Understanding the complexities of spontaneous settlements emerging in close proximity to landfill sites : a case study of Kennedy Road settlement, eThekwini Municipality.
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Date
2014
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Abstract
This study adopted both the qualitative and quantitative research approaches to understand the
complexities of spontaneous settlements emerging in the proximity of landfill sites using the Kennedy
Road settlement as a case study because of its proximity to the Bisasar Road Landfill site; both the
settlement and the landfill site are located within the EThekwini municipality. Spontaneous settlements
are a common phenomenon in South Africa and have become part of the urban landscape. The
dynamics influencing the location of spontaneous settlements to risky areas like landfill sites have not
been adequately examined in literature; therefore, this study aimed to investigate the realities of the
Kennedy Road settlement with a broader view of bringing insights for a progressive planning approach
that accommodates urban home seekers. The study found that, while Kennedy Road, in common with
other spontaneous settlements in South Africa, lacks basic services and infrastructure, the settlement is
also highly exposed to the harmful effects of the landfill including, amongst many other factors, dust,
bad odours and noise. The study also found that the main factor that influences the emergence and
continuous growth of spontaneous settlements in South Africa is convenient and easy access to urban
environments that offer many opportunities such as employment and housing on urban landscapes at
very low costs.
Description
Master of Town and Regional Planning.
Keywords
Squatter settlements--South Africa--eThekwini Municipality Metropolitan., Fills (Earthwork)--South Africa--eThekwini Municipality Metropolitan., Refuse and refuse disposal--South Africa--eThekwini Municipality., Theses -- Town and regional planning., Kennedy Road informal settlements.