The Lanseria Smart City is not merely a housing project; it embodies a holistic approach to city building, emphasizing economic activities, social and cultural interactions, and eco-friendly practices. The vision is to create a post-apartheid city that fosters inclusivity, encourages economic growth, and prioritizes the well-being of its diverse inhabitants.
Key Principles and Initiatives:
1. Compact, Complex City: The city’s design revolves around the concept of a compact, complex city where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces coexist within a 10-minute walk. This approach reduces commuting needs, promotes walking and cycling, and enhances community interaction.
2. Urban Intensification: Higher residential densities and mixed-use development patterns enhance efficiency in infrastructure and public transport systems. This intensification fosters a more even distribution of social services and amenities.
3. Inclusionary Housing: Inclusivity is at the heart of housing policies. Social housing is integrated seamlessly within affluent areas, promoting social and economic integration. Design guidelines focus on de-stigmatizing socio-economic profiles, encouraging a culture of inclusion.
4. Public Environment: Well-designed, well-managed public spaces form the backbone of the Smart City. Emphasis is placed on safe, pedestrian-friendly streets, well-lit areas, and spaces that encourage social interactions. A responsive architecture approach ensures natural surveillance and safety.
5. Environmental Planning: An ecologically sound network of biodiversity and habitat guides the city’s layout. Open spaces serve multiple purposes, from promoting biodiversity to providing areas for social activities. The Smart City prioritizes environmental sustainability in waste management, pollution control, and energy efficiency.
6. Economic Generativity: The city’s layout enables economically generative opportunities, fostering a vibrant local economy. Thoughtful urban design creates spaces where businesses can thrive, ensuring cross-sectoral collaboration and growth.
7. Incremental Development: Incrementalism is embraced as a responsible approach to city development. The city’s growth is paced according to demand, allowing for adaptable, open-ended development that responds to evolving needs and innovations.
8. Post-Apartheid Planning: The Lanseria Smart City embodies post-apartheid planning principles, eradicating outdated planning ideologies. It promotes social, economic, and cultural inclusivity, steering away from spatial separation and division.
The Lanseria Smart City Project signifies a bold step toward a future where cities are not just functional but also enriching, harmonious spaces for all residents. Erky Wood’s visionary leadership, now with Urban Praxis, has played a pivotal role in shaping this transformative urban landscape. Together, GAPP and Erky Wood have set new standards for sustainable and inclusive city development.
