precipitation in their leaves

and branches. At the study area, big trees are planted and create shade and

canopy that could give many benefits to the walkers.

Photo 4. 11 : Big trees create shade and

canopy

Photo 4. 11 : Green infrastructure

64

4.3 Respondents’ profile

4.3.1 Respondents’ Gender and Age

Table 4.1 below shows the overall total of respondent in The Breezeway, Desa

Parckcity. The total respondents are 90.

Table 4. 1 Respondents gender and age

Gender Age

Total % <20 years

21-30 years

31-40 years

41-50 years

51 and above

Male 0 4 13 17 4 38 42.2

Female 3 8 19 17 5 52 57.8

TOTAL 3 12 32 34 9 90 100.0

The analysis shows that female respondents are more than male respondents. The

number of the female respondents (57.8%) is closed to the male (42.2%) with the

total 52 female and 38 for male. Based on the table, the dominated gender among

the respondents is female. Based on the collated questionnaires, over half of the

population is composed of female respondents while 42.2% are males. This shows

that there are mostly female who have interest in participating in research studies.

The table above also shows the age range of the respondents. 37.8% of the

respondents were 41-50 years old, showing that most of them were already

considered as adult. 35.6% of the respondents were 31-40 years old. 13.3%

respondents were between 21-30 years old. Respondents‟ aged 51 years old and

above is 10% of the total respondents. On the other hand, 3.3% of the respondents

are below 20 years status. The apparent diversity of the maturity of respondents

reflects several implications in the study‟s findings.

65

4.3.2 Occupation

Occupation of the respondents at the study area were divided into three which are

students, employed and non-employed.

Table 4. 2 : Occupation of respondents Types of occupation Frequency (%)

Student 8 8.9

Employed 56 62.2

Non-employed 26 28.9

Total 90 100.0

Table 4.2 above shows the types of occupation of the respondents. 62.2% of the total

respondents, which is the dominated response is employed. There is only 28.9%

respondents are non-employed from the ninety respondents. As the table was

interpreted, there is little percentage of respondents who are student.

4.3.3 Period of Living at the Neighbourhood Area

Table 4. 3 : Period of living of respondents at the study area

Period of living Frequency (%)

<2 years 12 13.3

3-5 years 46 51.1

6 years and above 32 35.6

Total 90 100.0

The Table 4.3 above shows the distribution of the respondents in terms of their length

of living at The Breezeway, Desa Parckcity. Herein, it shows that 51.1% of the

respondents are staying at the neighbourhood about 3-5 years and 35.6% are staying

at the neighbourhood about 6 years and above and 13.3% are living below two years.

The result indicates that the majority of the respondents are already familiar with the

neighbourhood area.

66

4.4 Walkability and Connectivity

Table 4.4 below shows the level of satisfaction of the walkability and the connectivity

of the neighbourhood area. The walkability and connectivity element are divided into

five questions. The respondents were asked about the level of satisfaction of

adequate and maintenance of local pavements, footpaths and public right of way,

encouragement of more walking and cycling, connectivity of the pedestrian walkways

to the facilities, distance of public transportation and pedestrian network supporting

transit system.

Table 4. 4 : Walkability and connectivity

Level of satisfaction

Adequate walkways %

Encourage walking &

cycling %

Walkways continuously

connected

%

Neutral 0 0 1 1.10 2 2.2

Satisfied 35 38.9 42 46.7 64 71.1

Very

Satisfied 55 61.1 47 52.2 24 26.7

Total 90 100 90 100 90 100

Level of satisfaction

Location of public

transporta-tion

%

Transit system

supported with

walkways

%

Very

unsatisfied 37 41.1 16 17.8

Unsatisfied 53 58.9 73 81.1

Neutral 0 0 1 1.1

Total 90 100 90 100

The Table 4.4 above provide the distribution of the satisfaction of respondents

regarding the walkability and connectivity of the study area. The outcome from the

collected data is, majority of the respondents, which is 61.1% are very satisfied with

the provision and maintenance of the local pavements, footpaths and public right of

way. Other 38.9% of the respondents agreed to the statement. In this regard, the

respondents from the study area have revealed that strong agreement and

agreement to the given statements.

67

Analysis also found that majority of the respondents very satisfied with the

encouragement of more walking cycling. 52.2% of the respondents very satisfied that

local pavements, footpaths and public right of ways encourage them to more walking

and cycling. Other huge number of respondents (46.7%) also satisfied with the

statement. Only one respondent come out with natural feeling about the

encouragement of the walking and cycling at the neighbourhood area.

Next distribution is about the connectivity of the footpaths and pedestrian walkways

to the facilities such as open space, shops and others. From the analysis, 71.1% of

the respondents satisfied and other 26.7% very satisfied with the connectivity of

footpaths and pedestrian walkways. The footpaths and pedestrian walkways at the

study area are continuously connecting houses and the facilities. Another 2.2% of

respondents feel natural about the connectivity.

Photo 4.12 : Footpaths are well-maintained

Photo 4. 13: Pedestrian connected to commercial area

68

Other than that is distribution of location of the public transportation such as KTM and

buses. From the analysis of the data, unsatisfied feelings dominated the result.

59.9% of the respondent unsatisfied and other 41.1% respondents very unsatisfied

with the location the public transport that is far from the neighbourhood. The location

of the KTM and buses should be within walking distance (10-15 minutes). The

respondents feel more unsatisfied when there are no public buses provided at the

neighbourhood.

Last but not least for the walkability and connectivity is transit system is supported by

pedestrian network and feeder services. 81.1% of the respondents are unsatisfied

with the statement and other 17.8% are very unsatisfied. Since the location of the

public transportation such as KTM and buses is not within walking distance, there are

no supported pedestrian network and feeder services to the transit system.

The overall analysis found that majority of the respondents expressed satisfaction

with the walkability and connectivity of the neighbourhood area. It shows that the

element of walkability and connectivity of Green Neighbourhood is well implemented

at the study area. Somehow parties concerned should revalue the needs of public

transportation at the study area. Providing a good public transportation system is vital

necessary and could increase the implementation of Green Neighbourhood design at

the study area.

Photo 4. 14 : Pedestrian connected to housing area

69

4.5 Safe Neighbourhood

Table 4.5 below shows the satisfaction of the safety of the neighbourhood. Analysis

of safe neighbourhood element is conducted to value the level of satisfaction of crime

prevention through environmental design at the study area. Safe neighbourhood

element is divided into the questions. The respondents were asked about the

existence of crime, safety to walk alone especially during night and abilities to see

and to be seen by people from their home.

Table 4. 5 : Safe neighbourhood

Level of satisfaction

Free from crime

%

Safe to walk alone

%

Walkers & bikers can be easily seen

%

Disagreed 1 1.1 1 1.1 3 3.3

Neutral 19 21.1 39 43.3 30 33.3

Agreed 61 67.8 40 44.4 51 56.7

Very agreed 9 10.0 10 11.1 6 6.7

Total 90 100.0 90 100.0 90 100.0

Table 4.5 shows the distribution of level of satisfaction regarding the safe

neighbourhood element. Based on analysis, 67.8% of the respondents agreed that

the neighbourhood free from crime. 21.1% of the respondents feel natural about the

statement and 10% very agree. Only one respondent does not agree that the

neighbourhood area is free from crime. Next is safety while walking alone especially

during the night. From the distributed questionnaires, 44.4% of the respondents

agreed and 11.1% of the respondents very agreed that it is safe to walk alone around

the neighbourhood area especially at night. Somehow, there is huge number of the

respondents which is 43.3% of them feel natural about the statement, and only one

person disagreed. Last but not least, the ability to see and to be seen the walkers

and bikers from respondents‟ home. From the analysis, majority of the respondents

agreed that walkers and bikers can be seen from their house. 33.3% of the

respondents feel natural about the statement. While other 3.3% respondents

disagreed. From the overall analysis, majority of the respondents agreed that the

neighbourhood has safe environment. The neighbourhood has proper design and

effective use of the built environment where the walkers and bikers can be seen by

the residents from their house and safe to walk alone to anywhere. This design can

decrease the incidence and fear of crime.

70

Photo 4. 15 : Walkers and bikers can be seen through see-through gate

Photo 4.16 : See through fences

71

4.6 Public Open Space

Table 4.6 shows that the level of satisfaction on provision of public open space within

walking distances (10-15minutes).

Table 4. 6 Public open space

Level of satisfaction Frequency %

Neutral 1 1.1

Satisfied 35 38.9

Very Satisfied 54 60.0

Total 90 100.0

From the analysis, it shows that majority of the respondents are very satisfied on the

location of the public open space. The majority number dominated 60% of the

respondents. Other 38.9% just satisfied with the within walking distance public open

space, and only one respondent answered natural with the statement. From the

overall analysis of the location of public open space, more than half of the

respondents satisfied with the distance of the public open space. Public open space

is very important element of creating a Green Neighbourhood area. The location

should be within walking distance which about 10 to 15 minutes from house and

located at the edge of neighbourhood and shared with adjacent neighbourhood. It is

good that the residents can access the public open space by walking where the

healthy life can be promoted.

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Map location of public open space

Figure 4. 6 Location of public open space

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4.7 Green Network

Table 4.7 shows the distribution of green network element at the study area. The

elements were divided into four questions which are accessibility of buildings by

pedestrians, trees planted along the roadside gives safety as well as social benefits

to the street walker and trees planted give landscape and image as well as shade.

Table 4. 7 : Green network

Level of satisfaction

Buildings accessible

by walkways

%

Trees planted

give safety

%

Trees planted

give landscape & image

%

Agreed 49 54.4 55 61.2 36 40.0

Very

agreed 41 45.6 35 38.9

54 60.0

Total 90 100.0 90 100.0 90 100.0

Level of satisfaction

Trees give shade %

Agreed 28 31.1

Very

agreed

62 68.9

Total 90 100.0

From the analysis, 54.4% of the respondents agreed and the rest is very agreed that

all buildings can be accessible by pedestrian walkways. There are no other choices

chosen by the respondents. This shows that all the respondents totally agree to the

statement. Regarding to the statement that says trees planted along the roadside

gives safety as well as other social benefits to the street walkers, majority of 61.2%

respondents agreed. Other 38.9% respondents very agreed that trees give safety

and benefits to them. It shows that the statement is totally agreed by the

respondents.

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Photo 4. 17: Residential is accessible by pedestrian walkways

Photo 4. 18: School is accessible by pedestrian walkways

Next is the landscape and image created by the trees planted along the streets. 60%

of the respondents very agreed to the statement, while the other 40% expressed that

they agreed. Overall, all the respondents agreed, that the trees planted along the

roadside give a good landscape and image to the neighbourhood. Last but not least,

68.9% of the respondents very agreed to the statement that trees give shade for

sidewalks in the neighbourhood. Other 31.1% respondents answered agreed to the

statement. To be concluding, all of the respondents agreed that trees planted give

shade to the walkers.

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Photo 4.19 : Trees planted give safety and social benefit as well as shading

Overall, implementing green network to the neighbourhood area could give 100%

satisfaction and create 100% agreement to the respondents. The green network

element is fully implemented to the study area. From the analysis, it can be

concluded that the neighbourhood can be created as an alternative to safety as well

as other social benefits.

4.8 Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure is the last element in this Green Neighbourhood study. There

are two questions of green infrastructure which are types of green infrastructure

installed at the respondents‟ house and its maintenance.

Table 4. 8 : Types of Green Infrastructure available at study area

Green infrastructure Frequency %

Rain Garden 30 15.08

Permeable pavement 29 14.57

Planter/ tree boxes 83 41.71

Roof top garden 57 28.64

Total 199 100.00

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Table 4.8 shows the types of green infrastructure that available at the study area.

The answer is multiple responses from the respondents. Based on the analysis, the

highest green infrastructure that has been installed at the study area is planter or tree

boxes with percentage of 41.71%. According to the respondents, the planter or tree

boxes are located in front of their houses and it also act as landscape. The lowest

green infrastructure that has been installed at the study area is permeable pavement

with the percentage of 14.57%. Permeable pavement is mostly installed at the car

park lot.

Photo 4.20: Planter or tree boxes at the study area

Photo 4.21: Permeable pavement at car park lot

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Table 4. 9 : Green infrastructure Level of satisfaction Frequency %

Satisfied 47 52.2

Very satisfied 43 47.8

Total 90 100.0

Table 4.8 shows the level of the satisfaction of the maintenance of green

infrastructure. Overall, analysis shows that all the respondents satisfied with the

maintenance of the green infrastructure. 52.2% of the respondents answered that

they satisfied while other 47.8% answered very satisfied. There are no respondents

answered other than satisfied and very satisfied

4.9 Mean Analysis

A Likert scale is composed of a series of four or more likert items that represent

similar questions combined into a single composite score or variable. The analysis

used to measure the average of the data and to summarise the data is mean

analysis. There are five likert items that have been measured which linked to the

scale in deliver of satisfaction of the respondents to the neighbourhood design.

Table 4. 10 : Likert items 1 2 3 4 5

Very

unsatisfied

Unsatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very satisfied

Based on the likert items that have been stated in the table above, there are 14

parameters that will be analysed to indicate the average satisfaction of the

respondents towards the neighbourhood design. These 14 parameters are classified

into five dimensions which is walkability and connectivity, safe neighbourhood, public

open space, green network and green infrastructure.

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4.9.1 Overall Mean Analysis

Table 4. 11 : Overall mean score analysis

Dimension Parameter Mean score

Average score

Walkability and

connectivity

Adequate and sufficiently maintained

local pavements, footpaths and

public right of way.

4.61

3.36

Local pavements, footpaths and

public right of way encourage more

walking and cycling.

4.51

Footpaths or pedestrian walkways

are continuously connected. 4.24

Public transportations are within

easy walking distance (10-15

minutes).

1.59

Transit system is supported by

pedestrian network and feeder

services.

1.83

Safe

neighbourhood

Neighbourhood area is free from

crime. 3.87

3.73 Safe to walk alone especially at

night. 3.66

Walkers and bikers can be easily

seen from homes. 3.67

Public open space Park is within easy walking distance

(10-15 minutes). 4.59 4.59

Green network

All buildings can be accessible by

pedestrians. 4.46

4.54

Trees planted along the roadside

gives safety and other social benefits

to the street user.

4.39

Trees planted along the roadside

give good landscape and image to

the neighbourhood.

4.60

Trees give shade for sidewalks in the

neighbourhood. 4.69

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Green

infrastructure

Green infrastructures are well

maintained. 4.48 4.48

Table 4.10 shows the overall mean score of the respondents towards the dimension

of walkability and connectivity, safe neighbourhood, public open space, green

network and green infrastructure.

Based on the result, it shows that public open space has the highest mean score with

an average of 4.59. The result reflects the high satisfactory level of the respondents

on the location of the public open space. This is based on the collected data which is

most of the respondents feel very satisfied with the location of the public open space

within the walking distance from their house. The public open space also can be

accessed by pedestrian walkways. Location of public open space is shown on Figure

4.7. The second highest overall mean is green network with the average mean score

of 4.54. The rank is followed by the green infrastructure dimension with the average

mean score 4.48, safe neighbourhood dimension with the average mean score of

3.73.

Based on the table, the lowest average mean score on the dimension is walkability

and connectivity dimension with the average mean of 3.36. The result shows the

reflect on the neutral satisfactory level towards the walkability and connectivity of the

neighbourhood design. The neutral satisfactory level is due to the location of public

transportations such as KTM and buses not within walking distance. The location of

the public transportation is 9km from the neighbourhood area and the nearest is KTM

Sungai Buloh. The neighbourhood area also does not provided with buses of feeder

services. Respondents feel that the neighbourhood need public transportation in the

neighbourhood area and to the outside neighbourhood area. The situation affected

the satisfactory level of the respondents towards neighbourhood design.

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Figure 4. 7 : Location of public open space

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4.9.2 Findings of Mean Analysis

The findings of the mean analysis are based on the analysis made from the

neighbourhood design questionnaire survey. The level of satisfaction of the

respondents towards neighbourhood design is rated and coded based on the likert

item which has five scales. The data is coded as follows.

Table 4. 12 : Scales of likert items

1 2 3 4 5

Very

unsatisfied

Unsatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very satisfied

a. Walkability and connectivity dimension

Table 4. 13 : Walkability and connectivity average mean score

Parameter Mean Average

score

Adequate and sufficiently maintained local pavements,

footpaths and public right of way. 4.61

3.36

Local pavements, footpaths and public right of way

encourage more walking and cycling. 4.51

Footpaths or pedestrian walkways are continuously

connected. 4.24

Public transportations are within easy walking distance (10-

15 minutes). 1.59

Transit system is supported by pedestrian network and

feeder services. 1.83

Table 4.13 shows the mean score for the dimension of walkability and

connectivity. Based on the Table 4.10, walkability and connectivity dimension

has the lowest average mean score which is 3.36 compared to other

dimensions. The neutral satisfactory level is affected by the low mean score

of location of public transportation and transit system. Both parameters have

low satisfactory level of respondents. Others parameter shows high

satisfactory level of respondents as the majority of the respondents answered

very satisfied with the adequacy and sufficiency maintenance of the local

pavements, footpaths and public right of way. Majority of the respondents

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also very agreed that local pavements, footpaths and public right of way

encourage them to more walking and cycling at the neighbourhood area.

Meanwhile, for the connectivity of the footpaths and pedestrian walkways,

majority of the respondents agreed that it is continuously connected. This

satisfaction level is showed by the mean score which has high satisfaction

level. Somehow, parameters for public transportation and transit system

recorded low satisfactory level of respondents. This is due to the location of

the nearest public transportation which is 9km from the neighbourhood area.

Respondents feel that the location is quite far for them to use every day. The

public transportation should be provided within their walking distance.

Furthermore, the transit system at the neighbourhood area is not supported

by feeder services such as buses. There are no bus stops provided at the

neighbourhood area. These situations have led to the low satisfactory level of

respondents towards public transportation and transit system

Photo 4.22: Connectivity of footpaths and walkways

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b. Safe neighbourhood dimension

Table 4. 14 : Safe neighbourhood average mean score

Parameter Mean Average

score

Neighbourhood area is free from crime. 3.87

3.73 Safe to walk alone especially at night. 3.66

Walkers and bikers can be easily seen from homes. 3.67

As indicated in the Table 4.14 above, safe neighbourhood recorded an

average mean score of 3.73. This reflects neutral satisfactory level of

respondents towards the safe neighbourhood dimension. Respondents do not

feel satisfied neither unsatisfied regarding the safe neighbourhood. They feel

neutral or average. Even majority of the respondents answered they were

satisfied that the neighbourhood area is free from crime, there are still big

number of the respondents feel neutral to the parameter statement. Same

goes to the safety of the residents to walk alone especially at night and

walkers and bikers can be easily seen from homes. The mean score recorded

reflects the neutral satisfactory level of respondents. Respondents feel that

the safety of the neighbourhood area does not reached high satisfactory level

yet and it is not very safe to the residents to walk alone especially at night

even though walkers and bikers can be easily seen from homes.

c. Public open space dimension

Table 4. 15 : Public open space average mean score

Parameter Mean Average

score

Park is within easy walking distance (10-15 minutes). 4.59 4.59

Based on Table 4.15, public open space dimension recorded 4.59 average

mean score which reflects high satisfactory level for the residents. Majority of

the respondents very satisfied to the location of the public open space. The

public open space located within walking distance which approximately takes

only 10 to 15 minutes from respondents‟ house. The public open space also

located in the middle of the neighbourhood. The respondents feel that the

strategic location increases the ease of use of the public open space.

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Photo 4.23: Pubic open space that is located within walking distance

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d. Green network dimension

Table 4. 16 : Green network dimension average mean score

Parameter Mean Average

score

All buildings can be accessible by pedestrians. 4.46

4.54

Trees planted along the roadside gives safety and other

social benefits to the street user. 4.39

Trees planted along the roadside give good landscape and

image to the neighbourhood. 4.60

Based on the Table 4.16, green network dimension recorded average mean

score of 4.54. The average mean score proves the high level satisfactory

level of respondents towards the green network provided at the study area.

The respondents feel satisfied with the accessibility of all building by

pedestrian walkway. All building at the study area is connected and

accessible by pedestrian walkway which could ease the movement of the

walkers at the study area. Besides that, respondents also satisfied with the

trees planted along the roadside. They feel that the trees planted could give

safety and other social benefits to the street user. This reflects through the

high satisfactory level of mean score. Furthermore, respondents also find that

the trees planted along the roadside give good landscape and image to the

neighbourhood. The mean score recorded for this parameter is high

satisfactory level of respondents. Overall, respondents are very satisfied with

the green network at the neighbourhood area.

Photo 4.24: Green network gives shade to the walkers

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Photo 4.25 : Green network act as landscape and give image to the study area

e. Green infrastructure dimension

Table 4. 17 : Green infrastructure dimension mean score

As shown in the Table 4.17 is the average mean score of the respondents

based on the green infrastructure dimension. The average mean score

recorded is 4.48. This reflects high satisfactory level of the respondent

towards the maintenance of the green infrastructure at the neighbourhood

area. Respondents feel that green infrastructures at the neighbourhood are

well maintained.

Parameter Mean Average

score

Green infrastructures are well maintained. 4.48 4.48

Photo 4.26: Well-maintained green infrastructure on building wall

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4.10 Issues and Problems

From the analysis that has been made, there are some issues arise at the

neighbourhood area:

i- Location of public transportation

Providing a good service of public transportation is very important to the

concept of Green Neighbourhood. From the analysis, it was found that the

location of nearest public transportation such as KTM is 9.9 kilometres

from the neighbourhood area, and it takes approximately 15 minutes

driving to arrive at the KTM. The location of the public transportation

should be within 10 minutes walking distance from the neighbourhood

area. This situation might give difficulty to the residents to take public

transportation as their mode transportation.

ii- Provision of public buses

From the observation, it was found that there is no provision of public

buses at the study area. There is no bus stop provided at the study area,

only school bus available to pick up students at Desa Parkcity

International School. For Green Neighbourhood concept, provision of

transit system is one of the essential requirements in encouraging people

to use public transportation.

4.11 Findings

From the data collection and observation made, there are few findings based on the

application of Green Neighbourhood design in housing development at The

Breezeway, Desa Parkcity.

i- Walkability and connectivity

Connectivity on the neighbourhood scale is about

connectivity within neighbourhoods. It is about the paths and connections

from building to building, from lot to lot, and from block to block. Study area

has high level of walkability and connectivity. All the amenities and services

are connected and accessible with pedestrian walkways. The walkways also

supported with green rope and security elements. The location of the

amenities and services also are within walking distance. The distance is

within 400 meter to 600 meter from the housing area. It means that it takes

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residents to walk about 4 minutes to 6 minutes to the amenities and services

such as commercial area, parks and others. Somehow, the location nearest

public transit is 9.9 kilometres from the study area and there is no public

buses provided. This problem will give difficulties to the residents to go out

from the neighbourhood area. Well-connected neighbourhoods have a host of

advantages for residents and for the greater community.

ii- Neighbourhood safe environment

Neighbourhood safe environment is one in which the residents has the

freedom to pursue daily activities without feeling fear. In Green

Neighbourhood, neighbourhood safe environment achieved through Crime

Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). CPTED is defined as

multi-disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behaviour through

environmental design. Overall, at the study area, CPTED is applied by

providing guardhouse, fencing, landscaping and territorial reinforcement. The

neighbourhood were designed with surveillance idea. The public spaces were

designed to facilitate and encourage legitimate community and individual

activities. The sightlines for example low bushes or fencing and see-through

gates are implemented in the neighbourhood concept. It was designed to

avoid „blind spots‟ where the opportunity to be seen and to see can be

increased. The fences allow people to see in and have some visibility. It

provides good surveillance for the neighbourhood during the day.

Next is legibility of the study area. Legibility is a design that allow people

easily know where they are and how to get to where there are going. At the

study area, the built environment are designed, detailed and managed to

make them legible for residents, especially the pedestrians. The roads are

supported with directions and signage to services and building names. The

signage also in skilful, creative and balanced so that people can easily

understand and at the same time located in logical places for example near

building entries and street intersections. Territoriality is a design strategy that

realises that physical design can create or extend a sphere of influence so

that users develop a sense of proprietorship or territoriality. Territorial means

showing that the community “owns” the neighbourhood. At the study area,

built and landscaping features like planting, pedestrian shelter, and signage

are creatively used to define desired movement areas and delineate borders.

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“Territory” at the study area also established by created not more than an

enter buildings or private areas especially housing area. The effect would not

create doubt or confusion or deny appropriate privacy or security.

In success of CPTED, the sense of “ownership” of the public realm and other

parts of the built environment must be achieved. Therefore it is important for

the individual of the community to care about the place, how they are and

what happens in them. Thus, management of the public and private space is

important to create the sense of “ownership”.

iii- Public open space

Nowadays, all of which must be submitted to the local authorities to allocate

at least 10% of the area of public open space of the overall development. For

the study area, the total area of open space provided is 34%. This means that

the provision of public open space is enough for the housing development.

The location of the public open space also within walking distance from the

housing area. The open space can be accessed by walking or cycling.

iv- Green network

Overall at the study area, the green networks are connected from the green

infrastructure and open space that together form an integrated and multi-

functional network. The green network at the neighbourhood area includes

„green‟ and „blue‟ features of the natural. The green features at the study area

include parks, trees, playing field and others. While the blue features at the

study area is the lake that located in the middle of the neighbourhood area.

The connection of the features provides benefits to the residents and other

habitats. As mentioned in the analysis earlier, the trees planted along the

roadside gives safety as well as other social benefits to the street walkers. It

gives shades to the walkers. Other than that, it could create landscape and

image to the neighbourhood.

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v- Green infrastructure

There are few green infrastructures that have been installed at the study area.

Based on the observation, there are roof top garden, permeable pavement,

planter or tree boxes and rain garden at the study area. Roof top garden is

located on top of the apartment building. The garden is planted with colourful

flowers and green plants. Permeable pavement at the study is installed to

decrease surface runoff rates. Permeable pavement at the study area is mostly

installed at parking lots and sidewalks. Next is planter or tree boxes. The planter

or tree boxes not only act as green infrastructure, it can also be landscape or

image at the study area. Mostly planter located on the apartment building and

along the streets.

4.12 Conclusion

Conclusion that can be made is the study area complied almost all the design

characteristics of Green Neighbourhood. Somehow some of the characteristics such

as safety of walkers and bikers is not satisfying for the residents. Overall, the design

of the neighbourhood is comply with the Green Neighbourhood concept.

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CHAPTER 5

RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Introduction

With the analysis at the study area, it is easy to identify issues and problems relating

to the application of Green Neighbourhood design. This is important to determine the

design of Green Neighbourhood in housing design. This chapter aims to present

some suggestions to solve the problem. Implementing Green Neighbourhood design

is important in housing development because it could emphasize the environmental

issues. Unfortunately, application of Green Neighbourhood design in housing

development does not get appropriate attention from local authorities and developers

itself. When issues and problems have been identified at the pervious chapter, the

next step is to create effective backup plan to overcome existing issues at the study

area. This proposal refers based on the observation and analysis to be put forward

and based on the goals and objectives.

5. 2 General proposal

Green Neighbourhood concept is very important to adopt healthy lifestyles and more

sustainable, create a harmonious and safe settlement; reduce the effects of global

climate change, reducing the carbon footprint and others. Therefore, the important

agenda should focus on the overall development of Green Neighbourhood concept in

housing development present and future.

5.2.1 Walkability and connectivity

Neighbourhood structures shall be designed to reduce dependency on the use of

motor vehicles for carrying out daily activities. This is because motor vehicles are

major contributors to carbon emissions. Walkability and connectivity must be able to

encourage local residents walk to their daily activities. The basic design of the user

hierarchy is to give priority to pedestrians.

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a. Transit facilities

More efficient transit systems in the area of high-density, multi-centred

development area along the main road, and the provision of centralized parking

to encourage use of public transport. At the study area, there are no bus stop

provided and the distance between nearest transit station and the neighbourhood

area is 9.9 km which is Sungai Buloh KTM Station.

To create more efficient Green Neighbourhood design, a bus stop must be

provided within five minutes walking distance or within 400 meter from housing

area. For the movement internally of a neighbourhood, feeder bus is used and

supported by the bus stop. For the movement to the regional level could be

supported by the provision of bus, tram and rail station such as light rail transit

system, monorail, commuter train or MRT.

Meanwhile, transit station must be provided within ten minutes walking distance

and around 800 meters from the housing area. Whatever the transit system that

is close within 5 to 10 minutes walking distance shall be designed taking into

account the time limits which are comfortable and practical to wait no more than

15 minutes.

Photo 5. 1 : Proposed transit system at the study area

Source : Google, 2016

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b. Upgrading pedestrian walkways and cycleway

To create a pedestrian and cycling paths comfortable and secure, integrated

traffic management aspects should be implemented to give priority to pedestrians

and cyclists with strategies such as provide bicycle parking space, road design

elements that reduce the vehicle speed is high, limit the provision of car parking

space and to set the speed limit in residential areas is 25-30km / h as

recommended by the Public Works Department (PWD) for security purposes.

Current pedestrian walkways and cycle ways can be upgrading with more

landscape that can give shading to the users for the purpose of convenience.

Shading can be obtained by planting big trees along the pedestrian walkways.

Bicycle parking space also must be providing for the residents.

Photo 5. 2 : Proposed bus shelter with green roof Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

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Photo 5. 4 : Proposed pedestrian walkways that include 'green' and 'blue' elements Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

Photo 5. 3 : Proposed pedestrian walkways Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

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Photo 5. 6 : Proposed cycleway at the study area

Photo 5. 5 : Proposed bicycle parking space that implement green element Source: www.pinterest.com

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5.2.2 Safe neighbourhood

a. Increase safety to walkers and bikers

Safety of the walkers and bikers are very important especially at night. From the

analysis, the outcome was the neighbourhood area is not very safe to go on

walks alone especially during the night and walkers and bikers in the

neighbourhood is less can be easily seen by people in their home.

To overcome this issue, building in the centre of the neighbourhood should be

facing towards the road and encouraged to be built to the border route

pedestrians on the streets, which means zero setbacks. In situations where there

is a building that is not built to the border route pedestrians at the roadside, at

least 80% of the buildings constructed to shift the boundaries of the road and the

building should be no more than 25 feet. 25 foot space shall be used as a public

space such as a courtyard. Other than that, at least 60% of the building's facade

is a clear mirror which is between 3 to 8 feet from the foot of the building so that

walkers can be seen from inside the building.

Photo 5. 7: Proposed houses with clear mirror and facing streets Source : www.pinterest.com, 2016

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5.3 Local Authorities

The effectiveness of the Green Neighbourhood concept should initially adopt the role

of local authorities in housing development projects. Local authorities should enforce

that every housing development implement the concept of Green Neighbourhood or

at least the characteristics of Green Neighbourhood. Each project that is sent to local

authorities must be screened to implement this concept.

In addition, for every housing development to be approved, the local authorities

should provide a checklist for developers before they sent the planning permission to

the OSC. The checklist should include requirements for the development of green

neighbourhoods such as pedestrian’s paths, planting landscaping, provision of

facilities and others. If the developer does not comply with the requirements that

have been set, the application will be rejected.

For local authorities, a checklist should be provided for the assistant planner to

examine each application of housing projects that have been sent to local authorities.

Same as the developers, the checklist should contain requirements of Green

Neighbourhood concept. Every requirement that has been complied by the

developer, a mark should be given. For example, if the provision of public open

space is enough for a Green Neighbourhood concept, 3 marks should be given. If the

public open space is not enough, 1 mark is given. The total of the mark will be the

guide for the local authorities to accept or reject the application.

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Table 5. 1 : Example of checklist for local authorities and developers

List to be followed in neighbourhood design Marks

1 2 3

Total

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5.4 Conclusions

This proposal is based on the goals to tackle the existing problems in the study area.

Tasks in ensuring the implementation of Green Neighbourhood concept should not

be placed on the shoulders of developers solely. Local authorities must play their

respective roles in the overcome of the environmental issues. With the provision of

standards and guidelines by the local authority, the Green Neighbourhood design

can be implemented into every development of housing.

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Talen, E. (2013). A Literature Review. The Walkable Neighborhood, 42-63.

Trees, C. (2010). Greening Our Neighborhoods. Growing a Healthier DC.

Ulker-Kacar, E. (2010). Green Neighborhoods,. Green Neighborhoods, 1-8.

Welch, A. (2010). Green Infrastructure and Buildings: How to Manage

Environmental Impacts. How to Tell if Development is, 13-16.

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APPENDIX A

INVENTORY SURVEY (OBSERVATION ON SITE)

BASIC CONCEPT OF GREEN NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN

YES NO MARK NOTES

1. WALKABILITY AND CONNECTIVITY

a. Pedestrian network is interconnected and accessible to all amenities and services.

1 2 3 4 5

b. Apply Universal Design/Barrier-free design

1 2 3 4 5

c. Destination and amenities are within walking distance (400m)

1 2 3 4 5

d. Provide route options, for efficient internal movements and between adjacent neighbourhoods.

1 2 3 4 5

e. Bus stop located within 5 minutes walking distance.

1 2 3 4 5

f. Transit station within 10 minutes walking distance

1 2 3 4 5

g. Transit system to be supported by pedestrian network and feeder services

1 2 3 4 5

2. SAFE NEIGHBOURHOOD (CPTED)

a. Natural access control - doors, fences, shrubs, and other physical elements

1 2 3 4 5

b. Natural surveillance - provide opportunities to see and be seen

1 2 3 4 5

c. Territorial reinforcement - fences, pavement treatment, art, signs, good maintenance and landscaping are ways to express

1 2 3 4 5

ownership.

d. Maintenance and management - neighbourhood’s sense of ‘pride of place’ and territorial reinforcement

1 2 3 4 5

3. PUBLIC OPEN SPACE

a. Availability of public open space 1 2 3 4 5

b. Urban Park located at the edge of neighbourhood and shared with adjacent neighbourhood.

1 2 3 4 5

a. Provide 10% public open space. 1 2 3 4 5

4. GREEN NETWORK

a. Planting strips and street trees. 1 2 3 4 5

b. Connecting the natural habitat and waterway with landscape or garden.

1 2 3 4 5

c. Neighbourhood farming plot. 1 2 3 4 5

d. Home ‘green plots’ 1 2 3 4 5

e. Buildings facing streets and street-oriented.

1 2 3 4 5

f. All buildings to be accessible by pedestrians

1 2 3 4 5

5. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

a. Roof top garden 1 2 3 4 5

b. Permeable paver 1 2 3 4 5

c. Renewable energy ( eg: Installation of solar, day lighting, LED lamp)

1 2 3 4 5

d. Rain water harvesting 1 2 3 4 5

e. Rain garden and bio-retention 1 2 3 4 5

*note – 1=very bad, 2=bad, 3=neutral 4=good, 5=very good

APPENDIX B

I am, final year student of Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)

Shah Alam. I am conducting a survey for my research subject on application of Green Neighbourhood

design in housing development in Desa Park City. Thank you for your cooperation and all information

given is for academic purposes only.

( Saya pelajar tahun akhir dari jurusan Perancangan Bandar dan Wilayah Universiti Teknologi Mara

(UiTM), Shah Alam. Saya sedang menjalankan kaji selidik untuk subjek research mengenai aplikasi

Kejiranan Hijau di dalam pembangunan perumahan. Terima kasih atas kerjasama yang diberikan dan

semua informasi adalah untuk akademik sahaja)

PART A: DEMOGRAPHY (PART A: DEMOGRAFI)

1. Gender :

( Jantina ):

2. Age/Umur:

3. Occupation/

4. How long you lived in Desa Park City ?/Berapa lama anda menetap di Desa Park City?

STUDY ON THE APPLICATION OF GREEN NEIGHBOURHOOD DESIGN IN HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CASE STUDY: DESA PARK CITY

Serial no:

Female/Perempuan

Male/Lelaki

31-40 years/31-40 tahun

21-30 years/21-30 tahun

41-50 years/41-50 tahun

51 and above/ 51 dan keatas

<20 years/<20 tahun

Student/pelajar

Non-employed/tidak bekerja

Employed/ bekerja

Others/ Lain-lain

( pekerjaan):

< 2 years/ < 2 tahun

3-5 years/ 3-5 tahun

6 and above/ 6 dan keatas

PART B

Please indicate your level of satisfaction of the neighbourhood design.

Sila nyatakan tahap kepuasan anda terhadap reka bentuk kejiranan

1 = Very unsatisfied / Sangat tidak berpuas hati

2 = Unsatisfied / Tidak berpuas hati

3 = Neutral / Sederhana

4 = Satisfied / Berpuas hati

5 = Very satisfied / Sangat berpuas hati

What do you think about the walkability and connectivity of the neighbourhood area?

Apa yang anda fikir tentang keupayaan berjalan kaki dan hubungan kawasan kejiranan?

WALKABILITY AND CONNECTVITY 1 2 3 4 5

5. Local pavements, footpaths and public rights of way adequate and sufficiently well maintained. Laluan penjalan kaki dan hak jalan orang awam mencukupi dan diselenggara dengan baik.

6. Local pavements, footpaths and public rights of way encourage more walking and cycling. Laluan penjalan kaki dan hak jalan orang awam menggalakkan lebih ramai berjalan kaki dan berbasikal.

7. Footpaths or pedestrian walkways are continuously connected to the facilities such as open space, shops and others. Laluan penjalan kaki sentiasa bersambung dengan kemudahan seperti kawasan lapang, kedai-kedai dan lain-lain.

8. The public transportations such as KTM and buses are within easy walking distance (10-15 minutes). Pengangkutan awam seperti KTM dan bas berada dalam jarak berjalan kaki yang mudah (10-15 minit).

9. Transit system is supported by pedestrian network and feeder services. sistem Transit disokong oleh rangkaian pejalan kaki dan perkhidmatan bas pengantara.

What do you think about the safety of the neighbourhood area?

Apa yang anda fikir tentang keselamatan kawasan kejiranan?

SAFE NEIGHBOURHOOD 1 2 3 4 5

10. The neighbourhood area is free from crime. Kawasan kejiranan bebas daripada jenayah.

11. It is safe to go on walks alone especially during the

night.

Ia adalah selamat untuk pergi berjalan bersendirian

terutama pada waktu malam

12. Walkers and bikers on the streets in the neighbourhood can be easily seen by people in their

Serial Number :

homes. Pejalan kaki dan penunggang di jalan-jalan di kawasan

kejiranan yang boleh dilihat dengan mudah oleh orang-

orang di rumah mereka.

What do you think about the public open space of the neighbourhood area?

Apa yang anda fikir tentang ruang terbuka orang ramai di kawasan kejiranan?

PUBLIC OPEN SPACE 1 2 3 4 5

13. The park is within easy walking distance (10-15 minutes) from your house. Taman terletak dalam jarak berjalan kaki (10-15 minit) dari rumah anda.

What do you think about the green network of the neighbourhood area?

Apa yang anda fikir tentang rangkaian hijau kawasan kejiranan?

GREEN NETWORK 1 2 3 4 5

14. All buildings can be accessible by pedestrians. Semua bangunan boleh diakses oleh pejalan kaki.

15. Trees planted along the roadside gives safety as well as other social benefits to the street walker. Pokok ditanam di sepanjang tepi jalan memberikan keselamatan serta faedah sosial lain kepada penjalan kaki.

16. Trees planted along the roadside give a good landscape and image to the neighbourhood. Pokok yang ditanam di sepanjang jalan memberi landskap dan imej yang baik untuk kejiranan.

17. Trees give shade for sidewalks in the neighbourhood. Pokok memberi teduhan untuk laluan penjalan kaki di kawasan kejiranan.

What do you think about the green infrastructure of the neighbourhood area?

Apa yang anda fikir mengenai infrastruktur hijau kawasan kejiranan?

18. Which of the following green infrastructure practices have been installed in your house?

(Check all that apply)

Yang manakah antara amalan infrastruktur hijau berikut telah dipasang di rumah anda?

(Semak semua yang berkenaan)

Rain garden / Taman hujan

Permeable pavement/ Turapan telap

Planter or tree boxes/ Penanam atau pokok kotak

Vegetated swale/ Swale tumbuh-tumbuhan

Roof top garden/ Taman atas bumbung

None of the above/ Tiada di atas

GREEN INFRASRTUCTURE 1 2 3 4 5

19. Green infrastructures are well maintained in this

neighbourhood area.

Infrastruktur hijau di kejiranan ini di jaga dengan baik.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uhN3SMm15AH4jsemyG_QlaN1_WdX3U7DjaXc6SQlO

JA/viewform