Comparison of walkability in transit-oriented development (TOD) and non-transit-oriented development in Hong Kong

Cin Yee CHAN

Research output: ThesisHonours Projects (HP)

Abstract

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a type of sustainable development that has a high-density, mixed-use, and pedestrian-friendly design in a radius of 800 meters centered at the transit service. The function of TOD is to encourage people to live near transit services and decrease their dependence on driving while increasing on walking. It is believed that TOD areas are more walkable than non-TOD areas as their designs focus on pedestrians. In order to analyze the walkability of TOD and non-TOD areas, three sites in Hong Kong are chosen to study. Sha Tin and Tsuen Wan, which are part of the new town development in the 1970s, are representatives of TOD. Mong Kok, which has a long development history in the old urban area, represents the non-TOD area.

In this study, both subjective and objective research methods have been used. A questionnaire targeting pedestrians in the three study areas shows the subjectively perceived walkability. While field observation and map analysis using QGIS and online open spatial data show the objective walkability in the areas. The score and data collected will be compared based on walkability indicators according to the four principles for pedestrian planning in Hong Kong.

The result indicates that TOD areas are more walkable than non-TOD areas. Sha Tin is the most walkable among the three sites. Yet, the difference is ambiguous due to the size and relief of Hong Kong. Besides, objective environmental factors are unequal to pedestrians’ perceived walkability. Objectively, Mong Kok has the highest linkage and accessibility, but pedestrians disagreed based on their subjectively walking experience. Recommendations for each area have been proposed at the end of this paper.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationBachelor of Education (Honours)
Supervisors/Advisors
  • CHOW, Sin Yin, Alice 鄒倩賢, Supervisor
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Keywords

  • Honours Project (HP)
  • Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Geography) (Five-year Full-time)
  • Programme code: A5B084
  • Course code: GGP4016

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